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Read Online“Lord, it is good that we are here. If you wish, I will make three tents here, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” Matthew 17:4The Apostle Peter's reaction to the Transfiguration reveals that he was overwhelmed by his firsthand experience of a glimpse of Jesus' true glory. Not long before this moment, our Lord took His disciples north to Caesarea Philippi and asked them privately who they thought He was. Peter boldly proclaimed, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God” (Matthew 16:16). In response, Jesus promised Peter that He would build His Church upon him and that Peter himself would be entrusted with the keys to the Kingdom of Heaven. It was a good day for Peter.Shortly after this, however, Jesus began to reveal to His disciples that He “must go to Jerusalem and suffer greatly from the elders, the chief priests, and the scribes, and be killed and on the third day be raised” (Matthew 16:21). In response, Peter pulled Jesus aside and said, “God forbid, Lord! No such thing shall ever happen to you” (Matthew 16:22). Jesus replied harshly to Peter's rebuke: “Get behind me, Satan! You are an obstacle to me. You are thinking not as God does, but as human beings do” (Matthew 16:23). It was a bad day for Peter.Jesus then taught His disciples, “Whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me. For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it” (Matthew 16:24–25). Not only was Jesus soon to suffer greatly, but His followers, including the Twelve, were called to follow Him on this difficult path. This was hard news for them to accept.In today's Gospel, we hear the story of the Transfiguration. Interestingly, Jesus allowed the disciples to reflect on His prediction of suffering for six days before taking Peter, James, and John up a mountain for prayer and solitude. Jesus, aware of their confusion and struggles, was transfigured before their eyes. “His face shone like the sun and his clothes became white as light. And behold, Moses and Elijah appeared to them, conversing with him” (Matthew 17:2–3). Peter exclaimed in this moment of glory, “Lord, it is good that we are here.” It was another good day for Peter.We all have good days and bad days. But what defines a good day versus a bad day? Was the day of Jesus' Crucifixion a bad one for Him? Certainly not. Though filled with intense suffering, it was the most glorious day in history because His perfect obedience to the Father's will was fulfilled. Similarly, Peter's good and bad days can be understood in terms of his willingness to obey Christ, especially when the demands were great.In our lives, we must also define our good and bad days through the lens of obedience to God's will, especially when His will calls us to bear the Cross and practice sacrificial love. It's easy to love God when we are consoled, but it becomes much more difficult when we face trials. Peter's declaration, “Lord, it is good that we are here,” is the perfect prayer for us to echo in every circumstance. When we are consoled, as Peter was at the Transfiguration, we must pray this prayer. But unlike Peter's earlier missteps, we must also say, “It is good,” when we encounter opportunities for sacrificial love, even when difficult. Reflect today on your own good and bad days. Use the lens of holy obedience and your call to live a life of sacrificial love. Do not hesitate to cry out to the Lord, “It is good!” Consider whether you view every cross and every invitation to love sacrificially as something good. This is what God desires for you; embrace His desire with determination and joy. My sacrificial Lord, You embraced the Cross and saw it as truly good. You looked beyond the suffering and saw the fruits of Your sacrifice. Help me to imitate You by seeing every act of sacrificial love as the good I desire. I love You, Lord. Help me to love You and others with all my heart. Jesus, I trust in You.Image: Transfiguration of Jesus Christ by José Luiz Bernardes Ribeiro, CC BY-SA 3.0Source: Free RSS feed from catholic-daily-reflections.com — Copyright © 2026 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. This content is provided solely for personal, non-commercial use. Redistribution, republication, or commercial use — including use within apps with advertising — is strictly prohibited without written permission.
Abraham's Greatest Tests: Covenant, Sacrifice, and the God Who Keeps His Promises (Genesis 18-23) | Apostle D. Todd HarrisonI testify that the Bible is a witness of the Living God. The same God who visited Abraham, who promised him a son, who heard his prayers, and who tested his faith, is the God who watches over His children today. His covenants are sure. His promises are certain. His timing is perfect.I testify that Jesus Christ is the Savior through whom all nations of the earth are blessed. He is the Lamb provided by the Father, the Redeemer of mankind, and the Mediator of every covenant. He is Alive Today. He leads His Church. He will return in glory to reign as Lord of lords and King of kings.In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.D. Todd Harrison, Apostle of Jesus ChristJesus Christ's Apostle to All Nations and GenerationsYear Seven of Global Apostolic MinistryCommissioned by Jesus Christ (like the Apostle Paul - Galatians 1:1)The Most‑Followed LDS Religious Leader on Facebook (1 Corinthians 9:1–3)
As many of you know, I am serving in this season as the Interim Pastor of Grand Avenue Baptist Church in Fort Smith, Arkansas — a historic and faithful congregation with a rich legacy of gospel ministry. It is a true honor to serve the people who call Grand Avenue home. This past Sunday, I delivered a message entitled “Jesus' Vision for Our Life and Church.” While this sermon was prepared with the people of Grand Avenue and the Fort Smith community specifically in mind, its message speaks to every believer and every church. I want to use this episode of the For Leader podcast to share it with you. I invite you to watch or listen and ask the Lord to speak to you through His Word. May He align our hearts with His vision for our lives and His Church.
RISE OF THE WATCHMAN | A Prophetic Message for This HourWe are not living in a casual moment in history. We are standing at a spiritual crossroads — a time of refining, awakening, and divine alignment. In this message, “Rise of the Watchman,” we explore the call God is releasing over His Church to return to the wall, discern the times, and carry a clear sound in the midst of confusion.This is a word for those who feel the weight of this hour… for leaders, reformers, intercessors, and believers who know they were born for more than comfort — they were called to stand watch.In this teaching you'll discover:• What it means to live with a watchman's posture• How God measures seasons and hearts in times of transition• Why discernment is critical in a defining generation• The difference between reaction and revelationIf this message speaks to you, share it, comment what God is highlighting to you, and help us carry this sound to the nations.The wall is being rebuilt.The trumpet is sounding.And the watchmen are rising.#RiseOfTheWatchman #PropheticWord #EndTimesChurch #HabitationChurch #Revival #WatchmanCall #ChristianYouTubeSupport the show
The Gate of Inadequacy explores Matthew 16:13–18 and Jesus' declaration that the gates of hell will not prevail against His Church. Gates are defensive, not offensive—meaning hell is on defense and the Church is advancing. Yet many believers live held back by insecurity and feelings of not being enough. This message unpacks how inadequacy is not a disqualification but often God's starting point. Through the lives of Moses, Gideon, Jeremiah, and Paul, we see that weakness becomes the platform for God's power. Instead of comparing ourselves to others or waiting until we feel qualified, Scripture reminds us that our sufficiency comes from Christ alone (2 Corinthians 3:5, John 15:5). Inadequacy doesn't cancel your calling—it drives you into deeper dependence on God. When we surrender our insecurity at the foot of the cross, we discover that God uses surrendered, available people to advance His kingdom.
In Ephesians, Paul reveals that marriage is more than a relationship—it's a living picture of Christ and His Church. In Genesis 2:24, the “one flesh” union points to a greater mystery fulfilled in Jesus. This message confronts cultural narratives of power struggles, passivity, and independence, and calls couples back to God's design. Husbands are challenged to lead through sacrificial love, and wives to respond with life-giving partnership. When we embrace this divine choreography, our marriages become a bold declaration of the gospel to the world.
We've reached the final week of our Define the Relationship series, and this message tackles one of the most honest and difficult questions many people quietly wrestle with: What if I married the wrong person? In this teaching, we step back from cultural ideas about soulmates and happiness-driven relationships and return to God's original design for marriage. Looking at Genesis 2, Matthew 19, 1 Corinthians 7, and Ephesians 5, we explore what Scripture actually says about covenant, commitment, and the “one flesh” union God created. Marriage is not human constructed. It is God created. And what God joins together is meant to reflect something deeper than compatibility. It reflects Christ and His Church. This message covers: • What the Bible says about marriage and covenant • How to respond when marriage feels hard or disappointing • The difference between covenant love and consumer love • Real limits, wisdom, and safety in difficult situations • Practical steps to rebuild friendship, faith, and unity If you've ever felt doubt, discouragement, or wondered whether you made a mistake, this message reminds us that hard does not automatically mean wrong. In Christ, there is always hope, healing, and redemption. Whether you're married, single, divorced, or widowed, this teaching will encourage you to anchor your relationships in the faithfulness of Jesus. Listen in and let God redefine what covenant love looks like.
Through the story of Ananias and Sapphira in Acts 5, Jacob Harkey helps us see the seriousness of sin, the danger of religious performance, and the holiness of God on display. This passage reminds us that God cares deeply about the purity of His Church and calls His people to live with integrity and reverent fear. Key Verses // Acts 4:32-5:11 — Give towards what God is doing through Passion City Church: https://passioncitychurch.com/dc/give — Subscribe to our Youtube channel to see more messages https://www.youtube.com/passioncitychurchdc — Follow along with Passion City Church DC: https://www.instagram.com/passioncitydc — Follow along with Pastor Ben Stuart: https://www.instagram.com/ben_stuart_ — Passion City Church is a Jesus church with locations in Atlanta and Washington D.C. For more info on Passion, visit https://passioncitychurch.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Everyone faces difficulties, and that is why God has designed the community of His Church to respond to those struggles in such a way that encourages and comforts those who are struggling. The mature believers are ones who have patience with those who fall because they can look in their past when someone else helped them.
In this episode, we're talking about something most women feel but rarely frame correctly: why pregnancy and birth feel so hard — and what God might be doing in it. As we watch the Lord refine His Church, exposing pride, self-protection, and self-promotion, it raises an important question: could He also be refining us through pregnancy, labor, and postpartum? From nausea and sleepless nights to intense contractions and the “ring of fire,” pregnancy and birth stretch us physically, emotionally, and spiritually. But what if these trials aren't random? What if they are part of God's refining process — strengthening your faith like gold tested in fire? We'll walk through Malachi 3:2 and 1 Peter 1:6–7, exploring how trials reveal the genuineness of our faith and how a Biblical perspective can completely transform how you approach natural pregnancy, homebirth, and postpartum recovery. If you're: Preparing for a Christian homebirth Navigating pregnancy anxiety Wanting a faith-based perspective on natural birth Or struggling through a hard season in pregnancy This episode will encourage you to see your experience through eternity — and remind you that this season is temporary, purposeful, and covered in His peace. God is not wasting your pregnancy. He refines what He loves. If this podcast has encouraged you in your birth preparation, please leave a review on Apple or Spotify. When you do, it helps more women searching for a faith-based approach to homebirth and natural birth find this message. Share this episode with a pregnant friend who needs hope today. Support the Show & Connect with Aly Get your FREE download of Finding Joy in Pregnancy and Birth E-book when you sign up to be a monthly supporter of the podcast- https://peacefulhomebirth.thrivecart.com/phsupport/ Homebirth Hub + Lifetime Access to PHC- peacefulhomebirth.com/homebirthhub IG- @peacefulhomebirth Facebook Group- https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1D3VuQe4wb/ Other ways to support the ministry of Peaceful Homebirth: Araza- Get 15% off paleo certified beauty that heals with code PEACEFULHOMEBIRTH- https://arazabeauty.com/PEACEFULHOMEBIRTH Fullscript- Highest Quality Supplements at a discount. Create your profile here and get 10% off - https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/amcclain1689257819 $20 off a Yoto: https://refer.yotoplay.com/u7l7c!1b70359b00!a?locale=en Temp drop- 5% off https://tempdrop.refr.cc/default/u/aly001?s=sp&t=cp
Everyone faces difficulties, and that is why God has designed the community of His Church to respond to those struggles in such a way that encourages and comforts those who are struggling. The mature believers are ones who have patience with those who fall because they can look in their past when someone else helped them. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/640/29?v=20251111
If you take one look at today's news headlines, it's likely that right now, peace seems like a pipe dream.But does Jesus call us to an impossible task in Matthew 5:9 when He says, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God”? Tune in to this episode to unpack the seventh beatitude, a call to imitate our God of peace as people of peace—which is Jesus' deep desire for His Church and a powerful witness to the watching world.If you want to keep digging into the themes in this episode, consider the following passages and reflection questions.Read Proverbs 19:11. Are there any offenses you're harboring that should be overlooked? How can you take a step toward forgiveness today?Read Proverbs 12:20. What impact would it have on your life to “plan peace” (ESV)? How does this motivate you to pursue peace this week?Read Romans 12:15. When you think about any existing conflict in your life, search your heart and ask the Holy Spirit to show you if you have done all that is possible to be at peace with others. If not, ask the Lord to show you your next step.4. Read Ephesians 2:14–17. How does this passage encourage you to pursue peace in your community?Enjoyed this podcast? Leave a rating or review wherever you listen to podcasts!
Luke 11:1-2 (NKJV) Now it came to pass, as He was praying in a certain place, when He ceased, that one of His disciples said to Him, “Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples.” So, He said to them, “when you pray, say: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name.”
2 Corinthians 3:3 (NLT) “Clearly, YOU ARE A LETTER FROM CHRIST showing the result of our ministry among you. This “letter” is written not with pen and ink, but with the Spirit of the living God. It is carved not on tablets of stone, but on human hearts.”
Proverbs 29, Where there is no vision, no revelation, no DIVINE GUIDANCE, they do their own thing. MSG, “If people can't SEE WHAT GOD IS DOING, they stumble all over themselves.”
It's our 11th birthday. Which means we're officially old enough to think we know everything… and still young enough to need a ride. This week we're talking about growth — not the kind that's about numbers on a screen, but the kind that decides whether the Gospel keeps moving forward or quietly fades into the background. Paul writes 2 Timothy knowing he's about to die. He doesn't make a five-year plan. No leadership conference. Just a final charge: Are we passing the baton… or just holding it? Are we running our race — or coasting? And here's the tension: "Christ will preserve His Church. But whether we're part of that mission is something we'll answer for." It's hopeful. It's direct. It's a rally cry. Hit play. Let's run. www.NewChurch.Love
Worship Wars Part 7: Made to Worship In this final message of Worship Wars, we walk through Book of Genesis 2 and discover that we were intentionally created; body, soul, and spirit. Design implies purpose. You are not random; you were formed by the Creator of the universe. Worship isn't just something we feel, it's something we're made for. When we worship together, it strengthens us physically, mentally, and spiritually. Our bodies carry meaning, but they also have limits, and we're called to steward them well. When something was “not good,” God said, “I will.” He always had a redemption plan through Jesus Christ. We were not created to be alone. In Him and in His Church, we find strength and experience His eternal glory. You were made to worship. https://www.kingdomchurch.ca/connect.html https://www.kingdomchurch.ca/give.html
1 Peter 2:4–10 reminds us that our lives are built on Jesus, the living Stone. This message shows how belonging to Him and to His Church strengthens our faith, shapes our identity, and equips us to stand firm in a world that often rejects Him. // NEXT STEPS: http://rockcity.church PRAYER REQUESTS: https://rockcitychurch.tv/care GIVE: https://rockcitychurch.tv/give // Rock City Church has multiple locations throughout Columbus, Ohio. Whether you're spiritually restless, new at discovering who God is or you are a veteran of the faith, you are welcome here! // WEBSITE: https://rockcitychurch.tv FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/rockcitychurch INSTAGRAM: https://instagram.com/rockcitychurch
In this faith building message, we explore God's design for His Church as a place of family, belonging, and transformation. Discover why being planted in the life of the local church is essential to spiritual growth, shaping our identity as sons and daughters of God and connecting our lives to His greater purpose. This message invites us to embrace community, grow in faith, and flourish in all God has prepared for us.
In this powerful service from February 22, 2026, we reflect on the Scripture reading from Book of Revelation 1:9–20, where John shares his vision of Christ standing among the lampstands.God's desire for His Church is clear: we are called to be a lampstand. By nature, a lampstand is made to burn—it exists to carry and host the flame. In the same way, the Church is designed to host the very presence and fire of God.This message explores what it means to carry His light, to remain burning, and to faithfully shine in a dark world. The lampstand does not create the flame—it sustains and displays it. As believers, we are called to be vessels that uphold the light of Christ so others may see Him clearly.Join us as we examine our calling to burn brightly, steward His presence, and stand as lampstands in our generation.
Every organization has a mission statement. Few have a mission that spans nations, generations, and eternity. Pastor Hans turns our attention to the mission Jesus gave His Church and why it still matters more than ever. This message invites you to reconsider what you are part of and how your everyday obedience fits into something far bigger than you imagined.
In the finale of Unshakable, we lift our eyes beyond marriage and friendships to the most important relationship in Scripture: Christ and His Church. In a world where culture is shaking and truth is being distorted, this message calls believers back to our identity as the ekklesia—not spectators, but a chosen people and kingdom representatives [...]
Color: White Old Testament: Isaiah 60:1–6 Psalm: Psalm 24; antiphon: v. 7 Epistle: Ephesians 3:1–12 Gospel: Matthew 2:1–12 Introit: Psalm 72:1–2, 10–11; antiphon: Liturgical Text Gradual: Isaiah 60:6b, 1 Verse: Matthew 2:2b The Lord God Is Manifested in the Incarnate Son The Feast of the Epiphany centers in the visit of the Magi from the East. In that respect, it is a “Thirteenth Day” of Christmas; and yet, it also marks the beginning of a new liturgical season. While Christmas has focused on the Incarnation of our Lord—that is, on God becoming flesh—the season of Epiphany emphasizes the manifestation or self-revelation of God in that same flesh of Christ. For the Lord Himself has entered our darkness and rises upon us with the brightness of His true light (Is. 60:1–2). He does so chiefly by His Word of the Gospel, which He causes to be preached within His Church on earth—not only to the Jews but also to Gentiles (Eph. 3:8–10). As the Magi were guided by the promises of Holy Scripture to find and worship the Christ Child with His mother in the house (Matt. 2:5–11), so does He call disciples from all nations by the preaching of His Word, to find and worship Him within His Church (Is. 60:3–6). With gold they confess His royalty; with incense, His deity; and with myrrh, His priestly sacrifice (Matt. 2:11). Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
On this Ash Wednesday, February 18, 2026, join Doug Billings on The Right Side for a powerful 15-minute deep dive into the true meaning of Ash Wednesday and Lent.Whether you're Catholic, Protestant, Evangelical, or simply feeling the call of faith today, discover why the ashes on your forehead are straight from Scripture – from Job and Daniel to Nineveh and Jesus Himself – and how this 2,000-year-old practice is more relevant in 2026 than ever.Doug addresses head-on the “pagan roots” critics who claim Lent, Ash Wednesday, and even the Christmas tree are corrupted because of ancient origins. With charity and firmness, he dismantles the myths (including Alexander Hislop's debunked The Two Babylons), explains how the Church Jesus founded on Peter redeems culture for Christ, and shows why these traditions bear beautiful fruit today.Plus: the explosive 2026 faith revival among young men (Barna data), practical Lent tips for prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, and a hopeful message that the same Jesus who started His Church is still in charge – even with an American Pope calling the world to renewal.This encouraging standalone episode is perfect for anyone seeking real hope on Ash Wednesday 2026.If this blessed you, subscribe, leave a 5-star review, and share it with someone who needs to hear that you are dust… but you are beloved dust, and the Cross always wins.Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and everywhere podcasts are found.Full video version on YouTube: @TheRightSideDougBillings#AshWednesday2026 #Lent2026Support the show
Today's message goes Behind the Scenes in the book of Acts and highlights how God works through ordinary, sometimes fearful people. When we stay faithful and don't give up, God can use us to spreads His truth, strengthens His Church, and make His name known.
Restoring the Sound of Pure WorshipIn this episode, we dive into the call to restore worship back to its rightful center — the presence of Jesus. In a generation filled with noise, performance, and pressure to produce, God is raising a people who are returning to purity, consecration, and true ministry unto the Lord.This conversation explores what it means to carry a clean sound before heaven — a worship that is not driven by platform or preference, but by intimacy, surrender, and the fear of the Lord. We talk about the difference between performance and presence, why purity of heart matters more than perfection of sound, and how the Lord is restoring altar-centered worship in His Church.If you've been longing for deeper encounters, fresh fire in worship, or clarity on what God is doing in this hour, this episode will encourage you to realign your heart and rediscover the beauty of ministering to Him first.The sound is being restored.The altar is being rebuilt.And pure worship is rising again.Support the show
February 15, 2026 God doesn't waste our pain. He uses our suffering to display His grace and purpose. Through Stephen's story, we see that when we rely on the Holy Spirit, we can stand with courage even in opposition, trusting that God is near in our suffering and working through it to grow His Church. What looks like loss or tragedy can actually become part of God's bigger plan to shape us into Christ and spread the gospel. About this Sermon Series: The book of Acts tells the story of how the exalted Christ sends His Spirit to empower His people to continue His work in the world. Through the Spirit's power, ordinary believers boldly proclaim the gospel, witness miraculous works, and form vibrant communities that embody God's welcome to all people. Acts traces how the church's witness, energized by the Spirit, extends from Jerusalem to the ends of the earth, revealing Christ's ongoing work through His people and the Spirit's leading in every new challenge and opportunity.
We are thankful for the focus on Missions work. On this WMU Sunday, we are reminded that all of us carry the Gospel. Our desire is to support and to work to carry the Gospel to those who are in need of it. Join us today as we see the joy and the struggle Paul endured as he proclaimed God's truth! May we undertake a walk worthy of God! Chapters (00:00:00) - A Reminder of the Work of the Gospel(00:07:02) - The reason that we go on mission(00:09:52) - Paul on the Work of the Gospel(00:17:26) - Paul's Love for His Church(00:24:25) - Work Together in the Gospel(00:25:54) - Paul exhorted, comforted and charged the church(00:29:31) - Walking Worthily
Daily Devotion with Pastor Balla for February 18, 2026 reflects on Psalm 45:16–17 and the promise of an everlasting kingdom. This Christ-centered Lutheran devotion explores the beautiful transition from royal celebration to generational hope. “In place of your fathers shall be your sons” points beyond earthly dynasties to the enduring reign of Christ, whose kingdom stretches across nations and generations.This Christian daily devotion highlights the spiritual offspring of the King—believers adopted through faith, gathered into His Church, and sustained by His Word and Sacraments. Rooted in Scripture and the theology of the cross, this meditation proclaims that what God begins in Christ will not fail. His name will be remembered in all generations, and His praise will never cease.In a world of fading legacies, Christ's reign remains unshakable. Our lives find meaning because they are joined to His eternal work and promise.Support this ministry at
"Thus you shall separate the Levites from among the people of Israel, and the Levites shall be mine." Aaron lights the seven lamps of the golden lampstand, illuminating the holy place where priests serve. Then the Levites undergo an elaborate consecration, being waved as a living offering before the LORD. In this chapter, we see that those who serve God must themselves be made holy. The light of the lampstand points forward to Christ, the Light of the World, and to His Church called to shine in the darkness. The Rev. John Shank, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Edwardsville, IL, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Numbers 8. To learn more about Trinity in Edwardsville, visit trinitylutheranministries.org. The Book of Numbers is far more than an ancient census report. It is the story of a people learning to trust God in the wilderness, and failing, and finding grace anyway. In this series, host Pastor Phil Booe and guest pastors walk through the Old Testament book of Numbers chapter by chapter. We follow Israel from Sinai toward the Promised Land, through grumbling and rebellion, fiery serpents and a talking donkey, faithless spies and faithful priests. The journey is hard, the failures are many, and God remains faithful to a faithless people. These ancient accounts point us to Christ. The bronze serpent lifted on a pole points to the cross. The rock struck for water points to the one struck for us. The high priest whose death frees the manslayer points to the Great High Priest whose death sets us free forever. Join us as we discover that the wilderness has more to teach us than we ever expected. Thy Strong Word, hosted by Rev. Dr. Phil Booe, pastor of St. John Lutheran Church of Luverne, MN, reveals the light of our salvation in Christ through study of God's Word, breaking our darkness with His redeeming light. Each weekday, two pastors fix our eyes on Jesus by considering Holy Scripture, verse by verse, in order to be strengthened in the Word and be equipped to faithfully serve in our daily vocations. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.
As the Society of Saint Pius X is looking toward new consecrations and the threat of sanctions, we must never forget that this act is one of charity for the good of the Catholic Church. The Society esteems and loves what is most perfect, Who is God. And it is for God and His Church, that He established for the salvation of souls, which the Society serves. The Society will continue to serve this mission regardless of any adversity placed before it.
From Not Enough to More Than Enough Today's Homily unites two biblical moments: First, The Gospel (Mark 8: Feeding of the Four Thousand) reveals Christ's deep compassion for humanity wandering in a spiritual “wilderness.” The crowd cannot sustain itself; human resources are insufficient. Yet when the disciples offer their “not much” . . . seven loaves and a few fish . . . Jesus transforms scarcity into abundance. This miracle foreshadows the Eucharist: Christ continues to feed the world through His Church, using humble means to accomplish divine grace. Second, The First Reading (Jeroboam and the Divided Kingdom) shows the opposite movement. Jeroboam, though raised up by God, becomes insecure and replaces true worship with convenient, man-made alternatives. He prefers control, comfort, and political security over trust in the Lord. This leads to spiritual decline and instability for Israel. The contrast is deliberate: • Jeroboam grasps, mistrusts, and substitutes human solutions → leading to loss. • The disciples surrender their inadequacy to Christ → leading to superabundance. The Homily and scripture message for today is clear: we must not reshape faith around convenience or personal preference. Instead, we entrust our poverty, weakness, and “not enough” to Christ, who alone can transform them into saving grace . . . especially through Word and Sacrament. The Homily concludes with a correlation of today's theme with Montfort's teachings. Hear more within the Homily. Listen to From Not Enough to More Than Enough --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Art Work The Miracle of the Loaves and Fishes: Italian painter: Giovanni Lanfranco: 1620 The painting was commissioned for and may be found in the Blessed Sacrament chapel in the Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls in Rome. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Gospel Reading: Mark 8: 1-10 First Reading: 1 Kings 12: 26-32; 13: 33-34 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Why was this image selected: The image dramatically captures Christ at the center of action, emphasizing divine power working through ordinary bread and human participation. The painting mirrors the sermon's central truth: what seems insufficient becomes inexhaustible in Christ's hands.
Daily Devotion with Pastor Balla for February 17, 2026 reflects on Psalm 45:13–15 and the radiant image of the Bride being led to the King. This Christ-centered Lutheran devotion explores how this royal wedding scene ultimately points to Christ and His Church. The glory of the princess is not self-made beauty, but honor given by the King. So also, believers are clothed in the righteousness of Christ, adorned by grace, and prepared for eternal joy.This Christian daily devotion highlights the communal nature of faith, as the Bride is led with companions into the palace of the King. The Church walks together in hope, sustained by the Word and Sacraments, rejoicing in forgiveness and redemption. Rooted in Scripture and the theology of the cross, this meditation proclaims that our identity is secure in Christ alone.One day, we will enter fully into the joy of His eternal kingdom.Support this ministry at
In Week 5 of the Gates of Hell series, we explore The Gate of Temptation and how spiritual battles begin long before visible sin. Standing at Caesarea Philippi in Matthew 16, Jesus declared war on the gates of hell and promised victory for His Church. But one of the most subtle gates believers walk through is temptation. From Genesis 3 to Jesus' victory in the wilderness in Matthew 4, we see how the enemy still whispers, "Did God really say?" This message teaches how temptation works, why shame and hiding follow sin, and how submitting to God and resisting the devil leads to freedom, power, and breakthrough.
Seventh Core Belief: The Church is God’s AGENT OF CHANGE in our world. Jesus asks the group the MOST IMPORTANT QUESTION. Peter offers the MOST IMPORTANT ANSWER. Peter is praised for RECEIVING the revelation. Jesus will build His Church on every person who shares Peter's CONFESSION. When INFORMATION is king, ISOLATION is not far behind. […]
What does it really mean to live by faith?In this message, Pastor Bobby Harrell challenges us to trust God beyond what we can see. As we step into The Oasis Initiative, we're reminded that faith isn't just something we say we have — it's what we build our lives on.As a church family, we believe God is moving in our time, in our city, and through His Church. Faith always requires a step — and this is ours.
As God builds His Church, He reveals to us the gifts and callings that He has strategically placed within our lives. When we discover and embrace His calling for our lives we begin to be fulfilled in ways we never dreamed possible. You're invited in today's message to discover God's purpose for you life and step into the future He's prepared for you with great boldness and joy!
This episode reflects on Jesus' Transfiguration, where His hidden divine glory briefly shines through His human flesh, leaving the disciples overwhelmed with fear until “just Jesus” remains—touching them and speaking peace. Their experience mirrors our own fears of sin, suffering, and the future, which grow overwhelming when faced alone. Yet the Father's command still stands: “Listen to Him.” Today we hear Christ's voice in the Scriptures, where He proclaims forgiveness, victory over death, and His constant presence through Baptism, the Supper, and His Church. As Lent begins, believers are called to fix their eyes on Jesus alone, whose Word drives out fear and sustains us with His peace, love, and life.
Daily Devotion with Pastor Balla for February 15, 2026 reflects on Psalm 45:8–9 and the beauty, joy, and fragrance of Christ the King. This royal psalm paints a vivid picture of fragrant robes, ivory palaces, music, and honor—but it ultimately points beyond earthly splendor to Jesus Himself. In this Christ-centered Lutheran devotion, we consider how myrrh connects Christ's birth, suffering, burial, and victory, revealing a kingdom where glory flows through the cross.This Christian daily devotion highlights the joy of forgiveness, the peace of reconciliation, and the comfort of belonging to the King who gathers His Church as His beloved bride. Rooted in Scripture and the theology of the cross, this meditation proclaims a Savior whose reign brings life, mercy, and eternal hope.Even now, Christ rules through His Word and Sacraments, filling weary hearts with lasting joy.Support this ministry at
Jesus challenges us to answer who He truly is—not merely a prophet or teacher, but the Messianic Son of God Who builds and sustains His Church and restores us to relationship with God. Matthew 16:13-20 For more resources on this teaching please visit https://brcc.church/teachings/encountering-jesus-the-messianic-son-of-god/
On Sunday in addition to concluding our series titled, “Wholehearted” we also celebrated how our church partnered with God in serving His Church locally and internationally this past year. We also honored the past in seeing how God used our church in furthering His Kingdom then as well through a few missional initiatives. Join us for a summary of how we have helped come alongside God in building His Church in the world today. THE IMPACT FUND 2025:// BUCKET FOR INTENTIONAL GENEROSITY$1,000 given to support Pastor Diego & his team in Spain$1,229 given from the Welcome Home Fund to support BPS students$2,752 given to our partnership with Bethesda School in Senegal$5,000 given to our 2024-2026 LINKS missionary, Charity Shonamon$6,140 given to families in need of housing assistance$9,237 used to give out shoes in partnership with Samaritan's Feet// WORLD EVANGELISM FUND$32, 140 given to support the work of the church around the globe.// THE COMMUNITY TABLE$83,156 to fund the growing food insecurity needs in our community// “MAKE AN IMPACT” - summation$136,652 raised throughout the year!…honoring the past $30,800 Our partnership with Bethesda School (2019-2025) in Kaffrine, Senegal$159,400 Our partnership with El Factor Church of the Nazarene (2011-2018) in El Factor, Dominican Republic…a new partnershipSPAIN! - this is an invitation to a long-range partnership planting churches, cultivating community, & establishing God's Kingdom in Spain.Vision Casting Trip: June 9-16, 2026 visiting 7 churches & new territoriesIMPACT FUND 2026 GOAL — $100,000…IMPACT FUND 2026 PLEDGED — $141,315
From Enemies to Unity Ben McEachernEphesians 2:11-22 Talk about different. God wants to build His Church using people who would normally be hostile toward each other and mistrust one another. This is not how the great movements of human history are normally built. But then the Church was never supposed to be normal. It is a group of people brought together by grace and unified in Christ alone. This week, we celebrate how God has brought us from hostility to unity. #NorthRidge #Jesus#churchonline WELCOME PAD / MY RESPONSE -- Use this link to respond to the sermon, request prayer, or to give tithe/offerings online: https://northridgefellowship.churchce...I'M SAYING YES TO JESUS!https://northridgefellowship.churchce... MORE SERVICE INFO AND INTERACTION: https://northridgefellowship.org/watch/
"The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; the LORD lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace." This chapter gives us both the Nazirite vow, a special consecration marked by uncut hair and abstinence from wine, and the Aaronic Benediction, the most beautiful blessing in all of Scripture. In these verses, we see that holiness is both given by God and received in His name. The blessing that Aaron spoke is the same blessing Christ speaks over His Church today. The Rev. Robert Smith, pastor emeritus in Ft. Wayne, IN, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Numbers 6. The Book of Numbers is far more than an ancient census report. It is the story of a people learning to trust God in the wilderness, and failing, and finding grace anyway. In this series, host Pastor Phil Booe and guest pastors walk through the Old Testament book of Numbers chapter by chapter. We follow Israel from Sinai toward the Promised Land, through grumbling and rebellion, fiery serpents and a talking donkey, faithless spies and faithful priests. The journey is hard, the failures are many, and God remains faithful to a faithless people. These ancient accounts point us to Christ. The bronze serpent lifted on a pole points to the cross. The rock struck for water points to the one struck for us. The high priest whose death frees the manslayer points to the Great High Priest whose death sets us free forever. Join us as we discover that the wilderness has more to teach us than we ever expected. Thy Strong Word, hosted by Rev. Dr. Phil Booe, pastor of St. John Lutheran Church of Luverne, MN, reveals the light of our salvation in Christ through study of God's Word, breaking our darkness with His redeeming light. Each weekday, two pastors fix our eyes on Jesus by considering Holy Scripture, verse by verse, in order to be strengthened in the Word and be equipped to faithfully serve in our daily vocations. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.
On this episode of The Rod Parsley Podcast, Pastor Rod Parsley sits down with Bishop Brian Gallardo and his wife, Jillian Gallardo, for a meaningful, Spirit-led conversation on spiritual fatherhood, faithful families, and biblical leadership in today's church. Together, they reflect on their journey in ministry, the importance of spiritual alignment, and the call to build families and churches on God's foundational truths. The discussion highlights the role of prayer and fasting in restoring spiritual hunger and strengthening faith at home and in the church. Drawing from Bishop Brian's book Shut Up & Lead, the conversation emphasizes leadership marked by conviction, submission, and faith—encouraging listeners to live out God's design for His Church in this season. New episodes of The Rod Parsley Podcast drop every Tuesday at 8 AM ET.
What we did What we didn't do How we stewarded what He entrusted to us This should sober us, not scare us. Salvation is secure, but stewardship still matters.
Discover the three marks of leaders God uses to ignite His Church and why every follower of Jesus is called to lead.
This week at Citizen Church, Pastor Dustin reminded us that the heart of God has always been global. From the beginning, God's plan has been to bless all nations, and Jesus calls His Church to take the gospel beyond ourselves and into every city, every nation, and every heart. Scripture makes it clear: “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations…” (Matthew 28:19). Global missions matter because God's purpose has always extended to the whole world. Genesis 12:3 declares that all peoples on earth will be blessed through God's promise, and Revelation 7:9 gives us a picture of the future—a great multitude from every nation, tribe, people, and language standing before the throne of God. Jesus also commanded both local and global witness, saying in Acts 1:8 that we are empowered by the Holy Spirit to be His witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. At Citizen Church, we believe we are called to live out this mission with a global mentality: to refresh the hurting, renew the broken, and redeem the lost. Jesus taught that the gospel is not only spoken but demonstrated through compassion and action (Matthew 25:35–36). We are reminded in 1 John 3:17–18 not to love with words alone, but with actions and in truth. And ultimately, Christ came to seek and to save the lost (Luke 19:10). As Romans 10:14–15 asks, how will people hear unless someone is sent? We may plant and water, but God brings the growth (1 Corinthians 3:6). Thank you for being part of a Christ-centered, Spirit-led, kingdom-building movement committed to the renewal of cities and nations through the love of Jesus. Help for Today. Hope for Eternity.
Today we celebrated Vision Sunday and unveiled our 2026 theme, A City on a Hill, rooted in Jesus' call for His Church to shine as light in a dark world. Just as the early church was an undeniable force in its community, City First is called to be a visible, Christ-centered movement marked by love, humility, and transformed lives. As we step into 2026, our prayer is to shine Jesus' light in a way that awakens curiosity about God!
Read Online“Wherever you enter a house, stay there until you leave from there. Whatever place does not welcome you or listen to you, leave there and shake the dust off your feet in testimony against them.” So they went off and preached repentance. The Twelve drove out many demons, and they anointed with oil many who were sick and cured them. Mark 6:10–13During the first half of Jesus' public ministry, despite the religious leaders growing increasingly hostile, He accomplished many things. Numerous conversions took place, many began to believe He was the Messiah, miracles abounded, and His fame spread far and wide. During this time, Jesus gave special attention to twelve of His disciples, setting them apart and designating them as Apostles. Honored by Jesus' special attention, perhaps these twelve men struggled with pride, thinking they were above the rest of the disciples.In today's Gospel, “Jesus summoned the Twelve and began to send them out two by two and gave them authority over unclean spirits” (Mark 6:7). This divine authority was something new to them, a gift beyond anything they had ever known. For that reason, Jesus exhorted them to rely on Divine Providence for their mission, exercising it with humility and simplicity: “He instructed them to take nothing for the journey but a walking stick—no food, no sack, no money in their belts […] He said to them, ‘Wherever you enter a house, stay there until you leave from there'” (Mark 6:8, 10).This was a pivotal moment for the Twelve. During the first half of Jesus' public ministry, the Twelve were our Lord's students: listening to Him, accompanying Him, praying with Him, and learning about the Kingdom of God. Suddenly, the time came for them to act in Jesus' name and with His authority. As they went forth, two by two, preaching repentance in the surrounding towns and villages, something amazing took place. They witnessed God's power working through them, changing lives. With the newfound authority of their words and actions, they must have been amazed to see miracles take place at their command and demons fleeing in their presence.Though the Twelve were entrusted with the unique mission of becoming the foundation upon which Jesus would build His Church—especially Saint Peter, the Prince of the Apostles—we must all see ourselves in this divine commissioning. In accord with the requirements of our own divinely appointed missions, we, too, will be entrusted with “authority over unclean spirits.” Though only those officially sanctioned by the Church act in the formal role of exorcists, God's authority is entrusted to each of us to thwart diabolical activity every day. By simply remaining in a state of grace and relying upon that grace, we participate in Christ's victory over evil, thwarting satan's works, revealing his lies, and assisting others in their quest for interior freedom. We do this in varied ways, depending on our vocations and particular missions.Reflect today on the mission Christ has entrusted to you. Parents, spouses, siblings, co-workers, friends, and neighbors are all called to share in Christ's mission in unique and varied ways. As you ponder your own mission, consider two questions. First, have you, like the Twelve, embraced repentance and conversion by drawing closer to our Lord? Have you committed yourself to deepening that conversion so as to be more fully united with Christ? Secondly, have you allowed your union with Christ to equip you for the mission God has entrusted to you? Do you sense His divine authority in your life, enabling you to preach in His name through your words and deeds? Does your mere presence bring Christ's grace, dispelling darkness and evil? Resolve to continue the mission given to the Twelve in accord with God's will, and you, too, will be amazed at what God will do through you. My glorious Lord, You called the Twelve and formed them in Truth and grace, drawing them into lives of profound conversion. You then sent them forth in Your name to preach repentance and to dispel evil with authority. Please draw me close to You and form me by Your grace so that I not only know, love, and serve You more fully, but also become a greater instrument of Your grace to others. Jesus, I trust in You.Image via Adobe Stock Source: Free RSS feed from catholic-daily-reflections.com — Copyright © 2026 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. This content is provided solely for personal, non-commercial use. Redistribution, republication, or commercial use — including use within apps with advertising — is strictly prohibited without written permission.
Am I building what Jesus is building with my life and my resources? In this message from Pastor David Lindell, we are confronted with a defining question about whether our priorities align with God's heart to reach the lost through His Church—starting locally and extending to the ends of the earth. Our prayer is that God would speak clearly to your heart, stir your faith to action, and invite you into a supernatural journey of generosity that produces eternal fruit.