Podcast appearances and mentions of John the Baptist

There is none greater than John the Baptist…yet the least in the kingdom is greater than he. We are not exactly impressive, but we are so privileged and loved.

This episode originally aired on December 12, 2022. Mark, much like John, begins his biography with Jesus as an adult. His account moves rapidly through a prophecy from Isaiah, John the Baptist preaching in the wilderness, Jesus' baptism by John, God the Father speaking from heaven to Jesus, and Jesus heading into the wilderness for forty days, which included being tempted by Satan. Mark covers all of this in just 15 verses. Although it's not the traditional Christmas story we're used to, it's still clear that Jesus' entrance into the world is seen as an invasion by the forces that are ruling it. We also see that through Jesus, God is answering the prayer for mercy and help from Isaiah 64, where the author asks God to rend the heavens and come down. Mark's account helps us see the powerful changes that can happen in our lives because of Jesus' coming.Passage: Mark 1:1-15Support the show

Mark 6 takes us to Nazareth where Jesus is amazed, but not in a good way. Jesus teaches his disciples and us to depend on him, not on the security we find in the world. Finally, we'll look at Herod's foolish promise that cost John the Baptist his life.Look for additional resources, including PDFs for discussion and additional study, on Amberalbeeswenson.org.

John the Baptist announced Jesus to the world by saying, "Behold, the Lamb of God!" This is the story of the Bible, making sense of all the other stories. In this message spanning seven passages from Genesis to Revelation, Pastor Philip Miller takes us on an expedition from the missing lamb to the Lamb on the throne. Jesus, the Lamb of God, sacrificed Himself for our sins. This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://moodyoffer.com or call us at 1-800-215-5001.  Moody Church Media [https://www.moodymedia.org/], home of "Moody Church Hour," exists to bring glory to God through the transformation of lives. Your gift helps deliver insightful teaching from Pastor Philip Miller, inviting people on The Journey of a Lifetime—following Jesus! Your generosity makes the Moody Church Hour, a listener-supported program for over 50 years, accessible to those far from God or unable to attend their local church. Click below to support the Moody Church Hour with your gift now or call Moody Church Media at 1.800.215.5001.    SUPPORT:  Tax Deductible Support: https://www.moodymedia.org/donate/  Become an Endurance Partner: https://endurancepartners.org/    SUBSCRIBE:   YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MoodyChurchMedia  Weekly Digest: https://www.moodymedia.org/newsletters/subscription/

SummaryThis conversation explores the early chapters of the Book of John, focusing on the themes of the Word, the testimony of John the Baptist, the calling of the first disciples, and the miracles performed by Jesus, particularly at the wedding in Cana and in the temple.TakeawaysIn the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God.John the Baptist came to testify about the light.Jesus is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.The disciples recognized Jesus as the Messiah.Miracles serve to manifest Jesus' glory and authority.John's testimony emphasizes the importance of belief.Jesus' miracles were signs that led to faith.The calling of the disciples shows the personal nature of Jesus' ministry.Jesus' authority is questioned by the Jews in the temple.The transformation of water into wine signifies Jesus' divine power.Chapters00:00 The Word and the Light03:06 John the Baptist's Testimony05:51 The Calling of the Disciples08:45 Miracles and Authority of JesusNewsletter and Blogs: https://benjaminlee.blogYoutube: https://youtube.com/@icandopodcast?si=aiCJ7iQgc_ECK3hVPodcasts: https://icandopodcast.com

John the Baptist announced Jesus to the world by saying, “Behold, the Lamb of God!” This is the story of the Bible, making sense of all the other stories. In this message spanning seven passages from Genesis to Revelation, Pastor Philip Miller takes us on an expedition from the missing lamb to the Lamb on the throne. Jesus, the Lamb of God, sacrificed Himself for our sins. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/173/29?v=20251111

John the Baptist announced Jesus to the world by saying, “Behold, the Lamb of God!” This is the story of the Bible, making sense of all the other stories. In this message spanning seven passages from Genesis to Revelation, Pastor Philip Miller takes us on an expedition from the missing lamb to the Lamb on the throne. Jesus, the Lamb of God, sacrificed Himself for our sins. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/173/29?v=20251111

Homily by Father Peter Zwaans Mount Gambier Catholic ParishGospel according to Matthew 11:2-11John in his prison had heard what Christ was doing and he sent his disciples to ask him, ‘Are you the one who is to come, or have we got to wait for someone else?' Jesus answered, ‘Go back and tell John whatyou hear and see; the blind see again, and the lame walk, lepers are cleansed, and the deaf hear, and the dead are raised to life and the Good News is proclaimed to the poor; and happy is the man who does not lose faith in me.'As the messengers were leaving, Jesus began to talk to the people about John: ‘What did you go out into the wilderness to see? A reed swaying in the breeze? No? Then what did you go out to see? A man wearing fine clothes? Oh no, those who wear fine clothes are to be found in palaces. Then what did you go out for? To see a prophet? Yes, I tell you, and much more than a prophet: he is the one of whom scripture says: ‘Look, I am going to send my messenger before you;he will prepare your way before you. ‘I tell you solemnly, of all the children born of women, a greater than John the Baptist has never been seen; yet the least in the kingdom of heaven is greater thanhe is.'The Gospel of the Lord.R/ Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ.

It seems strange to have this song of John as the last in our Christmas series of songs of Jesus. We don't often include John the Baptist in our Christmas celebrations. Maybe that's on purpose because he is a very upsetting figure in dress and in words. Yet, before we get to the ministry of Jesus, we meet John. In Luke's account, the birth of Jesus is book-ended by John with his birth and his ministry. So, the way to Bethlehem's manger is through John the Baptist. And John the Baptist is the one who prepares that way, as prophesied 700 years earlier by Isaiah. Preacher: Jim de Witte Passage: Luke 3:1-18 Support the show

Homily by Father Peter Zwaans Mount Gambier Catholic ParishGospel according to Matthew 3:1-12In due course John the Baptist appeared; he preached in the wilderness of Judaea, and this was his message: ‘Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is close at hand.' This was the man the prophet Isaiah spoke of when he said: A voice cries in the wilderness: Prepare a way for the Lord, make his paths straight. This man John wore agarment made of camel-hair with a leather belt round his waist, and his food was locusts and wild honey. Then Jerusalem and all Judaea and the whole Jordan district made their way to him, and as they were baptised by him in the river Jordan, they confessed their sins. But when he saw a number of Pharisees and Sadducees coming for baptism, he said to them, ‘Brood of vipers, who warned you to fly from the retribution that is coming? But if you are repentant, produce the appropriate fruit, and do not presume to tell yourselves, “We have Abraham for our father,” because, I tell you, God can raise children for Abraham from these stones. Even now the axe is laid to the roots of the trees, so that any tree which fails to produce good fruit will be cut down and thrown on the fire. I baptise you in water for repentance, but the one who follows me is more powerful than I am, and I am not fit to carry his sandals; he will baptise you with the Holy Spirit and fire. His winnowing-fan is in his hand; he will clear his threshing-floor and gather his wheat into thebarn; but the chaff he will burn in a fire that will never go out.'The Gospel of the Lord.R/ Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ.

John 1, John the Baptist. The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world   https://www.livingstonescrc.com/give Register for the Estuary/Cleanup Weekend https://lscrc.elvanto.net/form/94f5e542-facc-4764-9883-442f982df447 Paul Vander Klay clips channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCX0jIcadtoxELSwehCh5QTg https://www.meetup.com/sacramento-estuary/ My Substack https://paulvanderklay.substack.com/ Bridges of meaning https://discord.gg/CgPYjAUF Estuary Hub Link https://www.estuaryhub.com/ There is a video version of this podcast on YouTube at http://www.youtube.com/paulvanderklay To listen to this on ITunes https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/paul-vanderklays-podcast/id1394314333  If you need the RSS feed for your podcast player https://paulvanderklay.podbean.com/feed/  All Amazon links here are part of the Amazon Affiliate Program. Amazon pays me a small commission at no additional cost to you if you buy through one of the product links here. This is is one (free to you) way to support my videos.  https://paypal.me/paulvanderklay Blockchain backup on Lbry https://odysee.com/@paulvanderklay https://www.patreon.com/paulvanderklay Paul's Church Content at Living Stones Channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCh7bdktIALZ9Nq41oVCvW-A To support Paul's work by supporting his church give here. https://tithe.ly/give?c=2160640 https://www.livingstonescrc.com/give

Send us a textA nursery rhyme becomes a roadmap to redemption. We walk from Bethlehem's quiet fields to Jerusalem's crowded courts and finally to Revelation's blazing throne room, tracing how Mary's child is the Lamb who fulfills Israel's calendar with pinpoint precision and claims the title deed to history. Angels announce the news to shepherds tending Passover flocks. John the Baptist points with a single word—Behold. And the virgin birth steps out of sentiment and into necessity, establishing the sinless life required for a once‑for‑all sacrifice.Across the final week of Jesus' life, every step lands on ancient promises. On the tenth of Nisan, he is set apart as the true Passover Lamb. For five days, leaders probe and accuse, yet no fault is found. At the very hour lambs are prepared, he is lifted up; at the ninth hour when sacrifices are offered, he declares, “It is finished.” The temple's streams of blood and water echo from his pierced side, and not one bone is broken. Geography joins the testimony: Moriah—Abraham's mountain—becomes the place where substitution is perfected and debt is stamped paid.But the story doesn't end at the cross. John sees a small Lamb—slain, standing, sovereign—with seven horns and seven eyes, worthy to open the scroll and direct the course of human destiny. The Lamb's strength is not bluster; it is holy power. His knowledge is not rumor; it is perfect sight. From creation to Calvary to conquest, he alone is worthy. This is good news for everyone—Jews and Gentiles, women and men, the broken and the self‑assured—because the Lamb who was slain is also the Lamb who shares his victory.Listen to explore the thread that ties manger to altar and altar to throne, to hear how Scripture's symbols become history's schedule, and to consider what it means for a once‑for‑all sacrifice to carry your name. If this episode strengthened your faith or sparked new questions, subscribe, share it with a friend, and leave a review to help others find the show.Support the showhttps://www.jacksonfamilyministry.comhttps://bobslone.com/home/podcast-production/

And Jehovah said unto Moses and Aaron, This is the statute of the passover; no son of an alien shall eat of it. And every man's servant that is bought with silver, when thou hast circumcised him, then shall he eat of it. A lodger and a hireling shall not eat of it. In one house shall it be eaten; thou shalt not bring out of the flesh abroad from the house; and ye shall not break a bone thereof. All the assemblage of Israel shall perform it. And when a sojourner shall sojourn with thee, and performeth the passover to Jehovah, every male of his shall be circumcised, and then let him come near to perform it; and he shall be as a native of the land; and no uncircumcised person shall eat of it. One law shall there be for the native, and for the sojourner that sojourneth in the midst of you. And all the sons of Israel did as Jehovah commanded Moses and Aaron, so did they. And it was in this same day that Jehovah led forth the sons of Israel out of the land of Egypt by their armies. Exodus 12: 43-51 Arcana Coelestia 8028. From this it could be seen how the case is with the order in heaven, and from this in the world; namely that when angels are about to come, a spirit is sent before to prepare the way, and that he excites fear, and gives admonition to receive the angels courteously; and that he interrupts; also that at first he does not understand what the angels speak, but afterward when he has been reduced to a better state he understands; in a word, that he is continually at hand, and prepares the lower mind, and endeavors to avert things unworthy. In regard to this there occurred to me a thought about John the Baptist, that it was according to the order of heaven for him to be sent before and announce the coming of the Lord, and that he should prepare the way that He might be worthily received, according to what is written in Matt. 3:3; Luke 1:17; 3:4; John 1:23. AC 7822. The Contents. The subject treated of in this chapter in the internal sense is the liberation of those who are of the spiritual church, and the damnation of those who are in faith separate from charity. The damnation of these latter and the liberation of the former are represented by the passover, and the states in respect to charity and faith of those who are liberated, by the things to be observed on the days of the passover. 7823. In the supreme sense by the passover is represented the damnation of the unfaithful and the liberation of the faithful by the Lord, when He had been glorified. The quality of the state of the faithful at that time, and also what its quality would be afterward, both in the universal and in every particular, is described in this supreme sense by the statutes of the passover. Third Round posts are short audio clips taken from Round 3 comments in the online Logopraxis Life Group meetings. The aim is to maintain focus on understanding the Text's application to the inner life while reinforcing key LP principles highlighted in the exchanges.

And Jehovah said unto Moses and Aaron, This is the statute of the passover; no son of an alien shall eat of it. And every man's servant that is bought with silver, when thou hast circumcised him, then shall he eat of it. A lodger and a hireling shall not eat of it. In one house shall it be eaten; thou shalt not bring out of the flesh abroad from the house; and ye shall not break a bone thereof. All the assemblage of Israel shall perform it. And when a sojourner shall sojourn with thee, and performeth the passover to Jehovah, every male of his shall be circumcised, and then let him come near to perform it; and he shall be as a native of the land; and no uncircumcised person shall eat of it. One law shall there be for the native, and for the sojourner that sojourneth in the midst of you. And all the sons of Israel did as Jehovah commanded Moses and Aaron, so did they. And it was in this same day that Jehovah led forth the sons of Israel out of the land of Egypt by their armies. Exodus 12: 43-51 Arcana Coelestia 8028. From this it could be seen how the case is with the order in heaven, and from this in the world; namely that when angels are about to come, a spirit is sent before to prepare the way, and that he excites fear, and gives admonition to receive the angels courteously; and that he interrupts; also that at first he does not understand what the angels speak, but afterward when he has been reduced to a better state he understands; in a word, that he is continually at hand, and prepares the lower mind, and endeavors to avert things unworthy. In regard to this there occurred to me a thought about John the Baptist, that it was according to the order of heaven for him to be sent before and announce the coming of the Lord, and that he should prepare the way that He might be worthily received, according to what is written in Matt. 3:3; Luke 1:17; 3:4; John 1:23. AC 7822. The Contents. The subject treated of in this chapter in the internal sense is the liberation of those who are of the spiritual church, and the damnation of those who are in faith separate from charity. The damnation of these latter and the liberation of the former are represented by the passover, and the states in respect to charity and faith of those who are liberated, by the things to be observed on the days of the passover. 7823. In the supreme sense by the passover is represented the damnation of the unfaithful and the liberation of the faithful by the Lord, when He had been glorified. The quality of the state of the faithful at that time, and also what its quality would be afterward, both in the universal and in every particular, is described in this supreme sense by the statutes of the passover. Third Round posts are short audio clips taken from Round 3 comments in the online Logopraxis Life Group meetings. The aim is to maintain focus on understanding the Text's application to the inner life while reinforcing key LP principles highlighted in the exchanges.

Check out this Encore from December 19, 2024! (3:26) Bible Study: Jgs 13:2-7, 24-25a Father talks about the epic story of Samson in this reading relating his origin story. Lk 1:5-25 Father explains the origin story of John the Baptist. (17:33) Break 1 (19:19) Letters: Can you be forgiven if you are not repentant for your sin? How does God look from different perspectives? Father answers these and many other questions. Send Father a letter at simon@relevantradio.com (32:08) Break 2 (33:33) Word of the Day: X (34:52) Phones: Vince - When I was an altar boy, our church at noon had a high mass; And the rest was regular mass. Am I remembering this correctly Mary - My daughter was in confession and she noticed the priest was on an iPad and she said to the priest, 'you were on the iPad' the whole time, he denied it and she could hear him shut the iPad. Did she do the right thing by calling him out. Jeff - What Emmanuel and Jesus, why two different instructions for the naming? Lisa - I have a son who is non-practicing Catholic and daughter in law whose non-practicing Jew; they’re hosting Christmas Day at their house. And their children not raised. What is my role as a grandma and what if grandson asks me questions about Christmas and Easter?

We’re diving deep into the First VIsion accounts with Historian Dan Vogel. He offers a deep dive into the historical developments of early Mormonism, challenging both critics and believers to look closer at the documents. What if Joseph Smith was neither a simple con man nor a traditional prophet, but something more complex? https://youtu.be/uVVJcgmyUKA Don't miss our other conversations on the First Vision: https://gospeltangents.com/mormon_history/first-vision/ Copyright © 2025 Gospel Tangents All Rights Reserved “Pious Fraud” Theory Vogel describes himself as a “moderate” critic who seeks the most charitable view of Joseph Smith that a non-believer can hold. He proposes the theory of “pious fraud,” viewing Smith as an “inspired pseudepigraphist”. In this framework, Smith believed he was genuinely called by God to teach true doctrine but used intentional deception—such as the physical gold plates—to provide “evidence” that would make it harder for others to reject his message. Vogel compares this to a faith healer who uses suggestion or minor “tricks” to raise an audience’s faith level so that they are prepared to receive what they believe are real miracles. For Smith, the “greater good” was the salvation of his followers and the conversion of his own family. Evolution of the First Vision One of the most significant points of Vogel's research is the evolution of the First Vision narrative. He highlights that the earliest recorded account from 1832 is markedly different from the canonized 1838 version. The 1832 Account: This version mentions only one personage (Jesus) and focuses on Smith's personal remission of sins. There is no mention of a revival or a command to stay away from all churches; rather, Smith had already concluded the churches were wrong by the age of 12. The 1838 Account: This version, written during a time of intense persecution in Missouri, includes the 1820 revival and a mandate that all other creeds were an “abomination”. Vogel argues that the 1820 date for the revival is anachronistic, noting that historical records place the great Palmyra revival in 1824–25. He suggests Smith moved the event back in his history to transform a personal “born-again” experience into a foundational event for the entire Church. Priesthood and the “Chain of Ordinations” Angelic ordinations were likely a later development. Vogel asserts that early on, authority was understood as a direct command from God through a seer stone or revelation, rather than the laying on of hands by angels. It wasn’t until around 1834–35 that detailed stories of John the Baptist and Peter, James, and John appeared in the records. Vogel posits these stories were introduced to solidify Joseph Smith's authority against internal challengers and to create a formal “chain of ordinations” that was harder to break. Theological Shifts: From One God to Three Vogel tracks a clear evolution in Smith’s theology regarding the nature of God: Modalism: The Book of Mormon reflects a view where Jesus is both the Father and the Son. Bi-theism/Trinitarianism: The Lectures on Faith (1835) describe God as a personage of spirit and the Son as a personage of tabernacle. Physical Personages: Only later, in the Nauvoo period, did Smith teach that both the Father and the Son have physical bodies of flesh and bone. We'll dive deeper into all 4 First Vision narratives. Check it out!

Elihu concludes his speech in Job 37 by proclaiming the majesty of the Almighty. The final speeches of the book are delivered by our Sovereign God. And so, in a sense, Elihu is God's forerunner just as John the Baptist was of our Lord Jesus Christ as Malachi 3 prophesied he would so do. In the final chapter Job is asked by the Almighty to make intercession in prayer for his 3 friends. As no such intercession is requested for Elihu it is reasonable to conclude that Yahweh had accepted what Elihu had said. Like with Moses and Elijah at Mount Sinai, so did the LORD precede His speech with an awesome display of His might - on this occasion "out of the whirlwind'. The whirlwind is a symbol of warfare in the Bible - indicating there is a divine warfare in the book of Job - between the Almighty against sin and self- righteousness. Elihu outlined the majestic power revealed in the thunder (spoken of in the Psalms as, "the voice of Yahweh") and in the lightning and the interplay between these two momentous forces. Verse 6 says that the snow falls at the Almighty's command. Mankind and all creatures are cowed by His awesome power. And what God does is according to His will and He does it purposefully. How can you even understand such power, let alone think you can challenge the LORD? Humble yourself and learn from Him. Show reverential fear and cease from your conceit. The same words must be acknowledged by us and responded to by the way in which we live.

The return of Christ is imminent, and He is coming for a bride without spot, wrinkle, or blemish. To prepare for this day, the Body of Christ must move past cultural and racial divisions to become one unified body under the lordship of Jesus. In this teaching, Dr. Edith Davis reveals that the key to this unity is the total transformation of our thought lives. By examining the life of Jesus, we see a model of perfect mental and spiritual health that we are called to emulate. Dr. Davis discusses the "guardrails" of the Word of God and the importance of discerning the source of our thoughts. She provides practical insights on how to "jettison" negative thoughts and replace them with the Word, reminding us that we have the authority to command every thought to bow to King Jesus. Main Points of the Teaching: -- The Call to Unity: We are not a collection of segregated churches based on ethnicity; we are one body that must be unified through the renewing of the mind. -- The Strategy of the Enemy: Satan first attacks our sense of authority and our walk of love, using deception and offense to create fear. -- The Four Attributes of a Sound Mind: To walk in victory, we must cultivate a mind that is calm (cool and collected), balanced (focused on Jesus), disciplined (guided by the Word), and self-controlled (ruling over emotions). -- Words vs. Thoughts: A spoken word is more powerful than a silent thought. We can cancel out the enemy's suggestions by speaking the Word of God out loud, just as Jesus did in the wilderness. -- Fruit over Labels: True salvation is evidenced by the fruit we bear. Dr. Davis warns against "religious works" that lack a true heart connection with the Savior. -- The Priesthood of Christ: A look into the lineage of John the Baptist and how the Aaronic priesthood served to baptize Jesus into the Melchizedek priesthood. Scriptures for Further Study -- 2 Timothy 1:7 -- Revelation 7:9-17 -- Proverbs 3:5-8 -- Matthew 7:21-23 -- Matthew 8:23-27 -- John 15:1-8 This is episode 386. +++++++ Check out my new website: https://www.enterthegloryzone.org/ MY AUDIO BOOK IS NOW AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE You can Divorce Proof Your Marriage by understanding the Secret Keys of Love. You will come to understand that your Marriage has an enemy. You will come to understand that you are dating your future spouse representative. You will come to understand that your Marriage has the gift of Supernatural Sex. For more information about purchasing this audio book, click here: https://personalbuy.com/shopsite_sc/store/html/product8702.html

This Christmas, we're delighted to bring back one of our most beloved conversations with Enneagram Three, pastor, and author AJ Sherrill. In this replay, AJ joins me to revisit the Nativity story—not as the sentimental tale we often breeze past each year, but as a rich, multilayered narrative pulsing with mystery, courage, vulnerability, and divine surprise. AJ shares his own journey into spiritual direction, what it's teaching him about listening, presence, and compassion, and how the Enneagram continues to shape his inner world. We explore why the season invites us to slow down, pay attention, and resist the frantic pace that so easily numbs our capacity for wonder. Together, we dig beneath the familiar Christmas imagery to uncover the often-misunderstood characters who surround the manger—the homeowner who offered radical hospitality, Zechariah rediscovering awe through silence, and even Herod, whose shadow side has more to teach us than we might expect. Their stories echo our own desires, fears, and growth edges in striking ways. We also have some fun speculating about the Enneagram archetypes present in the Christmas narrative—Mary, Joseph, John the Baptist, and others—and how their unique postures toward God can inspire our own transformation. This episode is thoughtful, illuminating, and sprinkled with the kind of laughter and honesty that always seems to show up when AJ is with us. A perfect listen for Christmas Day. Settle in, take a breath, and join us as we rediscover the story beneath the story—and the God who meets us there.

Before angels sing over Bethlehem in Luke 2, two other voices break into song—Mary and Zechariah. In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer continues the “Thinking Christian about Christmas” series by walking through Luke 1:39–79, where Mary visits Elizabeth, John the Baptist leaps in the womb, and two rich, Scripture-saturated songs frame what God is doing in the birth of Christ. James explores how the Magnificat and Zechariah’s prophecy function as “nexus passages,” pulling together themes from across the Old Testament—God’s mercy to those who fear Him, His concern for the humble and marginalized, the reversal of the proud and powerful, and the fulfillment of His covenant promises to Abraham and Israel. He shows how John’s role as forerunner and Jesus’ role as saving light are already anticipated before Jesus is even born, and why Luke wants us to see Christmas as a moment of both fulfillment and ongoing expectation. If you’ve ever rushed past Luke 1 to “get to the Christmas story,” this episode will slow you down, help you hear the songs before the manger, and deepen your grasp of what—and whom—we’re really celebrating at Christmas. Subscribe to our YouTube channel

The Book of Revelation provides us with a wondrous vision today.   There are loud voices in heaven saying, “The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ, and he shall reign forever and ever” [Ch.11 v.15].   Then the elders fall on their faces and worship saying, “We give thanks to you Lord God Almighty, who is and who was, for you have taken your great power and begun to reign.  The nations raged, but your wrath came and the time for the dead to be judged and for rewarding your servants the prophets and saints. And those who fear your name, both small and great, and for destroying the destroyers of the earth” [v.17/18]What a day of incredible thanksgiving this will be.   We should see the present human celebrations surrounding the Christmas period for all its emptiness.  What are people giving thanks for today?  It is the passing ‘pleasure' of the moment!   The children enjoy themselves and we recall Paul's observation “When I was a child … I reasoned like a child. When I became a man I gave up childish ways.” [1 Cor. 13 v.11]. Paul also said, “remember … Jesus how he himself said, 'It is more blessed to give than to receive'” [Acts 20 v.35] – we must teach our children this principle.  Do any of the children in the world (or their parents) learn anything real about Jesus? It seems impossible to think so, but God knows. Wherever opportunity offers we should “speak a word in season” to help them to do so.  It is interesting that only twice in the Bible is there any mention of celebrating birthdays – and both were those of bad men! [Genesis 40 v.20 – Pharaoh] and [Matthew 12 v.6 – Herod, when John the Baptist lost his head].  The heaven inspired celebration to come will be wondrous, but until that time true believers celebrate not the birthday of Jesus, but his sacrifice and death in the way he appointed [Luke 22 v.15-20], believing in a wondrous climax to that celebration in the kingdom.This wondrous event, called “the marriage supper of the Lamb” is also mentioned in Revelation [19 v.6-9] “Blessed are those who are invited” to that celebration which is far beyond us to imagine!  Do you believe you are worthy of receiving an invitation?  No?  It will be only by his grace!  But who is worthy?  It is interesting that the Gk word for ‘worthy' is one of the words  which occur seven times in the book – but only its first occurrence (ch, 3 v.4) is one that indicates saints that are worthy of receiving a  blessing before God; the last (ch. 16 v.6) is about those unworthy. Once again, the broad and narrow ways – make sure you on the “rewarding” pathway of the “worthy” in 2021

Until this point in our studies of Luke's nativity narrative, we have been exposed to the announcement of John the Baptist's conception (1:5–25) and his birth (1:57-80). We have also been exposed to the angelic announcement and actual virgin conception of the promised Saviour, Jesus (1:26–56). In this study, we conclude these advent studies with the birth of the God-Man: Jesus (v. 21), the Saviour who is Christ the Lord (v. 11). This is historically certain and certainly historic. We consider three truths from this text: 1. The Incarnation is Certainly Historical (vv. 1–7) 2. The Incarnation is Certainly Historic (8–14) 3. The Incarnation Requires a Certain Response (vv. 15–21)

In the middle of John 1, the religious leaders send people to interrogate John the Baptist. It doesn't look like it's got much to do with Christmas, and yet it does. Some major inner change has happened to John the Baptist. And if John the Baptist has had that change with what little knowledge he had of Jesus and the meaning of Christmas, how much more should we be exhibiting that change?  Let's take a look at 1) John's view of himself, 2) John's view of Jesus, 3) the resulting character change, and 4) how we might know it as well.  This sermon was preached by Dr. Timothy Keller at Redeemer Presbyterian Church on December 18, 2016. Series: Jesus, Mission, and Glory: Advent. Scripture: John 1:19-28. Today's podcast is brought to you by Gospel in Life, the site for all sermons, books, study guides and resources from Timothy Keller and Redeemer Presbyterian Church. If you've enjoyed listening to this podcast and would like to support the ongoing efforts of this ministry, you can do so by visiting https://gospelinlife.com/give and making a one-time or recurring donation.

Gospel Luke 1:67-79 Zechariah his father, filled with the Holy Spirit, prophesied, saying: “Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel; for he has come to his people and set them free. He has raised up for us a mighty Savior, born of the house of his servant David. Through his prophets he promised of old that he would save us from our enemies, from the hands of all who hate us. He promised to show mercy to our fathers and to remember his holy covenant. This was the oath he swore to our father Abraham: to set us free from the hand of our enemies, free to worship him without fear, holy and righteous in his sight all the days of our life. You, my child, shall be called the prophet of the Most High, for you will go before the Lord to prepare his way, to give his people knowledge of salvation by the forgiveness of their sins. In the tender compassion of our God the dawn from on high shall break upon us, to shine on those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death, and to guide our feet into the way of peace.” Reflection This passage gives us a keen insight into what it means to be a prophet to prophesy. As you listen to this, you wonder, how did Zechariah know that this would be the ministry of John? John's ministry was so unusual, so radically different. But it does imply that the Holy Spirit does reveal to people things they can't fully understand yet, and yet they are assigned to all of us of a message that is coming not just from humans, but from the Holy Spirit who is working through human beings, accomplishing the task of bringing salvation to the world. Closing Prayer Father, the beauty of a ministry like John the Baptist was to break with the old and introduce the new, it never ceases to be necessary. Always we're called to renew our understanding from what we've been told to what we now know through the work of the Holy Spirit. Bless us with the capacity to change. And we ask this in Jesus' name, Amen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Opening Bible Verse: Luke 2:13-14 On this final episode in our series of practicing hospitality using the 5 senses we have reached sound! It was the sound of Mary's voice that caused John the Baptist to leap in his mother's womb and it was the sound of angels that alerted to Shepards to our Savior's birth. How important is the sound of our home? Music is a powerful, easy and inexpensive way to set the tone of your party or day to day life ***Are you so overwhelmed with clutter that you find yourself unable to make any decisions? Do you plan on decluttering only to find yourself standing in a room confused about where to start? Are you hoping motivation will strike and you'll get it all done in one weekend? If this sounds like you, let's work together.   Book a one hour virtual coaching session via Zoom. Together we craft a decluttering plan and I walk you through the process. You'll complete much of the decluttering on your own time at your own pace. I just give you the roadmap and the accountability. Cost $77 per hour. Virtual Coaching Schedule   Not sure what you need? No problem! Book a complimentary 15 minute clarity call. We'll meet via Zoom and see if working with me would benefit you.  Email me at: tightshipmama@gmail.com to schedule a time.   Looking for community of like-minded women? Join the private Facebook community here: Facebook Group   Prefer to receive a weekly email with the monthly freebie like a group rosary, group declutter, or budget Q&As?  Join my mailing list here: Weekly Newsletter   Do you like to watch a podcast? Check out my YouTube channel here:  YouTube    For any other inquiries or guest appearances, please email me at: tightshipmama@gmail.com  

Friends of the Rosary,Today, Christmas Eve, the end of Advent, is a day of much joyous expectation, with families gathered in a Silent and Holy Night. It's the anticipation of the arrival of the Savior of the Human race, the Light of the World.The liturgy proclaims, "Today you shall know that the Lord shall come and tomorrow you shall see His glory."Throughout Advent, we have seen how the preparation for Jesus' coming was heralded by Isaiah, John the Baptist, and the Virgin Mother.The King of Kings, according to His human nature, was born at Bethlehem of the Virgin Mary and conceived of the Spirit of holiness.Since our first parents were cast forth from the earthly paradise, the gate of eternity was closed. The Redeemer alone opens this door and enters in. On Christmas Eve, we stand before the gate of paradise, as the Psalm 23 of the vigil states,Lift up your gates, O princes,Open wide, eternal gates,That the King of Glory may enter inWith a quiet mind, we devote ourselves to the great mystery of the Holy Night, with our prayer, the Christmas carols, and the tradition of the exchange of gifts, after the Christ-Child has been placed in the manger in Bethlehem.Then on Midnight Mass, we can concentrate on the Greatest Gift given to all: the love of Christ.Ave MariaCome, Holy Spirit, come!To Jesus through Mary!Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will.Please give us the grace to respond with joy!+ Mikel Amigot w/ María Blanca | RosaryNetwork.com, New YorkEnhance your faith with the new Holy Rosary University app:Apple iOS | New! Android Google Play• December 24, 2025, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET

In this re-release of a classic episode of the Presence Pioneers Podcast, Matthew Lilley discusses the concept of forerunners in the context of Jesus' first and second comings. He highlights key biblical figures such as Anna and John the Baptist, emphasizing their roles in preparing the way for Jesus. The conversation explores the importance of prayer, fasting, and partnership with God in fulfilling His purposes. Matthew encourages listeners to embrace their calling as forerunners, engaging in a lifestyle of prayer and intercession to prepare for Jesus' return. Merry Christmas!

Teaching on Mark 6:14-29

The birth of Jesus is preceded by the announcement and birth of John the Baptist. If Jesus truly is the Promised Messiah, the messenger must come first to prepare the way. Luke's presentation of John the Baptist includes the theme of reversal. When Jesus comes he will reverse the trajectory of Israel's story toward redemption, hope, and joy.

In this episode, Ashley Campbell discusses the importance of changing perspectives as a crucial skill for personal growth and maturity. She emphasizes the need for discernment and the ability to see situations from multiple angles, referencing biblical teachings and the examples of Jesus and John the Baptist. The conversation explores how expectations can shape our responses and the significance of being open to new insights.Takeaways-Changing your perspective is crucial for personal growth.-Maturity involves seeing situations from multiple angles.-Discernment helps protect against deception.-Expectations can block our ability to receive new insights.-Jesus and John the Baptist exemplify different perspectives.-We must be willing to receive new information.-Manipulating others can lead to disappointment.-Alcohol is a complex topic in faith discussions.-Self-control is essential in all aspects of life.-Faith and perspective are intertwined in personal development.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Changing Perspectives02:47 The Importance of Perspective in Maturity06:07 Understanding Expectations and Responses08:52 The Role of Jesus and John the Baptist in PerspectiveKeywordsperspective, maturity, discernment, expectations, Jesus, John the Baptist, insights, personal growth, faith, spiritualityConnect with me:https://linktr.ee/daily_encouragement_ashleyRumble Account: https://rumble.com/user/AshleyCampbellFacebook Page:https://www.facebook.com/dailyencouragementwithashleycampbell/Want to purchase a signed copy of mybook?https://buy.stripe.com/7sI8xdg6F2kZgSIfZ6ORRead the reviews on Amazon? https://a.co/d/gwyks9gWant to send me a financial donationbecause you value what I am doing on social media?https://buy.stripe.com/eVacNt3jTbVz9qg4gkWant to join my Facebook group thatwill equip you with the knowledge of the History of the UnitedStates, what the Constitution means and how you can preserve this great nation we live in?Join my paid group today! For only $10 a month, you will have access to classes that will help you have theknowledge you need to save America!Group Link:https://www.facebook.com/share/RA7FqCx95Lbv5gWv/Group Payment link:https://buy.stripe.com/cN24gX07H4t70TKcMVPodcast links:Apple/I tunes:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/daily-encouragement-with-ashley-campbell/id1625607569Amazon Music:https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/4d32a7f2-1e3e-4045-aa13-2b77784c71d1/daily-encouragement-with-ashley-campbelliHeartRadiohttps://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-daily-encouragement-with-a-112334720/Overcast:https://overcast.fm/itunes1483675322/daily-encouragement-with-ashley-campbellRadio Public:https://radiopublic.com/daily-encouragement-with-ashley-c-WozzzRWant to sponsor the Podcast?https://buy.stripe.com/9AQbJpdYx8JnfOEfZ8Choose your amount to Sponsor the Podcast:https://donate.stripe.com/14k4gXg6F9Nr31SdR1

Read Online“Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel; for he has come to his people and set them free. He has raised up for us a mighty Savior, born of the house of his servant David…” Luke 1:68–69These words are the beginning of Zechariah's song of praise, traditionally called the Benedictus, which he prayed as soon as his mouth was opened at the circumcision of his newborn son, John the Baptist. Priests and religious pray this beautiful song in the Liturgy of the Hours every morning. It recounts the whole plan of salvation that God began with Abraham, outlines the role of the prophets, and points to Zechariah's son, John, as the “prophet of the Most High” who will “go before the Lord to prepare his way, to give his people knowledge of salvation by the forgiveness of their sins” (Luke 1:76–77).As we prepare for the great Solemnity of Christmas Day, Zechariah's song gives us much to ponder. He begins by blessing God Who “has come to his people and set them free.” Christmas is not only about the Most High God Who took on the form of an infant long ago. It's also an ongoing coming to us by grace and the Sacraments. That same Most High God continuously descends into our souls as He is made visible to us in the Sacraments, especially the Eucharist. Therefore, each of us must sing Zechariah's song with the same vigor and conviction every time we attend Mass or encounter God's presence in our lives.Why did God come to us? He came to set us free. Christmas must be a time when we acknowledge the ways that our sin oppresses us. We need a Savior. We need freedom. We need forgiveness. The only way to be receptive to our Savior is to humbly acknowledge how much we need Him.We see this in Zechariah's song when he speaks of the role his son John would play in the whole plan of salvation. John was to give God's people “knowledge of salvation by the forgiveness of their sins.” Seeing our sins is essential. Our culture tempts us to downplay sin, to see it as normal or even acceptable. Some hold up their sin with great pride. We must avoid being influenced by this tendency and recognize our sin with clarity and honesty.Understanding the kind of God we have greatly helps us to see our sin and our need for a Savior. Zechariah goes on to say, “In the tender compassion of our God the dawn from on high shall break upon us, to shine on those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death, and to guide our feet into the way of peace.” Our God is not only compassionate, He offers us a “tender compassion.” He did not come to condemn, but to free us from “darkness and the shadow of death” so that we could be led into the “way of peace.” Deep down, we all want this. The only way to receive it is by listening to John the Baptist's preaching that we must acknowledge our sins and repent.Reflect today on the true meaning of Christmas. God became Man to save us from darkness, sin, and death. He came to set us free from all that binds us, oppresses us, and misguides us. He came to free us from the evil one's lies and the many ways that those lies have permeated our lives and culture. Join with Zechariah today in his song of praise for the gift of salvation, and strive to pray his prayer with the same faith he had.Blessed are You, Lord my God, for You have come to Your people to set them free. Mighty Savior, as I prepare to celebrate the great Solemnity of Christmas, please help me to see how much I need You in my life. Without You, I am lost and live in darkness and death. Free me, and help me to repent and to receive Your gift of salvation. Jesus, I trust in You.Image: Philippe de Champaigne, Public domain, via Wikimedia CommonsSource of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2025 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.

Given a new and different name from his family, the birth of John the Baptist reveals God's hand at work in salvation history to do something extraordinary in preparation for the coming of the Messiah, Jesus Christ. (Lectionary #199) December 23, 2025 - Cathedral Rectory - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com  

Gospel  Luke 1:57-66 When the time arrived for Elizabeth to have her child she gave birth to a son. Her neighbors and relatives heard that the Lord had shown his great mercy toward her, and they rejoiced with her. When they came on the eighth day to circumcise the child, they were going to call him Zechariah after his father, but his mother said in reply, “No. He will be called John.” But they answered her, “There is no one among your relatives who has this name.” So they made signs, asking his father what he wished him to be called. He asked for a tablet and wrote, “John is his name,” and all were amazed. Immediately his mouth was opened, his tongue freed, and he spoke blessing God. Then fear came upon all their neighbors, and all these matters were discussed throughout the hill country of Judea. All who heard these things took them to heart, saying, “What, then, will this child be? For surely the hand of the Lord was with him.” Reflection It's interesting that this transition involved two men, John the Baptist and Jesus the Messiah. And when you look at it carefully, you recognize that they were both so important in being able to create a new image of who God is. A God not distant, not in the temple only, but somehow breaking free of that structure and filling people's hearts with love, understanding, compassion. What an amazing transformation and how amazing John was in making sure this happened. He took us through the liminal space of transition that we still are somehow always engaged in, because each person has to go through it. That's the gift to this figure of John. Closing Prayer Father, always we find ourselves as we grow in consciousness, going through thresholds of new insights, new revelations. Bless us in this work of transformation. It is the call of the gospel, is each of us announcing the fullness of the Kingdom of God. And we ask this in Jesus' name, Amen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“In the beginning was the Word…” As our Advent journey reaches its climax, St. John pulls back the curtain to reveal the deepest mystery of Christmas: the Child of Bethlehem is the eternal Word through whom all things were made. In part 12, the final installment of our special series connecting Old Testament prophecy to New Testament fulfillment, we move from manger scenes to cosmic glory. The true Light that shines in the darkness has come into the world; He pitches His tent among us, full of grace and truth, that from His fullness we might receive grace upon grace.  The Rev. Jacob Hercamp, pastor of Christ Lutheran Church in Noblesville, IN, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study John 1:1–18.  To learn more about Christ Lutheran, visit clc-in.org. This Advent series begins by covering the last Old Testament prophet, Malachi, and then spends twelve episodes alternating between Old Testament prophecy and New Testament fulfillment, tracing God's promises from Isaiah to the birth of Christ. The series explores Emmanuel's promise, the Davidic King, John the Baptist as forerunner, and reaches its climax with the Nativity. The final episodes examine the Suffering Servant, the shadow of the cross in Christ's infancy, Isaiah's Messianic mission statement, and John's declaration that "the Word became flesh."  Thy Strong Word, hosted by Rev. Dr. Phil Booe, pastor of St. John Lutheran Church of Luverne, MN, reveals the light of our salvation in Christ through study of God's Word, breaking our darkness with His redeeming light. Each weekday, two pastors fix our eyes on Jesus by considering Holy Scripture, verse by verse, in order to be strengthened in the Word and be equipped to faithfully serve in our daily vocations. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.

This episode explores what I call the miracle before the miracle of Christmas. Before Bethlehem. Before the manger. Before angels filled the sky. God was already at work. In this teaching from Luke chapter 1, we walk through the story of Zacharias and Elizabeth, the priesthood, and the grace of God that moves even when prayers feel unanswered and seasons feel barren. This is a message for anyone who has: - Remained faithful while waiting - Served God without seeing change - Wondered if time has passed them by - Felt marked by past mistakes, family history, or reproach You'll see how God's grace: - Qualifies who we think are disqualified - Answers prayers we've stopped believing for - Removes shame and restores calling - Prepares the way for His promises This message is deeply rooted in Scripture, moving from Exodus to Luke, Galatians, 1 Peter, and Revelation, revealing how God establishes a royal priesthood and remains faithful across generations. Whether you're listening during the Christmas season or any time of year, this teaching is a reminder that God is faithful, even in the waiting. Chapters 00:00 The Christmas Spirit and Its Relevance 03:05 Exploring God's Kingdom and the Priesthood 08:51 The Role of the Levites and Their Significance 14:55 The Miracle of John the Baptist's Birth 20:52 Faithfulness Amidst Barrenness 27:01 The Power of Prayer and God's Faithfulness 36:09 The Role of Faithfulness in God's Plan 45:04 The Prophetic Words of Zacharias 57:11 The Christmas Miracle: Hope and Redemption About your host: Jaime Luce' testimony has daunting personal mountains and treacherous financial valleys. She was trapped in day-to-day stress and couldn't see a way forward. But how she started is not how she finished! And she wants you to know God has a plan for your life too, no matter how tough it seems. Today, Jaime has been married to the love of her life for almost three decades, owns two companies, and has become an author and podcaster. God's way is always the blessed way! Free chapter of Jaime's new book: You Don't Need Money, You Just Need God: https://jaimeluce.com/book/ Connect: - Website: https://jaimeluce.com - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jaime.luces.page - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jaime_luce/ - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaime-luce-00395691/

By what name are you known? In today's Gospel (Luke 1:57–66), we hear the story of Zechariah and Elizabeth naming John the Baptist. A simple moment—but one filled with meaning. Names matter. They carry identity, purpose, and love. In this Peace on Earth reflection, we're invited to look at:  • Where our name comes from  • The names we sometimes give ourselves  • And most importantly, the name God calls us: beloved son, beloved daughter As we prepare our hearts just days before Christmas, may we remember that God knows our name, loves our name, and calls us His own.

Following his sermon in the series through the book of John, Here is Your King, Tyler talks with Raphael about points he would have pressed harder if he had the time, the fact that John the Baptist corrected his disciples' thinking, faithfulness as ministry metric, John the Baptist as a transitional figure, and the insanity of sin. Passage: John 3:22-36 If you have any questions about the sermon, fill out the form on the Church Center App.

We will continue our sermon series on John the Baptist. Pastor Jonker will preach on Matthew 11: 1-14, a passage where we see John dealing with disillusionment.

We will continue our sermon series on John the Baptist. Pastor Jonker will preach on Matthew 14: 1-13, the death of John the Baptist.

As we continue in our Christmas Stories series, Pastor Bob reflects on the importance of preparing our hearts for Jesus, drawing lessons from John the Baptist's call for repentance and genuine faith. As we approach Christmas, we are encouraged to clear our hearts, live out our faith authentically, and worship Jesus for who He is, symbolizing His ability to take away our sins and restore us.

Thank you for joining us for today's worship service! Pastor Chris shares insights from the story of Zechariah and Elizabeth, the parents of John the Baptist. Zechariah and Elizabeth were old and childless when God gave them a child, and Zechariah had trouble believing this joyous news. But for Zechariah, and for us, God's promises can be trusted, God's purposes for us are good, it is never too late for God to act, and we are never too far away for God to reach us. If you prayed to make Jesus your Lord today, we want to rejoice with you! If you would want someone to pray with you, we are eager to do so! If you would like more information about our church, we're want to share. Please text the word "NEXT" to 407-77 so we can engage with you. For more information about our in-person Sunday morning services, visit https://horizonwestchurch.com. You can also learn more about our midweek events at https://horizonwestchurch.com/events.

Read OnlineWhen they came on the eighth day to circumcise the child, they were going to call him Zechariah after his father, but his mother said in reply, “No. He will be called John.” But they answered her, “There is no one among your relatives who has this name.” So they made signs, asking his father what he wished him to be called. He asked for a tablet and wrote, “John is his name,” and all were amazed. Luke 1:59–63At the time of John the Baptist's birth, it was customary for family, neighbors, and others within the community to gather for a child's circumcision on the eighth day. According to Genesis 17:1–14, when God appeared to Abraham and established a covenant with him and his descendants, circumcision was instituted as the external sign of this covenant for every male child on the eighth day. Over time, it also became customary to name the child as part of the ceremony.The naming of a child in Jewish tradition was significant. A child's name connected him to his family and continued the family lineage. It was a way of honoring the family member whose name the child was given. Customarily, the firstborn male was named after his father or another significant relative. That's why the family and friends who gathered for John's naming and circumcision were surprised when he was not named Zechariah after his father and even more surprised when he was given the name John, a name that no other relative had.The inclusion of this story in the Gospel narrative indicates that John's name and its departure from Jewish custom hold special significance. Giving him a name that no other family member had was God's way of indicating that John's family, identity, and mission extended beyond his blood relatives. The name John means “God is gracious” or “God has been gracious.” Hence, John's name points beyond his life to God, the Source of grace. His mission was universal, preparing the way of the Lord for all people. Through John, the gateway of God's grace and mercy is proclaimed, and Jesus, the source of grace and salvation, enters. As we reflect on John the Baptist and his unique identity, we should also ponder our own identity in Christ. While family is the first and most important community where we come to know God and learn to love, God also calls us to an identity that transcends our biological family. We receive our most important identity through baptism. Just as circumcision was the sign of the Old Covenant, baptism is the sacrament that initiates us into the New Covenant in Christ.Through baptism, we take on a new identity and become members of the one, eternal family of God. All who are in a state of grace are brothers and sisters in Christ, with God as our Father and the Blessed Virgin Mary as our spiritual mother.Reflect today on your identity in Christ. In many cultures, it is customary to receive a new name at baptism, symbolizing this new identity. Ponder the identity given to you through baptism, the identity that defines who you truly are. Embrace this identity with all your heart.My Lord and God, in You and You alone do I find my true identity. Through my baptism, I have entered into Your family of grace and become a child of Your Father in Heaven. Please help me to fully embrace this Christian identity and dignity, always living as the child of God I am called to be. Jesus, I trust in You.Image: Wolfgang Sauber, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia CommonsSource of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2025 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.

Who are you? What is your purpose? Why do you matter? Matt Blackwell explores how John the Baptist's response to the religious leaders reveals his (and our) identity in Christ.

Hope for Right Now Podcast – Trust in the Impossible: An Advent Series, John the Baptist While Walking with Purpose founder Lisa takes time to write our next women's Bible study, Laura is keeping the Hope for Right Now podcast going strong with a four-week series: Trust in the Impossible: An Advent Series. Advent is meant to be a time of interior reflection—the weeks we prepare our hearts and homes to receive the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. But with the secular world's demands and distractions, keeping our eyes on what matters can be challenging, and the season of quiet we dream about feels impossible. What if this Advent, we said no to the overwhelm of the secular world and yes to the overshadowing of the Spirit? Each week, Laura introduces a Biblical figure from the gospel of Luke, whose story reveals the secret to a simple, peace-filled Advent—one where we yield to God's will, respond in faith, and trust in the impossible.   Today's Biblical figure: John The Baptist. If you tend to neglect John the Baptist during Advent, be sure to tune in and discover why he is significant to the gospel, but also to us right now, in these last days before the birth of Christ. Open your Heart to our key Scripture. Luke 1:57-66 Open your Bible to other Scriptures referenced in this episode. Luke 11:28: Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and keep it! Isaiah 40:3–5: A voice cries: “In the wilderness prepare the way of the Lord, make straight in the desert a highway for our God. Every valley shall be lifted up, and every mountain and hill be made low; the uneven ground shall become level, and the rough places a plain. And the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together, for the mouth of the Lord has spoken.” Matthew 3:1–3: In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judea, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” For this is he who was spoken of by the prophet Isaiah when he said, “The voice of one crying in the wilderness; prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.” Luke 1:41–44: Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, the babe leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit, and she exclaimed with a loud cry … For behold, when the voice of your greeting came to my ears, the babe in my womb leaped for joy. Invite Him in with this episode's questions for reflection. Using the list of internal/external obstacles provided in our show mentions, allow yourself to be guided by the Spirit. Ask Him to reveal the primary obstacle in your way.  Show mentions. Lisa Brenninkmeyer, Seven Priorities That Make Life Work. Sign up for our winter book club that begins January 12, 2026. Father Chris Alar, Divine Mercy: John the Baptist: His Real Role Internal obstacles Pride and arrogance: Overconfidence in our own ability can lead to a rejection of God's guidance. Fear: Fear of failure, humiliation, what others will think, or not being worthy or able to fulfill a calling. Doubt and unbelief: The lack of faith that makes trusting in God's plan and power challenging. Sin: Unconfessed sin creates a barrier to a close relationship with God. Self-sufficiency: The belief that we can get by without divine help. Lack of forgiveness: A huge hinderance to your spiritual progress.  External/circumstantial obstacles Worldly distractions and desires: Focusing on material possessions or the cares of this life more than God. Distractions and being too busy: A busy schedule can leave little time or energy for spiritual devotion. External pressure and societal expectations: The world can be tough, and it may not understand or support your faith.  Lack of clarity or understanding: Misinformation, wrong teachings, or a failure to understand God's will can create confusion. Listening to others instead of God: Over-reliance on human advice rather than seeking God's direction is a common problem. Let's stay connected. Don't miss an episode. Subscribe to our podcast on your favorite platform.  Want to keep the conversation going? Join our private Facebook community. Stay in the know. Connect with us today.  We are committed to creating content that is free and easily accessible to every woman—especially the one looking for answers but unsure of where to go. If you've enjoyed this podcast, prayerfully consider making a donation to support it and other WWP outreach programs that bring women closer to Christ. Learn more about WWP on our website. Our shop. Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.

“The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me, because the LORD has anointed me to bring good news to the poor.” Isaiah's words paint a vivid picture of the Messiah's mission: proclaiming liberty to captives, opening the prison to those who are bound, and announcing the year of the LORD's favor. In part 11 of our special 12-part series connecting Old Testament prophecy to New Testament fulfillment, we explore the Servant who clothes His people with garments of salvation and robes of righteousness. These words will one day be read from a synagogue scroll in Nazareth as Jesus declares that this Scripture is fulfilled in their hearing.  The Rev. Dan Eddy, pastor of Messiah Lutheran Church in Beloit, WI, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Isaiah 61:1–11.  To learn more about Messiah Lutheran, visit mlcbeloit.com. This Advent series begins by covering the last Old Testament prophet, Malachi, and then spends twelve episodes alternating between Old Testament prophecy and New Testament fulfillment, tracing God's promises from Isaiah to the birth of Christ. The series explores Emmanuel's promise, the Davidic King, John the Baptist as forerunner, and reaches its climax with the Nativity. The final episodes examine the Suffering Servant, the shadow of the cross in Christ's infancy, Isaiah's Messianic mission statement, and John's declaration that "the Word became flesh."  Thy Strong Word, hosted by Rev. Dr. Phil Booe, pastor of St. John Lutheran Church of Luverne, MN, reveals the light of our salvation in Christ through study of God's Word, breaking our darkness with His redeeming light. Each weekday, two pastors fix our eyes on Jesus by considering Holy Scripture, verse by verse, in order to be strengthened in the Word and be equipped to faithfully serve in our daily vocations. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.

Brethren, this Short Talk Bulletin Podcast episode was written in 1975 by Rev Bro Oscar Alan Gwyn. On this winter Feast of St. John the Evangelist, let us remember why each of our Saints John so well represent the duality of our efforts in the Craft. While St. John the Baptist represents the fiery call to action (summer), St. John the Evangelist represents the contemplative writer and knowledge of faith (winter). Enjoy, and do share this and all of these Podcast episodes with your brothers and your Lodge.

Send us a textWho doesn't love a great Christmas song?! In this episode, we look at two of the greatest Christmas songs ever written! And the crazy thing is that the writers of these songs had no idea they would be labeled as Christmas songs. In fact, they wouldn't have even known what Christmas was. Yet, they are two of the truest and most worshipful Christmas songs ever written! Join us as we look at the songs of Mary, the Mother of Jesus, and Zechariah, the father of John the Baptist.Have a blessed Christmas everyone!Thanks for tuning in! Be sure to check out everything Proverbs 9:10 on our website, www.proverbs910ministries.com! You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Rumble, YouTube, Twitter, Truth Social, and Gettr!

Our Lady's Promise: I Remain With You This Homily weaves together . . . . . . the Visitation (Luke 1:39–45), the mystery of Advent, and the apparition of Our Lady of Guadalupe, revealing a single, unifying truth: the Lord is always on the way to His people. God does not arrive once and withdraw; He continually comes, drawing near in mercy, joy, and life. This dynamic is first revealed when Mary, bearing Christ within her, hastens to Elizabeth. Though unseen, Christ Himself arrives, and His presence awakens joy, life, and praise. The leap of John the Baptist becomes the first fruit of salvation's nearness. He Continually Comes That same pattern unfolds across history, most vividly at Tepeyac in 1531, where Our Lady visits a wounded people and a struggling Church. Through Juan Diego, Mary brings Christ's joy into barrenness, transforming despair into life. The miracles . . . healing, roses blooming from stone, and the enduring image on the tilma . . . unfold in sequence, culminating in a sign that abides, just as Mary remained with Elizabeth and Christ remains with His Church. Throughout, Mary is revealed as the one through whom Christ comes, not only once, but always . . . into hearts, cultures, and history itself. Where He arrives, life stirs, joy breaks forth, and meaning is restored. Listen more to Our Lady's Promise: I Remain With You ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ A Quote from the Homily Imagine a greeting so powerful that its words don't matter. . . The voice of the woman with the joy of salvation growing in her womb speaks in such a tonality that that joy penetrates the life of another. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Art Work The Virgin of Mercy or Madonna della Misericordia.: Italian Painter: Piero della Francesca: 1462 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Why was this image selected: Mary stands sheltering the faithful beneath her mantle, a powerful visual expression of abiding presence. Like the tilma that endures and Mary's three-month stay with Elizabeth, the painting reflects the promise: I am not going anywhere.

This is a reprise of my Christmas 2018 show, just in time for Christmas 2025. It relates the story of Christmas as told by the gospel of Luke. With lots of canticles: the Magnificat, the Benedictus, and the Nunc Dimmitis. Luke has many unique stories. He concentrates on Jesus' mother Mary and her relative Elizabeth, mother of John the Baptist. The angel Gabriel makes two cameo appearances.