Podcasts about imitate

Sermon preached by Pete Williamson on Sunday, September 27, 2026.

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"The Timeless Necessity of Godly Leaders"1 Timothy 3:1-7What is an Elder?What is an Elder like?Above reproachThe husband of one wifeSober-mindedSelf-controlledRespectableHospitableNot a drunkardNot violent but gentleNot quarrelsomeManage his household wellNot a recent convertWell thought of by outsidersAble to teachWhat is our response to our Elders?1. Pray for your Elders2. Submit to your Elders3. Imitate your Elders

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/family-devotions/20260916fam.mp3 Listen to Devotion Read: Ephesians 4:29–5:2 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. Follow God's example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. Ephesians 4:32; 5:1-2 A Striking Family Resemblance In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. Do you resemble anyone in your family? Brothers and sisters often resemble each other. A child might have his dad's nose, his mom's smile, his grandpa's laugh, or even the same way of walking. Sometimes we sound or act just like our parents. People might say, “You can certainly tell whose child you are!” Can people tell whose child you are by the way you live? Honestly, because of sin, we don't always resemble our heavenly Father. Our words and actions are often cruel, selfish, and unforgiving. But in our baptism, God washed away our sins and adopted us as his sons and daughters. Through faith in Jesus, we are children of God, fully forgiven and made heirs of heaven. But can people see the family resemblance? Can they tell whose children we are by the way we act? Young children often copy everything: the way their parents talk on the phone, the way they fold their arms, the way they cook or clean or cheer during a football game. In today's reading, Paul tells us to follow the example of God our Father as his dearly loved children. God wants us to speak as he speaks and act as he acts. Just as he is kind and compassionate to us, just as he loves and forgives us—so he wants us to love and forgive those around us. We imitate him because, through Jesus, we already are his children. That is who God made us to be in our baptism. His forgiveness changes us; it leads us to be like him. Dearly loved children show love. Forgiven children become forgivers. So, follow your Father. Imitate him and let your family resemblance show. When people see kindness, compassion, and forgiveness in you, they are catching a glimpse of your heavenly Father. May they look at you and say, “I can certainly tell whose child you are!” Prayer: Dear Father in heaven, thank you for washing, forgiving, and adopting me in my baptism. Help me to resemble you in everything I say and do. Amen. The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire. Questions for Younger Children In what ways do you look or act like your mom or dad? In what ways can you look or act like God? Questions for Elementary Age Children What blessings did God give you in Baptism? How can your kindness or forgiveness help someone see your heavenly Father in you? Questions for Middle School and Above What does this statement mean: “My baptism is not just something that happened to me; it tells me who I am”? Sometimes young people feel unfair pressure to grow up and be just like their parents. Is it unfair for God to expect his children to act like him? Explain. Download Family Devotions Family Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Welcome to Part 3 of my series on Christian Discipleship: We've already covered Stay in the Book and Stay on Your Knees. Today we'll address the last imperative: Stay after Souls. So let's discuss what that means and what evangelism should look like in the life of a born-again Christian. So today, I want to tackle that last imperative: “Stay after souls.” This has the idea of evangelism at its heart, but it really goes far beyond simply sharing the gospel. And that's what I'd like to examine with you today. Show Notes RELATED LINKS: EP 115: Stay in the Book (Part 1 of this series) EP 116: Stay on Your Knees (Part 2 of this series) The Singing Bible (unique Bible reading app) “Now Entering Mission Field” Sign (free printable) A Prayer for the LOST (free printable prayer guide based on Scripture)- The Five Solas (illumined coloring page) The Roman Road Printable (in your choice of five different languages) Free printable gospel tracts (including the trick-or-treat tracts I mentioned) VERSES CITED: Acts 1:8 – “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you….” Matthew 28:19-20 – “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations….” Deuteronomy 11:18-19 – “Therefore shall ye lay up these my words in your heart….” Luke 16:10 – “Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much….” Ephesians 5:33 – “…and let the wife see that she respects her husband.” Deuteronomy 6:6-7 – “These commandments that I give you today are to be…” Proverbs 22:6 – “Train up a child in the way he should go….” James 2:8 – “If, however, you are fulfilling the royal law….” 1 Samuel 15:22 – “…Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice….” Matthew 10:37 – “who loves their father or mother more than me is not worthy of me….” Deuteronomy 13:6-8 – “If your very own brother, or your son or daughter….” Philippians 2:5-8 – “Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus….” 1 Corinthians 11:1 – “Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ.” Exodus 20:7 – “You shall not take the name of the LORD your God in vain….” Colossians 3:23  – “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart….” Ecclesiastes 9:10 – “Whatever you find to do with your hands, do it with all your might…” Romans 12:1 – “Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God's mercy….”  Philippians 2:14 – “Do all things without complaining or arguments….” John 13:35 – “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” 1 John 4:19 – “We love because he first loved us.”  Matthew 5:44 – “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor' and ….” Luke 6:27-28 – “… Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who….” Luke 19:10 – “For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.”                        John 3:16 – “For God so loved the world that He gave ...” John 15:12-14 – “This is My commandment, that you love one another….” James 2:15-16 – “Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food… Philippians 2:3-4 – “Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with….” Matthew 25:40 – “…whatever you did for one of the least of these… you did for Me.'” John 14:6 – “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes….” Romans 10:14 – “How then will they call on him in whom they have not believed?” 1 Peter 3:15-16 – “Always be prepared to give a defense to everyone who asks….” Ephesians 2:8-9 – “For it is by grace you have been saved through faith….” James 2:26 – “… faith without works is dead.” Roman 3:10 – “As it is written, ‘THERE IS NONE RIGHTEOUS, NOT EVEN ONE.'” Romans 3:23– “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” Romans 5:8 – “While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 6:23 – “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is….” Romans 10:9 – “That if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe….” Romans 10:13 – “… for ‘whoever will call on the name of the LORD will be saved.'” 1 Corinthians 3:7 – “So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters….” Ecclesiastes 11:6 – “Sow your seed in the morning, and do not rest….” Isaiah 55:10-11 – “… so My word that proceeds from My mouth will not return to Me empty.” Colossians 2:13 – “You were dead because of your sins….” 1 Peter 2:12 – “Conduct yourselves with such honor that….” Titus 2:7-8 – “In everything, show yourself to be an example….” Romans 15:6 – “so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify….” 1 Corinthians 10:31 – “… whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” Mathew 5:16 – “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see….” John 15:8 – “This is to My Father's glory, that you bear much fruit….” 1 Timothy 5:25 – “In the same way, good deeds are obvious, and even….” SATY CONNECTED: Subscribe: Flanders Family Freebies -weekly themed link lists of free resources Instagram: @flanders_family - follow for more great content Family Blog: Flanders Family Home Life - parenting tips, homeschool help, printables Marriage Blog: Loving Life at Home- encouragement for wives, mothers, believers My Books: Shop Online - find on Amazon, at Barnes & Noble, or through our website

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4th Step – On Obedience The Ladder of Divine Ascent was written primarily for monks. However, the words of Saint John Climacus at the beginning of the first chapter indicate that his intention is to address every person who longs for salvation. He says: “The gates of eternal life are open to all. The goal of our life is to follow Christ and to become like Him in His divine love.”

P.597 How To Imitate Men of the Spirit by Apostle Grace Lubega

P.597 How To Imitate Men of the Spirit by Apostle Grace Lubega

The apostle Paul's call to imitate God is not an invitation to earn righteousness but to express the righteousness we have already received through Christ. As God's beloved children, we have been forgiven, made holy, and joined to Him in spirit; now our heavenly Father desires to teach us how to reveal that new identity in our daily lives. By looking to the kindness, tenderheartedness, forgiveness, and self-sacrificing love displayed in Jesus, we learn to walk outwardly in the reality of who we have already become inwardly. Walking in love requires us to follow the Holy Spirit rather than the impulses of the flesh or the shifting standards of the world. Sinful behavior does not reflect our true identity and inevitably hinders our testimonies, while practicing love, purity, gratitude, and faithfulness allows the character of Christ to become visible through us. Spiritual maturity does not happen overnight, but as we consistently imitate our Father and Jesus, we grow into mature sons and daughters who increasingly reveal His love, light, and wisdom to the world. Facebook

Call to worship – Revelation 5:6-14 Scripture Reading – John 13:21-14:6 Sermon – – Not My Home- Philippians 3:17-21 1) Identity (v20) – We are ___________________ and ______________ here. 2) Imitate (v17) – Imitate Paul and others who _____________________. 3) Influence (vv18-19) – Many (even some who profess to be Christians) do not ______________ and seek to steer you away from Him. 4) Inheritance (vv20b-21) – The Lord Jesus will return for us, transforming us to be __________ and ___________ in glory. -What does it mean to you to be a citizen of your country? What effect does it have on the way you think about yourself and the way you act? How should the reality that you are a citizen of heaven affect your daily life? -Where might you be loving the things of this world? How can you replace that with a pursuit of Christ and His Kingdom? -Who is influencing your life? Are they having a positive influence on you toward faithfulness to Christ? Or away from Him? -Who should you look to for godly models of living? How can you be a positive example to someone else? -How does rejoicing in my future help me live the Christian life now? For further study: Mt 6:19-33; Rom 8:5-6,18-25; 1 Co 11:1; Phil 1:27; 2:5-11; 3:7-14; Col 3:1-4; 1 Th 1:9-10; Heb 11:13-16; 1 Jn 2:15-17.

Our Example, Our Home

Our Example, Our Home

I greet you in Jesus' precious name! It is Thursday morning, the 27th of August, 2026, and this is your friend, Angus Buchan, with a thought for today.We start in 1 Corinthians 11:1. Paul says: ”Imitate me, just also as I imitate Christ.” Then we go to the Book of Ephesians 5:1: “Therefore be imitators of God as dear children.” Then the last one, Philippians 3:17: “Brethren, join in following my example, and note those who so walk, as you have us for a pattern.”Ooh, that's a tough one today, isn't it? We have got to be examples. Lead by example - follow me even as I follow Jesus. Don't tell people how to live. Rather, show them how to live. Dad, your children are watching all the time how you treat their mother, and this is very serious. If you just get out of the car and walk into the shop and mother has to run after you, that's disgraceful. It actually brings a tear to my eye. That is not what Christ did. Remember, Jesus was known as the One who washed feet. He washed the dirty feet of His disciples as an example. Your son, dad, will not do what you tell him. He will do exactly what you do. If you are a drunkard, he will become a drunkard, even though he hates himself for it, because he doesn't know any other way. We need to lead by example.On the aeroplane, coming back from a big event we had in Namibia many years ago, I was on the platform, it was a capacity crowd, and it was amazing. We got on the plane flying home and there was a rugby team on the same plane. These boys had obviously had a wonderful weekend, and they were all having a few beers and I was sitting towards the back of the plane and I noticed a young man who I think had been at the event. He was sitting in the aisle seat in the front, and he kept on looking at me, and I didn't take any more notice. The air hostess came up to me. She said, “Would you like to have a drink?” I said, “Yes, thank you. I will have a coke. She brought me a Coke, and as I popped that Coke open, I looked up, and there was this young man, and he had a smile on his face, and he gave me a thumbs up. Now folks, we need to lead by example. I was probably speaking about lifestyle on that platform.If I was sitting there putting the beers back and this young man is looking to me as an example, what would that have done to him? It might have destroyed his faith. We need to walk the talk. We need to do what Jesus said and not tell other people what to do and then do the opposite.Jesus bless you and have a wonderful day.Goodbye.

Sun. August 16, 2026: "Imitate Mary to be your loved ones' teacher and protector" Rev. Anthony Hoangphan, Parochial Vicar

Gestalt Language Processing (GLP) and Natural Language Acquisition (NLA) have become extraordinarily popular in speech-language pathology, particularly in conversations about autistic children who use echolalia. But what exactly is a "Gestalt Language Processor?" How would we know if someone is one? And perhaps most importantly, what does the research actually tell us about the claims and treatment recommendations associated with GLP and NLA? In this episode, I'm joined by speech-language pathologist Kathleen Oppenheimer, who has spent considerable time examining these questions through the lens of language science and psycholinguistics. Kathleen describes how she first encountered GLP and NLA on social media during the pandemic and why some of the claims she encountered immediately raised questions for her as someone trained in linguistics. We unpack the distinction between language production and language processing, and discuss why observing the words and phrases a child says cannot necessarily tell us how that child is processing language. We also explore an important nuance in this debate: Many practices commonly associated with NLA are quite reasonable—and in some cases very well aligned with established, evidence-based approaches. Following the child's lead, building strong therapeutic relationships, recognizing echolalia as meaningful communication, and honoring multiple forms of communication are all valuable practices. But those practices aren't unique to NLA. Kathleen contrasts NLA recommendations with research-supported approaches such as Enhanced Milieu Teaching, and explains why recommendations involving prompting, single-word models, verbs, and grammatical language input matter for language development. Along the way, we discuss: What GLP and NLA actually claim about language development. Why defining and reliably identifying a "Gestalt Language Processor" is more difficult than social media might suggest. The difference between what a child says and how researchers determine what a child is actually processing. What psycholinguistic methods such as the visual world paradigm can tell us about real-time language comprehension. Why echolalia can be meaningful communication without accepting the larger GLP/NLA framework. The substantial areas of common ground between NLA proponents and research-aligned language interventions. Why following a child's lead and honoring their communication does not require adopting NLA stages. How Enhanced Milieu Teaching differs from NLA-based intervention. Concerns about recommendations to avoid or delay modeling single words, verbs, and certain grammatical forms. What we know—and don't know—about the empirical evidence supporting GLP/NLA. How social media can turn nuanced clinical ideas into much broader claims. The potential costs of implementing unsupported interventions, even when those interventions appear benign. How clinicians can have productive conversations with colleagues and families who have embraced GLP/NLA. Why clear, jargon-free explanations of what we're doing in therapy—and why we're doing it—matter. One thing I especially appreciated about this conversation is that Kathleen doesn't approach this as a simple choice between being "for" or "against" GLP/NLA. Instead, she encourages us to pull apart the individual claims and practices, retain the components that are supported by evidence, and scrutinize those that aren't. For clinicians navigating an increasingly complicated landscape of research, social media, and rapidly spreading treatment approaches, I think that's an incredibly useful framework. Resources discussed in this episode: Kathleen's Instagram: @language_processing Kathleen's course: GLP and NLA: Analyzing the Claims and Evidence. Kathleen's website: Oppenheimer Speech and Language, LLC. Lorang, et al., (2026). A Response to Blanc and Colleagues' Viewpoint on Gestalt Language Processing and the Natural Language Acquisition Protocol: Concerns and Common Ground. Hutchins, et al., (2024). Natural Language Acquisition and Gestalt Language Processing: A Critical Analysis of Their Application to Autism and Speech Language Therapy. Dollaghan, C. (2007). Evidence-based practice in communication disorders. Bredin-Oja and Fey (2014). Children's Responses to Telegraphic and Grammatically Complete Prompts to Imitate. Kang, et al., (2025). Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Enhanced Milieu Teaching. Sponsor shoutouts: Behavior University. Their mission is to provide university quality professional development for the busy Behavior Analyst. Learn about their CEU offerings, including their 8-hour Supervision Course, as well as their RBT offerings over at behavioruniversity.com/observations. Don't forget to use the coupon code, PODCAST to save at checkout! Safety-Care is a crisis prevention and de-escalation training program designed for professionals who support individuals with challenging behavior. More than 300,000 professionals have been trained in Safety-Care's evidence-based approach to recognizing early warning signs and responding with confidence. To learn more, visit QBS.com/podcast. Learn from your favorite podcast guests while you're commuting, walking the dog, or whatever else you do while listening to podcasts. New events are being added all the time, so check them out here.  HRIC Recruting. Cut out the middleman and speak directly with Barbara Voss, who's been placing BCBAs in great jobs all across the US for 15 years. The BOP Patreon. Do you want to get the show ad-free and before everyone else? 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Are you being discipled? In this message, we look at Jesus calling Peter, Andrew, James, and John in Matthew 4 and discover three essential facets of discipleship: Decision, Development, and Duplication.Discipleship begins with a decision to answer Jesus' invitation to “Follow me.” But following Jesus doesn't stop with a decision—it is a lifelong process of being developed, built up, and established in the faith. The people we surround ourselves with matter, and healthy relationships with other believers should challenge us to become closer, stronger, and more faithful followers of Christ.But discipleship doesn't end with our own growth. Jesus called His disciples to become “fishers of men,” showing us that what God is doing in us is meant to be duplicated in someone else. As Paul said, “Imitate me, as I also imitate Christ.” Biblical discipleship is ultimately about living in such a way that we can say to someone else, “Follow me while I follow Jesus.”The question is simple but deeply important: Have you made the decision to follow Jesus? Are you being developed by other believers? And who are you currently helping become a disciple of Christ?

3 John

Should we imitate others? I thought imitation was a bad thing. Let's find out together what Paul says as we read 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10 and 2 Chronicles 30:1-27.

British politics has become a farce, with Andy Burnham now the United Kingdom's seventh prime minister in a decade. And no one knows what he really stands for or if he'll even outlast the last six, as Daniel Hannan, head of the Institute of Economic Affairs and independent member of the House of Lords, tells Brian. They discuss the reason why so many prime ministers keep falling, and what the new Labour leader's chances look like. They also get into the fates of Kemi Badenoch's Conservatives and Nigel Farage's Reform UK party, and why Hannan thinks they both need to take an important lesson from Canada's Conservative party to beat Labour and start cleaning things up in Britain. (Recorded July 23, 2026) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Paul says the Philippians should live a life worthy of the gospel, just like he does. So the Philippians should imitate Paul. Who should we imitate? Let's find out together as we read Philippians 1:27-30 and Psalm 15.

We don't make a neurotypical kid prove they can read before we hand them a book. We just teach them to read.   But for non-speaking and minimally speaking learners, the rules flip. Sit in the chair first. Imitate first. Get it right four days in a row before we'll believe you got it right the first time. Lisa Mihalich Quinn and Erin Buchanan of Reach Every Voice call this the data trap and they're here to tell you why the data your child's team is collecting might not mean what you think it means.   Tune in to this episode to learn: Why "proficiency is not a prerequisite" - and what your child's team should be giving them access to right now, not after they demonstrate readiness The real difference between adapting and modifying curriculum, and why modification can quietly cap your child's academic ceiling for years Why "the data shows" is often a trap that hides more than it reveals - and what questions to ask instead   About the guests: Lisa Mihalich Quinn and Erin Buchanan lead Reach Every Voice, a multidisciplinary practice supporting non-speaking learners and learners with communication access needs through in-person and virtual instruction, group programming, and grant-funded initiatives.   To kickstart Academic Learning for your non speaking or minimally speaking child (and to learn from Dr. Vaish Sarathy), check out www.studio.com/vaish - an Academic Training App for parents.

2 Chronicles 29:30 NLT King Hezekiah and the officials ordered the Levites to praise the LORD with the psalms written by David and by Asaph the seer. So they offered joyous praise and bowed down in worship.

Paul says to the church at Corinth, “Imitate me as I imitate Christ.” The word in the Greek is where we get our word “mimic.” Paul is saying that he has such a close relationship with Jesus that he mimics him in everything he does and therefore, he can say to the believers, “Y'all mimic me because I am mimicking, I am acting just like Jesus.” Can we say that? Are we acting just like Jesus? What if someone was to follow your lead? Where would you lead them? To Jesus? Away from Jesus? Is your walk with Christ like a rollercoaster, up and down, turning all around, then back to the station? Or is it solid, trustworthy, stable, steady so that you can lead others to the immovable stone, the solid rock, Jesus?

Join us as we complete our reading of Paul's letters to the church at Thessalonica with an admonishment against idleness and continued encouragement, that we may all have the peace attained not through lack of work but as a gift from God.Visit: abideatascadero.orgEmail: info@abideatascadero.orgInstagram: @abide.calvary_atascFacebook: @AbideCalvaryAtascadero

SCRIPTURE - 1 Thessalonians 1:2-10SERIES - 1 Thessalonians: Living With An Eternal PerspectiveSPEAKER - Pastor Cory Taylor

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Remember God loves you so much he sent his Son Jesus Christ to take the punishment for your sins. You are of great value. Jesus loves you and He is just a prayer away! This episode includes AI-generated content.

Tonight, we're settling in with "The Man Who Could Imitate a Bee" by Richard Connell.Best known for his masterful storytelling, Connell had a gift for creating memorable characters, sharp dialogue, and stories filled with humor and unexpected twists. In this lighthearted tale, an unusual talent leads to a series of entertaining events that make for the perfect bedtime escape.Dim the lights, get comfortable, and let the story help you unwind as you drift off to sleep.Looking to support the show and get an additional bedtime story each week? Join the Patreon to unlock exclusive episodes released every week, along with a growing library of members-only stories you won't find on the public feed. Your support helps keep the podcast going and allows me to continue creating new content every week:patreon.com/dozingoffpodcastContact me at dozingoffpod@gmail.comSleep well, and thank you for listening.

Stay Connected With UsWebsite: anchorfaith.comAnchor Faith Church Facebook: www.facebook.com/anchorfaithAnchor Faith Church Instagram: www.instagram.com/anchorfaithPastor Earl Glisson Facebook: www.facebook.com/earlwglissonPastor Earl Glisson Instagram: www.instagram.com/earlglisson

Neil McClendon, Lead PastorGrand Parkway Baptist ChurchFour Habits of Jesus We Should ImitateMatthew 9:35-381. Where He went, v. 35aPreference asks, “What would I like to do?”Responsibility asks, “What needs to get done?”2. What He did, v. 35bJesus' ministry consisted of three things...a) teaching in their synagogues2 Timothy 3:16Notice these four words...• teaching• reproof• correction• training in righteousnessb) proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom•c) healing every disease and affliction3. How He felt, v. 364. What He prayed, v. 37Laborers embrace two things...a)the harvest is plentifulb) there is a Lord of the harvestMental worship...1. Do your life choices reflect your preferences or your responsibility?2. How does a person proclaim the gospel of the Kingdom in today's culture?3. Do you see the Bible as helpful or hurtful to the true desires of your heart?4. Are you known for your compassion? If not, what emotion are you known for?5. Are you willing to be the answer to your prayers?Be sure to follow us:InstagramFacebookYoutube

Read OnlineWhen Jesus entered Capernaum, a centurion approached him and appealed to him, saying, “Lord, my servant is lying at home paralyzed, suffering dreadfully.” He said to him, “I will come and cure him.” The centurion said in reply, “Lord, I am not worthy to have you enter under my roof; only say the word and my servant will be healed.” Matthew 8:5–8From the beginning of time, God continually reached out to humanity, calling them to Himself. After the Great Flood, God established a covenant with Abram—later named Abraham—who responded in faith and obedience. God promised him that his descendants would become a great nation and that “All the families of the earth will find blessing” in him (Genesis 12:3). In today's Gospel, we see a sign of this promise being fulfilled in the faith of the Roman centurion, a Gentile who recognizes the divine authority of Jesus. His trust in Christ foreshadows the inclusion of all nations in the blessing promised through Abraham.At the time of Jesus, kindness between Jews and a Roman centurion was virtually unheard of. The Romans had conquered Israel, imposing their rule and extracting heavy taxes from the people. Though the Jews were allowed to continue Temple worship and practice their faith in the synagogues, many harbored deep resentment toward their Roman occupiers, longing for the day when the Messiah would come to liberate them.When the Messiah did come, however, many of the Jewish people did not recognize Him—perhaps because their expectations were fixed on a powerful military leader who would restore Israel's national sovereignty. Instead, Jesus came not as a warrior, but as the Lamb of God, bringing a far greater liberation: freedom from sin and death. He understood the deep-seated bitterness toward the Romans but saw beyond earthly conflicts, viewing all people through the lens of divine Wisdom.Jesus bore no animosity toward the Romans, nor did He seek their political overthrow. Instead, He desired their conversion. While many of the Jews—including the scribes and Pharisees—viewed the Romans as enemies, Jesus extended His compassion even to them, knowing that the promise made to Abraham was not merely for one nation but for all peoples. The centurion's faith is a sign of this unfolding fulfillment: A Gentile, once an outsider to the covenant, now stands as an example of trust and humility before the Messiah.One of the qualities that could have enabled this Roman centurion to manifest such remarkable faith was his experience of duty and authority as a military officer. Having spent his life exercising command over others, he understood the nature of authority firsthand. He applied this natural understanding to the supernatural authority Jesus possessed. Unlike the Jewish people, the centurion likely had little or no knowledge of the Torah, salvation history, or the prophecies concerning the Messiah. Yet, when he witnessed Jesus' miraculous power, he recognized in Him an authority far greater than that of earthly rulers. Drawing from his own experience of command—where a word spoken in authority is immediately obeyed—he concluded that Jesus, possessing divine authority, could heal his servant from a distance, merely by speaking the word.Reflect today on the faith of the Roman centurion, whom Jesus praised above all in Israel, saying, “In no one in Israel have I found such faith” (Matthew 8:10). His trust was not based on knowledge of the Law but on a firm belief in Christ's divine authority. Like him, we must approach Jesus with humility, acknowledging our unworthiness while having absolute confidence in His power to heal and restore our souls. While the centurion's servant was physically healed, God wills for us whatever draws us closest to Him—whether physical healing or the deeper healing of the soul. Imitate the centurion's unwavering faith, entrusting yourself to Christ, and He will say to you, “You may go; as you have believed, let it be done for you” (Matthew 8:13). All-powerful Lord, You can do all things and always will what is best for us. Grant me the faith of the centurion, that I may trust in Your power—not only to heal the body but to restore the soul. May I seek Your will above all else and desire the good of others more than any earthly hope. Jesus, I trust in You.Image: Lord, I am not worthy to have you come under my roof, by Carl Geyling's ErbenSource: 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.

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This episode of the Bible Explained Podcast delves into Hebrews 13:7-14, where Jenn emphasizes the importance of scrutinizing leaders and their conduct. The way the American church is set up can promote narcissism, with a single leader at the top, but this is not a scriptural system: The Bible calls for a system of shared leadership with checks and balances to ensure that no one leader goes off the rails. Imitate the faith of your leaders, but only if their conduct is in line with Scripture. Elders should be held to high standards, as seen in 1 Timothy and Titus, where specific guidelines are laid out for who can and cannot be an elder. The importance of not being carried away by various and strange teachings, and the need to double-check all theology with Scripture. Christians must separate themselves from the world and its teachings, just as Jesus did when He went outside the camp to suffer for our sins. Related episodes: 1 Timothy 5:17-25 - Avoiding Extremes When It Comes To The Pastor 1 Timothy 3:1-7 - 15 Qualifications For Pastors and Elders 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 - What Is The Rapture, And Did It Already Happen? Leviticus 6:24-30 (From Creation) - The Sin Sacrifice and the Washing of Water After you're done with that, check out these websites: YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hnh-aqfg8rw Ko-Fi - https://ko-fi.com/p40ministries Website - https://www.p40ministries.com Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/p40ministries Contact - jenn@p40ministries.com Books - https://www.amazon.com/Jenn-Kokal/e/B095JCRNHY/ref=aufs_dp_fta_dsk Merch - https://www.p40ministries.com/shop YouVersion - https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/38267-out-of-the-mire-trusting-god-in-the-middle Check out LifeAudio for other faith-based podcasts on parenting, studying Scripture, and more:www.lifeaudio.com Need help memorizing Scripture? Check out Verse in the Chorus: https://www.youtube.com/@VerseintheChrous Become a Coffee-Tier member to gain access to The Bible Explained on Fridays: https://ko-fi.com/p40ministries Support babies and get quality coffee with Seven Weeks Coffee https://sevenweekscoffee.com/?ref=P40 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

John writes a description of a self-centered leader within the church. This is a juxtaposition to the love and service shown by Gaius in our previous study. After examining both figures, John encourages the church to imitate that which is good, not that which is evil. Who do you imitate?3 John 1: 9-15

3 John 11-15

I greet you in Jesus' precious name! It is Saturday morning, the 6th of June, 2026, and this is your friend, Angus Buchan, with a thought for today. If we go to 1 Corinthians 4:15, Paul says: “For though you might have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet you do not have many fathers; for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel.”Ten thousand instructors, very few fathers, and I want to include mothers in this thought today. I am talking about the heads of our homes. I looked up the Oxford Dictionary to see the literal meaning of the word "mentorship" and "a mentor”. A mentor is an experienced person who advises you over a period of time. It takes a long time to be a mentor, a father, a mother. If you look at the next verse, 1 Corinthians 4:16: it says, “Therefore” Paul says, “I urge you, imitate me.” Then we go to 1 Corinthians 11:1, he says it again: “Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ.”Now there is a challenge. It is not easy, no ways, and it takes a long time. In fact, it takes a lifetime. My children are grown up and my oldest children are grandparents already, but yet I am still there for them. I am still their mentor and their dad. A mentor is a counsellor, a consultant, a trainer, a guide, an instructor, a teacher. Are you talking to your children every day? Are they talking to you? Because if they are not, you are not doing the work God has called you to. It is not easy. I know. I have many children. In fact, I am mentoring over 500 men at the moment, so I really know what I am talking about, and it is not easy and often you drop the baton. We were asked many years ago by the ANC, our political party in South Africa, to stop criticising the party and to come with constructive criticism, as it were. I got an opportunity to speak to the President of South Africa, and I said, “Sir, the problem in our nation is a fatherless generation.”I want to say to you today, take up your role as mentor in your home. You might be a single parent but you still have to take the responsibility, father or mother, because the children are desperate for leadership.Jesus bless you and have a good day.Goodbye.

Season 22: Abide | #7 – Imitate JesusSHOW NOTES: In this season of Walk with God, we are looking at Jesus' command for His disciples to “Abide in Me.” John 15 records Jesus' words to the disciples in the Upper Room before His betrayal in the Garden of Gethsemane. These words apply to our lives today. We are Christ's followers, and this instruction applies to each of us.NEW! Watch us ONLINE! Click here!But whoever keeps His word, in Him truly the love of God is perfected. By this we may know that we are in Him: whoever says he abides in Him ought to walk in the same way in which He walked. 1 John 2:5-6 (ESV)This is God's intention for believers that they …· “Abide” by immersing yourself in His Word· “Allow” Jesus' words to saturate your mindReturning to our key passage in John 15, we find clear instruction in Jesus' words.“If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.” John 15:7 “If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father's commandments and abide in his love.” John 15:10“You are my friends if you do what I command you.” John 15:14 Are you beginning to see that you can't do this on your own? We are utterly dependent on God to live the Christian life because it isn't merely holding to a subjective set of moral principles. Jesus set the example for us and invites us to “Abide in Me.”SONG: More Like Jesus - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g807Remhvtc&list=RDg807Remhvtc&start_radio=1

Let'sbegin by reading Philippians 2:19-20: "But I trust in the Lord Jesus tosend Timothy to you shortly, that I also may be encouraged when I know yourstate. For I have no one like-minded, who will sincerely care for yourstate." What a remarkable statement! Remember, Paul is writing from aRoman prison. He is chained to a Roman guard. He is uncertain about the outcomeof his trial. Yet even while facing his own problems, his heart is focused onthe believers at Philippi. That is the mark of a mature Christian. A matureChristian does not become consumed with his own troubles. He remains concernedabout others. Paulwanted to know how the Philippian believers were doing. Were they standingfirm? Were they remaining united? Were they growing spiritually? He careddeeply about them. But Paul faced a problem. He could not go himself. So helooked around for someone he could trust. Among all the believers in Rome, Paulfound one man whom he believed would genuinely care for the Philippians. Thatman was Timothy. Paul says, "I have no one like-minded." Thephrase "like-minded" carries the idea of being of the same soul orkindred spirit. Timothy had spent years traveling with Paul, learning from him,serving alongside him, suffering with him, and praying with him. Over time,Timothy began to develop the same heart that Paul had. That is whatdiscipleship is all about. Jesusspent three years with His disciples. Paul spent years with Timothy. Godlycharacter is often caught as much as it is taught. Timothy learned how to carefor people by watching Paul care for people. I am reminded of what Paul wrotein 1 Corinthians 11:1: "Imitate me, just as I also imitateChrist." Every believer needs someone to learn from and someone tohelp. One of the greatest needs in our churches today is spiritual mentoring.Older believers should be encouraging younger believers. More mature Christiansshould be helping those who are younger in the faith. Timothyhad a servant's heart. Notice Paul says that Timothy would "sincerelycare" for their welfare. The word means genuine concern. Not professionalconcern.    Not forced concern. Notconcern because it was his job. Genuine concern. Timothy truly cared aboutpeople. That immediately raises a question for us. Do we genuinely care aboutothers? It is easy to become wrapped up in our own schedules, our own plans,our own problems, and our own needs. Yet Jesus constantly looked beyond Himselfto the needs of others. Even while hanging on the cross, He cared for Hismother. Even while suffering, He prayed for His enemies. Even while dying, Hesaved a thief. That is the heart of Christ. Onepastor said, "People don't care how much you know until they know how muchyou care." How true that is.Peopleare looking for genuine Christians who will listen, pray, encourage, and help. Asimple phone call can change someone's day. A handwritten note can strengthen adiscouraged believer. A visit can encourage someone who feels forgotten. Aprayer can lift a burden. You never know what God can dothrough a caring heart. The submissive mind always produces concern for others.Selfishness asks, "What can others do for me?" Love asks, "Whatcan I do for others?" Perhapstoday there is someone God has placed on your heart. Maybe it is a familymember. Maybe it is a neighbor. Maybe it is a fellow church member. Maybe it issomeone who is hurting. Don't ignore that prompting. Reach out. Encourage them.Pray for them. Show them the love of Christ. That is exactly what Timothy wouldhave done. And that is exactly what Christ would have us do. Let'spray. Father, thank You for the example of Timothy. Give us hearts thatgenuinely care for others. Deliver us from selfishness and help us to seepeople through Your eyes. Use us today to encourage someone and point them toJesus Christ. We pray this in Jesus' name. Amen.

In this episode of Church Is Messy, Rick and Svea continue the 1 Corinthians series by unpacking Paul's teaching on idolatry, allegiance, wisdom, and life with people who do not share our faith.The conversation begins with a look at how modern idolatry often shows up less through statues and temples and more through the things we rely on for security, significance, and satisfaction. Rick and Svea discuss what it means to give Jesus our full allegiance—not as an accessory we reach for when life gets hard, but as Lord over every part of life.They also explore Paul's practical instructions about eating food sacrificed to idols and what those instructions teach us today. Rather than living in fear of guilt by association, followers of Jesus are called to love people well, remain clear about their allegiance to Christ, and pursue wisdom in messy relational situations.Along the way, Rick and Svea talk about learning from the lives of others, the importance of wise counsel, the difference between avoiding compromise and avoiding people, and how Jesus was never afraid to be present with people others misunderstood or rejected.Topics discussed in this episode:00:00 — Intro01:37 — Overview of the sermon's two parts04:07 — Learning from others' experiences (Paul's use of Israel's stories)08:01 — "Imitate me as I imitate Christ"09:57 — Total allegiance to Jesus vs. treating Him as an accessory11:43 — Modern idolatry: security, significance, and satisfaction14:32 — Meat sacrificed to idols — navigating the flowchart17:34 — Relational application: being with people in messy situations19:18 — "Avoid the appearance of evil" — does it apply here?22:39 — Guilt by association — Jesus as the model25:06 — A real-world question about what to do when a friend of another faith prays before a meal

Today, more than ever before, we live in a herd environment, a human herd.  Mass advertising in a great variety of media confronts us hour after hour, this creates a herd mentality. We reflected on this as we read Paul's words this morning.  He told the Thessalonians that we “give you in ourselves an example to imitate.” [2 Thess. 3 v.9]  What do we imitate? What or who do we take as our examples in life?  An equally important question – why do we see them as examples that we might feel inclined to imitate?  Bad examples surround us!   But there are other things that are in some aspects good, but are dangerous in other ways! In these cases we need to acknowledge the good but be conscious of the potential for danger, seeing the aspects that could be deceitful, as Paul did.      Do you remember what he wrote about sin in Romans ch. 7?  Verse 11 challenges our understanding.  Paul wrote, “For sin, seizing an opportunity through the commandment, deceived me …” Yet, the next verse says, the “law is holy, and the commandment is holy and righteous and good.” What does he mean?  It appears to us that in studying the law and keeping them they became proud of their righteousness, that pride, deceived them! Now he was a follower of Christ, Paul sees life through Christ's eyes, he now has what we might call, a down to earth perspective. He  writes, “you yourselves know how you ought to imitate us, because we were not idle when we were with you, nor did we eat anyone's bread without paying for it … that we might not be a burden to you.” [v.7,8]  So we need to ask ourselves – are we pulling our weight, doing our share?  We live in a world (in the west in particular) where getting something for nothing is the aim of quite a percentage of the population.  Some have seen a career in ‘Christianity' as a means of making a living with very little hard work attached to it.  This is sometimes evident in India, especially if some overseas organisation is pouring in money. In this country the degree of ‘social welfare' encourages some to try to live ‘idle' lives, but the true believer must have an attitude that is the very opposite.  Soon we will be reading the letter to the Hebrews where it is stated, “Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God.  Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith” [13 v.7] They did not have the blessing of a Bible to read every day and we cannot help but think that, if they had, they would have read it every spare moment – and made as many such moments as possible.  Today with so many Bibles available, it is vital we ask ourselves what part does God's word take as we live each day?    One of the smallest “books” in the Bible is the 3rd letter of John. Let's take our final point from what he wrote at the end of his long life. “Beloved, do not imitate evil but imitate good.  Whoever does good is from God; whoever does evil has not seen God.” [v.11]  What will you do today that you would call “good”? We should read the Bible with such dedication of mind that we “see” God.

Imitate the Father AS DEARLY LOVED children...Here we go, Paul is really leaning into what kingdom living should look like and what it shouldn't look like. Jesus has not come to christianize disobedience but to give us the true light to walk in.

Istrouma Baptist Church (BR) May 10, 2026 ========== May 10 - Cultivate Welcome! We're glad you've joined us today for our Sunday morning worship service! For more information about Istrouma, go to istrouma.org or contact us at info@istrouma.org. We glorify God by making disciples of all nations. ========== Connection Card https://istrouma.org/myinfo May 10, 2026 Micah Cating 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. 24 And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 If we live by the Spirit, let us also keep in step with the Spirit. Galatians 5:22-24, ESV BIBLICAL GOODNESS IS ROOTED IN GOD'S CHARACTER Goodness = Agathosune 18 Moses said, "Please show me your glory." 19 And he said, "I will make all my goodness pass before you and will proclaim before you my name 'The Lord.' And I will be gracious to whom I will be gracious, and will show mercy on whom I will show mercy. Exodus 33:18-19, ESV I will give thanks to your name, O Lord, for it is good. Psalm 54:6, ESV 11 I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. 12 He who is a hired hand and not a shepherd, who does not own the sheep, sees the wolf coming and leaves the sheep and flees, and the wolf snatches them and scatters them. 13 He flees because he is a hired hand and cares nothing for the sheep. 14 I am the good shepherd. I know my own and my own know me, 15 just as the Father knows me and I know the Father; and I lay down my life for the sheep. 16 And I have other sheep that are not of this fold. I must bring them also, and they will listen to my voice. So there will be one flock, one shepherd. 17 For this reason the Father loves me, because I lay down my life that I may take it up again. 18 No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down, and I have authority to take it up again. This charge I have received from my Father." John 10:11-18, ESV GOD IS GOOD ALL THE TIME Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change. James 1:17, ESV Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good! Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him! Psalm 34:8, ESV As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today. Genesis 50:20, ESV Naked I came from my mother's womb, and naked shall I return. The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord." Job 1:21, ESV 28 And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. 29 For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. Romans 8:28-29, ESV GOODNESS IS NOT ABOUT OUTER BEHAVIOR BUT INNER TRANSFORMATION If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask him! Matthew 7:11, ESV How can we Cultivate goodness in our lives? How can we Cultivate goodness in our lives? 1. Discern what is good Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. Romans 12:2, ESV 2. Imitate what is good Beloved, do not imitate evil but imitate good. Whoever does good is from God; whoever does evil has not seen God. 3 John 1:11, ESV LEAVE A LEGACY OF GOODNESS In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. Matthew 5:16, ESV Want to receive weekly announcements in your inbox each week? https://istrouma.org/email Give Online Text ISTROUMA IBC to 73256 or go to: https://istrouma.org/give Our Website https://istrouma.org

The dads talk about happy marriages, and how to build them. They discuss unity of vision (rather than division that kids can exploit)…what's more important than being "compatible"…why men don't pray with their wives…public displays of affection…how to handle disagreements (especially in front of the kids)…delighting in each other (rather than just getting things done together)…and the number one thing to do for your wife.

Paul was a special person chosen by God for some special purposes. But we must be careful to not elevate him so high that we don't follow his example. Today we begin looking at aspects of Paul's life worth imitating. Join me for today's  Daily Word & Prayer to learn more.Scripture Used in Today's Message1 Corinthians 3:16, 11:1Philippians 3:172 Thessalonians 3:7-9Philippians 4:9 To find Tom on Instagram, Facebook, TiKTok, and elsewhere, go to linktr.ee/tomthepreacher

You're about to hear the sounds of several different creatures — from the voice of one single musician. In a spellbinding talk and performance, singer Snow Raven mimics the hoot of an owl, the grumble of a bear, the howl of a wolf and more.This episode originally aired in November 2024.Learn more about our flagship conference happening this April at attend.ted.com/podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How do you stay close to Jesus when life feels full, distracted, and fast-moving? Abiding in Christ can sound simple, but living it out daily is often harder than it seems.In this episode of Kitchen Table Theology, Jeff and Tiffany continue their conversation on Jesus' teaching about the vine and the branches by focusing on two practical responsibilities of the branch: communicating with Jesus and following His example. They explain why abiding is not a weekly check-in but an ongoing relationship shaped by prayer, Scripture, dependence, and daily obedience. This episode offers a clear and practical picture of what it means to stay connected to Christ and bear fruit that lasts.What We Discussed03:00 Prayer Is More Than a Scheduled AppointmentHealthy relationships are built through constant connection, not brief, formal check-ins. Prayer is meant to be part of daily life, not limited to isolated moments.07:00 Prayer and Scripture Work TogetherCommunication with Jesus involves both speaking to Him in prayer and hearing from Him through His Word. Neglecting either one weakens the relationship.12:00 What Believers Are Meant to Imitate in JesusThe episode highlights Christ's obedience, trust, prayer life, compassion, determination, holiness, truthfulness, faithfulness, and self-sacrifice.14:00 Admiring Jesus Is Not the Same as Following HimIt is possible to respect Jesus from a distance without actually living as He lived. The Christian life calls for active imitation, not passive admiration.15:00 Practical Questions for Everyday AbidingPastor Jeff offers simple questions believers can ask throughout the day, including how Jesus would respond, what trusting Him looks like in the moment, and how to show compassion.17:00 What the Lord Will Evaluate in Our LivesGod is not simply measuring output or busyness. He is looking for what was done with Him and what was produced through connection to Christ.18:00 Abiding Is Simple, But Not EasyPastor Jeff and Tiffany close by reminding listeners that abiding is a daily, repeated choice to talk with Jesus, listen to His Word, and follow His example.“Christianity has never been meant to be a distant relationship with God. It's a close daily walk with the living Christ.” ” - Pastor Jeff Cranston 

REF: SM1740

Read OnlineJesus said to her, “Go call your husband and come back.” The woman answered and said to him, “I do not have a husband.” Jesus answered her, “You are right in saying, ‘I do not have a husband.' For you have had five husbands, and the one you have now is not your husband. What you have said is true.” John 4:16–18Today, we are given the beautiful story of Jesus' encounter with the Samaritan woman at Jacob's Well. The story begins with Jesus resting by the well, for He was “tired from his journey.” A Samaritan woman approaches the well at noon, during the heat of the day, most likely to avoid the scorn of the other women who looked down on her. Jesus then does something that greatly surprises her: He asks her for a drink of water.Jews used nothing in common with Samaritans, yet Jesus was willing to drink from her utensil. When she questioned Him about this, Jesus responded, “If you knew the gift of God and who is saying to you, ‘Give me a drink,' you would have asked him and he would have given you living water.”The “living water” Jesus desired to give her was the spiritual gift of grace to renew and refresh her soul. His divine eyes enabled Him to see her spiritual thirst, and His compassion filled Him with a desire to free her from her many burdens.The passage above might sound harsh at first: “For you have had five husbands…” Why would Jesus bring up this woman's humiliating situation? Because she had clearly been searching for fulfillment throughout her life, engaging in one failed marriage after another. Now, she was living with a man who was not her husband, a reality that left her dry and thirsty.By speaking this way to the woman, Jesus lets her know that He knows all about her, loves her, and longs to fill her with the satiation she has been searching for throughout her life. He does not judge or condemn her; He invites her to experience the freedom He longed to bestow upon her. After the encounter, the woman left the well overjoyed and even left her water jar behind, symbolizing that she was no longer thirsty—spiritually speaking. She then confidently went to the people of the town and said, “Come see a man who told me everything I have done. Could he possibly be the Christ?”Each of us needs to see ourselves in this woman. Our sins fill us with shame. The guilt of our hidden sins weighs us down, leaving us thirsty. If we can identify with this sinful woman, then we can also expect the same depth of compassion from Jesus. Too often, we hide our sins, even from ourselves, justifying our actions, downplaying them, or ignoring them. That is not the path to freedom. Freedom only comes by allowing our Lord to reveal our sins to us, facing them, and encountering God's abundant mercy.Reflect today on the importance of opening your eyes to see the reality of your sins. Don't run from your past—confront it, understand it, confess it, and receive the living water of mercy. The holier you become, the more clearly you will see even the smallest sins you have committed. That is good. It is necessary if we want to be healed and refreshed by God. Imitate this sinful woman today. God is never ashamed of us. Let the shame and guilt dissipate within God's abundant mercy so that like this woman, you will know that God knows you through and through and loves you despite your sin.My Lord and Source of Living Water, my soul is often dry and empty. I long for satiation and fulfillment. Please forgive me for trying to fulfill my soul through sin. I repent of my sins and ask You to reveal to me the full depth of those sins. As You do, please give me the grace I need to repent with all my heart so that I can be filled with Your abundant mercy. Jesus, I trust in You.Image: Christ and the Woman of Samaria by Benedetto Luti, CC0, via Wikimedia CommonsSource: 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.