Podcasts about life under

Host: Candee O'Donnell Guest: Francisco Rivera Description: This podcast episode from "Life Under the Willow Tree" features an interview with Francisco Rivera, an employee at Willow Valley for nearly 24 years. The discussion highlights his career progression from a 16-year-old busboy to a healthcare administrator, emphasizing Willow Valley's support for employee growth and education, including on-site training and tuition assistance. The interview also touches upon the three generations of Rivera men working at Willow Valley, showcasing a strong family connection to the organization. Additionally, the conversation briefly mentions the diverse and internationally renowned JP McCaskey High School in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, and Francisco's personal life, including his triplet daughters.

Host: Ray Loewe Guest: Margaret (Muggs) Frentz Description: For this latest episode in Life Under the Willow Tree, Ray Loewe interviews Willow Valley resident Margaret "Mugs" Frenz,, discussing her discovery of a black swallowtail caterpillar she named Fatty McFatty. This encounter inspired Mugs to learn about butterflies and their host plants, leading to the formation of the Parsley Project. This project aims to engage fellow residents in raising swallowtail butterflies from eggs, with support from the Willow Valley community and environmental groups, encouraging residents to become citizen scientists and contribute to local butterfly populations. The podcast highlights a photo exhibit and upcoming presentation to further promote the project and educate residents on the butterfly life cycle.

Fluent Fiction - Japanese: Finding Balance: A Tale of Life Under the Sakura Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/ja/episode/2025-04-18-22-34-02-ja Story Transcript:Ja: 東京テック地区には、高層ビルが立ち並び、最新の技術を誇るショップやカフェがある。En: In the Tokyo Tech district, skyscrapers line the streets, and shops and cafes boasting the latest technology abound.Ja: 春の風が心地よく、街路には桜が咲き誇り、花見を楽しむ人々でにぎわっている。En: The spring breeze is pleasant, and the streets are bustling with people enjoying the sakura blossoms.Ja: カズキはこの地区で働く若いソフトウェアエンジニアだ。En: Kazuki is a young software engineer working in this district.Ja: 彼はロボット工学に情熱を持っているが、最近の仕事の忙しさに疲れていた。En: He has a passion for robotics, but he's been worn out by the recent demands of his work.Ja: 突然の病気で体調を崩し、病院に行くことを余儀なくされた。En: Suddenly, he fell ill and was compelled to visit the hospital.Ja: 彼の親友であるアイコは、医学を学んでいる心優しい人物で、カズキの健康を心配していた。En: His best friend, Aiko, a compassionate person studying medicine, was concerned about Kazuki's health.Ja: 「カズキ、最近顔色が悪いよ。休むべきだと思うの」と、ある日アイコは彼に言った。En: "Kazuki, you haven't looked well lately. I think you need to take a break," Aiko told him one day.Ja: しかし、プロジェクトの締め切りが迫る中、カズキは彼女の言葉を聞き流してしまった。En: However, with a project deadline looming, Kazuki brushed off her words.Ja: 彼は自分の限界を知ろうとせず、仕事に没頭していた。En: He didn't recognize his limits and became absorbed in his work.Ja: そんな中、東京の春は美しい花見の季節を迎えた。En: During this time, Tokyo welcomed the beautiful hanami season.Ja: アイコは、カズキを誘って桜の下でのんびりすることを提案した。En: Aiko suggested that Kazuki spend a relaxing day under the sakura.Ja: 「少し休んで、花を見ながらリラックスしようよ」と、彼女は笑顔で言った。En: "Let's take a break and relax while watching the flowers," she said with a smile.Ja: その日、二人は都会の喧騒を離れ、桜並木の下で穏やかな時間を過ごした。En: That day, the two escaped the city noise and spent a peaceful time under the sakura trees.Ja: だが、突然カズキは意識を失い倒れてしまった。En: However, suddenly, Kazuki lost consciousness and collapsed.Ja: アイコはすぐに彼を抱きかかえ、「大変！病院に行こう！」と叫んだ。En: Aiko immediately held him and shouted, "Oh no! Let's get to the hospital!"Ja: 病院での診察の結果は予想以上に深刻だった。En: The diagnosis at the hospital was more serious than expected.Ja: 医師からは、「ストレスが原因です。仕事をしばらく休んでください」と、厳しい言葉が告げられた。En: The doctor sternly advised, "It's stress-related. Please take a break from work for a while."Ja: やっとカズキは、心身を休める必要性を理解した。En: Finally, Kazuki understood the necessity of resting both his body and mind.Ja: アイコの支えのおかげで、カズキは長めの休暇を取ることにした。En: Thanks to Aiko's support, Kazuki decided to take an extended leave.Ja: 仕事から離れ、彼は再び桜を見に外に出た。En: Away from work, he ventured outside once more to see the sakura.Ja: 淡い桜色に染まる風景を見ながら、カズキの心は徐々に癒されていった。En: As he watched the landscape bathed in soft sakura colors, Kazuki's heart gradually began to heal.Ja: 時間がたつにつれ、カズキは仕事と健康のバランスの重要さを学んだ。En: As time passed, Kazuki learned the importance of balancing work and health.Ja: 毎日少しずつでも、外に出て息をすることが大切だと気づいた。En: He realized that taking a breath outside every day, even if just a little, was essential.Ja: 「これからは、無理をせずに、自然を楽しむ時間も大事にしよう」と彼は心に決めた。En: "From now on, I'll make sure to not overdo it and cherish the time to enjoy nature," he resolved.Ja: カズキは、以前の情熱を取り戻し、再び仕事に意欲的に取り組むことができるようになった。En: Kazuki regained his previous passion for work and could once again tackle it with enthusiasm.Ja: 彼の側にはいつもアイコがいて、二人は優しい春の光の中で、新たな希望を見出していた。En: Aiko was always by his side, and together they found new hope in the gentle light of spring.Ja: 桜の季節には、命の大切さと、人生の小さな喜びを楽しむことの意味を思い出させてくれた。En: The sakura season reminded them of the importance of life and the meaning of enjoying life's small pleasures. Vocabulary Words:skyscrapers: 高層ビルabound: 立ち並びbreeze: 風compelled: 余儀なくされたcompassionate: 心優しいlooming: 迫るbrushed off: 聞き流したabsorbed: 没頭hanami: 花見suggested: 提案したconsciousness: 意識collapsed: 倒れてしまったdiagnosis: 診察sternly: 厳しいnecessity: 必要性extended: 長めのventured: 出たgradually: 徐々にbalancing: バランスenthusiasm: 意欲cherish: 大事にするtackle: 取り組むsupport: 支えgentle: 優しいpleasures: 喜びstreets: 街路blossoms: 桜が咲き誇りseason: 季節resolve: 心に決めたlight: 光

This week we revisit a sermon from 2019 preached by Dr. Mark Gignilliat titled The End of Wisdom: Ecclesiastes and Life Under the Sun! JM's Album Of The Week: Brian Eno & Peter Chilvers - Bloom: Living World - Single Bradford's Book Club (JM's Pick): Useless Beauty: Ecclesiastes Through The Lens Of Contemporary Film by Robert K. Johnston

The Shocking Truth Behind the Tinder Swindler - An Exclusive Interview with Simon LevievIn this explosive interview, we sit down with the infamous Simon Leviev, the man behind the viral Netflix documentary "The Tinder Swindler." Prepare to be captivated as he reveals the real story, the truth behind the headlines, and his plans for the future.Dive deep into Simon's tumultuous past, from his troubled childhood to the legal battles that made him a worldwide sensation. Hear his side of the story as he addresses the allegations, the impact on his life, and his ongoing collaboration with Netflix.This no-holds-barred conversation will challenge everything you thought you knew about the "Tinder Swindler." Discover the surprising twists and turns that uncover the real Simon Leviev - a complex figure navigating the aftermath of a global scandal.Don't miss this rare opportunity to hear the other side of the story. Click now to witness the captivating interview that will leave you questioning everything you thought you knew about one of the most talked-about figures of our time.SPONSORS:For all your Law help contact https://www.aspenmorris.com/Get your hands on Bluetick Show Merch: https://thebluetickshow.com/Follow The BlueTick Show On All Platforms Here!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebluetickshowSnapchat: https://www.snapchat.com/add/mikeymelin1Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thebluetickshowSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/45FTJt5SYMEQzS39IVnVM6?si=a21c92f042e2415cFor all sponsorship enquires email us at info@thebluetickshow.comFollow Mikey Here:https://www.instagram.com/mikeymelin00:00:00 The Shocking True Story of the Tinder Swindler00:02:58 Troubled School Years and Multiple Expulsions00:05:52 From Military Dreams to Civil Aviation 00:08:38 Journey from Ukraine to the UK00:11:44 First Successful Car Flipping Venture 00:14:05 Arrest in Finland: A False Identity Uncovered00:16:46 Living the High Life: Early Success in Business 00:19:24 Simon's Identity and Legal Issues00:22:09 Escaping with a Fake Passport 00:24:42 Unexpected Adventure to Sofia, Bulgaria00:27:00 Security Breach and Fugitive Encounter 00:29:27 Encounter at Milan Airport 00:31:54 The Munich Set-Up and Escape Plan00:34:25 Confrontation and Escape 00:37:00 Emotional Journey and Family Struggles00:39:37 Arrest and Extradition Drama00:42:27 Facing Legal Troubles and Prison Experiences00:45:19 Life in Prison and Netflix Documentary Deal00:48:05 Critique of Movie Accuracy and Personal Allegations00:50:50 The Drama with "James" and Business Conflicts 00:53:32 The Viral Impact of the Tinder Swindler00:56:14 Simon Leviev Discusses His Wealth00:58:54 Life Under a False Identity and Legal Troubles01:01:32 Upcoming Ventures: Movies, Apps, and Crypto01:04:15 Deconstructing Netflix Drama and Sensationalism01:07:05 The Alleged Billion-Dollar Swindle Debate01:09:35 The Power of Perseverance: Never Give Up

In this episode of Just Ask the G.O.A.T., Neira pulls back the curtain on the first three teasers for her docuseries "Life Under the Scope: A Journey to Creative Entrepreneurship." She delves into the choices that shaped these sneak peeks and addresses the elephant in the room—why life has been so uncomfortable with everyone seeking the "inside scoop" about her departure from her previous company. Neira shares how she's taking control of her narrative by trusting God's guidance, confronting negative self-talk, and embracing her intuition during this creative process. Through vulnerability and determination, she's learning to lean into the positivity and unwavering support from her family, friends, and loyal podcast listeners. If you've ever struggled with stepping into your truth or creating from a place of authenticity, this episode is for you! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/justaskthegoat/support

A new MP3 sermon from Trinity Bible Church is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: Life Under the Curse Subtitle: Genesis Series Speaker: Dr. Greg Mazak Broadcaster: Trinity Bible Church Event: Sunday Service Date: 11/24/2024 Bible: Genesis 3:16-19 Length: 43 min.

Discover how Neira the G.O.A.T. transformed a moment of feeling creatively slighted into the driving force behind the second teaser for her docuseries, Life Under the Scope: A Journey to Creative Entrepreneurship. In this episode, Neira shares her raw emotions after seeing a former employer use her ideas, the challenges of rebuilding creative confidence, and actionable advice for creatives who feel undervalued. Tune in for inspiration, insights, and strategies to reclaim your creative power. Don't miss this empowering conversation—perfect for entrepreneurs, artists, and innovators looking to overcome setbacks. Subscribe to the YouTube Channel Here Watch Life Under the Scope Teaser 2 Here Purchase your On Paper: Where Thoughts Become Things Journal Here --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/justaskthegoat/support

This week on the Just Ask the G.O.A.T. podcast, join Neira the G.O.A.T. for "No-Edit November: Don't Forget Who You Are." In this reflective episode, Neira provides an insider update on the evolution of the podcast, and its somewhat recent transformation from Manifest with Ne to the Just Ask the G.O.A.T. brand. Neira candidly shares her journey, delving into the self-doubt and struggles with worthiness she faced around her creativity. She also unveils the earliest phases of developing her docuseries, Life Under the Scope: A Journey to Creative Entrepreneurship, where she explores her growth as an entrepreneur and the experiences that shaped her creative path. This series provides a powerful look at the mindset shifts and strategic moves behind her career, revealing the nuances of building a creative life on her own terms. Tune in for a heartfelt discussion on staying true to your vision, following the Holy Spirit/Inner knowing, embracing vulnerability, and rediscovering the essence of who you are. This episode is packed with inspiring insights for creatives and entrepreneurs seeking to navigate the journey with authenticity. Make sure to check out Neira's newest YouTube docuseries Life Under the Scope: A Journey to Creative Entrepreneurship here --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/justaskthegoat/support

Fin de semana de música en Londres. Y grabamos en Spotify! Último lanzamiento de David Sancho https://open.spotify.com/intl-es/album/1VugrKTXoRbcHqLc9vxeqq?si=wbOLNnYdT36DC9A6GnrUwA SetList Dream Theater: Act I Metropolis Pt. 1: The Miracle and the Sleeper The Mirror Panic Attack Barstool Warrior Hollow Years Constant Motion As I Am Act II Night Terror This is the Life Under a Glass Moon Vacant Stream of Consciousness Octavarium Bis: Pull Me Under Contacto: @Cablesyteclas https://www.youtube.com/Cablesyteclas http://www.cablesyteclas.com/ Anuncios y patrocinios: cablesyteclas@gmail.com

Donnie Worley, a former gang member, breaks down how prison gangs operate inside Texas maximum security prisons. He shares first-hand insights into the structure, rules, and power dynamics that govern gang life behind bars. In this episode, Donnie discusses the realities of survival, the relationships between different groups, and the challenges inmates face in this high-stakes environment. #PrisonGangs #TexasPrisons #MaxSecurity #GangLife #PrisonStories #TrueCrime #InsidePrison #GangCulture Hosted, Executive Produced & Edited By Ian Bick: https://www.instagram.com/ian_bick/?hl=en https://ianbick.com/ Presented by Tyson 2.0 & Wooooo Energy: https://tyson20.com/ https://woooooenergy.com/ Buy Merch: https://lockedinbrand.com Use code lockedin at checkout to get 20% off your order Timestamps: 00:00:00 Donnie's First Interview Experience 00:03:17 Growing Up in a Tense Environment 00:06:52 Overcoming a rough childhood 00:10:11 From Sports to True Gratitude 00:13:21 Overcoming the Past: Choosing a New Path 00:16:32 Prison Time 00:19:52 Life Under the Bridge: A Personal Story 00:23:02 Life in Texas Prisons 00:26:09 The Cycle of Poverty and Finding Family 00:29:46 Corruption and Economics of Prisons 00:33:00 The Influence of Inmate Leaders on Prison Systems 00:35:49 National Guard Interventions and Their Consequences 00:39:03 Reflection on Life Changes and Redemption 00:42:25 The Struggle of Reintegrating After Prison 00:45:57 The Impact of Family and Faith on Recovery 00:49:05 Embracing Faith and Family in the Face of Adversity Powered by: Just Media House : https://www.justmediahouse.com/ Creative direction, design, assets, support by FWRD: https://www.fwrd.co Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Hey! It's The Luskos, Levi Lusko sits down with Willie Robertson, star of Duck Dynasty, live from MVMNT '24. Willie opens up about balancing fame, family, and faith, sharing stories from the rise of his family's duck call empire to his experiences with reality TV. He talks about parenting in the spotlight, lessons learned from running a successful business, and the importance of being outdoors. Willie also shares how Duck Dynasty became a platform for spreading the gospel and what it's like to live a life under the camera lens. Get ready for humor, heart, and inspiration from this larger-than-life guest! Connect with us on social!Willie: @realwilliebosshogLevi: @leviluskoJennie: @jennieluskoFresh Life Church: @freshlife [Links]Willie's Book: https://amzn.to/3ZBYEkCGet the 5 Gallon Bucket: https://bit.ly/sdl4sHYGet the Lusketeer Sticker: https://bit.ly/sdl4sHY Subscribe for more exclusive content: https://levilusko.com/hitl-subscribe Want to be on the next Q&A episode? Send us your questions! https://bit.ly/3RonhJI Time Stamps00:45 - Willie's Montana Adventures02:15 - Balancing Hunting and Family05:14 - Life Under the Camera10:01 - Parenting in the Spotlight15:35 - The Gospel Mission22:42 - Business Meets Faith

In this episode of Hey! It's The Luskos, Levi Lusko sits down with Willie Robertson, star of Duck Dynasty, live from MVMNT '24. Willie opens up about balancing fame, family, and faith, sharing stories from the rise of his family's duck call empire to his experiences with reality TV. He talks about parenting in the spotlight, lessons learned from running a successful business, and the importance of being outdoors. Willie also shares how Duck Dynasty became a platform for spreading the gospel and what it's like to live a life under the camera lens. Get ready for humor, heart, and inspiration from this larger-than-life guest! Connect with us on social!Willie: @realwilliebosshogLevi: @leviluskoJennie: @jennieluskoFresh Life Church: @freshlife [Links]Willie's Book: https://amzn.to/3ZBYEkCGet the 5 Gallon Bucket: https://bit.ly/sdl4sHYGet the Lusketeer Sticker: https://bit.ly/sdl4sHY Subscribe for more exclusive content: https://levilusko.com/hitl-subscribe Want to be on the next Q&A episode? Send us your questions! https://bit.ly/3RonhJI Time Stamps00:45 - Willie's Montana Adventures02:15 - Balancing Hunting and Family05:14 - Life Under the Camera10:01 - Parenting in the Spotlight15:35 - The Gospel Mission22:42 - Business Meets Faith

Host: Carol MacAllister Guest: Tammi Brennan, Personal Trainer Description: Tammi Brennan was a featured guest speaker at a two-day seminar organized by Willow Valley resident and founder of the Life Under the Willow Tree Podcast, Ray Loewe. After retirement, Ray found he needed help reorienting and reinvigorating his life. Tammi helped him find new meaning, projects, friendships, and greater fulfillment in his life after his professional career. He asked Tammi to share her wisdom with all of Willow Valley. Following the seminar, we sat down with Tammi to share more of her insights and how she found her own significance and her new path in life.

Blonde Orthodoxy:  What Is a Woman? It Begins with Biology … GUEST Katie McCoy …  author of “To Be a Woman: The Confusion Over Female Identity & How Christians Can Respond. Can Self-Help Books Really Help? … GUEST Hannah Anderson … author who lives in the Blue Ridge Mountains of VA … Her latest book, “Life Under the Sun,” considers the wisdom of Ecclesiastes. The After Party: Toward better Christian politics — Reframing the Christian Identity (new small group course and book, co-written w David French & Russell Moore)  … GUEST Curtis Chang. Why It's Really Hard to Be Optimistic About the Mainline … GUEST Dr Ryan P Burge.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Life Under the Apple Tree (Song of Solomon 2:3-14) Introduction I of course don't know when you last read it, heard a talk about it or if you have ever read it or heard a talk about it! So, if you are in that category, it's a new thing for you! In my preparation, as I talked to other Christians about this book, I have found that some people are aghast at some of the very frank and provocative language used! But this should not stop us from reading it, studying it and learning from it. It is, after all, part of the Bible and therefore part of God's Written Word. Jesus Himself and the Disciples would have read this book at Passover time. It is a book that tells of the love of a woman (the Beloved) for a man, the man probably being Solomon. Different translations have different places where the beloved, the lover and others are actually speaking. But for ease of use tonight, we will use the guidelines of the church bibles, the New International Version. The Jews called it the Greatest Song of All Songs. Martin Luther called it the noblest of all songs! It is poetry that is full of love, romance and some say eroticism. Greater than Shakespeare's sonnets if you can believe that! Tonight, we are delving only into Chapter 2. Historically this book has been interpreted in 3 ways Firstly as a treatise on the joys of biblical sexual love; Secondly as an allegory for God's love for His people Israel; These two interpretations have great merit! However, some of you may be sad to know and others very happy to know, that I am going to concentrate principally on a third way that encompasses those two and that is seeing it as a picture of the immense love that exists between Jesus Christ for His church and its people, where the bridegroom is Jesus and His bride is the church. Paul highlights this relationship in his letter to the Ephesians. Before I forget, I should say that I am also aware of another difficulty, and that is that British men and Australian men have one thing in common - we are not very good at saying or doing things to do with love! We find it embarrassing and cumbersome. I don't know about South Africans or other nationalities though! So, hopefully with the help of the Holy Spirit, this may also make us become better men as well as feeding our minds and hearts about the love that exists between Jesus and the church! The Beloved's Portrait of the Lover (Song of Solomon 2:3-6) This is the beloved's portrait of her lover, the bridegroom. He is an apple tree! Wives, have you ever called your husband an apple tree! And of course He is an apple tree, because this lover, this bridegroom provides her with shelter, protection and food. And she enjoys it. Delighting in being strengthened, refreshed and being in love. As he embraces her, she feels his compassion, his warmth, his love for her and his strength. How does that talk of Jesus and his love for the church, His people, His bride? Jesus is the Bread of life Three times in John 6, Jesus refers to Himself as the living bread. By this He meant that He was the only one who could satiate the appetite and yearning of every person's spirit. For those He was speaking to, bread was a basic staple food for living, just as it is for millions of people today. Jesus indicates when saying He is the bread of life, that He will supply all needs! Just as He said to the woman at the well in John 4v4, that whoever drinks His living water shall never again go spiritually thirsty. When Jesus referred to the manna in the desert (John 6v49) he talked of it being merely temporary, despite being a gift from God. He, however, as the true bread of life gives permanent satisfaction and life everlasting to all those who believe and follow Him (John 6v51)! But this bread He offers, has to be eaten; it has to be taken up by the person wanting spiritual life! If you are seeking spiritual nourishment, then ask! Have you eaten of this bread? Jesus is the Good Shepherd. Jesus is the great protector, the great Shepherd. It is through Jesus and Jesus Christ alone, that salvation and spiritual protection and is found and through Him alone as the door or the gate, that people are led safely and soundly into spiritual freedom, spiritual light and spiritual sustenance. Unlike others who come only to steal, kill and destroy, Jesus offers spiritual safety & nourishment. Jesus protects those whom He loves and who loves Him! Jesus does not just offer a way out, but also a way in! The security offered by Jesus is because He is always in close proximity to those who follow Him. Jesus calls all those who follow Him by name (John 10v3) and they know each other. Jesus is the great shepherd only through the sacrifice he must make for His sheep. Here Jesus is looking ahead to the sacrifice He makes on the Cross. The cross is referred to in the New Testament as the tree on which Jesus hung. His protective and nourishing love for all of humanity compels Him to make the ultimate sacrifice of His death on the tree. Just as all shepherds will endanger themselves for the protection and safety of their sheep, so too did Jesus endure the pain and suffering of the Cross, so that people can be led into the eternal safety of God's kingdom. It is in this role of shepherd, that Jesus exhibits true leadership, which is self-less and sacrificial. I saw this week an example of a shepherd protecting his flock. It was up near Crowe and I was driving back from Burley, and there were a flock of sheep on one side of the road and the shepherd on the other. He was on a bicycle and the sheep were looking at him for directions! His sheep knew him and were looking to him and he was protecting them from being run over by a maniac in a green Fiesta! Are you looking to the great shepherd, Jesus Christ for safety, protection and guidance? These are just two examples of Jesus himself saying He protects, nourishes, gives shelter and loves. Many more examples can be found in the Gospels. Just as there is only one lover for this woman, there is only one Saviour for the world. Jesus does not say I am a true vine; a way, a truth and a life. He does not say I am a door to life, just as He does not say I am a shepherd, a door, a light or a bread of life. No - Jesus is the only way, the only truth and the only life. Jesus is the one great shepherd and the only door to life. Jesus is the only light of the world and the only true bread of life. Jesus is the apple tree, and calls everyone to partake of the nourishment and shelter only He can provide. The Beloved Encourages Others about the Lover (Song of Solomon 2:7-9) Read verses 7-9 Here now, the beloved addresses her friends and other people, not be impatient! These women were being persuaded by the beloved not to engage in sexual love until their marriage! Who were they? We don't know! But we do know from the rest of Scripture that sexual love is only for those in a committed monogamous marriage between a man and a woman. Sexual union, between a man and a woman in a committed married relationship, is a picture of the union of God and His people - that's why adultery and sexual immorality is also idolatry. Then the Beloved calls out "Listen! Look" Here he comes! She is expecting him to arrive at any time! The Beloved is waiting for her lover! She has a glimpse of Him but is waiting for His bodily presence with her. Is this not a picture of us, as the church awaiting Jesus Christ to come again? Before Jesus ascended into the clouds, He said He would be coming again! Not as a little baby next time, but coming from the clouds in great glory, honour, jubilation and exaltation! Nobody knows when that will be! There are hints in the Bible, but they are only hints! We are to wait expectantly and to live lives that are worthy of Him now, as we partake of righteousness and wait for Jesus to come again. When ever Youngmi and I go together to London, we meet up with old friends. Last time, it was a blast! We had a banquet, and there were 9 adults and 6 kids in our favourite Chinese Restaurant in Chinatown. We have all known each other for over 14 years now. One person wasn't there though. When we were walking and talker later on, two of my friends, individually of each other, told me about John. John has recently remarried and he and his new wife have been trying for the last few years for a baby. They showed me the messages they have received from him. It transpires he is giving up God, as he calls it, over this issue of not having the baby. My friends asked my advice. I said, to keep on encouraging, letting John know that while he may have let go of Jesus, Jesus has not let go of him or his wife. I also suggested that there are probably deeper issues as well, that John is not talking about. So my friends are going to continue encouraging John and uplifting him in prayer to the One who won't let go. So be encouraged! Don't give up! Encourage others who may be struggling. See and remember what the Lover is like! Be encouraged! Keep going! As Christians, if you are one here tonight, you are to bear fruit by remaining close to Jesus, as He is the vine and we are the branches. And why are we as Christians to bear fruit? As a means of bringing glory to God the Father (John 15v8). Be encouraged and be encouragers of others. Lover is like no other and wants to hear your voice. (Song of Solomon 2:10-15) The beloved speaks of the lover's voice. (Read v10-13) Then finally we hear the voice of the lover! (Read v14-15) Ever felt like God is far away? Well you aren't alone! It is an experience that is common to all Christians, at some point or another. I know I have experienced that in the past. But I also know from personal experience, that Jesus always comes through in difficult times. Although He may not come in the time I think He should come, because He knows when I need Him most. This woman, the beloved, is so expectant of the Lover's arrival she can hear his voice, his tender words! He is calling her to Himself! Jesus Christ is also calling you, to Himself! He wants you to be a partaker of the good news about Him. He wants you to be part of His family, the church. He is ever calling, ever beckoning people to enter into relationship with Him. His love for the church is indicative of verse 13, where he calls the beloved His beautiful bride. That is the church - warts and all - is His bride! By faith, He will see you through - Remember in the Gospels, when the disciples were in the storm and Jesus came to them walking on the water. Remember Jesus saying "Come" and Peter went to Him. This must have encouraged the other disciples, for upon seeing Jesus' power they worshipped him. Whatever troubles you are undergoing are temporary, and Jesus will see you through. Jesus is praying for you, will come to you, grow you and help you through troubles. By being obedient to God, you are encouraging others by showing your salvation and showing that faith is not blind, but active! Jesus wants to hear your voice talking to him... Not just for half hour in the morning but all day long. We are to yearn to talk to Him and for Him to talk to us. Prayer is a 24 hour communication exercise. Prayer, according to the Church Father Augustine, is a constant yearning for assistance and strengthening of desire towards the ultimate goal - eternal happiness and worship and knowledge of God. God Himself assists as we pray: by correcting and strengthening the yearnings. Prayers express desires and thoughts in a contributory way to the journey we are on. That means tell Jesus how you are feeling, both in the good and the hard times. Tell Him of your wants, your needs and all your cares.. Let His arms surround you! To him your voice is sweet and dulcet. Your face to Him is a delight. Seek him! Ask him! Talk to him! This is how you are spiritually energized! When you talk to God, you strengthen your relationship with Him! When you and I ask others to pray for us, Church unity is strengthened! Recap! So, how do we recapitulate. In this chapter, we firstly saw together the Beloved's portrait of the lover and how He feeds, nourishes protects and shelters her. We see this as an encompassing picture of Jesus and His love for His people, the Church. Then we saw how the Beloved lady encouraged others to wait and see this tremendous Lover. That is why we encourage one another and spur one another on as we see the day approaching when our bridegroom, Jesus Christ comes again in glory! Then lastly we saw how the bridegroom loves to hear the voice of the Beloved and gaze into her face. Jesus Christ, the great lover and bridegroom, loves to hear our voices as we express our love, gratitude, cares, worries and feelings to Him. Conclusion And what, in conclusion, do we do with all this? Jesus is the only nourisher, protector and feeder. Jesus Christ, the apple tree, provides for all your needs, your nourishment, gives you strength, protects and comforts. I don't know what situation you are in at the moment. This credit crunch, this economic crisis is affecting everybody. I guess there are probably three kinds of people here tonight. Firstly, there will be those who do not know this Jesus Christ personally. Please, do not leave here tonight without asking one of the leaders or your friends here, about how you can get to know more about this Jesus. The time is short, the waiting for Jesus to come again grows ever shorter, and when He does come again, the time will be too late to change your mind. Secondly, if you are in need of some love, some protection, some nourishment, then don't leave without having prayed with somebody or letting one of the leaders know of your needs. As Jesus Himself said, "Ask, Seek and Knock!" Jesus Christ is making intercessions for you, as He knows. He feels your cares and your worries, and knows what you are going through. Finally, if you are not in either of those situations yourself, you will know somebody who is. Therefore go and encourage those you know who are struggling and are in need of protection and comfort. This week, go and tell the good news of Jesus Christ to somebody who doesn't know Jesus personally. Right mouse click and save to download the MP3 file of this sermon.

On this week's episode of Artist Friendly, Joel Madden is joined by Ian Shelton of Militarie Gun. Though Militarie Gun are only a year removed from their buzzy debut album, Life Under the Gun, they've essentially been touring nonstop — first on their own headliner and then opening dates for A Day to Remember this past June. It's a mentality that defines the band — always moving, looking forward, and giving back to the community that raised them to achieve something far greater. “Touring is disruptive, but it also fits in the rhythm of my life — waking up, getting in the van, and driving in the next city is a thing that makes sense to my brain,” Shelton explained during their AP cover story interview. “I can pretty much do that on an infinite loop.” Listen to their conversation on Artist Friendly wherever you listen to podcasts. You can also watch the episode over at Veeps.  ------- Host: Joel Madden, @joelmadden Executive Producers: Joel Madden, Benji Madden, Jillian King Producers: Josh Madden, Joey Simmrin, Janice Leary Visual Producer/Editor: Ryan Schaefer Audio Producer/Composer: Nick Gray Music/Theme Composer: Nick Gray Cover Art/Design: Ryan Schaefer Additional Contributors: Anna Zanes, Neville Hardman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sirka offers a comprehensive exploration of life in East Germany, detailing the experiences of growing up in Neubrandenburg, the influence of the East German state and the Stasi, and the societal impacts of Mikhail Gorbachev's policies leading up to the fall of the Berlin Wall. She also talks of her intensive gymnastics training and being given pills by her trainer... Sirka also describes the transition to reunification, highlighting the challenges of adapting to a new economic system and the mixed feelings toward sudden exposure to Western consumer culture. Additionally, it includes a reflective conversation on post-reunification life in Germany, discussing Sirka's and her family's adjustment to the changes, including the effects on employment, homeownership, and personal political histories. Video and photo extras here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode339 The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and viaa simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You'll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a sought-after CWC coaster as a thank you and you'll bask in the warm glow of knowing you are helping to preserve Cold War history. Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/ If a monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, we welcome one-off donations via the same link. Connect with us on social media for more Cold War content: Twitter: https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coldwarconversations/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/coldwarpod/ YouTube: https://youtube.com/@ColdWarConversations For the perfect gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life, visit our store at https://coldwarconversations.com/store/ If you love history, check out Into History at https://intohistory.com/coldwarpod 00:00 Preview 00:22 Welcome to Cold War Conversations 00:36 Life in East Germany: An Insider's Perspective 01:50 Circa's Childhood and Family Life in Neubrandenburg 03:33 The Impact of World War II on Family Histories 05:42 Navigating Post-War East Germany 07:53 The East German Regime Through a Family's Eyes 10:31 Cultural and Educational Experiences in East Germany 23:23 The Challenges of Consumer Goods and Entertainment 25:39 School Life and Education in East Germany 34:17 Extracurricular Activities: Singing Club and Gymnastics 44:58 The Intensity of Gymnastics Training in East Germany 46:15 The Secret Gymnastics Pills 48:14 The Grueling Training Regime and Its Impact 49:46 The Power of Music and Discipline in a Regimented Society 50:38 The Harsh Realities of Military-Style Training 51:39 Life Under an Autocratic System: Acceptance and Adaptation 55:26 The Transition to College and the End of Gymnastics 55:56 Exploring Moscow: A Glimpse into the Space Race 01:03:37 Witnessing the Winds of Change: The Fall of the Berlin Wall 01:14:21 Navigating the New World: Post-Wall Challenges and Reflections 01:25:05 A Journey Back in Time: Revisiting Memories and the Stasi Files Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Karri Rogge and Tracy Gowling continue our bible study on Ecclesiastes featuring the book "Life Under the Sun" by Hannah Anderson.

Karri Rogge and Tracy Gowling continue our bible study on Ecclesiastes featuring the book "Life Under the Sun" by Hannah Anderson.

Karri Rogge and Tracy Gowling continue our bible study on Ecclesiastes featuring the book "Life Under the Sun" by Hannah Anderson.

Karri Rogge and Tracy Gowling continue our bible study on Ecclesiastes featuring the book "Life Under the Sun" by Hannah Anderson.

This Week in the Nation's Capital (Trump's first criminal trial begins next month ... + ... Trump ordered to pay $355 million in fraud civil suit ... + ... Biden world still reeling from “elderly man with poor memory” description ... + ... Ukraine aid stalled ... + ... Alexey Navalny, Putin critic, is dead ... GUEST Greg Clugston ... SRN News White House Correspondent. Can Self-Help Books Really Help? ... GUEST Hannah Anderson ... author who lives in the Blue Ridge Mountains of VA ... Her latest book, “Life Under the Sun,” considers the wisdom of Ecclesiastes.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Karri Rogge and Tracy Gowling continue our bible study on Ecclesiastes featuring the book "Life Under the Sun" by Hannah Anderson.

Karri Rogge and Tracy Gowling continue our bible study on Ecclesiastes featuring the book "Life Under the Sun" by Hannah Anderson.

Karri Rogge and Tracy Gowling continue our bible study on Ecclesiastes featuring the book "Life Under the Sun" by Hannah Anderson.

Karri Rogge and Tracy Gowling continue our bible study on Ecclesiastes featuring the book "Life Under the Sun" by Hannah Anderson.

Karri Rogge and Tracy Gowling continue our bible study on Ecclesiastes featuring the book "Life Under the Sun" by Hannah Anderson.

Karri Rogge and Tracy Gowling continue our bible study on Ecclesiastes featuring the book "Life Under the Sun" by Hannah Anderson.

Karri Rogge and Tracy Gowling continue our new bible study on Ecclesiastes featuring the book "Life Under the Sun" by Hannah Anderson.

Karri Rogge and Tracy Gowling continue our new bible study on Ecclesiastes featuring the book "Life Under the Sun" by Hannah Anderson.

"Life Under the Sun" | Ecclesiastes 1:1-11 | Pastor Jeff Breeding | 1-21-2024 by

Karri Rogge and Tracy Gowling introduce a new bible study on Ecclesiastes featuring the book "Life Under the Sun" by Hannah Anderson.

Karri Rogge and Tracy Gowling introduce a new bible study on Ecclesiastes featuring the book "Life Under the Sun" by Hannah Anderson.

We've got a great program for you. I'm not going to lie, this one took some work.Music fans and concertgoers, here's a list that you never knew you needed, but might really enjoy.As all of the BEST OF music lists came out over the last several weeks I kept going through them to see what acts on those lists were touring through Kansas City in 2024. Tune into the Eight One Sixty radio show on your radio dial at 90.9FM, stream us from The Bridge site or app, and if you miss the live broadcast you can listen from The Bridge archive or subscribe on Spotify and listen there.On the show we'll talk about these lists and hear music from several of these celebrated acts that will be touring through Kansas City over the next several months.From my research, have a look at this massive list below. Please take a moment and share this list with your friends who love music.Pitchfork's TOP 50 ALBUMS OF 202335 Veeze, ‘Ganger' - 03/01/24 at The Granada Theater27 Water From Your Eyes, ‘Everyone's Crushed' - 05/20/24 at The Truman14 Olivia Rodrigo, “GUTS” - 07/26/24 at T-Mobile CenterPITCHFORK'S 100 BEST SONGS OF 202394 Bad Bunny, “Where She Goes” - 03/26/24 at T-Mobile77 Slowdive, “kisses” - 05/03/24 at The Truman59 Feist, “Love Who We Are Meant To” - 06/09/24 at Starlight w/ Sarah McLachlan54 Chappell Roan, “Red Wine Supernova” - 04/08/24 at The Midland Theatre52 Olivia Rodrigo, “vampire” - 07/26/24 at T-Mobile Center45 Indigo De Souza, “Younger & Dumber” - 02/12/24 at The Bottleneck43 MIKE / Wiki / The Alchemist, “Mayors a Cop” - MIKE 04/28/24 at recordBar26 Water From Your Eyes, “Barley” - 05/20/24 at The Truman05 Olivia Rodrigo, “get him back!” - 07/26/24 at T-Mobile Center02 PinkPantheress / Ice Spice, “Boy's a liar Pt. 2” - PinkPantheress 07/26/24 at T-Mobile Center with Olivia RodrigoPITCHFORK'S 37 BEST ROCK ALBUMS OF 2023Feist, “Multitudes” - 06/09/24 at Starlight w/ Sarah McLachlanWater From Your Eyes, ‘Everyone's Crushed' - 05/20/24 at The TrumanPITCHFORK'S 13 BEST CONCERTS OF 2023 (That Weren't Taylor Swift or Beyoncé)Feist at Brooklyn Steel; Brooklyn, NY, May 14 - 06/09/24 at Starlight w/ Sarah McLachlanWater From Your Eyes on Boat Cruise Around Manhattan, NY, August 24 - 05/20/24 at The TrumanPaste Magazine's 50 BEST ALBUMS OF 202347 Slow Pulp, “Yard” - 05/09/24 at T-Mobile Center with The Postal Service & Death Cab39 Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit, “Weathervanes” - 01/17/24 at Liberty Hall36 Water From Your Eyes, “Everyone's Crushed” - 05/20/24 at The Truman19 Indigo De Souza, “All of This Will End” - 02/12/24 at The Bottleneck15 Olivia Rodrigo, “GUTS” - 07/26/24 at T-Mobile CenterPASTE'S BEST DEBUT ALBUMS OF 202326 PinkPantheress, ‘Heaven Knows' - 07/26/24 at T-Mobile Center with Olivia Rodrigo15 Militarie Gun, “Life Under the Gun” - 02/25/24 at recordBarPASTE'S BEST 30 ROCK ALBUMS OF 2023Geese, “4D Country” - 05/02/24 at T-Mobile Center with Greta Van FleetSlow Pulp, “Yard” - 05/09/24 at T-Mobile Center with The Postal Service & Death CabWater From Your Eyes, “Everyone's Crushed” - 05/20/24 at The TrumanNPR'S 50 BEST ALBUMS OF 2023Feist, “Multitudes” - 06/09/24 at Starlight w/ Sarah McLachlanOlivia Rodrigo, “GUTS” - 07/26/24 at T-Mobile CenterMargo Cilker, “Valley of Heart's Delight” - 03/13/24 at KnuckleheadsBob Boilen's TOP 30 ALBUMS OF 202313 Indigo De Souza, “All of This Will End” - 02/12/24 at The Bottleneck15 Palehound, ‘Eye on the Bat' - 03/25/24 at The Truman with Sleater-Kinney19 Caroline Rose, “The Art of Forgetting” - 04/24/24 at recordBar24 Samia, “Honey” - 05/23/24 at Grinders with BleachersRolling Stone Magazine's 100 BEST ALBUMS OF 202375 Palehound, ‘Eye on the Bat' - 03/25/24 at The Truman with Sleater-Kinney64 PinkPantheress, ‘Heaven Knows' - 07/26/24 at T-Mobile Center with Olivia Rodrigo60 Hozier, ‘Unreal Unearth' - 08/09/24 at Azura Amphitheater51 Militarie Gun, ‘Life Under the Gun' - 02/25/24 at recordBar44 Jenny Lewis, ‘Joy'All' - 03/05/24 at The Truman43 Megan Moroney, ‘Lucky' - 07/06/24 at Arrowhead with Kenny Chesney39 Veeze, ‘Ganger' - 03/01/24 at The Granada36 Water From Your Eyes, ‘Everyone's Crushed' - 05/20/24 at The Truman35 Drake, ‘For All the Dogs' - 03/02/24 and 03/03/24 at T-Mobile32 Bad Bunny, ‘Nadie Sabe Lo Que Va a Pasar Mañana' - 03/26/24 at T-Mobile25 Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit, “Weathervanes” - 01/17/24 at Liberty Hall12 Chappell Roan, ‘The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess' - 04/08/24 at The Midland10 Zach Bryan, ‘Zach Bryan' - 08/20/24 and 08/21/24 at T-Mobile05 Olivia Rodrigo, ‘Guts' - 07/26/24 at T-Mobile CenterTIME MAGAZINE'S 10 BEST ALBUMS OF 202304 Chappell Roan, “The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess” - 04/08/24 at The Midland02 Zach Bryan, “Zach Bryan” - 08/20/24 and 08/21/24 at T-MobileBrooklynVegan's TOP 55 ALBUMS OF 202340 Hot Mulligan, “Why Would I Watch” - 04/30/24 at Uptown Theater39 Wiki & MIKE, “Faith Is A Rock” - MIKE on 04/28/24 at recordBar38 Zach Bryan, “Boys Of Faith” - 08/20/24 and 08/21/24 at T-Mobile27 Feist, “Multitudes” - 06/09/24 at Starlight w/ Sarah McLachlan25 Olivia Rodrigo, “GUTS” - 07/26/24 at T-Mobile Center22 Slowdive, “kisses” - 05/03/24 at The Truman17 Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit, “Weathervanes” - 01/17/24 at Liberty Hall14 Militarie Gun, “Life Under the Gun” - 02/25/24 at recordBarBROOKLYN VEGAN'S 13 GREAT COUNTRY ALBUMS OF 2023Chris Stapleton, “Higher” - 06/12/24 at TMobileJason Isbell and the 400 Unit, “Weathervanes” - 01/17/24 at Liberty HallMargo Cilker, “Valley of Heart's Delight” - 03/13/24 at KnuckleheadsZach Bryan, “Boys Of Faith” - 08/20/24 and 08/21/24 at T-MobileEntertainment Weekly's TOP 10 ALBUMS OF 202304 Olivia Rodrigo, “GUTS” - 07/26/24 at T-Mobile CenterLos Angeles Times 20 BEST ALBUMS OF 202303 Megan Moroney, “Lucky” - 07/06/24 at Arrowhead with Kenny Chesney05 Olivia Rodrigo, “GUTS” - 07/26/24 at T-Mobile Center19 Jenny Lewis, ‘Joy'All' - 03/05/24 at The TrumanStereogum's 50 BEST ALBUMS OF 202348 Palehound, “Eye On The Bat” 03/25/24 at The Truman with Sleater-Kinney33 Veeze, “Ganger” - 03/01/24 at The Granada29 Water From Your Eyes, “Everyone's Crushed” - 05/20/24 at The Truman25 Feist, “Multitudes” - 06/09/24 at Starlight w/ Sarah McLachlan24 Slowdive, “everything is alive” - 05/03/24 at The Truman17 Slow Pulp, “Yard” - 05/09/24 at T-Mobile Center with The Postal Service & Death Cab16 Indigo de Souza, “All Of This Will End” - 02/12/24 at The Bottleneck07 Militarie Gun, “Life Under The Gun” - 02/25/24 at recordBar02 Olivia Rodrigo, “GUTS” - 07/26/24 at T-Mobile CenterSTEREOGUM'S TOP 10 BEST RAP ALBUMS OF 202302 Veeze, “Ganger” - 03/01/24 at The GranadaConsequence OF SOUND'S 50 BEST ALBUMS OF 202335 Water from Your Eyes, “Everyone's Crushed” - 05/20/24 at The Truman29 Indigo De Souza, “All of This Will End” - 02/12/24 at The Bottleneck28 Olivia Rodrigo, “GUTS” - 07/26/24 at T-Mobile Center18 Slowdive, “everything is alive” - 05/03/24 at The Truman08 Zach Bryan, “Zach Bryan” - 08/20/24 and 08/21/24 at T-Mobile06 Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit, “Weathervanes” - 01/17/24 at Liberty HallCONSEQUENCE OF SOUND'S 200 BEST SONGS OF 2023198 Veeze, “Not a Drill” - 03/01/24 at The Granada191 Computerwife, “Lexapro” - 04/13/24 at Bottleneck161 Mammoth WVH, “I'm Alright” - 02/23/24 at The Truman147 Olivia Rodrigo, “ballad of a homeschooled girl” - 07/26/24 at T-Mobile Center143 Zach Bryan, “Nine Ball” - 08/20/24 and 08/21/24 at T-Mobile137 Slow Pulp, “Broadview” - 05/09/24 at T-Mobile Center with The Postal Service & Death Cab119 Caroline Rose, “Miami” - 04/24/24 at recordBar114 Palehound, “Independence Day” - 03/25/24 at The Truman with Sleater-Kinney108 Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit, “King of Oklahoma” - 01/17/24 at Liberty Hall94 Militarie Gun, “Very High” - 02/25/24 at recordBar85 Indigo De Souza, “You Can Be Mean” - 02/12/24 at The Bottleneck83 Bad Bunny, “Monaco” - 03/26/24 at T-Mobile80 Ruston Kelly feat. Samia, “The Weakness” - Samia 05/23/24 at Grinders with Bleachers61 Slowdive, “alife” - 05/03/24 at The Truman52 Geese, “Cowboy Nudes” - 05/02/24 at T-Mobile Center with Greta Van Fleet45 Zach Bryan feat. The War and Treaty, “Hey Driver” - 08/20/24 and 08/21/24 at T-Mobile39 Water from Your Eyes, “Barley” - 05/20/24 at The Truman32 Chappell Roan, “Red Wine Supernova” - 04/08/24 at The Midland30 Pinkpantheress feat. Ice Spice, “Boy's a Liar Pt. 2” - Pinkpantheress 07/26/24 at T-Mobile Center20 Joy Oladokun feat. Noah Kahan, “We're All Gonna Die” - Noah Kahan 06/05/24 at Azura Amphitheater15 Olivia Rodrigo, “vampire” - 07/26/24 at T-Mobile Center14 Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit, “Death Wish” - 01/17/24 at Liberty Hall02 Zach Bryan, “East Side of Sorrow” - 08/20/24 and 08/21/24 at T-Mobile

Rebecca McLaughlin is joined by Hannah Anderson to have a conversation about the book of Ecclesiastes.Questions Covered in This Episode:What is the context of the book of Ecclesiastes?In the first verse, the word “preacher” is a complex word in Hebrew, can you help us understand that?What can we gather from Ecclesiastes 3:1-8?What would you say to the person whose life feels kind of meaningless?How does the book of Ecclesiastes show us how to demonstrate the full range of human feelings and how God engages with us?Why is the phrase, “all is vanity” repeated so many times?How can someone who is struggling with depression find comfort from the book of Ecclesiastes?Guest Bio:Hannah Anderson lives with her family in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia where her husband, Nathan, pastors Brookhill Baptist Church. Hannah is the author of several books, including Humble Roots, All That's Good, Life Under the Sun. You can find more of her writing at sometimesalight.com or follow her on Twitter.Resources Mentioned:Ecclesiastes“Life Under the Sun” by Hannah Anderson“Turn, Turn, Turn” by Pete SeegerSponsors:To learn more about our sponsors please visit our website.Follow Us:Instagram | TwitterOur Sister Shows:Knowing Faith | The Family Discipleship Podcast | Starting Place | Tiny TheologiansConfronting Christianity is a podcast of Training the Church. For ad-free episodes and more content check out our Patreon.

Lifeway Women author Hannah Anderson joins us to talk about writing her new Bible study book, Life Under the Sun: The Unexpectedly Good News of Ecclesiastes. Hannah is a prolific writer as she's written many books, including a children's book and now a Bible study! We often think of art and beauty when think of Hannah's writing, so we loved our conversation with her about what place art and beauty have in Ecclesiastes. Plus, listen to the end of the episode to hear the final part of Edouard Ndecky's story in our special four-part series about Operation Christmas Child. This week, Edouard shares how Operation Christmas Child has marked him on this side of the shoebox as he has had the opportunity to tell of God's faithfulness through his story. National Collection Week is November 13–20, 2023, and you can help shape a child's life by packing a shoebox gift too!    RESOURCES: Life Under the Sun Bible Study Book The World God Made Other Books by Hannah Anderson Operation Christmas Child MARKED is a podcast from Lifeway Women: https://women.lifeway.com/blog/podcasts/. Hosted by Kelly King and Elizabeth Hyndman. RECOMMENDED: Listen to Jackie Hill Perry and Jen Wilkin on two types of prayer they wrote about in the Bible study, When You Pray: petition and praise. ABOUT HANNAH ANDERSON Hannah Anderson is an author and Bible teacher who lives in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. Her books include Humble Roots: How Humility Grounds and Nourishes Your Soul, Turning of Days: Lessons from Nature, Season, and Spirit, and the recently released, Heaven and Nature Sing. Hannah's goal is to encourage believers to think deeply and broadly about how the gospel transforms every area of life. You can connect with her at her blog sometimesalight.com and on X @sometimesalight. ABOUT EDOUARD NDECKY Edouard grew up in a happy home in West Africa, though his family didn't have a lot of material possessions. His father, a pastor, would encourage Edouard to find hope in God's love. When Edouard received an Operation Christmas Child shoebox gift at age fourteen, he saw it as a gift from God.

Rev. Mark Squire, pastor at Immanuel Lutheran Church in St. Ansgar, IA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Ecclesiastes 12:9-14. Solomon brings the book of Ecclesiastes to a beautiful conclusion. He has studied and taught with diligence; the words of delight that he has found are the words of truth. Such truth is assured because it is not human wisdom; it comes from God alone. His wisdom is to be sought more than any books of human writing. What is the ultimate wisdom for this life under the sun? The answer is simple yet all-encompassing. Fear God and keep His commandments. “Wisdom for Life Under the Sun” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Ecclesiastes. Solomon's favorite word in Ecclesiastes paints a bleak picture: “Vanity of vanities! All is vanity!” Apart from God, life is nothing but vapor that does not last and can never be grasped. Yet Solomon does not leave us in despair. He shows us that life does have meaning in the faith and fear of God, from whom all things come to us as a gift.

Rev. Andrew Jagow, pastor at Bethany Lutheran Church in Alexandria, VA, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Ecclesiastes 12:1-8. Solomon commands those who are young to remember their Creator now, before old age comes. Using a variety of poetic images, Solomon describes both the reality that death will come to all and the reality that all will stand before God on the Last Day. Even as he restates his theme of vanity in this life under the sun, Solomon continues to hold out the hope of eternal life and resurrection from God, to Whom our spirits return. “Wisdom for Life Under the Sun” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Ecclesiastes. Solomon's favorite word in Ecclesiastes paints a bleak picture: “Vanity of vanities! All is vanity!” Apart from God, life is nothing but vapor that does not last and can never be grasped. Yet Solomon does not leave us in despair. He shows us that life does have meaning in the faith and fear of God, from whom all things come to us as a gift.

Rev. Ian Kinney, pastor at First Lutheran Church in Sabetha, KS, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Ecclesiastes 11:1-10. With the image of casting bread upon waters, Solomon commends generosity. Not only does this serve the neighbor in need, but it helps us to fight against materialism. Humility is needed, for God's work and will is over all things. Although we do not know what the future holds, we know that the Lord will be faithful whatever comes. This sets us free to work with joy at every stage of life that God gives. “Wisdom for Life Under the Sun” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Ecclesiastes. Solomon's favorite word in Ecclesiastes paints a bleak picture: “Vanity of vanities! All is vanity!” Apart from God, life is nothing but vapor that does not last and can never be grasped. Yet Solomon does not leave us in despair. He shows us that life does have meaning in the faith and fear of God, from whom all things come to us as a gift.

Rev. David Boisclair, interim pastor at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Overland, MO, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Ecclesiastes 10:8-20. Though our work may have useful intentions, that does not guarantee safe outcomes; the logs we intend to use to build houses may end up bringing harm to us. Still, Solomon commends wisdom for the sake of bringing success to work. Fools may speak many words, thinking that they know what will happen, but such foolishness only leads to evil madness. This is particularly harmful when the fool is a king. Through all the twists and turns of life, the fear of God is the only refuge any of us can truly have. “Wisdom for Life Under the Sun” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Ecclesiastes. Solomon's favorite word in Ecclesiastes paints a bleak picture: “Vanity of vanities! All is vanity!” Apart from God, life is nothing but vapor that does not last and can never be grasped. Yet Solomon does not leave us in despair. He shows us that life does have meaning in the faith and fear of God, from whom all things come to us as a gift.

Rev. Andrew Belt, pastor at Christ Lutheran Church in Marshfield, WI, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Ecclesiastes 9:11-10:7. Solomon laments the reality under the sun that no outcome is assured. Those who are fastest don't always win the race, and those are smart don't always get rich. Wisdom conquers brute force, and yet wisdom doesn't always receive its due recognition. Nonetheless, wisdom is to be preferred for this life under the sun. A little folly can ruin everything, because it leads in the wrong direction from the very beginning. “Wisdom for Life Under the Sun” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Ecclesiastes. Solomon's favorite word in Ecclesiastes paints a bleak picture: “Vanity of vanities! All is vanity!” Apart from God, life is nothing but vapor that does not last and can never be grasped. Yet Solomon does not leave us in despair. He shows us that life does have meaning in the faith and fear of God, from whom all things come to us as a gift.

Rev. Dr. Ryan Tietz, Associate Professor of Exegetical Theology and Dean of Students at Concordia Theological Seminary in Ft. Wayne, IN, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Ecclesiastes 9:1-10. Solomon tells it like it is. In this life under the sun, man cannot see God's purposes. On whatever end of the spectrum a person falls, he still dies. Those who are living have the advantage of reflecting on this reality and learning God's wisdom for the days He gives. In that wisdom, those who fear God can have His joy in receiving their food, work, and family as a gift until they die. In Christ, the death that comes to everyone is not the end, for He raises us on the Last Day. “Wisdom for Life Under the Sun” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Ecclesiastes. Solomon's favorite word in Ecclesiastes paints a bleak picture: “Vanity of vanities! All is vanity!” Apart from God, life is nothing but vapor that does not last and can never be grasped. Yet Solomon does not leave us in despair. He shows us that life does have meaning in the faith and fear of God, from whom all things come to us as a gift.

Rev. Merritt Demski, pastor at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Waterloo, IL, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Ecclesiastes 8:10-17. Solomon sees that those who are evil die, even if they were praised in this life. The neglect of justice for evil leads to further evil, yet the fear of God always leads to that which truly lasts. Though righteousness may not receive an earthly reward, still God's people can enjoy this life as His gift to them. His work cannot be found out under the sun, which calls for a life of faith in Jesus Christ. “Wisdom for Life Under the Sun” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Ecclesiastes. Solomon's favorite word in Ecclesiastes paints a bleak picture: “Vanity of vanities! All is vanity!” Apart from God, life is nothing but vapor that does not last and can never be grasped. Yet Solomon does not leave us in despair. He shows us that life does have meaning in the faith and fear of God, from whom all things come to us as a gift.

Rev. Matt Wietfeldt, Vice President of Admissions and Director of the Christ Academy Program at Concordia Theological Seminary in Ft. Wayne, IN, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Ecclesiastes 8:1-9. Solomon gives wisdom concerning interactions with the king, who has received authority from God to govern for the good of the people. Because in this life the king does what he pleases, care should be taken in his presence and in listening to his words. At the same time, God stands as the authority over every ruler. Christians ought to be wise and faithful in keeping this in mind when considering the way they relate to the governing authorities under the sun. “Wisdom for Life Under the Sun” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Ecclesiastes. Solomon's favorite word in Ecclesiastes paints a bleak picture: “Vanity of vanities! All is vanity!” Apart from God, life is nothing but vapor that does not last and can never be grasped. Yet Solomon does not leave us in despair. He shows us that life does have meaning in the faith and fear of God, from whom all things come to us as a gift.

Rev. Joel Heckmann, pastor at St. John's Lutheran Church in Okarche, OK, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Ecclesiastes 7:15-29. Solomon sees that the righteous man still dies and that the wicked man may live long. At the same time, Solomon still recognizes that the fear of God is a necessity, because there is no one who has righteousness of his own. As Solomon has looked for wisdom in this life, he knows that it remains far from humanity in our sin. Folly is far more common, for man often seeks after his own schemes rather than the righteousness of God. “Wisdom for Life Under the Sun” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Ecclesiastes. Solomon's favorite word in Ecclesiastes paints a bleak picture: “Vanity of vanities! All is vanity!” Apart from God, life is nothing but vapor that does not last and can never be grasped. Yet Solomon does not leave us in despair. He shows us that life does have meaning in the faith and fear of God, from whom all things come to us as a gift.

Rev. Jason M. Kaspar, pastor at Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church in La Grange, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Ecclesiastes 7:1-14. Solomon speaks in the style of the book of Proverbs in the first part of Ecclesiastes 7. He contrasts the unbridled pursuit of empty happiness with the wisdom of recognizing the reality of mortality. Those who are wise are willing to endure the sadness of considering mortality for the benefit of learning how to use the limited days of this life in a godly way. Neither anger nor reminiscing brings wisdom. Instead, wisdom does not look to any human control, for we have none, but instead points us to trust in the works of God. “Wisdom for Life Under the Sun” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Ecclesiastes. Solomon's favorite word in Ecclesiastes paints a bleak picture: “Vanity of vanities! All is vanity!” Apart from God, life is nothing but vapor that does not last and can never be grasped. Yet Solomon does not leave us in despair. He shows us that life does have meaning in the faith and fear of God, from whom all things come to us as a gift.

Rev. Dr. Rick Marrs, senior professor of practical theology and pastoral counseling at Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, MO, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Ecclesiastes 5:18-6:12. Recognizing that all humanity are dependent creatures of God, Solomon commends joy in the gifts of God throughout life. Such joy comes even in the midst of the reality that sometimes death comes before we expect it. In this life under the sun, Solomon recognizes the vanity of this reality that all eventually die. Though we are prone to work only to satisfy our longing for what we don't have, Solomon urges us to give thanks for the gifts of God we do see. Although man does not know all that is good and man cannot see what comes after his life, God does know these things; therefore, true wisdom is fear of God as His dependent creatures. “Wisdom for Life Under the Sun” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Ecclesiastes. Solomon's favorite word in Ecclesiastes paints a bleak picture: “Vanity of vanities! All is vanity!” Apart from God, life is nothing but vapor that does not last and can never be grasped. Yet Solomon does not leave us in despair. He shows us that life does have meaning in the faith and fear of God, from whom all things come to us as a gift.

Rev. Timothy Kern, pastor at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Marlette, MI, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Ecclesiastes 5:1-17. Solomon instructs us in the wisdom of guarding our words, both before God in worship and before others. Only when we are quick to listen to God's Word will we know how best to speak before God. As we observe life under the sun, we should not be surprised by injustice and unrighteousness. Comfort is found in realizing that God is higher than all who would abuse their power in this way. Solomon notes once more that seeking after riches is vanity, for we end this life just as naked as we began it. Better than all this is to live with the fear of God for as many days as He gives. “Wisdom for Life Under the Sun” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Ecclesiastes. Solomon's favorite word in Ecclesiastes paints a bleak picture: “Vanity of vanities! All is vanity!” Apart from God, life is nothing but vapor that does not last and can never be grasped. Yet Solomon does not leave us in despair. He shows us that life does have meaning in the faith and fear of God, from whom all things come to us as a gift.

Rev. Sam Wirgau, pastor at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Ossian, IN, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Ecclesiastes 4:4-16. Solomon sees the vanity in toil that is done only out of envy, yet he also sees the vanity of laziness that leads to want. Rather than living in such vanity, wisdom is found in considering the purpose of working for others. Using several images, Solomon shows that two people are better than one, both in the return for their work and in their companionship. Yet true Christian wisdom is found when Christ Himself is bound to us as our Brother. “Wisdom for Life Under the Sun” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Ecclesiastes. Solomon's favorite word in Ecclesiastes paints a bleak picture: “Vanity of vanities! All is vanity!” Apart from God, life is nothing but vapor that does not last and can never be grasped. Yet Solomon does not leave us in despair. He shows us that life does have meaning in the faith and fear of God, from whom all things come to us as a gift.