Podcasts about Jerusalem

Cathy Heller breaks down why the law of attraction doesn't work and why the law of reception does. This conversation goes beyond surface-level manifestation advice into the Kabbalistic teaching of oneness and why your inability to receive isn't about worthiness—it's about believing you're separate from everything else.What you'll learn:Why reception is immediate but attraction keeps you stuckHow money circulation proves we're all oneThe "almost list" that's actually self-betrayalCathy Heller is the host of the Kathy Heller podcast and author of Abundant Ever After. She spent three years in Jerusalem studying Kabbalah, and her teaching on the law of reception versus the law of attraction has shifted how thousands of people understand abundance.Find Cathy's book "Abundant Ever After" and all links at: mindlove.com/442Ready to work on your almost list with real accountability? Join the free Mind Love Collective for monthly coaching and support throughout the year. mindlove.com/joinSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“O Lord of hosts, how long wilt thou not have mercy upon Jerusalem?… And the Lord answered the angel… with good words and comfortable words.” — Zechariah 1:12,13 What a sweet answer to an anxious enquiry! This night let us rejoice in it. O Zion, there are good things in store for thee; thy time […]

And as [Jesus] was praying, the appearance of His face was altered, and His clothing became dazzling white. And … Moses and Elijah … who appeared in glory and spoke of His departure, which He was about to accomplish at Jerusalem. … And as the men were parting from Him, Peter said to Jesus, “Master, it is good that we are here. Let us make three tents, one for You and one for Moses and one for Elijah.” … a cloud came and overshadowed them … And a voice came out of the cloud, saying, “This is My Son, My Chosen One; listen to Him!” (Luke 9:29, 30b-31, 33a, 34b, 35)

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Archaeology reporter Rossella Tercatin and diplomatic reporter Nava Freiberg join host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. If Iran attacks Israel, it will be “perhaps the most serious mistake in their history,” warned Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday evening, threatening an overwhelming response to any aggression. As the world awaits US President Donald Trump's State of the Union address tonight, Freiberg updates us with the push-pull diplomacy of the past day. The Palestinian technocratic body tasked with managing postwar Gaza announced last week that it was opening applications for “qualified candidates” seeking to serve in a “transitional police force” to be deployed in the Strip. This comes as Hamas appears poised to keep hold of its control of civilian and security infrastructure even as the Trump peace plan moves ahead. The Great Isaiah Scroll, the oldest nearly complete book from the Hebrew Bible ever found, is on display in its full length for the first time since 1968. Tercatin was on hand at Jerusalem's Israel Museum for the unveiling and fills us in. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Trump said frustrated with limits of military leverage against Iran Netanyahu: An attack on Israel would be ‘most serious mistake’ in Iranian history Hamas seen working to maintain control of Gaza via Trump-backed bodies Gaza oversight committee seeks ‘qualified’ candidates to join Strip’s police force Great Isaiah Scroll, oldest near-complete biblical book ever found, on show in entirety for 1st time since 1968 Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. Ari Schlacht produced this episode. IMAGE: Hamas gunmen in the Shijaiyah neighborhood of Gaza City, November 5, 2025. (AP Photo/Jehad Alshrafi)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today Jerusalem is the major point of conflict between the Arabs and Jews; both claim it as their own. There can be no peace in the Middle East—or elsewhere in the world—until this conflict is resolved with the return of the King-Messiah Jesus. Pastor Runge will take you through Jerusalem's past and into her future in the plan of God. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1094/29?v=20251111

#top .av-special-heading.av-gs9o3p-275f14b541cd96bf748491de59d42bd2{ padding-bottom:10px; } body .av-special-heading.av-gs9o3p-275f14b541cd96bf748491de59d42bd2 .av-special-heading-tag .heading-char{ font-size:25px; } .av-special-heading.av-gs9o3p-275f14b541cd96bf748491de59d42bd2 .av-subheading{ font-size:15px; } Through My Bible Yr 03 – February 24Luke 9:18-36 LISTEN HERE Through My Bible – February 24 Luke 9:18-36 (EHV) https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/tmb-ehv/03-0224db.mp3 See series: Through My Bible Luke 9 Jesus Is the Christ 18 One time when Jesus was praying alone and the disciples were with him, he asked them, “Who do the crowds say that I am?” 19 They answered, “‘John the Baptist,' but others say, ‘Elijah,' and others say, ‘one of the ancient prophets come back to life.'” 20 He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” And Peter answered, “The Christ of God.” 21 He gave them a strict command not to tell this to anyone. 22 He said, “The Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected by the elders, chief priests, and experts in the law. He must be killed and be raised on the third day.” Take Up the Cross 23 Jesus said to all of them, “If anyone wants to come after me, let him deny himself, take up his cross daily, and follow me. 24 For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it. 25 After all, what will it benefit a man if he gains the whole world, but destroys himself or is lost? 26 In fact, whoever is ashamed of me and my words, the Son of Man will be ashamed of him when he comes in his glory, and the glory of the Father, and of the holy angels. 27 I am telling you the truth: There are some standing here who will certainly not taste death until they see the kingdom of God.” The Transfiguration 28 About eight days after he said these words, Jesus took Peter, John, and James and went up on the mountain to pray. 29 While he was praying, the appearance of his face changed, and his clothing became dazzling white. 30 Just then, two men, Moses and Elijah, were talking with him! 31 They appeared in glory and were talking about his departure, [1] which he was going to bring to fulfillment in Jerusalem. 32 Peter and those with him were weighed down with sleep, but when they were completely awake, they saw his glory and the two men standing with him. 33 As the men were leaving Jesus, Peter said to him, “Master, it is good for us to be here. Let's make three tents: one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” He did not realize what he was saying. 34 While he was saying these things, a cloud came and overshadowed them. They were afraid as they went into the cloud. 35 Then a voice came out of the cloud, saying, “This is my Son, whom I love. [2] Listen to him!” 36 After the voice had spoken, they found Jesus alone. They kept this secret and told no one in those days any of the things they had seen. Footnotes Luke 9:31 Or exodus Luke 9:35 A few witnesses to the text read my chosen one instead of whom I love. #top .hr.hr-invisible.av-aocsdx-89cb4ca21532423cf697fc393b6fcee0{ height:10px; } The Holy Bible, Evangelical Heritage Version®, EHV®, © 2019 Wartburg Project, Inc. All rights reserved. #top .hr.hr-invisible.av-4vzadh-3f04b370105df1fd314a2a9d83e55b26{ height:50px; } Share this entryShare on FacebookShare on LinkedInShare by MailLink to FlickrLink to InstagramLink to Vimeo

Our practice follows the custom of the Arizal to remain sitting during Kaddish. Although Ashkenazim make a point of standing for Kaddish, Sephardic practice is to remain seated. The exception to this rule is the Kaddish recited before Barechu at the beginning of Arbit on Friday night, when many have the custom to stand. The Arizal taught that one should stand during this recitation of Barechu, as part of the extra Shabbat soul descends upon a person at this point. Therefore, since in any event one stands for Barechu, many have the custom to stand already during the Kaddish that precedes Barechu. As a general rule, however, Sephardic custom allows one to remain sitting for Kaddish. This applies only if a person was sitting before Kaddish began. If one was already standing when Kaddish starts, then he must remain standing. This was the practice of the Arizal. According to some Poskim, if one was standing when Kaddish began, then he must remain standing throughout the entire recitation of Kaddish. Others maintain that one must remain standing only until the Hazzan reaches "Da'amiran Be'alma Ve'imru Amen." Our custom follows a third opinion, that of the Ben Ish Hai (Rav Yosef Haim of Baghdad, 1833-1909) – that one may sit after he completes his "Yeheh Shemeh Rabba" response, which, according to our community's practice, ends with the words "Da'amiran Be'alma." Once a person completes his response, he may sit, even though the Hazzan has not yet reached "Da'amiran Be'alma." Some have the misconception that it is improper to sit before the Hazzan reaches "Da'amiran Be'alma," but in truth, one may sit once he reaches that point. On Friday night, the congregation stands during the recitation of Vayechulu and the Hazzan's recitation of "Me'en Sheba," which is then followed by Kaddish. In some synagogues, people rush to sit down after the Hazzan concludes "Me'en Sheba" (with the recitation of "Baruch Ata Hashem Mekadesh Ha'Shabbat"), before he begins Kaddish, so they would not have to remain standing during Kaddish. Some Hazzanim even pause before Kaddish to give the congregants the opportunity to sit before Kaddish. Hacham Ovadia Yosef writes that this is improper, as specifically rushing to sit down before Kaddish begins shows disrespect to Kaddish. He brings as an example a ruling of the Ma'amar Mordechai (Rav Mordechai Karmi, 1749-1825) regarding the situation of somebody standing next to a person who is about to begin the Amida. Halacha requires one to stand if the individual next to him is reciting the Amida, unless he was sitting before his neighbor began the Amida, in which case he may remain seated. The Ma'amar Mordechai writes that one who is standing and sees that the person next to him will soon begin the Amida should not rush to sit down so he would not need to remain standing. By the same token, Hacham Ovadia writes, it is inappropriate to specifically rush to sit down before Kaddish in order to avoid having to stand during Kaddish. During Arbit, one may remain seated during the recitation of the Kaddish that precedes the Amida. Since one is already seated during Hashkibenu, he may remain seated for Kaddish, and then stand for the Amida prayer. On days when Tahanunim are not recited after the Hazzan's repetition of the Amida, and only the brief "Yehi Shem" recitation precedes Kaddish, it is proper to remain standing for Kaddish. Some people mistakenly think that they may sit down for Kaddish – even though they had been standing before Kaddish began – if the Hazzan sings the Kaddish and thus prolongs its recitation. This is incorrect; one must remain standing even if the Hazzan sings the Kaddish. However, the Poskim write that if the Hazzan knows that people are standing, he should ensure not to prolong the recitation of Kaddish, in order not to overburden the congregation by making them remain standing for several minutes. This Halacha alerts us to the care that must be taken to avoid "Tirha De'sibura" – causing the congregation even minor inconvenience. If Hazzanim are discouraged from prolonging the Kaddish recitation by several minutes when people are standing, then this shows us the sensitivity that Halacha requires toward the congregation. In fact, a well-known Hazzan told me that when he led the service on the High Holidays in Hacham Ovadia Yosef's synagogue, and he wanted to sing a special melody for Birkat Kohanim that was traditionally sung in Jerusalem communities, Hacham Ovadia instructed him not to. He explained that it would be inconsiderate to overburden the congregation who are standing during Birkat Kohanim – especially on Yom Kippur, when the people are fasting – by prolonging this part of the service. Unfortunately, it has become common to sing a great deal at Huppa ceremonies, which causes a great deal of inconvenience to the guests, and this practice should be discouraged. Summary: Sephardic custom is to remain seated during Kaddish. If one was standing before Kaddish began, then he must remain standing until he completes his "Yeheh Shemeh Rabba" response, through "Da'amiran Be'alma," at which point he may sit, even if the Hazzan has not yet reached "Da'amiran Be'alma." A Hazzan who knows that people are standing for Kaddish should not prolong the Kaddish recitation. It is improper to rush to sit down before Kaddish to avoid having to remain standing.

U.S. military aircraft land in Israel as Trump considers “limited Iran strike.” Netanyahu warns “no one knows what tomorrow will bring”; West Bank mosque torched in suspected extremist attack as settler violence spikes during Ramadan; Israel disqualifies Olympic bobsled team in last-minute scandal & Indian PM Modi prepares for high-stakes visit to Jerusalem.Hasod Story: IDN10 for 10% off - https://www.hasodstore.com/shopsmall/p/israeldailynewssupportIsrael Daily News website: https://israeldailynews.orgYOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@israeldailynews?si=UFQjC_iuL13V7tyQIsrael Daily News Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/shannafuldSupport our Wartime News Coverage: https://www.gofundme.com/f/independent-journalist-covering-israels-warLinks to all things IDN:⁠ https://linktr.ee/israeldailynews⁠

Hello Friends! I love to hear from you! Please send me a text message by clicking on this link! Blessings to You!In this episode, Dr. Jori discusses with her listeners  John's account that many believed in Jesus when  He was in Jerusalem at the Passover as they observed the signs He was doing.  Scripture References: 2 Timothy 2:16-17; Matthew 4:4; John 2:23; Hebrews 11:6; John 1:1-14; John 2:1-25; Galatians 5:22-23 Scripture translation used is the NASB “Scripture quotations taken from the NASB (New American Standard Bible) Copyright 1971, 1995, 2020 (only use the last year corresponding to the edition quoted) by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission. All rights reserved. www.Lockman.org”CHECK OUT DR. JORI'S NEW PODCAST- The First Love ProjectHere is the video introducing the podcast on You Tube-https://youtu.be/PhFY1moDDmsHERE IS A LINK TO THE YOUTUBE PLAYLIST FOR FIRST LOVE PROJECThttps://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdaujk1npuKR0BLSkTlKyxmuxavrZQHM6&si=dC10K4Qdh0xMKElU FIND DR. JORI ON OTHER PLATFORMS https://linktr.ee/drjorishaffer DAILY MUSICAL DEVOTIONAL BY THE WORSHIP INITIATIVE:Text SING to 79316CHECK OUT THE DWELL AUDIO BIBLE APP:Click this link for my unique referral code.  I use this frequently. Such a wonderful audio bible app. https://dwellapp.io/aff?ref=jorishafferBIBLE STUDY TOOLS DR. JORI USES:Note: These contain  Amazon affiliate links, meaning I get a commission, at no extra cost to you,  if you decide to make a purchase through my links.Here is a link to some of my favorite bible study tools on Amazon:https://geni.us/cHtrfEMr. Pen Bible Journaling Kitshttps://lvnta.com/lv_PTrHSCogbRim4yhEDnhttps://lvnta.com/lv_mkaMOuGe6m4oHR88uqhttps://lvnta.com/lv_dgvsxOc99t663A628z  BOOKS OF BIBLE COLOR CHARTI made this chart as a helpful tool for grouping the collections of books or letters  in the Holy Bible.  The colors in the different sections are the ones that I use in my journals.  Books of Bible Chart (color) (4).pdf - Google Drive    LOOKING TO RETAIN MORE OF WHAT YOUR PASTOR IS TEACHING?              CHECK OUT DR. JORI'S SERMON REFLECTION JOURNALS! Sermon Notes, Reflections and Applications Journal/Notebooks by Dr. Jori. Click the links below to be directed to amazon.com for purchase. Or search “Dr. Jori Shaffer” on Amazon to bring these up.  https://amzn.to/418LfRshttps://amzn.to/41862EyHere is a brief YouTube video that tells about the Journal/Notebooks as well:https://youtu.be/aXpQNYUEzds   Email: awordforthisday@gmail.comPodcast website:  https://awordforthisday.buzzsprout.com Support the show

Skeptics said synagogues didn't exist in Galilee during Jesus' lifetime. They were wrong. They said crucified victims were never buried. They were wrong. They said the Gospel writers invented details about first-century Palestine. Wrong again.Dr. Craig Evans, one of the world's leading scholars on the historical Jesus and New Testament archaeology, has spent decades connecting physical discoveries to the Gospel narratives. He's authored over 70 books, founded the Dead Sea Scrolls Institute, lectured at Cambridge, Oxford, and Yale, and appeared on BBC, the History Channel, Discovery Channel, and National Geographic. In this episode, he walks us through the discoveries that secular Israeli archaeologists rely on the Gospels as their primary sources, why skeptical theories collapse under the weight of evidence, and how the skeletal remains of a crucified man confirm that Jesus would have been buried exactly as the Gospels describe. This conversation will transform how you read the New Testament.In this episode, you will learn:Why Israeli archaeologists, even non-believing ones, use Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, and Acts as their most reliable sourcesThe discovery of first-century synagogues at Magdala and what they reveal about Jesus' ministryWhat the Theodotus Inscription proves about synagogues existing in Jerusalem before 70 ADHow the Pilate Stone and Caiaphas Ossuary confirm key figures from the Passion narrativesWhy the Gospel writers showed remarkable restraint and integrity in recording only what Jesus actually saidThe archaeological evidence that crucified victims in Jewish Palestine were in fact buriedHow the skeletal remains of Yehohanan, a crucified man with a nail still in his heel, validates Gospel burial accountsWhy Joseph of Arimathea's burial of Jesus is historically plausible and fits Jewish law perfectlyThe stunning continuity of village memory that preserved the location of Jesus' tomb for centuriesCheck out Dr. Craig Evans' work:Website: https://www.craigaevans.comJesus and His World: The Archaeological EvidenceFabricating Jesus: How Modern Scholars Distort the GospelsThe Bible Seminary: https://www.thebibleseminary.eduStay Connected with Johnny Ova and The Dig In Podcast: Subscribe and follow The Dig In Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thejohnnyova Follow all things Johnny: https://linktr.ee/johnnyova Grab Johnny's book, The Revelation Reset: https://a.co/d/hiUkW8H

The readings for this homily: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/022326.cfmFather Chris  Alar, MIC reminds us that works do not earn salvation; only God's grace saves (CCC, 1987). Yet the Church teaches that we must co‑operate with that grace. As Fr. Chris explains, each soul faces a particular judgment at death, meeting Christ in His human nature, and later a general judgment when Christ returns to judge all humanity (see Jn 5:22‑23). The Scriptures picture this final assembly in the “valley of Jehoshaphat,” drawn from Joel 3:2, where angels separate the good from the bad.Father Chris contrasts David's flight from Jerusalem with Jesus' deliberate return to be judged, showing that avoidance leads to condemnation while Christ embraces the sacrifice for our redemption. He cites the familiar parable of the wheat and the weeds (Mt 13:24‑30) and the separation of sheep from goats (Mt 25:31‑46) to illustrate the ultimate sorting of souls.A central point is the necessity of Confession. Unconfessed sins are exposed at judgment, whereas confessed sins are sealed (CCC 1451). Father Chris stresses that God's justice is always tempered by mercy: “The greater the sinner, the greater the right he has to My mercy” (Diary of Saint Faustina Kowalska, 723). This mercy flows through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, whose prayers unite with ours and draw us toward the divine will (CCC 2675).Father Chris also addresses contemporary objections that “Jesus did it all, so there is no hell.” He refutes this by affirming human free will: God's love respects our freedom, and those who freely reject Him choose separation, which is the reality of hell (CCC 1037). As C.S. Lewis observed, “The gates of hell are locked from the inside,” underscoring that the choice belongs to the soul. ★ Support this podcast ★

Peace is not only the absence of something, but is also the presence of Someone. Let's trace the theme of peace that accompanies Jesus, the King of Peace, as He rides a colt into the City of Peace, Jerusalem. Peace is on His way! This message was preached by Pastor John Jackson on February 22, 2026.

2/22/26 Tom kicks off our Lent teaching series of the same title, The Joy of Resistance. Jesus' entry into Jerusalem and communion meal show us the way.

In Part 2 of The Epic of the City, we explore one of the most powerful themes in Scripture: the battle between pride and humility. Using the unforgettable story of Larry's lawn chair flight — a man who tried to soar 16,000 feet with weather balloons — this sermon illustrates the danger of self-elevation and the consequences of building our lives on our own glory. From Babylon to Jerusalem, the Bible presents two archetypal cities. Babylon represents self-glory, arrogance, and the pursuit of being “like God.” Jerusalem represents humility, worship, and lifting up the name of the true King. Through Isaiah's vision, the fall of the king of Babylon, and Nebuchadnezzar's humbling in the book of Daniel, we see a clear pattern: internal pride always leads to external collapse. As Augustine wrote in The City of God, the internal fall always precedes the external fall.

Plan A: Why the Cross Was Never Optional What does it mean to follow Jesus ... to the cross? In this verse-by-verse exposition of Mark 10:32–34, we walk with Jesus on the road to Jerusalem as He predicts His betrayal, humiliation, suffering, death, and resurrection with stunning clarity. Nothing is vague. Nothing is uncertain. Every detail unfolds according to divine design. In the Gospel of Mark, Jesus repeatedly says the Son of Man "must" suffer. That word changes everything. This message explores: Why Jesus' suffering was necessary—not optional How the cross was always Plan A, not Plan B What it means that Christ was "delivered" according to God's sovereignty If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson

Send a textSeven Days That Changed The World The Donkey, The Cross, And The Crowd | Part 1 Senior Pastor Keith StewartFebruary 22, 2026On Palm Sunday, the crowds shouted “Hosanna,” waved palm branches, and welcomed Jesus as King. But they wanted a conqueror with a hammer—not a Savior riding a donkey. What they celebrated on Sunday, they rejected by Friday because Jesus refused to meet their expectations. He did not come to overthrow Rome; He came to overthrow sin. The question remains for us: will we follow the King we want—or the Lamb who came to save?Discussion Questions1. Observation: Seeing What the Text Reveals Why do you think all four Gospel writers included the Triumphal Entry? What does that tell us about its importance? What different biblical connections to the donkey did you notice (Zechariah, Abraham and Isaac, Solomon)? What do those layers communicate about Jesus?What political expectations were present in Jerusalem during Passover? How did palm branches, cloaks, and the word “Hosanna” reflect those expectations?2. Interpretation: Understanding the Meaning What message was Jesus intentionally sending by riding a donkey instead of a war horse? How does that redefine power? The crowd welcomed Jesus as King but rejected Him as Savior. What is the difference between enthusiasm and genuine faith?3. Personal Reflection: Examining the Heart In what ways do people today (including Christians) project their own expectations onto Jesus? Where are you most tempted to want “Air Force One Jesus” instead of “Donkey Jesus”? The crowd wanted deliverance from Rome; Jesus came to deal with sin. What problems in your life feel urgent but may not be the root issue? Jesus entered Jerusalem on Lamb Selection Day. If He stood before you today asking for your allegiance, what would it mean practically to choose the Lamb instead of the hammer?

Filled with the Spirit, Pointing to Jesus Acts 2:14-41Teacher: Pastor Matt PiersonDate: February 22, 2026In Acts 2, we witness the powerful outpouring of the Holy Spirit as Jesus fills His followers gathered in Jerusalem. Then Peter—once the fearful disciple who denied Jesus—stands up, filled with the Spirit, and boldly proclaims the gospel.What transformed Peter from frightened fisherman to fearless apostle? The same Holy Spirit who breathed new life into him now lives in us. As Charles Spurgeon said, without the Spirit, “we are as ships without wind, or like coals without fire.”Join Pastor Matt this Sunday as we explore what it means to be filled with the Spirit and to live lives that point to Jesus.To find more resources like these, follow us:Website: https://thevillagechapel.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQVTzDbaiXVUAm_mUBDCTJAInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/tvcnashville/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tvcnashvilleX: https://twitter.com/tvcnashvilleTo support the ongoing mission of The Village Chapel go to https://thevillagechapel.com/give/. If you are a regular giver, thank you for your continued faithfulness and generosity!

2 Chronicles 33:1–6. Manasseh systematically dismantles his father's godly legacy by rebuilding pagan altars, practicing sorcery, and sacrificing his own children. The apple fell “very far” from the proverbial tree. Some of Manasseh's sins were among the most heinous the nation had ever seen. 2 Chronicles 33:7–9. By placing a carved image directly inside the Temple, Manasseh leads the nation into a spiritual decline so severe that Judah becomes more wicked than the pagan nations God had previously destroyed. 2 Chronicles 33:10–13. After Manasseh ignores God's warnings, he is captured by the Assyrians as punishment and taken to Babylon in shackles. In his lowest moment, something amazing happens. Manasseh humbles himself and prays to Yahweh, asking Him to forgive him—the most unforgivable sinner. 2 Chronicles 33:14–17. Yahweh shows mercy upon Manasseh and even restores him to the throne in Judah. A complete reversal of the judgment upon him. Manasseh proves the genuineness of his changed heart upon returning to Judah by fortifying Jerusalem and aggressively purging the city of the idols he once set up and worshiped. 2 Chronicles 33:18–20. Manasseh is one of Judah's greatest villains who turned into one of the greatest testimonies of God's forgiveness and mercy.The post Forgotten Kings: Manasseh first appeared on Living Hope.

In this week's message from our Jesus Glorified: Transfiguration to Resurrection series, we continued through Mark 10, where Jesus reshapes how we understand salvation, greatness, and the culture of God's kingdom.In this chapter, starting at verse 13, Jesus welcomes and blesses little children. In a culture that measured spiritual worth by knowledge and obedience of God's Law, Jesus declared that the kingdom of God belongs to those who can do nothing to earn it. Like infants, we are saved by grace alone—eternal life is received as a gift from God, not achieved by our hard work.That truth is then contrasted with a rich young ruler, who asks Jesus what he must do to inherit eternal life. Though outwardly obedient, he was unable to surrender what he valued most: his wealth. Jesus' loving challenge exposed the deeper question for each of us: Is Jesus enough?Then, as they journeyed toward Jerusalem, Jesus again predicted His suffering, death, and resurrection. Immediately afterward, just as we saw last week, the disciples argued over positions of greatness, prompting Jesus to address once again the truth about God's kingdom leadership. In God's upside-down kingdom, greatness is found not in power, but in humility.We finish up the message with Mark 10:45: “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” By using the word “ransom” Jesus' purpose for dying was clear: His substitutionary sacrifice would free us from our slavery to sin and death. His life for our freedom.

Prof. Avi Rivkind is Head of the Department of General Surgery and the Trauma Unit at Hadassah Medical centre in Jerusalem.

If the Book of Genesis records the personal fall of man (adam) in the Garden, the Book of Kings (Sefer Melakhim) records the corporate fall of man (Israel) in the Promised Land. Originally a single, seamless work in the Hebrew canon, Kings is the autopsy of a spiritual collapse. It tracks the Davidic Promise from its architectural summit in Jerusalem to its apparent dissolution in the fires of Babylon. The Arc of Decay: From Temple to Exile The narrative spans approximately 410 years (c. 970 BCE – 560 BCE), following the tragic trajectory of "YHWH-plus" religion. The Summit (c. 970–930 BCE): The United Monarchy under Solomon. The Word of God is housed in the Jerusalem Temple, the location God chose to place his Name forever if only Israel will hear and obey the voice of their God. Tragically, the philosopher-king Solomon divides his loyalties and his affections. The Divided Monarchy (c. 930–722 BCE): As goes the heart of the king, so goes the Kingdom. The North (Israel) under Jeroboam immediately adopts YHWH-plus idolatry, the Golden Calves, leading to its total erasure by Assyria. The South (Judah) struggles to maintain the Davidic "Immune System" amidst a progressive slide into syncretism. The Collapse (c. 722–586 BCE): Despite the radical reforms of Hezekiah and Josiah, the culture of compromise - weaponized by Manasseh - becomes terminal. The book concludes with the Babylonian Captivity, as the means devised by God to carry His promise to completion. Authorship While Jewish tradition identifies the prophet Jeremiah as the author, conservative scholarship also recognizes the possibility of a 'Scribe of the Exile' (such as Baruch or Ezra) who compiled the royal archives and prophetic eyewitness accounts into a single, unified narrative. In any case, the author is no mere chronicler; he is a covenantal prosecutor. He evaluates every king by a single metric: Did they walk in the way of David and obey God's word, or did they seek a "Plus" to YHWH? History here is the public outworking of a nation's loyalty to the divine message.

For thousands of years Christians have gathered around the world once a week to remember and celebrate Jesus together. However, is what we call “church” what it was intended to be? This movement that we have been swept up in began with a handful of people who were not terribly sure of what they were doing. In fact, they were mostly unsure and confused in their nature.But by the grace of God, the Holy Spirit empowered them to establish and lead a revolutionary vision creating witnesses of the love and grace of Jesus that has continued even to this day. We are here today because of the ACTS OF THE APOSTLES through the Holy Spirit just weeks after Jesus was crucified and resurrected. This study of the book of Acts should bring us back to purpose of the church and the power of the Holy Spirit. --- After the healing of the lame man outside of the Temple in Jerusalem, Peter and John face a familiar foe - the Sadducees. The battle is waged in a sacred place to the elitist Sadducees and their power comes face to face with the power of the name of Jesus Christ. Peter & John stand in bold opposition to the ruling council and hold their ground as they speak and work in the name of the only One who can save.

Having received his Ph.D. in mathematical logic at Brandeis University, Rabbi Dr. Dovid Gottlieb went on to become Professor of Philosophy at Johns Hopkins University. Today he is a senior faculty member at Ohr Somayach in Jerusalem. An accomplished author and lecturer, Rabbi Gottlieb has electrified audiences with his stimulating and energetic presentations on ethical and philosophical issues. In Jewish Philosophy with Rabbi Dr. Gottlieb, we are invited to explore the most fascinating and elemental concepts of Jewish Philosophy. https://podcasts.ohr.edu/ podcasts@ohr.edu

Fluent Fiction - Hebrew: Walls of Wisdom: Friendship and Discovery in Jerusalem Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/he/episode/2026-02-23-08-38-20-he Story Transcript:He: השמש הייתה מוחבאת מאחורי עננים כהים בירושלים החורפית.En: The sun was hidden behind dark clouds in the wintery Jerusalem.He: הקור נגע בלחיים ופזר טיפות גשם קלות על אבני הכותל המערבי.En: The cold touched their cheeks and scattered light raindrops on the stones of the Western Wall.He: יהודית, יהודית, על ראשי החג.En: Yehudit, Yehudit, on my head the holiday.He: היו אלו ימי פורים, וצלילי החג וריחות הסופגניות הציפו את אוויר העיר.En: These were the days of Purim, and the sounds of the holiday and the scent of sufganiyot filled the city's air.He: יעל עמדה מול הכותל עם ספריה ומחברת, שניסתה לסדר ברוח הקרה.En: Yael stood in front of the wall with her books and notebook, trying to organize them in the cold wind.He: יעל הייתה נחושה.En: Yael was determined.He: היא רצתה להכין את הפרויקט הכי טוב לכיתה על משמעות התרבותית של הכותל המערבי.En: She wanted to prepare the best project for class on the cultural significance of the Western Wall.He: אבל היא לא לבד.En: But she wasn't alone.He: לצדה עמד אברהם, עם חיוך רגוע על פניו.En: Beside her stood Avraham, with a calm smile on his face.He: אברהם הציץ מסביב, מתבונן במתחפשים ובשמחת החג.En: Avraham glanced around, watching those in costumes and the joy of the holiday.He: קולות הפורים הסיחו את דעתו מהמטרה המרכזית שלהם.En: The sounds of Purim distracted him from their main goal.He: "יעל, תראי את התחפושת הזו," הוא צחק.En: "Yael, look at that costume," he laughed.He: יעל גילגלה את עיניה אך חיוך קל הופיע על פניה.En: Yael rolled her eyes, but a slight smile appeared on her face.He: "אברהם, חשוב לנו לסיים את הפרויקט," היא אמרה בעדינות אך בתקיפות.En: “Avraham, we need to finish the project," she said gently but firmly.He: אברהם נאנח וביטל את ענייניו החיצוניים לרגע.En: Avraham sighed and dismissed his external interests for a moment.He: "אני יודע, זה חשוב," השיב לבסוף.En: "I know, it's important," he finally replied.He: כך ישבו שניהם מול הכותל, כשאברהם מנסה להתרכז.En: So, they both sat in front of the wall, with Avraham trying to concentrate.He: הם הבינו שצריך גם לשתף ולא רק לעבוד.En: They realized they needed to share, not just work.He: חילופי סיפורים התחילו במקרה - אברהם הזכיר את סבא רבא שלו שפעם עלה לרגל לכותל, ויעל סיפרה על התפילות שהיא אומרת שם בכל שנה ביום כיפור.En: Their exchange of stories began by chance - Avraham mentioned his great-grandfather who once made a pilgrimage to the wall, and Yael spoke of the prayers she says there every year on Yom Kippur.He: בעודם מדברים, הם מצאו עצמם נוגעים באופן אישי יותר בהיסטוריה של המקום.En: As they talked, they found themselves becoming more personally connected to the history of the place.He: הם קלטו שהכותל הוא יותר מאבן עתיקה, הוא מייצג זיכרונות, חלומות ותקוות.En: They realized that the wall is more than an ancient stone; it represents memories, dreams, and hopes.He: הדיון הפך לחברות, להפחתת המתח ולעבודה משותפת.En: The discussion turned into friendship, reducing tension and leading to joint work.He: כשהגיעו לבית הספר והציגו את הפרויקט המוגמר, הוא היה שילוב של עובדות היסטוריות וחוויות אישיות.En: When they arrived at school and presented the completed project, it was a combination of historical facts and personal experiences.He: לימודם לא היה רק על כותל, אלא גם על חשיבות האיזון בין עבודה לחיים, ועל ההקשבה זה לזה.En: Their learning wasn't just about the Kotel, but also about the importance of balancing work and life, and listening to each other.He: יעל הבינה שבזמן שהמטרה חשובה, גם החברות וההבנה חשובים.En: Yael understood that while the goal is important, so are friendship and understanding.He: ואברהם גילה שהיכולת להתרכז ולתרום משמעותית מובילה לתוצאות מרשימות.En: And Avraham discovered that the ability to focus and contribute meaningfully leads to impressive results.He: יחד, הם הראו שלפעמים החגיגות יכולות להעשיר את הלימוד, ולא רק לשבש אותו.En: Together, they showed that sometimes the celebrations can enrich the learning, not just disrupt it. Vocabulary Words:hidden: מוחבאתwintery: החורפיתcheeks: לחייםscattered: פזרdetermined: נחושהcultural significance: משמעות תרבותיתconcentrate: להתרכזpilgrimage: עלה לרגלancient: עתיקהmemories: זיכרונותdreams: חלומותhopes: תקוותdiscussion: דיוןfriendship: חברותtension: מתחjoint work: עבודה משותפתbalance: איזוןlistening: הקשבהimpressive: מרשימותcelebrations: חגיגותenrich: להעשירnotebook: מחברתexternal interests: ענייניו החיצונייםgoals: מטרהexchange: חילופיpersonally connected: נוגעים באופן אישיcombination: שילובmeaningfully: משמעותיתdistracted: הסיחו את דעתוfirmly: בתקיפותBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fluent-fiction-hebrew--5818690/support.

Big Idea: God is even working in the small stuff!Esther 2:1-14I. Better to choose wisely than regret badly. Esther 2:1-4Some time later, when King Ahasuerus's rage had cooled down, he remembered Vashti, what she had done, and what was decided against her. The king's personal attendants suggested, “Let a search be made for beautiful young virgins for the king. Let the king appoint commissioners in each province of his kingdom, so that they may gather all the beautiful young virgins to the harem at the fortress of Susa. Put them under the supervision of Hegai, the king's eunuch, keeper of the women, and give them the required beauty treatments. Then the young woman who pleases the king will become queen instead of Vashti.” This suggestion pleased the king, and he did accordingly.II. God can construct an epic story from your worst moments. Esther 2:5-7In the fortress of Susa, there was a Jewish man named Mordecai son of Jair, son of Shimei, son of Kish, a Benjaminite. Kish had been taken into exile from Jerusalem with the other captives when King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon took King Jeconiah of Judah into exile. Mordecai was the legal guardian of his cousin Hadassah (that is, Esther), because she had no father or mother. The young woman had a beautiful figure and was extremely good-looking. When her father and mother died, Mordecai had adopted her as his own daughter.III. Find God's favor in any circumstance.  Esther 2:8-9When the king's command and edict became public knowledge and when many young women were gathered at the fortress of Susa under Hegai's supervision, Esther was taken to the palace, into the supervision of Hegai, keeper of the women. The young woman pleased him and gained his favor so that he accelerated the process of the beauty treatments and the special diet that she received. He assigned seven hand-picked female servants to her from the palace and transferred her and her servants to the harem's best quarters.IV. Borrow wisdom carefully, and share it generously.   Esther 2:10-14Esther did not reveal her ethnicity or her family background, because Mordecai had ordered her not to make them known. Every day Mordecai took a walk in front of the harem's courtyard to learn how Esther was doing and to see what was happening to her. During the year before each young woman's turn to go to King Ahasuerus, the harem regulation required her to receive beauty treatments with oil of myrrh for six months and then with perfumes and cosmetics for another six months. When the young woman would go to the king, she was given whatever she requested to take with her from the harem to the palace. She would go in the evening, and in the morning she would return to a second harem under the supervision of the king's eunuch Shaashgaz, keeper of the concubines. She never went to the king again, unless he desired her and summoned her by name.Next Steps: Believe: I, Jesus, to do his biggest miracle in my soul today.Become: I will trust God with the small stuff this week. Be Sent: I will minister to someone far from Jesus this week.Growth Group Questions: What was the last bad decision you made? What were the consequences?What role did prayer play in your schedule last week?What are some practical examples of God's favor in your past?  Did you notice them at the time?How do you decide to follow someone's advice?How quickly do you notice God at work in your worst moments? How easy is it to see God at work in the ordinary moments of your life?Pray for someone by name who is far from Jesus right now.

The story moves from miracles to misunderstanding—and that tension is where the deepest formation happens. We step into Acts 21 as Paul is accused, seized, and carried away under the shout of death, and we unpack why long obedience often collides with confusion before it bears any visible fruit. No instant vindication arrives, yet something more resilient takes root: steadiness under pressure and the quiet strength of composure.We walk through how assumptions harden into certainty, how sacred space and identity fuel the crowd's fury, and why Luke refuses to polish the scene. Paul's choice to remain present in Jerusalem—among his own people, with shared Scripture and story—reveals a costly kind of faithfulness. Renewal within established communities is rarely smooth; it is frequently misunderstood before it is received. Still, Paul does not withdraw. Even in chains, he asks to address the crowd, trusting that God can turn interruption into direction and confinement into opportunity.Across the episode, we explore the hard but hopeful truth that obedience does not guarantee clarity. You can do the right thing and still be misread. Yet the mission of God is not dependent on favorable conditions. Sometimes it advances through restraint, through hearings and custody rather than open roads and fast wins. We reflect on Paul's transformed past, his enduring love for Jew and Gentile, and the way grace forms patience for slow, contested spaces. The takeaway is simple and strong: faithfulness is measured by endurance, not applause—and endurance is sustained by presence. If you're facing noise, delay, or misunderstanding, this conversation offers a path to stay rooted in grace and steady on the long way forward.If this resonates, follow the show, share it with a friend who needs courage for a slow road, and leave a rating to help others find it.Support the showIf you enjoyed this episode, consider subscribing to Madison Church on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback means the world to us, so please take a moment to leave a review and share the podcast with your friends and family.For inquiries, suggestions, or collaboration opportunities, please reach out to us at help@madisonchurch.com. For the latest updates and behind-the-scenes content, follow us on social media: Facebook Instagram YouTube New episodes are released every Monday, so mark your calendars and join us weekly! If you'd like to support the show, you can make a donation here. Your generosity helps us continue to bring you meaningful content. This podcast is intended for general informational purposes only. The views expressed by the hosts or guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Madison Church. Any reliance you place on such information is strictly at your own risk. For detailed information regarding our terms of use and privacy policy, please visit our website.Thank you for being part of the Madison Church community! We appreciate your support.

Lamentations February 22, 2026 Teacher: Pastor Daniel Bunn LAMENTATIONS 1:1-7 Babylonians destroyed Jerusalem (587 B.C.) Tisha B'Av Lamentations is meant to be felt. "How?" Lamentations names the pain and looks it in the face. When I kept silent, my bones wasted away through my groaning all day long (Psalm 32:3) What is hidden cannot be healed. How long, O LORD? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me? (Psalm 13:1) Lamentations invites us to name our pain before God. Truthfulness is not the absence of faith. Truthfulness requires deep faith. Where are you pretending everything is fine? What would it look like to be a little more honest? REVELATION 21:1-4

Reading 1Sirach 15:15-20If you choose you can keep the commandments, they will save you;if you trust in God, you too shall live;he has set before you fire and waterto whichever you choose, stretch forth your hand.Before man are life and death, good and evil,whichever he chooses shall be given him.Immense is the wisdom of the Lord;he is mighty in power, and all-seeing.The eyes of God are on those who fear him;he understands man's every deed.No one does he command to act unjustly,to none does he give license to sin.Reading 21 Corinthians 2:6-10Brothers and sisters:We speak a wisdom to those who are mature,not a wisdom of this age,nor of the rulers of this age who are passing away.Rather, we speak God's wisdom, mysterious, hidden,which God predetermined before the ages for our glory,and which none of the rulers of this age knew;for, if they had known it,they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.But as it is written:What eye has not seen, and ear has not heard,and what has not entered the human heart,what God has prepared for those who love him, this God has revealed to us through the Spirit.For the Spirit scrutinizes everything, even the depths of God.GospelMatthew 5:17-37Jesus said to his disciples:"Do not think that I have come to abolish the law or the prophets.I have come not to abolish but to fulfill.Amen, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away,not the smallest letter or the smallest part of a letterwill pass from the law,until all things have taken place.Therefore, whoever breaks one of the least of these commandmentsand teaches others to do sowill be called least in the kingdom of heaven.But whoever obeys and teaches these commandmentswill be called greatest in the kingdom of heaven.I tell you, unless your righteousness surpassesthat of the scribes and Pharisees,you will not enter the kingdom of heaven."You have heard that it was said to your ancestors,You shall not kill; and whoever kills will be liable to judgment.But I say to you,whoever is angry with his brotherwill be liable to judgment;and whoever says to his brother, 'Raqa,'will be answerable to the Sanhedrin;and whoever says, 'You fool,'will be liable to fiery Gehenna.Therefore, if you bring your gift to the altar,and there recall that your brotherhas anything against you,leave your gift there at the altar,go first and be reconciled with your brother,and then come and offer your gift.Settle with your opponent quickly while on the way to court.Otherwise your opponent will hand you over to the judge,and the judge will hand you over to the guard,and you will be thrown into prison.Amen, I say to you,you will not be released until you have paid the last penny."You have heard that it was said, You shall not commit adultery.But I say to you,everyone who looks at a woman with lusthas already committed adultery with her in his heart.If your right eye causes you to sin,tear it out and throw it away.It is better for you to lose one of your membersthan to have your whole body thrown into Gehenna.And if your right hand causes you to sin,cut it off and throw it away.It is better for you to lose one of your membersthan to have your whole body go into Gehenna."It was also said,Whoever divorces his wife must give her a bill of divorce.But I say to you,whoever divorces his wife - unless the marriage is unlawful - causes her to commit adultery,and whoever marries a divorced woman commits adultery."Again you have heard that it was said to your ancestors,Do not take a false oath,but make good to the Lord all that you vow.But I say to you, do not swear at all;not by heaven, for it is God's throne;nor by the earth, for it is his footstool;nor by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great King.Do not swear by your head,for you cannot make a single hair white or black.Let your 'Yes' mean 'Yes,' and your 'No' mean 'No.'Anything more is from the evil one."

Is a direct war with Iran inevitable, and what happens the day after the first strike? In this episode of the ROPESCAST, we sit down with Sima Shine, former senior Mossad official and leading Iran expert at the INSS institute, to cut through the rhetoric and look at the hard calculus of a regional conflict. We break down the realistic scenarios of an escalation, analyze the current risk appetite in Washington, Jerusalem, and Tehran, and examine how a war would fundamentally redraw the Middle East's security architecture. A sober, intelligence-driven look at the interests, the risks, and the timeline.Chapters: 0:38 – Who Is Simma Shine?1:10 – Is War With Iran Really Imminent?2:28 – Massive U.S. Military Buildup: What Does It Mean?4:02 – Inside the U.S.–Iran Negotiation Gap8:04 – The Regional & Domestic Pressures on Trump's Decision14:11 – Understanding Iran's Mindset19:04 – Iran's Internal Crisis: Economy, Protests & Regime Fragility27:16 – Would a Deal With Trump Endanger the Regime?

Sermon on John 11:17-44. This is the fourth sermon in our five-week sermon series called For Everyone Born.The good news of the gospel is intended "For Everyone Born," in the words of the hymn. Jesus came for all kinds of people - both those like and unlike us. As we encounter the different characters who interact with Jesus as he travels to Jerusalem, we are invited to ensure out faith is good news for each person we meet as well.In this sermon, we explore how God's love defeats death, bringing life, joy, and flourishing.

In this Prayer Podcast episode on Hodu (the first section of Pesukei Dezimra), Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explains its structure, purpose, and deeper meaning. Hodu consists of 50 verses (from Chronicles and Psalms), divided into three parts, recited either before or after Baruch She'amar (depending on Ashkenaz/Sephard custom) to remove spiritual barriers (klipot) from the morning offerings and elevate prayer.Key points:Hodu = Give thanks — The prayer begins with a charge to declare Hashem's name and make His miracles known among the nations (“Hodiu ba'amim alilosaiv”). It's an expression of love for Hashem: when you truly love Him, you want to share that love with the world.Practical themes — Publicize Hashem's acts (not keep Judaism secret); take pride in His name (“Hisalu b'shem kodsho”); rejoice in seeking Him (“yismach leiv mevakshei Hashem”); constantly seek His presence and strength (“dirshu Hashem v'uzo, bakshu panav tamid”); remember His wonders, covenant, and chosen status of Israel (“zichru la'olam briso”).Spiritual power — Hodu removes klipot (negative spiritual forces) that block prayer after mentioning offerings. It's sung before the Ark in the Temple (twice daily); today it replaces offerings and connects us to the Temple service.Connection to daily life — Start the day with gratitude and awe: see Hashem's wonders in nature (sunrise, waves, wind, hurricanes, volcanoes), personal blessings, and creation. Share Hashem's greatness—don't hide Jewish identity; attribute success to Him (“kiru bishmo”).Broader message — Hodu inspires sharing Hashem with humanity, just as Abraham did. It's the opening song of Pesukei Dezimra—sing praise, not just recite words.The rabbi emphasizes joyful, intentional prayer: Hodu is about declaring Hashem's sovereignty, remembering the covenant, and rejoicing in seeking Him—turning morning prayer into song and testimony._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Dr. Leonard & June GoldbergDownload the Prayer Podcast Worksheets:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1iBVevW1ydyjSeyeO0iCcina7e8vix3Lt?usp=sharingThis episode (Ep. #45) of the Prayer Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Dr. Leonard & June Goldberg! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on February 17, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on February 24, 2026_____________DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!_____________SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com_____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!_____________#Prayer, #Tefillah, #Siddur, #PesukeiDezimra, #PrayerPodcast, #VersesOfPraise, #JewishPrayer, #Hodu, #GiveThanks, #Hashem, #Klipot ★ Support this podcast ★

In this Thinking Talmudist episode on Gittin 23a–b, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe continues exploring stories of Choni HaMe'aggel (Choni the Circle-Maker), focusing on his extraordinary character, humility, and the profound lessons of long-term thinking, gratitude, and divine providence.Key narratives and teachings:The carob tree story — Choni sees a man planting a carob tree that takes 70 years to bear fruit. He asks, “Do you expect to live another 70 years?” The man replies: “My ancestors planted for me; I plant for my children.” Choni falls asleep for 70 years (hidden by a rock formation), wakes to see the same scene repeated by the planter's grandson. His donkey has produced generations of offspring. He returns home; no one believes he is Choni. Distraught (no longer honored in the study hall), he prays to die—and dies. Lesson: “Either companionship or death”—without purpose and recognition, life loses meaning.Abba Hilkiah (Choni's grandson) — When drought struck, rabbis sent messengers to pray for rain. His unusual behavior (not greeting them, carrying items oddly, wife adorned, etc.) is explained with deep intention: diligence in work, protecting borrowed items, modesty, concern for strangers, prioritizing the hungry child (who studies Torah all day), and his wife's greater merit (she gives bread directly to the poor; he gives money). Clouds came first from her corner. Lesson: True righteousness is hidden; small acts reflect profound character and merit.Choni's other grandson (Hanan HaNechba) — When rain was needed, schoolchildren grabbed his garment and cried, “Father, give us rain!” He prayed humbly: “They don't know the difference between the Father who gives rain and one who doesn't—send rain for these innocent children.” Called “the hidden” because he concealed himself even in private (modesty in restroom). Lesson: Pure, childlike faith and humility draw divine response.The rabbi emphasizes: Choni's 70-year sleep teaches planting for future generations (legacy over instant gratification). True greatness is hidden righteousness, self-control, and concern for others. We must live with intention, dignity, and long-term vision—actions today affect descendants tomorrow._____________The Thinking Talmudist Podcast shares select teachings of Talmud in a fresh, insightful and meaningful way. Many claim that they cannot learn Talmud because it is in ancient Aramaic or the concepts are too difficult. Well, no more excuses. In this podcast you will experience the refreshing and eye-opening teachings while gaining an amazing appreciation for the divine wisdom of the Torah and the depths of the Talmud._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by David & Susan MarbinRecorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on February 13, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on February 22, 2026_____________Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/thinking-talmudist-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1648951154Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0cZ7q9bGYSBYSPQfJvwgzmShare your questions at aw@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content._____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference!_____________Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Hey Rabbi! Podcast: https://heyrabbi.transistor.fm/episodesPrayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#Talmud, #Taanit, #Choni, #Prayer, #Rain, #Geshem, #Blessing, #CarobTree, #Planting ★ Support this podcast ★

In this Parshas Terumah review, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe focuses on the practical meaning of the Tabernacle (Mishkan) command: “Make Me a sanctuary and I will dwell in them” (Exodus 25:8)—not “in it,” but “in them” (the people). God doesn't need a house; the Mishkan is for building intimate closeness between Hashem and the Jewish people. The Temple (and today synagogues/study halls) is a place of relationship, security, and nurturing divine connection—not a distant monument.Key lessons & practical applications:The Mishkan's purpose — God wants to reside within us (V'shachanti b'tocham). The Holy of Holies had two cherubim facing each other (God & Israel); when Jews follow Torah, they face; when not, they turn away. The home/temple is for private, intimate time with God.Gratitude for seeing descendants — Sarah, Rivka, and Rachel never saw grandchildren; Leah likely saw Asenat. Today's privilege of seeing grandchildren/great-grandchildren is enormous—grandparents must influence positively without interfering (e.g., no naming veto; parents alone decide).Naming & prophecy — Parents receive prophetic guidance at birth/bris (alleged Midrash). Adding a second name (e.g., after deceased relative) is common. Spontaneous additions (like Rabbi's son Yehuda-Noach at bris) reflect divine inspiration.Jealousy vs. knowledge of Hashem — First commandment (“Anochi Hashem…”) and last (“Lo tachmod”) connect: coveting denies Hashem's perfect plan for you. Compare only to your own potential.Modern miracles & awe — Technology (smartphones, Neuralink) reveals Hashem's wonders—don't let them become routine. Israeli survival despite missiles is ongoing splitting of the sea.The rabbi urges bold Jewish pride (yarmulke/tzitzit/tefillin in public), relentless self-improvement, and living with awe: see daily yesh me'ayin (creation from nothing) and thank Hashem constantly._____________This episode of the Parsha Review Podcast is dedicated in honor of Lenny & Teresa FriedmanDownload & Print the Parsha Review Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ncaRyoH5iJmGGoMZs9y82Hz2ofViVouv?usp=sharingRecorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on February 20, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on February 22, 2026_____________Subscribe: Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/parsha-review-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1651930083)Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/22lv1kXJob5ZNLaAl6CHTQ) to stay inspired! Share your questions at awolbe@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content.  _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference!_____________Subscribe and Listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Hey Rabbi! Podcast: https://heyrabbi.transistor.fm/episodesPrayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#Torah, #Parsha, #Exodus, #Shemos, #Terumah, #Mishkan, #Dwell, #JewishPride, #HashemWithin ★ Support this podcast ★

In this Thinking Talmudist episode on Gittin 23a–b, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe continues exploring stories of Choni HaMe'aggel (Choni the Circle-Maker), focusing on his extraordinary character, humility, and the profound lessons of long-term thinking, gratitude, and divine providence.Key narratives and teachings:The carob tree story — Choni sees a man planting a carob tree that takes 70 years to bear fruit. He asks, “Do you expect to live another 70 years?” The man replies: “My ancestors planted for me; I plant for my children.” Choni falls asleep for 70 years (hidden by a rock formation), wakes to see the same scene repeated by the planter's grandson. His donkey has produced generations of offspring. He returns home; no one believes he is Choni. Distraught (no longer honored in the study hall), he prays to die—and dies. Lesson: “Either companionship or death”—without purpose and recognition, life loses meaning.Abba Hilkiah (Choni's grandson) — When drought struck, rabbis sent messengers to pray for rain. His unusual behavior (not greeting them, carrying items oddly, wife adorned, etc.) is explained with deep intention: diligence in work, protecting borrowed items, modesty, concern for strangers, prioritizing the hungry child (who studies Torah all day), and his wife's greater merit (she gives bread directly to the poor; he gives money). Clouds came first from her corner. Lesson: True righteousness is hidden; small acts reflect profound character and merit.Choni's other grandson (Hanan HaNechba) — When rain was needed, schoolchildren grabbed his garment and cried, “Father, give us rain!” He prayed humbly: “They don't know the difference between the Father who gives rain and one who doesn't—send rain for these innocent children.” Called “the hidden” because he concealed himself even in private (modesty in restroom). Lesson: Pure, childlike faith and humility draw divine response.The rabbi emphasizes: Choni's 70-year sleep teaches planting for future generations (legacy over instant gratification). True greatness is hidden righteousness, self-control, and concern for others. We must live with intention, dignity, and long-term vision—actions today affect descendants tomorrow._____________The Thinking Talmudist Podcast shares select teachings of Talmud in a fresh, insightful and meaningful way. Many claim that they cannot learn Talmud because it is in ancient Aramaic or the concepts are too difficult. Well, no more excuses. In this podcast you will experience the refreshing and eye-opening teachings while gaining an amazing appreciation for the divine wisdom of the Torah and the depths of the Talmud._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by David & Susan MarbinRecorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on February 13, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on February 22, 2026_____________Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/thinking-talmudist-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1648951154Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0cZ7q9bGYSBYSPQfJvwgzmShare your questions at aw@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content._____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference!_____________Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Hey Rabbi! Podcast: https://heyrabbi.transistor.fm/episodesPrayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#Talmud, #Taanit, #Choni, #Prayer, #Rain, #Geshem, #Blessing, #CarobTree, #Planting ★ Support this podcast ★

In this Parshas Terumah review, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe focuses on the practical meaning of the Tabernacle (Mishkan) command: “Make Me a sanctuary and I will dwell in them” (Exodus 25:8)—not “in it,” but “in them” (the people). God doesn't need a house; the Mishkan is for building intimate closeness between Hashem and the Jewish people. The Temple (and today synagogues/study halls) is a place of relationship, security, and nurturing divine connection—not a distant monument.Key lessons & practical applications:The Mishkan's purpose — God wants to reside within us (V'shachanti b'tocham). The Holy of Holies had two cherubim facing each other (God & Israel); when Jews follow Torah, they face; when not, they turn away. The home/temple is for private, intimate time with God.Gratitude for seeing descendants — Sarah, Rivka, and Rachel never saw grandchildren; Leah likely saw Asenat. Today's privilege of seeing grandchildren/great-grandchildren is enormous—grandparents must influence positively without interfering (e.g., no naming veto; parents alone decide).Naming & prophecy — Parents receive prophetic guidance at birth/bris (alleged Midrash). Adding a second name (e.g., after deceased relative) is common. Spontaneous additions (like Rabbi's son Yehuda-Noach at bris) reflect divine inspiration.Jealousy vs. knowledge of Hashem — First commandment (“Anochi Hashem…”) and last (“Lo tachmod”) connect: coveting denies Hashem's perfect plan for you. Compare only to your own potential.Modern miracles & awe — Technology (smartphones, Neuralink) reveals Hashem's wonders—don't let them become routine. Israeli survival despite missiles is ongoing splitting of the sea.The rabbi urges bold Jewish pride (yarmulke/tzitzit/tefillin in public), relentless self-improvement, and living with awe: see daily yesh me'ayin (creation from nothing) and thank Hashem constantly._____________This episode of the Parsha Review Podcast is dedicated in honor of Lenny & Teresa FriedmanDownload & Print the Parsha Review Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ncaRyoH5iJmGGoMZs9y82Hz2ofViVouv?usp=sharingRecorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on February 20, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on February 22, 2026_____________Subscribe: Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/parsha-review-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1651930083)Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/22lv1kXJob5ZNLaAl6CHTQ) to stay inspired! Share your questions at awolbe@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content.  _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference!_____________Subscribe and Listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Hey Rabbi! Podcast: https://heyrabbi.transistor.fm/episodesPrayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#Torah, #Parsha, #Exodus, #Shemos, #Terumah, #Mishkan, #Dwell, #JewishPride, #HashemWithin ★ Support this podcast ★

As we enter the season of Lent, Pastor Tom Kang kicks off a new six-week series, Journey to Jerusalem. Examining Luke 9, we look at three brief encounters Jesus has as He resolutely sets His face toward the cross.Often, our spiritual lives stall not because we aim too high, but because we "fly too low"—weighed down by a desire for comfort, the illusion of control, or a constant glance backward. This message challenges us to examine the excuses we use to delay fully following Jesus.What has an unhealthy grip on you? Join us in observing Lent not as a punishment, but as a deliberate season of fasting and intentional formation to make room for the Holy Spirit.

Debbie kicks off our Lenten series, The Path to Palm Sunday with a look at the path Jesus walks to Jerusalem.

Sermons Archive RSS John 5: 1-16 After this there was a feast of the Jews, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem. 2 Now there is in Jerusalem by the Sheep Gate a pool, which is called in Hebrew, Bethesda, having five porches. 3 In these lay a great multitude of sick people, blind, lame, paralyzed, waiting for the moving of the water. 4 For an angel went down at a certain time into the pool and stirred up the water; then whoever stepped in first, after the stirring of the water, was made well of whatever disease he had. 5 Now a certain man was there who had an infirmity thirty-eight years. 6 When Jesus saw him lying there, and knew that he already had been in that condition a long time, He said to him, “Do you want to be made well?”7 The sick man answered Him, “Sir, I have no man to put me into the pool when the water is stirred up; but while I am coming, another steps down before me.”8 Jesus said to him, “Rise, take up your bed and walk.” 9 And immediately the man was made well, took up his bed, and walked.And that day was the Sabbath. 10 The Jews therefore said to him who was cured, “It is the Sabbath; it is not lawful for you to carry your bed.”11 He answered them, “He who made me well said to me, ‘Take up your bed and walk.' ”12 Then they asked him, “Who is the Man who said to you, ‘Take up your bed and walk'?” 13 But the one who was healed did not know who it was, for Jesus had withdrawn, a multitude being in that place. 14 Afterward Jesus found him in the temple, and said to him, “See, you have been made well. Sin no more, lest a worse thing come upon you.”15 The man departed and told the Jews that it was Jesus who had made him well.16 For this reason the Jews persecuted Jesus, and sought to kill Him, because He had done these things on the Sabbath.Nehemiah 13:15 In those days I saw people in Judah treading winepresses on the Sabbath, and bringing in sheaves, and loading donkeys with wine, grapes, figs, and all kinds of burdens, which they brought into Jerusalem on the Sabbath day. And I warned them about the day on which they were selling provisions. Sermon Discussion Questions:What is profound about Jesus' question; Do you want to be made well?How does the man respond?What was wrong with the Pharisee's reaction to the healing?What can we learn from their mistake?

The sermon centers on the indispensable truth that no cross, no crown—victory for believers is only possible through following Jesus in His suffering, death, and resurrection. Drawing from Matthew 16:21–28, it reveals how Jesus, after His divine identity was affirmed by Peter, began to disclose the necessity of His suffering in Jerusalem, not as defeat, but as the divinely ordained means of conquering sin, death, and Satan. This revelation, met with Peter's vehement rebuke, is met with a stinging correction: Peter, though sincere, is rebuked as Satan because he opposes God's redemptive plan, revealing how human desires for immediate triumph and glory distort the gospel. The sermon underscores that Jesus' path to glory was through the cross, a pattern that defines the Christian life—true discipleship requires denying oneself, taking up one's cross, and following Christ, not as a call to avoid suffering, but as a promise of eternal reward. The message is both a warning against worldly shortcuts and a profound encouragement: even in failure, God sovereignly shapes His people, and every believer, like Peter, can finish the race in faithful endurance, because the victory has already been won through Christ's sacrifice.

Episode Summary. One of the greatest Christians who ever lived was honest enough to admit how difficult life can sometimes be. In the most biographical of his writings, the apostle Paul wrote, “We are hard pressed on every side. We are perplexed and persecuted. We experience troubles, hardships, and distresses…. We are knocked down but we are not knocked out.” The fourth chapter of Nehemiah reports how he and the residents of Jerusalem faced this same level of opposition to rebuilding Jerusalem's wall and how they pushed through it. For Further Prayerful Thought:What is wrong with the idea that if God loved me, he would not allow my life to be so hard? What stood out to you about using the weapon of ridicule to demotivate another. What are the implications of Jesus' teaching about the impact of words for those of us who are spiritual leaders? ow can the example of Nehemiah inspire and strengthen you to persevere through whatever opposition you are facing? For the printed version of this message click here.For a summary of topics addressed by podcast series, click here.For FREE downloadable studies on men's issues click here.To make an online contribution to enable others to hear about the podcast: (Click link and scroll down to bottom left)

Most people measure their lives by income, achievement, influence, or knowledge. But what if the real metric of success is something far simpler and far more confronting? In this episode, you'll gain a powerful lens to evaluate your day, your relationships, your ambition, and even your spiritual growth through one transformative question: am I giving or am I taking? This conversation will help you reframe marriage, work, parenting, learning, and personal growth, so you can stop chasing external validation and start building a life of deep meaning, lasting love, and true inner alignment.Join the Conversation! Be part of our growing community—join the Shema Podcast for the Perplexed WhatsApp group to share feedback, discuss episodes, and suggest future topics. Click here to sign up.Connect with Rabbi Michael CohenReach out to Rabbi Michael Cohen to learn more about his one-on-one coaching work, where he applies the teachings of Strive for Truth to help individuals untangle inner confusion, clarify priorities, and live more grounded, self-expressed lives. To inquire or connect, email him at mailto:rabbicohen@msn.com.

This question is often asked this way:     ⁃    Is the Holy Spirit an impersonal force?     ⁃    What does the Bible say about this?     ⁃    What does the Holy Spirit do?     ⁃    Why are some afraid of the Holy Spirit? Let us consider: Is the Holy Spirit a "Force" or a "Person"  Marks of Personality:     ⁃    Intellect     ⁃    Emotion     ⁃    Will Are these evident in the Holy Spirit? Let's look in the Bible and see what we find, as there is so much confusion about the Holy Spirit.  The Holy Spirit     ⁃    Speaks  - Acts 13:20 (….the Holy Spirit said, "Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them."     ⁃    Forbids certain things - Acts 16:6-7 (….having been kept by the Holy Spirit from preaching….but the Spirit of Jesus would not allow them to."      ⁃    Guides - gives direction - John 16:13 Jesus says, "But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth…."     ⁃    Teaches - John 14:26 Jesus says, "but the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my team, will teach you all things…."     ⁃    Helps - John 14:16-17 Jesus says, "And I will ask the Father and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever, the Spirit of truth….."     ⁃    Predicts - insight and prophetic revelation - Acts 21:11 "Coming over to us, he took Paul's belt, tied his own hands and feet with it and said, "The Holy Spirit says, 'In this way the Jewish leaders in Jerusalem will bind the owner of this belt and will hand him over to the Gentiles.'" And this is something that did happen to Paul.     ⁃    Can Be Lied to - Acts 5:3-4 The story of Ananias and Sepphira selling property. Peter says, "Ananias how is it that Satan has so filled your heart that you have lied to the Holy Spirit ….. You have not lied just to human beings but to God."     ⁃    Can be Grieved - disappointed by our behavior or when we do not listen to God - Ephesians 4:30 "And do not grieve the Holt Spirit of God…"     ⁃    Intercedes for us - he prays - Romans 8:27 "And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God's people in accordance with the will of God."       ⁃    Testifies - bears witness to Jesus and makes Jesus known - John 15:26 Jesus says, "When the Advocate comes, whom I will send to you from the Father, the Spirit of Truth who goes out from the Father, He will testify about the Me." The Holy Spirit testifies to who Jesus is and what Jesus has done. The Holy Spirit testifies to each one of us that Jesus is our only Hope, and our Messiah. Back to the question of why be afraid of the Holy Spirit?  Father - Son - Spirit = three in One. The Holy Spirit is real and is part of the essence of the One True Living God. And Holy Spirit desires to move in power in our lives and desires that we experience a real and personal relationship with Him. It is only in the Living God that we have life forever. Pastor closes with: The Father gives the Holy Spirit to those that ask Him. That's a promise for each one of us.(Luke 11:13 "…how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!") Now What? Learn about God at https://www.awakeusnow.com EVERYTHING we offer is FREE. Check out this video series from our website: https://www.awakeusnow.com/whats-the-answer Join us Sundays  https://www.awakeusnow.com/sunday-service

This Sunday, we continue our study of the final days before Jesus' crucifixion. In Mark 14:12-26, Jesus and the disciples prepare to share the last Passover meal in Jerusalem. This is truly the final Passover meal because, during the feast, Jesus transforms its meaning to symbolize His sacrificial death and establish the New Covenant. As opposition grows from all sides, Judas seeks an opportunity to betray Him, and although Jesus knows the disciples will abandon Him before sunrise, He proceeds with calm authority as He reveals the New Covenant to these men. In this passage, Jesus sovereignly orchestrates every detail of the meal. No detail is too small, including the room where they will observe the Passover. Jesus then announces a traitor at the table, prompting all the disciples to examine themselves and ask, "Is it I?" Their self-examination seems to be the main point, since Jesus does not reveal the betrayer to them. He leaves them uncertain about which one of them it will be. Jesus knows the betrayer's sin, but He also understands the weakness of all the disciples. (He will foretell that all of them will abandon Him in v. 27-31.) Yet, knowing their sin and frailty, Jesus still breaks the New Covenant bread with them and promises to eat again with them in the Kingdom of God. He permanently transforms the Passover into the Lord's Supper, declaring the bread as His body and the cup as the blood of the new covenant, poured out for many. Jesus is fully aware of the depth of our sin and faithlessness, yet He still sits at the table with us, offers Himself as the perfect sacrifice, and invites unworthy sinners to the meal of redemption as our Savior. I. Jesus Is Sovereign Over Every Detail (v. 12-16) II. Jesus Knows The Depths Of Our Sin (v. 17-21) III. Jesus Is The New Covenant Sacrifice For Sinners (v. 22-25)

Sunday, 22 February 2026   When they had lifted up their eyes, they saw no one but Jesus only. Matthew 17:8   “And having uplifted their eyes, they saw none, if not Jesus alone” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus came to the disciples who had been overwhelmed by the voice and events on the mountain, touching them and telling them to arise and not be afraid. It next says, “And having uplifted their eyes.”   A new word, epairó, to uplift, is seen. It is from epi, upon, and airó, to take up or away. It can be used literally, as in this verse, or it can be used figuratively, such as exalting oneself, etc. The disciples had fallen on their faces from fear. Once Jesus' comforting touch and voice came, they uplifted their eyes and “they saw none, if not Jesus alone.”   Moses and Elijah were gone, and in whatever way the voice from the cloud was transmitted, there was nobody except Jesus to behold. The sudden removal of Moses and Elijah as soon as the voice had been uttered is instructional. Jesus and the message concerning Him are what are to be focused on. The Law and the Prophets had served their purpose and are now no longer what God is doing in the process of redemption.   Life application: If this short section concerning the events on the mountain is evaluated, the message it conveys is crystal clear. In Matthew 16:28, Jesus told the disciples that of those standing with Him, some would not see death until they saw the Son of Man coming in His kingdom.   Just a short time later, He took Peter, James, and John up on a high mountain where He metamorphosed before them. His countenance changed to brilliancy with radiating light. What does Paul say about the message of Christ? He explains it in 2 Corinthians 4 –   “For it is the God who commanded light to shine out of darkness, who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.” 2 Corinthians 4:6   With His radiant countenance manifested, Moses and Elijah appeared and conversed with Him. As noted, Luke includes the note that their conversation was about Jesus' coming death, which He was about to accomplish in Jerusalem.   At that time, Peter offered to build three tents to accommodate Jesus, Moses, and Elijah. Tents are for dwelling in. But what was the divine response from the Father? It concerned hearing Jesus. The temporary tabernacling of Moses and Elijah was done. The new and eternal tabernacling with God is through Jesus –   “And I heard – voice great from the throne, saying, ‘You behold, the tabernacle [skéné], the God, with the men, and He will tabernacle [skénoó] with them, and they – peoples of Him, they will be, and He – the God with them, He will be, their God'” Revelation 21:3 (CG). After the voice, the men fell down terrified, but when Jesus came to reassure them, they looked up, and there was only Jesus. Jesus promised that there would be those who would see Him coming in His kingdom.   The kingdom is that of understanding who He is, meaning the God/Man in whom God tabernacles, and that the law only anticipated His coming. It is no longer what God is doing. The kingdom Jesus was referring to has arrived in the preaching of the gospel. It will be realized in those who receive it someday. Jesus' words were not referring to an earthly kingdom during the millennium. That will occur, but it is not what is being referred to here.   “He has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love, 14 in whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins.” Colossians 1:13, 14   If your eyes are on law observance, you are missing the kingdom. Eyes on Jesus! The law is over. God wants us to focus our attention on what He has done through Jesus.   Lord God, thank You for the wonderful news of Jesus Christ. Through faith in Him, we are transferred to His kingdom and now have full and forever restoration with You. Thank You for this wonderful news. Yes, O God, thank You for Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.  

February 15, 2026 - Sunday AM Bible Class In this episode we study 2 Corinthians chapters 8 and 9, exploring how the apostle Paul shifts from defending his ministry to instructing the church about generous giving. Neal situates these chapters in the broader context of the letter, contrasts the wealthy church at Corinth (Achaia) with the poor but generous Macedonian churches (Philippi, Berea, Thessalonica), and explains the urgent need: support for the impoverished saints in Jerusalem. Topics covered include: the relationship between grace and giving, examples of eager and sacrificial generosity from the Macedonians, the spiritual qualities reinforced by giving (faith, speech, knowledge, earnestness, and love), and the practical call to complete pledged gifts rather than leaving needs unmet. Paul's emphasis that giving should come from the heart — willingly, cheerfully, and sacrificially — is highlighted, along with his insistence on accountability in handling contributions. The episode uses practical illustrations from modern disaster relief and congregational stewardship to show how voluntary, faith-driven giving differs from forced redistribution. The speaker references related texts (Matthew 6; Romans 12; 1 Corinthians 16; Titus 3) and points to the ministry roles of Titus and a well-known brother who accompanied Paul to ensure transparency and trust in the offering. Listeners are invited to examine their own hearts toward giving and to grow in the grace that produces generous, joyful stewardship.   Duration 44:26

Having received his Ph.D. in mathematical logic at Brandeis University, Rabbi Dr. Dovid Gottlieb went on to become Professor of Philosophy at Johns Hopkins University. Today he is a senior faculty member at Ohr Somayach in Jerusalem. An accomplished author and lecturer, Rabbi Gottlieb has electrified audiences with his stimulating and energetic presentations on ethical and philosophical issues. In Jewish Philosophy with Rabbi Dr. Gottlieb, we are invited to explore the most fascinating and elemental concepts of Jewish Philosophy. https://podcasts.ohr.edu/ podcasts@ohr.edu

Fluent Fiction - Hebrew: A Brew of Dreams and Partnerships in Jerusalem Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/he/episode/2026-02-22-08-38-20-he Story Transcript:He: המולת בית הקפה ברחוב בן יהודה הייתה קסומה.En: The hustle and bustle of the café on Rechov Ben Yehuda was magical.He: אנשים ישבו סביב שולחנות קטנים, מעילים מחממים מחובקים לאורכם.En: People sat around small tables, their warm coats embracing them.He: ריח הקפה הטרי התפזר בכל חלל המקום.En: The aroma of fresh coffee spread throughout the space.He: קישוטים צבעוניים לכבוד חג פורים עיטרו את הקירות, מוסיפים נופך של שמחה באווירה החורפית של ירושלים.En: Colorful decorations for the holiday of Purim adorned the walls, adding a touch of joy to the wintery atmosphere of Yerushalayim.He: תמר ואיתן ישבו בפינת הקפה, כוסות הקפה שלהם חמימות על השולחן.En: Tamar and Eitan sat in the corner of the café, their coffee cups warm on the table.He: הם ידעו זה את זו מאז ילדות.En: They had known each other since childhood.He: תמר הביטה בפניו של איתן, ליבה נרגש מדחף להסביר את הרעיון החדש שלה.En: Tamar looked at Eitan's face, her heart excited by the urge to explain her new idea.He: "חשבתי," פתחה תמר, מנסה לשמור על קול יציב.En: "I thought," Tamar began, trying to keep her voice steady.He: "פרויקט עיצוב חדש לתיירים שמגיעים לפורים.En: "A new design project for tourists coming for Purim.He: נוכל לעצב חוויות אישיות לכל אורח.En: We could create personalized experiences for each guest."He: "איתן בחן את התוכנית שלה בעיון רב.En: Eitan examined her plan with great attention.He: "ומה לגבי העלויות?En: "And what about the costs?"He: " הוא שאל בזהירות.En: he asked cautiously.He: "האם זה יצליח גם מחוץ לעונה?En: "Will it work even outside the season?"He: "תמר נאנחה בעדינות.En: Tamar sighed gently.He: היא ידעה שאיתן תמיד היה זהיר ושקול.En: She knew that Eitan was always careful and measured.He: "הכנתי תוכנית לפרטי פרטים," אמרה, שולפת כמה דפים.En: "I prepared a detailed plan," she said, pulling out several pages.He: "החוויות ייחודיות.En: "The experiences are unique.He: זה ימשוך תיירים גם בתקופות פחות חמות.En: It will attract tourists even in less popular times."He: "שיחתם נמשכה, כשהמלצר מזג להם עוד קפה.En: Their conversation continued as the waiter poured them more coffee.He: איתן שאל בספק, "ומה אם לא תצליחי לעמוד ביעדים?En: Eitan asked skeptically, "And what if you can't meet the goals?"He: "כאן הרגישה תמר שהרגע לחשוף את האמת הגיע.En: Here, Tamar felt the moment to reveal the truth had come.He: "איתן, תמיד חלמתי להקים משהו גדול.En: "Eitan, I've always dreamed of creating something big.He: רבות מהיצירות הן בהשראת ירושלים ופורים.En: Many of the creations are inspired by Jerusalem and Purim.He: זה משהו שאני מרגישה בכל ליבי.En: It's something I feel with all my heart."He: " היא הציצה לעיניו.En: She glanced into his eyes.He: "אני זקוקה לשותף כמוך שיכול לעזור לי לבנות את זה בצורה מחושבת.En: "I need a partner like you who can help me build this carefully."He: "איתן שתק, חושב על הדברים שאמרה תמר.En: Eitan was silent, thinking about the things Tamar said.He: הוא ראה את התשוקה האמיתית בעיניה ואת האמונה בגב המילים שלה.En: He saw the true passion in her eyes and the conviction behind her words.He: זה היה רגע מכריע.En: It was a decisive moment.He: "לבסוף, אוקיי," אמר בחיוך קטן, "אני איתך.En: "Alright, then," he said with a small smile, "I'm with you.He: נמצא דרך להתמודד עם הסיכונים.En: We'll find a way to manage the risks."He: "תמר חייכה, תחושה חדשה של ביטחון ממלאת אותה.En: Tamar smiled, a new sense of confidence filling her.He: השיחה הזו הובילה לשינוי.En: This conversation led to change.He: היא למדה להאמין ביכולותיה, ואיתן קיבל את ההחלטה לקחת סיכונים מחושבים.En: She learned to believe in her abilities, and Eitan made the decision to take calculated risks.He: השניים יצאו מבית הקפה אל הקור הירושלמי, מתחילים את הפרק החדש שלהם יחד.En: The two left the café into the Jerusalem cold, beginning their new chapter together. Vocabulary Words:hustle: המולהbustle: המולהmagical: קסומהaroma: ריחadorned: עיטרוexplained: הסבירהdecoration: קישוטיםseason: עונהcautiously: בזהירותskeptically: בספקpartner: שותףconviction: אמונהdecisive: מכריעconcerns: דאגותopportunity: הזדמנותinspired: בהשראתunique: ייחודיותproject: פרויקטurge: דחףwarm: חמימותrevealed: לחשוףcalculated: מחושבתconfidence: ביטחוןrisk: סיכוןmeasured: שקולembracing: מחובקיםexperienced: חווהdetailed: פרטי פרטיםglanced: הציצהattention: בעיון רבBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fluent-fiction-hebrew--5818690/support.

It is interesting in how many parts of Scripture we find the words “blot” and “blotting” used  – to indicate that God is so angry he is  wiping out someone or some people, the worst case was in the time of Noah (Gen. 6 v.7 & 7 v.23) We encounter them today in Exodus. Our chapters today portray the fickleness of human nature; Moses is away – up in the mountain (Joshua is with him) for 40 days.  That is a relatively long time when you are camped – with very little to do. The same applies to today – but worse – year after year with no thought of their being a God, no long term future, people say/think, ‘let us experience all we can now'.  The ‘gods' of pleasure and leisure now dominate human minds. But we ourselves have no excuse, we have God's word to feed on, chew over, as much as we may desire – and his word provides a great variety of mind nourishing – and mind and heart challenging material for our prayerful meditation. Are we really doing this?In the time Moses is with him on the mount the LORD is aware of the attitude that is developing down in the Camp; he says to Moses,  “I have seen this people, and behold, it is a stiff-necked people.  Now therefore let me alone, that my wrath may burn hot against them …” [32 v.9,10]Can we compare the absence of Moses with the absence of Christ?  There was keen anticipation of Christ's return and the ‘promised land' of the kingdom in the brotherhood some 150 years ago, this reached its peak with the deliverance of Jerusalem from the Turks over 100 years ago.  Then, the brotherhood was full of anticipation of the immanence of Armageddon and the advent of the kingdom when Israel became a nation. But, as with Moses seeming ‘delay' in the mountain, how many of us feel, at least subconsciously, that our Lord seems to be delayed in his return?  Our world offers an increasing number of distractions – they are not necessarily evil!  How interesting travel can be, many up until 2020 “ran to and fro” and what fascinating ‘mind consuming' inventions now exist; ‘knowledge'  has incredibly increased. We know well these words in Daniel 12 v.4 – but is v.10 so readily in our minds? “And none of the wicked shall understand, but those who are wise shall understand.”   How full and convicted of mind are we in our understanding?In all the crisis that occurred when Moses came down from the mountain, v.33 stands out! ‘the LORD said to Moses, “Whoever has sinned against me, I will blot out of my book.”      If we, having left ‘Egypt', are now letting our minds wander and become absorbed in the ways that surround us, and  in a sense, ‘worship' the fascinating things and experiences our world thrusts before us, then are we not most likely to be among those of whom God says, “I will blot (them) out of my book.”?   This is food for the deepest meditation. 

Ralph welcomes J.B. Branch (Public Citizen's Big Tech accountability advocate) to discuss some of the sectors that Big Tech is disrupting with artificial intelligence. Then, Steve, David, and Hannah speak to Russell Mokhiber about the latest issue of the Capitol Hill Citizen. Finally, Ralph speaks on the legacy of the late Rev. Jesse Jackson.J.B. Branch is the Big Tech accountability advocate for Public Citizen's Congress Watch division. He leads Public Citizen's advocacy efforts on artificial intelligence accountability, consumer data and privacy rights, tech product safety, platform oversight, and child online safety protections.What's happening is these AI companies are taking a page out of the playbook of the social media days. When social media was brand new, they were trying to say that this technology is going to lead to people being more connected, it's going to lead to efficiencies, it's going to lead to overall positives. And in fact, there were times where you had big tech CEOs who were saying that a lot of this money was going to trickle down. And you look down, and you look up, and I'm not any richer because Facebook stock is soaring or Microsoft's is soaring. What we're really seeing is the same thing that's happened with these large tech companies—which is that they promised the world, they offer back very little, and in fact, what they offer up is a series of harms.JB BranchCongress has been really bought into AI. They're buying into this idea that it's a race for the world between us and China. So you have some congressional folks who believe that this is a race against China and that we need to harness this weapon. And then you have a lot of corporate money from these AI companies…They're dumping a lot of money into congressional races, to ensure that they're propping up candidates who align with this deregulatory scheme.JB BranchRussell Mokhiber is editor of the Corporate Crime Reporter and the Capitol Hill Citizen. He is also founder of singlepayeraction.org, and editor of the website Morgan County USA.I see [the Capitol Hill Citizen] philosophy along a couple lines. One is that it's not left right, it's top down. We consider both political parties corrupt to the core, but there's a rising tide of activism against both parties, against the institutional parties. And so, for example, in the current issue, we bristle against those who are what we call “negativo”. We're very “positivo”. So while we're living in very difficult times, there's a rising tide of activism challenging members of Congress, both current members in Congress as citizen activists and also as candidates…And so what we're seeing is this up-down resurgence from the bottom—populists of all stripes rising up against the technocratic billionaires who've brought us to this state.Russell Mokhiber[Jesse Jackson] was an advocate of non-violence, of self-reliance. And the amazing thing about him is how he appeared everywhere. I mean there was nothing remote about Jesse Jackson. He appeared everywhere. If the farmers were being driven into bankruptcy by agribusiness, he was there. If there need to be prisoners released in foreign countries, he was there… The thing that most people didn't realize is how much personal pressure he was under by his opponents. In those days, challenging certain conditions that we don't even know about now because of Jesse and other civil rights leaders' works, really upset the power structure. And they didn't take it lying down. So all these places he went to, he was very much under great pressure.Ralph NaderNews 2/20/26* Our top stories this week concern the continuing fallout from the Jeffrey Epstein scandal. First, the Columbus Dispatch reports Republican Senator Jon Husted of Ohio accepted more than $100,000 from Epstein associate Les Wexner. Husted's opponent in his reelection campaign, former Ohio Democratic Senator Sherrod Brown, blasted Husted for accepting this money and implied that Wexner's donations pushed Husted to initially vote against releasing the Epstein files. In damage control mode, the Husted campaign announced they would donate Wexner's campaign contributions to charity. Wexner himself appeared in front of the House Oversight committee this week. Wexner denied any wrongdoing, claiming that Epstein “conned” him and called him a “clever, diabolical … master manipulator.” Democrats on the committee were skeptical, with Congressman Robert Garcia stating “There is no single person that was more involved with providing Jeffrey Epstein with the financial support to commit his crimes than Les Wexner,” per the Hill.* In related news, the New York Times reports Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, formerly known as Prince Andrew, has been arrested for misconduct stemming from his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein. Specifically, he stands accused of passing along confidential information to Epstein while the disgraced former prince served as a British trade envoy. His brother, King Charles III is quoted saying he supports a “full, fair and proper process” to investigate these claims. The Times notes the striking disparity in the official response from law enforcement in the U.K. versus the U.S., writing, “The British authorities have moved aggressively to investigate the possibility of crimes emerging from the three million pages of correspondence with Mr. Epstein… police in the United States have not.”* Meanwhile in Los Angeles, prominent entertainment executive and sports agent Casey Wasserman has drawn fire from many LA politicians, including City Controller Kenneth Mejia, L.A. County Supervisor Lindsay Horvath, City Councilmember Hugo Soto-Martinez and fellow Councilmember and mayoral candidate Nithya Raman over his ties to Epstein lieutenant Ghislane Maxwell, as revealed in the latest tranche of files. High-profile clients of Wasserman's agency immediately began to abandon the firm. High profile deserters include pop star Chappell Roan and Olympic gold medalist Abby Wambach. Wasserman announced he would sell the agency shortly thereafter. However, Wasserman still chairs the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics Committee. This week, LA Mayor Karen Bass weighed in to call Wasserman's behavior “abhorrent” and say that while she cannot fire him, it is her opinion that he should step down. Astonishingly, the LA28 board announced after a review of Wasserman's conduct that he should remain on as committee chair. This from LA Magazine.* Speaking of local boards, this week New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced the appointment of six new members of the Rent Guidelines Board, including a new Chair. With these six appointments, comprising two-thirds of the total board, Mamdani is poised to deliver on one of his key campaign promises – a rent freeze for tenants in rent-stabilized apartments. These appointees range from experienced civil servants to academics to union organizers, among others. This is a major victory for Mamdani, and comes at a key moment when other items on his governing agenda are being challenged by budgetary constraints due to long-term mismanagement of the city's finances.* Another rent-related story comes to us from Minnesota. CBS reports the tenants union Twin Cities Tenants, along with five labor unions totaling over 25,000 workers, are calling for a statewide rent strike to pressure lawmakers to enact an eviction moratorium. This comes in the context of Operation Metro Surge, the federal government's sprawling immigration enforcement action which resulted in the killings of Renee Good and Alex Pretti. As this piece notes, many residents of the Twin Cities stayed home from work during the operation, out of fear of being detained, resulting in many tenants being short on rent ahead of March 1st. According to an analysis by the University of Minnesota renters in the state have racked up between $27 and $51 million in rent debt since the onset of Metro Surge. This in addition to the average statewide rent debt of $44.6 million in any two-month period.* Turning to Gaza-related news, this week saw major updates in the legal drama of Palestine Action in Britain. On February 13th, AP reported that the country's High Court ruled the government acted unlawfully by outlawing Palestine Action and deeming it a terrorist organization. The Judges said that Palestine Action's activities did not meet the “level, scale and persistence” that would justify a legal proscription. However, the court allowed the government to keep the ban in place pending the government's appeal. The group was banned last June after breaking into a Royal Air Force base to protest the slaughter in Gaza. Despite this ruling in the group's favor, which came on the heels of a ruling dismissing charges against six Palestine Action activists, the BBC reports those activists will be retried by the government over their alleged role in causing damage to an Elbit Systems facility near Bristol. Charges against 18 other defendants accused of participating in the break-in will be dropped.* Meanwhile, Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem and one of the Catholic Church's highest officials, was asked to comment on President Trump's proposed Board of Peace, the international body intended to oversee the governance and reconstruction of Gaza. Pizzaballa replied “What do I think of the Board of Peace? I think it is a colonialist operation: others deciding for the Palestinians.” The Patriarch added “They asked us to enter. I've never had a billion (dollars),” referring to the $1 billion price for a permanent board seat, but “above all, this is not the Church's task: It is the sacraments, the dignity of the person.” This from OSV News. Pizzaballa has long sought self-determination for the Palestinians alongside peace in the region, even putting his own life on the line for that cause. Just after the October 7th Hamas attacks, Pizzaballa offered to exchange himself for the Israeli hostages in Hamas custody.* And in East Asia, NBC reports ousted South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has been found guilty of insurrection over his failed self-coup plot, which involved storming parliament and imposing martial law. The South Korean high court stopped short of accepting the prosecution's request for the death penalty – which they justified using the case law derived from the execution of King Charles Stuart of England in 1649 – and instead sentenced Yoon to life in prison. Decrying the verdict, Yoon's lawyers called the trial “nothing more than a mere formality to reach a predetermined conclusion.” Yoon has the right to appeal the ruling. Given the failure of American institutions to check the creeping authoritarianism in our political system, it is awe-inspiring to see it happen in a country that has struggled with authoritarian rule in its much more recent past.* Turning back to domestic news, Mike Selig, the chair of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) posted a strange video this week, claiming that “American prediction markets have been hit with an onslaught of state-led litigation,” and announcing that the CFTC will launch a legal campaign to block states from regulating sites like Polymarket and Kalshi by asserting that such regulation is the sole purview of the Commission. In the video, Selig argues that these sites “provide useful functions for society by allowing everyday Americans to hedge commercial risks, like increases in temperature and energy price spikes…[and] serve as an important check on our news media and our information streams.” A number of states have taken action to regulate prediction markets, including Nevada, along with Arizona, Michigan, New York and Illinois, to name just a few. One powerful constituency pushing for state-level regulation of prediction markets is the traditional gambling industry. Adam Greenblatt, CEO of sportsbook BetMGM, thundered in a recent interview “They pay no state taxes, there are no consumer protections, there are no penalties for underage play.” This from Axios.* Finally, we pay tribute to activist, civil rights leader, and political forefather of modern multiracial progressive politics, the Reverend Jesse Jackson. Jackson, who passed away this week at age 84, was a protégé of Martin Luther King and ran groundbreaking presidential campaigns in the 1980s assembling the “Rainbow Coalition,” which sought civil rights for racial and ethnic minorities and the LGBT community alongside a sweeping anti-poverty agenda. In the 1990s, Jackson was elected Shadow Delegate and then Shadow Senator for the District of Columbia. In the 21st century, Jackson took on an elder statesman role in progressive circles, continuing to lead the Rainbow/PUSH Coalition and attending major protest events – including the 2020 Black Lives Matter protests and 2024 pro-Palestine encampments – even after his Parkinson's diagnosis in 2017 and multiple COVID-related hospitalizations. Since his passing, Jackson has been eulogized by a host of prominent political figures, including Donald Trump, Curtis Sliwa, Bernie Sanders, Barack Obama, Joe Biden, Kamala Harris, the Clintons, Reverends William J. Barber and Al Sharpton, the descendents of Martin Luther King, longtime Sinn Féin president Gerry Adams and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa among many others. Like Ralph Nader, Jackson remained a leading light of the American Left during its lowest ebb in modern history. He followed his own iconic exhortation to “keep hope alive.” The least we can do is to carry on this legacy.This has been Francesco DeSantis, with In Case You Haven't Heard. Get full access to Ralph Nader Radio Hour at www.ralphnaderradiohour.com/subscribe