Podcasts about lord january

Pastor Tritten preaches on Luke's account of Jesus' baptism, focusing on God's Word and it's revelation about Jesus, His mission, and love. We are called to echo God's Word in our lives and congregations' ministries.

Homily given at St. Thomas à Becket on the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord (January 12, 2025)

Homily for the Baptism of the Lord (January 12, 2025) Total Time: 13m27s

Everything you've ever wanted to know about the Sacrament of Baptism. 

Send us a Text Message and let us know how you like this podcast.Thank you for listening to this worship service from Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Dublin, Ohio! For more information about Prince of Peace, please visit our website at princeofpeacedublin.org.Connect with us on facebook and instagram.Email us at office@princeofpeacedublin.org.

Rev. Dr. Eric Park

Homily for the Baptism of the Lord - January 12, 2025

Scriptures: Isaiah 42:1–9; Psalm 89:20–29; Luke 3:15–22 | By: Kevin Whitfield | Topic: We are the Beloved Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Isaiah 25:1; 26:11a; 28:5a; 35:1a, 2b, 10a; 41:18a, c; 52:13b; 12:3–5 Ephesians 1:13b-18John 1:29-34

The Baptism of Our Lord - January 12, 2025 - Pastor Mark Tiefel

Dear friends in Christ, welcome to this podcast from All Saints Episcopal Church in Portland. All Saints is a loving, welcoming parish serving Southeast Portland for over a century. Our purpose is to celebrate God's love, seek and serve Christ in all persons, and go forth into the world rejoicing in the power of the Spirit!Today, we invite you to join the Rev. Andria Skornik as she preaches the gospel, and explores the mysteries of God in our modern world.

 Audio recordingSermon manuscript:Donald J. Trump will begin his term as president at noon, January 20th. Have you been planning for what will happen January 21st? Have you been making lists, getting everything ready, rehearsing what you will do for the day after the inauguration? Probably not. I haven't either. I don't think a lot will change with our new president. It isn't really about him. I'm cynical about what elected officials can do in general. The people who hold the reins of power—the people who are massively wealthy, who can write the checks—won't let too much change, unless it is to their own benefit. Things will probably keep going on like they have for a long time. I am not expecting any massive changes. What about Christ's kingdom? Is our attitude the same there as well? Our festival today is somewhat like Jesus's inauguration as the Christ. Jesus's baptism marks the beginning of his great words and deeds that are recorded in the Gospels. Immediately after his baptism Jesus was very busy. He was tempted by the devil, swamped by sick and demon possessed people, teaching in the synagogues, doing one miracle after another. Things looked like they were changing for the better, but then Jesus was arrested, crucified and died. That was when the cynicism began in earnest. Folks had wondered whether Jesus might have been the Christ, but he couldn't have been since he died. That was the end of the road for the vast number of people who had once believed in Jesus. At one point there had been many thousands who were interested in Jesus being made king by force, but any hope of that was gone when everyone could see him hanging dead on the cross. Even after Easter the picture didn't improve very much as far as the disciples were concerned. John chapter 21 seems to indicate that the disciples went back to their old livelihood of fishing. Acts chapter 1 tells us that the number of believers in Jerusalem was only about 120. That is a far cry from many thousands. Even with the great day of Pentecost, when 3,000 repented and were baptized—that was less than the feeding of the 5,000, or the feeding of the 4,000. Cynicism is a way to protect yourself from being disappointed. Cynicism is when you don't get your hopes up. Having your hopes dashed is painful. The higher the hopes, the more intense the desire, the worse the pain. To prevent getting hurt you can check yourself out. Things will stay the same. Why bother? Just go gentle into that good night. This is a way to insulate yourself from pain. Disappointments will not hit you as sharply. But there is a terrible cost. With cynicism things will, at best, stay the same, but more likely get worse. If you won't get involved, if you won't change your ways, if you won't hope for change, then nothing is going to change. It is forfeiting to the powers that be. This defeatist attitude is disastrous in all areas of life, but it is especially devastating for faith in Christ's kingdom. If we would not have hope in Christ, then we are left with how things are. Paul calls these the elementary principles of this world, to which we are enslaved. We are enslaved to the devil. We are enslaved to our desires. We are enslaved to pursuing mere self-interest. Our chains have been put on by ourselves, which are our fears and insecurities, our dread of pain and suffering. How differently the bible speaks about Christ's kingdom! Paul says: “For freedom Christ has set you free!” The Gospels speak of Christ “proclaiming liberty to the prisoners!” And indeed, Jesus set people free from all kinds of disabilities and ailments in the Gospels. The people loved that! We slaves love to get a little taste of freedom. But a lot of people thought that that kind of thing was over and done with when Jesus died, and even when he rose. The risen and ascended Christ remains at work in his kingdom, but a lot of people would like it better if he would do those old sorts of things that helped people along in their pursuit of their own self-interest. But here is what we should realize: the work of Christ in his kingdom is not less after his death and resurrection, it is more. The work of Christ with his death and his resurrection, the baptism with which he baptizes, and the body and blood that he distributes is more. It's deeper. It gets to the root. The root is evil itself, and Jesus reverses it. The seemingly invincible powers of sin, death, profit, power, and all the rest are not invincible. Jesus promises a reckoning for the powers that be who so often oppress and steal and murder and seemingly get away with it. They will be burned with an unquenchable fire. Everything will be turned upside down. The first will be last and the last will be first. John baptized with water; Jesus baptizes with the Holy Spirit and with fire. Whatever hopes we might have about Christ's kingdom, they are inevitably inadequate. You want to be healed of an ailment, a defect, old age, and son. You want to be the man that you should be. You want to be the woman that you should be. “For freedom Christ has set you free!” These things and more are yours. If they are not already fixed somewhat in this life by the healing work of the Holy Spirit, then they will be completely fixed by the resurrection. The goodness of the resurrection is more than we can imagine. Paul says, “No eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor has it entered into the imagination of the heart of man what God has prepared for those who love him.” Even if you try to imagine what Jesus's kingdom will be like, you're going to fall short. What comes to pass will be greater. Cynicism, therefore, is incompatible with Christianity. Cynicism is managing your hopes so that you won't get hurt when they inevitably don't come to pass. If you are managing your hopes for Christ's kingdom, you are simply being an unbeliever. If you believe that Jesus can't or won't help you, then you are an unbeliever. Unbelief is by no means uncommon, even among those who would like to consider themselves to be Jesus's disciples. We see that all the time in the Bible. We see that in particular with the Gospels' accounts of the resurrection. Even the closest of Jesus's disciples lost their faith when Jesus died, and they were slow to believe after the resurrection. They were flesh and blood, just like us, with all our hiccups and insecurities. However, we cannot let our doubts and insecurities interfere with what is plainly testified. Jesus's kingdom is glorious, even if we lack the faith to believe. Jesus's kingdom is glorious among us. Let us not doubt that either. Whenever anyone comes to believe that the seemingly invincible powers are not invincible because Jesus is greater—that is a miracle worked by the Holy Spirit. Whenever anyone remains in the faith—that is an ongoing miracle of the Holy Spirit. These believers will one day be caught up together with the Lord in the clouds for an adventure that is too great for words to describe. It does not please me, therefore, when I hear something that is quite common among us. It is quite common for people to comment on how large or small a gathering is—and usually it is how much smaller the gathering is these days. This strikes me as largely missing the point. It would like the people in Jesus's day who could have scoffed at the smaller number who gathered after the resurrection. I could imagine that some of them must have said: “Do you remember how many people there were at the feeding of the five thousand or the four thousand? The attendance these days is greatly reduced.” Christ's kingdom is not about crowds or impressing those who have the ability to count. Christ's kingdom is about setting people free and changing hearts and minds. This is always an individual affair. Each individual either remains enslaved in their unbelief or they are set free through faith in Jesus. Whenever a sinner repents, the angels rejoice, and we should too. The kingdom of God remains at work. It is glorious, but the glory is only apparent to those who have the eyes to see and the ears to hear. So as we consider the inauguration, so to speak, of Christ's kingdom with Jesus's baptism, we should cast away cynical thoughts. Cynicism is not very attractive or useful in general, but it is particularly inappropriate when it comes to Christ's kingdom. Our problem is not that we have too low of thoughts and hopes and dreams. Our problem is that we do not think as grandly as we must if we are beginning to understand Christ's kingdom. We are too earthly minded. Therefore, I'd like to close with a passage that speaks to this. In Colossians chapter three Paul says: “If you have been raised with Christ, then seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.” When Christ appears, you will appear with him in glory. That is more than enough for anyone who is hungry for that which is good.

Baptism of Our Lord January 12 2025Support the show

Delivered by Father Peter Tukan, SDB from Salesian Don Bosco Gerak in the Diocese of Labuan Bajo, Indonesia. Isaiah 40: 1-5.9-11; Rs psalm 104: 1b-2.3-4.24-25.27-28.29-30; Titus 2: 11-14; 3: 4-7; Luke 3: 15-16.21-22 BAPTISM: ASKING, RECEIVING, AND SHARING   Our meditation today on Sunday the feast of Baptism of the Lord has the theme: Baptism: Asking, Receiving, and Sharing. In celebrating the feast of the baptism of the Lord Jesus Christ, we end the Christmas season. We will enter into ordinary times. In a particular moment, a teenager once asked in a whatsapp message to his parish priest, as he said: "Jesus is the Lord, does he need to be baptized"?   The basic answer for this should be in this manner, that as a human being and one with us, He also came to John the Baptist, for the baptism. The theological reflections of the Fathers of the Church, such as Saint Gregory Nasianzen, say that Jesus was not a sinner like any human person who should receive John's baptism for the remission of sins. However, by participating in baptism, the message He gives us is that we humans die with Him in sin, then rise with Him to become victorious over sins.   From this understanding we can go deeper into the meaning of baptism for us His followers. Basically, Jesus' baptism followed a regular pattern, which we also follow. This pattern is asking – receiving – sharing. Baptism is a need that we ask for, a request. Being enlightened by the word of God, for example by the preaching of John the Baptist, we are called and in need of baptism. We need to follow a legal process which includes tests, lessons, and formal ritual. Baptism gives us the meaning that to enter into any institution or any dynamic of work, we must obey the process and its legal steps. Without this principle, there will be misleading and chaos.   Baptism is a blessing not to be wasted but to be received. We are not strong enough to reject it because it is God's call and choice, as stated in the first and second readings. The Power who calls us is the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of God Himself, so none of the spirits from this world can challenge it. By accepting it, all of us are made into new persons, who belong to Jesus Christ as priest, prophet and king. We accept our dignity as children of God equal to Jesus Christ, even though we are sinners.   Baptism bears fruit in the sharing of life. Without this element, our life is useless and just like a stone or a dry tree. According to the Acts of the Apostles, with the anointing of the Holy Spirit and the power of God most high, Jesus walked around doing good. We must do the same. We must practice our baptismal promises to be the witnesses of the Lord Jesus Christ in the world. Thus, Baptism is a sacrament that makes us useful in all aspects of life, both as individual believers and as members in a community of brothers and sisters in Christ. Let's pray. In the name of the Father...Our loving Father, may we be faithful in our commitment to practice the baptismal promises. Hail Mary full of grace ... In the name of the Father ...

2025 Jan 12 SUN: BAPTISM OF THE LORD F Is 40: 1-5. 9-11/ Ps 104: 1b-2. 3-4. 24-25. 27-28. 29-30 (1)/ Ti 2: 11-14; 3: 4-7/ Lk 3: 15-16. 21-22 We have had an interesting few days. We received more snow than we're used to. And from my point of view, it's a hardship. It's tough to get around. Of course, we can think of the inconvenience of the snow and realize that there is no comparison with what people are undergoing with these fires in the Los Angeles area. We know that real hardship is common to the human family generally.  Today we are completing the season of Christmas. And this is a time for merriment. But I believe that as year after year gets added to our ages, we are all the more aware that even merriment does not do away with hardship. And we want to make sure that our hearts are united with those who are suffering for any reason, whatever. And of course, that leads us to prayer. And we can all increase both the time we spend in prayer and its intensity. We see very, very clearly how much we need those words from the first reading today. "Comfort. Give comfort to my people." This is an acknowledgment that comfort is needed and it is a universal need. Really, these scriptures taken together are kind of a summary of the Christmas season. Isaiah is, as we know, associated with Christmas and with Advent. The letter of St. Paul to Titus is used at two different Christmas Masses. And it is always remarkable to hear those words. To hear "God and Savior Jesus Christ," to know how early in Christianity the divinity of Jesus was affirmed.  And then we come to the Gospel, one of the portrayals of Jesus' baptism. As we said at the beginning of Mass, Jesus had no need of a baptism of repentance. But he submitted to baptism just as he submitted to the human nature that he assumed. He wanted to be completely united with us. And this baptism is a sign to us of the fact that he intends and he remains completely united with us in our human nature. So we reflect upon both the merriment and the pain which are associated with the season of Christmas. And especially how it must have been incredibly strange for the Son of God himself to take our griefs upon himself. And we can look at this as a preparation for what the rest of the year brings.  Easter is relatively late this year. It will fall on April 20th. That means that Ash Wednesday is not until March the 5th. We see the baptism of Jesus as a boundary between his hidden life, of which we know practically nothing, but what we heard two weeks ago on the Feast of the Holy Family about Mary and Joseph searching for Jesus who said, "You know I had to be in my Father's house, in the Temple." We have just that little window on his youth. But then when he was about 30 years old, he received this baptism and he began his public ministry, which we think was about three years. We are led into sober thinking. That is, in our lives of prayer we are developing an awareness of the needs of the whole human family. And we find ourselves moving more deeply into the mystery of Jesus embracing our state of life and lifting us up by dying for us. So we have several weeks of Ordinary Time and then in early March we enter into Lent, which will prepare us to celebrate more fully the Easter mystery of death leading to resurrection. We give thanks for these gifts and as we remember Jesus' baptism, we seek to be immersed more deeply into his mystery.

Word & Sermon Weekly – The Baptism of Our Lord – January 12, 2025 Isaiah 43:1–7 Romans 6:1–11 Luke 3:15–22 Learn more about Zion Lutheran Church and the Christian faith, by subscribing to this podcast, and joining us next Sunday by visiting www.zionhiawatha.org

2025 Jan 5 SUN: EPIPHANY OF THE LORD S Is 60: 1-6/ Ps 72: 1-2. 7-8. 10-11. 12-13/ Eph 3: 2-3a. 5-6/ Mt 2: 1-12 I want to start by looking at two words. It seems to me that more recently there has been some confusion between these two words, and I think it is helpful for all of us to maintain a distinction between them. The words are epiphany and insight. Very often, and I believe this is the source of confusion, you will hear people say from time to time, "Oh, I've just had an epiphany." Well, I think they're really talking about an insight, and I want to explain the distinction that I see. As we said at the beginning of Mass, epiphany means manifestation. It means something external that people can see. An insight, however, is something that goes on within us when we are looking at what appears to be the same reality we've always known, but somehow we see something quite different about it. And that is a change within ourselves. I think that insight is really the proper word for that concept. And in the Word of God today, we see that St. Paul is saying that an epiphany is an external event happening, the manifestation of the Savior to the nations. This external event prompts insight. And what is the insight St. Paul says? Gentiles, the nations, the foreigners, they are coheirs with the Jewish people. They also receive the gift of salvation in Jesus. Really, the Epiphany is a time for us to be aware of an insight we probably receive many times during our earthly lifespan. And that insight has to do with breaking down something that we tend to suppose. That is that we look at our own people, the people we are familiar with, who look and talk and believe like us. And then we think of foreigners and happily, because of the great increase in our day of communications and travel, we are much more in contact with peoples of other nations. And we have this insight that amazingly, they are just as human as we are. And it's a kind of an insight that has us saying, "Oh, why didn't I know that before?" Or, "Why didn't I think of that before?" But it's an extremely important insight. And we see what happens in the words of Isaiah today. "You shall be radiant at what you see, your hearts shall throb and overflow, because you begin to understand that people of all nations are a gift to us." We build one another up. And that's certainly a good alternative to what I would call caricaturing people of other nations. And indeed, I believe that is a major source of the troubles we have in our world community: that we don't see other peoples as being quite human. And then we have a pretext for doing inhuman things to them. So this is the thing that can carry us through another year, as we reflect on the mysteries of the Epiphany. There has been an external manifestation which causes us to rethink what's going on in our hearts and to develop the insight that far more than the symbolic gifts which the Magi gave to Jesus, we have gifts in one another as fellow members of the People of God.

Delivered by Father Peter Tukan, SDB from Salesian Don Bosco Gerak in the Diocese of Labuan Bajo, Indonesia. 1 John 5: 14-21; Rs psalm 149: 1-2.3-4.5-6a.9b; John 3: 22-30 THE FULNESS OF JOY   The theme for our meditation today is: The Fulness of Joy. This expression from the holy bible, "the fulness of joy" is not easily understood by many of us. There was a young man from the village named Darius, who worked every day as a carpenter. He was just a worker paid regularly in monthly basis by the company owner. He was a devoted Christian. He frequented the prayer services in his neighbourhood. There was one occasion when he participated in the group discussion about the fullness joy, inspired by the testimony of John the Baptist about Jesus of Nazareth. John realized that he had achieved a spiritual enrichment because he had made Jesus Christ the bridegroom for himself and for all those in the path of salvation. For John, his joy was full because Jesus had filled him with all graces. Our reading today speaks about this.   That young carpenter then realized that every moment of encounter with God that enlightens and strengthens human life is a sign of the fulness of joy that makes a life full with love. Then in another occasion he shared this realization to his family. In his daily work in the furniture shops, he actually experienced the presence of the Lord and that was the moment of joy, but he didn't realize any. The products such as cabinets, chairs, shelves, tables, benches, and other household materials were all sold out just in a short time because there was a great demand from people. The buyers always gave much appreciation in particular on the good quality that this furniture business rendered.   The joy of that young carpenter was full because it grew from love, it worked in the spirit of love, and there was a sharing of love. God is love, says the evangelist Saint John. That young carpenter's job aimed to bring the welfare of his family, to maintain the good name of the company, and to provide best services to people. When all our works and services done well and meet their goals, the fulness of joy exists. God knows, guides, and blesses all. That young man experience should open our common awareness that every person is responsible to create and to share joy in this life.   In following the example of John the Baptist and inspiration of the young carpenter, we should have our own way to find and encounter the Lord Jesus Christ. God is already within us, in our neighbours, and in the existence of the environment around us. It is enough for us to keep fresh our awareness, to be grateful for the life every day, and to carry out our daily duties in the name of love. This is where the gift of joy flows and grows.   Let's not forget this one thing: in every intention and activity in our lives, ask the Lord Jesus to accompany and make sure that those who are with us or those we serve, know that through our actions, they meet God. There will always be joyful experiences that cannot go away empty. Let's pray. In the name of the Father ... O Lord Jesus, bless us today so that we may be a source of joy to others. Glory to the Father... In the name of the Father ...

Thank you for listening to my podcast this week.  I truly appreciate the time you make for this week's reflection on the Gospel.God bless.Fr. Kennedy

Delivered by Father Peter Tukan, SDB from Salesian Don Bosco Gerak in the Diocese of Labuan Bajo, Indonesia. 1 John 5: 5-13; Rs psalm 147: 12-13.14-15.19-20; Luke 5: 12-16 OVERCOMING THE WORLD   The theme for our meditation today is: Overcoming the World. There was a boy who was a grade 1 student of elementary school, coming home from school and immediately met his mother then he said: "Mom, I can read and write fast." The mother wanted to test whether her son was right or not. Then she asked him to read a word or two which she had written on a sheet of paper. The boy was also asked to rewrite those words. He proved his own words. He could read and write fast. The mother was confident in the progress of her son.   This simple experience of that boy was an example of the ability to overcome the world. In this world gather various kinds of difficulties such as ignorance, laziness, boredom, crime, pain, suffering, lies and so on. That boy of the first grade of elementary school had taken at least one step forward, namely to win against the reality of illiteracy or ignorance. That little experience reminds us of the opportunities and experiences of progress in the way we overcome various difficulties, so that our lives can move forward to achieve our expected goals.   God actually has a plan to defeat the world, that is, from the moment the first human being fell into sin, the entire world has been in the slavery of sin including all human persons who may commit sin any time any place. God's plan is called the plan of salvation. The realization of this plan is clear, namely the incarnation which is marked by the great event of the birth of Jesus Christ, which we have just celebrated in Christmas. This is the basic and solid background for every act or effort we do to overcome the world. Every individual or family or community always receive the power from Jesus Christ to overcome the world.   Saint John spoke about this in his first letter as our reading today, as he said: "The one who overcomes the world is he who believes in Jesus as the Son of God". Jesus himself had proven in His word and deed to bring salvation to people who need, for example in what he did to overcome the sickness of leprosy, that once the divine intervention takes place, that is the moment the glory and salvation stand to power. When a school principal succeeded in disciplining some of his teachers who broke the rules, he defeated the world of deceit in the school by certain dishonest teachers. A journalist overcomes the flow of lies that blow strongly by some members of the society, by telling the truth of the facts of an event.   Each of us should be able to overcome the world through our work and profession, and what is really needed is the will and the implementation. Let's pray. In the name of the Father ... Almighty God, may we become even more honest and sincere in our words and deeds. Our Father who art in heaven ... In the name of the Father ...

Delivered by Father Peter Tukan, SDB from Salesian Don Bosco Gerak in the Diocese of Labuan Bajo, Indonesia. 1 John 4: 19 - 5: 4; Rs psalm 72: 1-2.14.15bc.17; Luke 4: 14-22a TODAY THE SCRIPTURES FULFILLED   Our meditation today has the theme: Today the Scriptures Fulfilled. Many of us admit that they have difficulty to understand and memorize the contents of the bible. There was a 70-year-old man who said that he had read the bible, both the old and new Testaments, since he was in elementary school. However, he did not understand most of what he had read, and yet he only memorized two verses of the bible. The first one was "Put the sword into its sheath" which is found in the Gospel according to John (18.11); and the second one was when Jesus was on the cross and He said His last words: "It is finished", found in the Gospel according to John (19.30).   Most of the Christians or the followers of Christ have the same situation with that of the 70-year-old man. Most of us in the Church say that practicing what the scriptures say such as to forgive others, pray diligently, keep the name of God sacred, and serve others, is much better than to understand and to memorize the contents of the scriptures. Others consider that it is better for those who have learned theology and scriptures have competence to speak, to teach and to reflect upon the contents of the scriptures. Meanwhile, most people are simply to listen and be taught or preached on the content of the scriptures.   There are still more stories in various situations that describe how Christians show effort to make the holy bible really part of their daily lives. In general, our situation in terms of the usefulness of the scriptures for our lives lies between a non-sufficient understanding the content of the bible on the one hand, and a more concrete and practical manifestation of the bible values in real life on the other. This gap or incoherence is somehow taken for granted by many of us. For instance, there was a family visited by the neighbours for their weekly prayer and bible sharing. The host welcomed everybody and pleased them to feel at home in the house. To all the guests, the father of the family admitted they did have several bibles they had bought from various places and being displayed in their living room. But none from his family had ever opened and read any. For him it is easier to listen to the pastor's homily in church, than to read oneself at home.   This situation maybe common to our families and communities. Therefore, it should be better if we pursue a commitment that says: let us strive every way we can, that there is a fulfilment of the scriptures to everyone in our family and community. Jesus had opened and read the scriptures, and this is to be an encouragement for us to do the same. To those who have the opportunity and ability to do so, just do so with joy. There are also people who love to listen what is being read or preached. Those who have the opportunity and ability to share the Word of God to others, let them just do this. The important thing for us is we must avoid not doing anything about the holy scripture in our daily lives. Let's pray. In the name of the Father ... O Lord Jesus, make us diligent in listening and practicing your word, that Your Kingdom may rule always us. Hail Mary full of grace ... In name of the Father ...

Delivered by Father Peter Tukan, SDB from Salesian Don Bosco Gerak in the Diocese of Labuan Bajo, Indonesia. 1 John 4: 11-18; Rs psalm 72: 1-2.10-11.12-13; Markus 6: 45-52 SEEING GOD   The theme for our meditation today is: Seeing God. For people who had lived in the same time of the Lord Jesus, seeing God or seeing Jesus Himself should had been a reality. Meanwhile, the period after Jesus rose from the dead and ascended to heaven, the vision of God no longer happened with the eyes of the body, but with spiritual eyes and with faith. Against this very striking difference, Jesus had taught us to empower our eyes of faith and our spirituality, so that when anybody happened to encounter or to see the Lord, he or she did not use the eyes of the body but the eyes of heart and mind.   One of the ways to see God not with bodily eyes was like a child who wanted to see God but could not do anything by himself. He asked his mother, "Mamma, what is God like?" His mother was a little confused to answer him. She thought for a moment, then she found the answer. She brought the child closer and hugged him tightly with affection. Then she said to her son: "The God you want to see is like that." The child understood quickly what he inquired for. He was aware of his faith that the God whom he believed in should be the One with all goodness and compassion, and he experienced all through his parents.   What the mother and her son had demonstrated to us was a very concrete meaning of God, which according to Saint John's first Letter as the first reading today, God is love. Deus caritas est. The scriptures teach about this, as do the teachings of the Fathers of the Church and so on other teachings in the Church. The ten commandments of God speak only one law, namely love, which is manifested by every believer to God and neighbours. Furthermore, Saint John explained that we do not need to worry or too anxious to seek God, even through the various sacrifices that we might have made.   The way we see God, according to that one of the 12 apostles, is by doing love. In an act of love, for example, in listening to and understanding the person who is speaking, what he or she must feel is a beneficial presence. Those who talk and listen enjoy the benefits of each other. They care for each other and are in no way a threat or a bully to others.   Jesus who appeared to be walking on the water and was present in the midst of his apostles was a source of comfort, calm, and peace. In fact, He guaranteed that His followers had no fear in themselves. Our acts of love should bring benefits, feeling goodness, and helping experiences that make others grow. Let's pray. In the name of the Father ... O God, fill ourselves with strong faith, so that we may be able to carry out Your will at all times. Glory to the Father ... In the name of the Father ...

Delivered by Father Peter Tukan, SDB from Salesian Don Bosco Gerak in the Diocese of Labuan Bajo, Indonesia. 1 John 4: 7-10; Rs psalm 72: 1-2.3-4b.7-8; Mark 6: 34-44 YOU MUST FEED THEM   Our meditation today has the theme: You Must Feed Them. In the prayer “Our Father”, its second part refers to a request, beginning with a need that God is to provide food for human life at this time, which is now or today. The time now or today is a reality, a life that is happening. So, the daily bread should be a very concrete need. If humans do not have this, life will be in great danger of starvation and death. Before asking for other needs to be attended, we should ask that our stomach and body be given strength and energy by consuming food and drink. God provides everything.   There was a grade 1 elementary school boy who was praying the “Our Father” and in the part of “give us this day our daily bread”, he replaced it with “Give my father a lot of money”. Then he went to his father and told him about his prayer, that God would give his father a lot of money. In the evening when the father came home from work, the boy received a gift from his father which was a toy car, something that he had asked for several times. His father got a bonus from a job that brought big profits for the company. From that benefit, he bought a gift for his son.   The Lord Jesus teaches His own prayer to us, which meant that our access to the Father would be direct, in order to get what we ask for. To the thousands of people who were hungry in the wilderness, Jesus wanted them to have direct access to the food they mostly needed. A direct intervention to overcome an actual problem that is happening is an action desired by God, and we are commanded to do it.   God is very wise in putting others around us: our own family members, friends, acquaintances, friends and fellow human beings even more and more who are listed in social media relationship. Networking through the media makes us all equal in times and places that are easily accessible. In this context, Jesus' command is very valid today: "You must feed them". This will strengthen the faith and moral awareness of everyone to act directly to provide food for those who are in need.   Media as an important instrument for the occurrence of interaction between humans, should hold the principle that their role is to be the hand of God. God is love, as proclaimed by the First Letter of John, is the light that guides the work carried out by the media, especially in providing direct access to the food that people of today really need. Let's pray. In the name of the Father ... O Lord, make us channels of your love for the needy ones, especially those who are hungry for the food for their survival. Glory to the Father ... In the name of the Father...

The Epiphany is a story about the Magi's search for Christ, but on a deeper level, it's about man's search for meaning. 

Delivered by Father Peter Tukan, SDB from Salesian Don Bosco Gerak in the Diocese of Labuan Bajo, Indonesia. 1 John 3: 22 - 4: 6; Rs psalm 2: 7-8.10-11; Matthew 4: 12-17.23-25 TWO THUMBS UP FOR JESUS   Our meditation today has the theme: Two Thumbs Up for Jesus. There was an old couple, a grandfather and a grandmother, shopping at a clothing store. They bought two uniform t-shirts for each. The two t-shirts are black and the front has two white thumbs on it with the basic image of the face of the Lord Jesus. At the New Year party with their extended family, they both wore the new t-shirts together.   Everyone, especially the grandchildren, were very happy with the grandparents' style. One by one went and asked why grandparents were wearing the t-shirts uniform. Grandpa explained that at any moment in life, and especially the beginning of the new year, we should continue to give two thumbs up for the Lord Jesus. The giving of the thumbs up should be made together, not just for sometimes, but continuously. We have to overcome any form of falsehood that wants to lead us astray from our faith in the Lord Jesus.   Everyone in the family could feel the sound wisdom from this explanation and advice from the grandpa. If there are false prophets who usually come and sometimes later already gone, there is always discussion about it, and we can categorize it as a kind distraction which we can accept or not. In this world there are so many deceptions and evil influences that never stop bothering us. However, God also never sleeps. He always watches over and accompanies us with His Holy Spirit.   In other words, according to Saint John's First Letter in today's first reading, every truth that we embrace and live by in our lives as believers, comes from God. The truth that comes from God is absolute and irreversible. Jesus Christ was born more than 2000 years ago, and there cannot be another Jesus Christ. Everyone who then came after Jesus could not replace Jesus as the Lord and the Messiah. The last prophet was John the Baptist and after him was Jesus Christ.   Jesus Christ as Lord and the One who made history of this world is undeniable. The history of the universe and this world is divided into two main periods, namely before and after Jesus Christ. Based on this truth, we will come again and again to the word of God that is proclaimed in the Gospel today, namely the Kingdom of God is with us, as the essence of our life.   The testimony of John the Baptist about Jesus Christ, that Jesus is Lord and the Son of God is our fundamental truth. From Him comes all the truths that the world follows and everyone believes in. Even though this world will always bring forth new discoveries and developments, they will always be connected with the truth of the Lord Jesus Christ. Let's pray. In the name of the Father ... O Lord Jesus, make us Your people who are faithful and steadfast in the truth from You. Glory to the Father ... In the name  of the Father ...

Word & Sermon Weekly – The Epiphany of Our Lord – January 5, 2025 Isaiah 60:1–6 Ephesians 3:1–12 Matthew 2:1–12 Learn more about Zion Lutheran Church and the Christian faith, by subscribing to this podcast, and joining us next Sunday by visiting www.zionhiawatha.org

Delivered by the Vocationist Sisters and Father Peter Tukan, SDB from the Diocese of Labuan Bajo, Indonesia. Isaiah 60 1-6; Rs psalm 72: 1-2.7-8.10-11.12-13; Ephesians 3: 2-3a.5-6; Matthew 2: 1-12 GOD'S LIGHT RISES OVER US   Our meditation on this Sunday the Epiphany of the Lord has the theme: God's Light Rises Over Us. The happening more than 2000 years ago regarding the visit of three wise men from the East to the baby Jesus in Bethlehem, who was lying in a manger, signifies the appearance or the revelation of the Lord Jesus Christ to the world. First of all, this means Jesus came and appeared as a king. A king, especially the one to be a messenger from God, is highly respected and worshiped by all those who have faith in God.   This king could not be compared to any other king in the world, who obtained that power either through inheritance or by winning wars against the enemy. The dignity of the King of Christ came from Heaven so that his position was neutral and above all kings or rulers of the world. Therefore, He is most properly called the King of Heaven, who is the Sun to the world, so that He is the light to all of us.   The events of Christmas, both the first and the one to be commemorated every year, highlight the light that rises on all of us. Everyone from all corners of the world can see it, for He is like the Sun to the entire universe. He is the light that shines throughout the ages, reaches every corner of the earth, and reigns over every human person. Every human being whose heart is open to God's power and grace, gets such a strong attraction that they come to meet and worship Him.   Meanwhile, those who have their eyes closed, who only understand it as a threat to their stability, comfort, and power in the world, will face the king Jesus Christ as an enemy to be removed. Herod represents worldly sovereignty and stability in the currents against the Kingdom of Jesus Christ. This brings us to the meaning of the second appearance of God, which is an appearance of differentiation. The brand or label for Jesus Christ is humble enough to remain as the Lamb of God who serves, even to the point of sacrificing Himself.   This differentiation reveals the Lord Jesus' preference for service. He is very different from all the rulers or kings in the world who are power-oriented, accumulate power and wealth, and must be served. They all die following the age and time on this earth. The Three Wise Men gave the baby Jesus their special offerings, this is an inspiration to each of us. If we want to do the same, we should dedicate ourselves completely and sincerely. We want to be in His kingdom, now and forever. We enjoy and care for His kingdom together. Let's pray. In the name of... O Jesus Christ, make us Your true and responsible witnesses. Our Father... In the name of the Father...

Join Profs. Matt Skinner, Karoline Lewis, and Rolf Jacobson as they explore the Baptism of Our Lord through the Gospel of Luke.  Tune in as they delve into the Holy Spirit's role, connections to Isaiah 43, and the inclusion of Samaritans in Acts 8. This engaging discussion highlights baptism's transformative power, the significance of identity, and the enduring impact of God's voice. Resources Mentioned: Terry Fretheim's Enter the Bible video on Isaiah 43: https://enterthebible.org/video/god-says-i-love-you-isaiah-43. Follow along with the commentaries for the Baptism of Our Lord at https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/revised-common-lectionary/baptism-of-our-lord-3/commentary-on-luke-315-17-21-22-6. Bautismo de Nuestro Señor: https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/revised-common-lectionary/baptism-of-our-lord-3/comentario-del-san-lucas-315-17-21-22-5. *  *  *   Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share to stay connected with more insightful lectionary discussions! Watch this episode on YouTube at https://youtu.be/EQCaz0rEkF8.

First Sunday after the Epiphany - The Baptism of our Lord January 7, 2024 It Begins with Baptism Sermon based on Mark 1:4-11 https://stpeterchurchmodesto.org

January 14 Prelude and Opening Music PRELUDE “Come Thou, Almighty King” LIGHTING OF THE ALTAR CANDLES *OPENING MUSIC “Trust and Obey” #467 HYMN “Here I Am, Lord” January 14, 2024 Worship Service Groveport UMC, Groveport Ohio Rick Birk, Pastor

Matthew 2:1-12 When Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, in the days of King Herod, behold, magi from the east arrived in Jerusalem, saying, “Where is the newborn king of the Jews? We saw his star at its rising and have come to do him homage.” When King Herod heard this, he was greatly troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. Assembling all the chief priests and the scribes of the people, He inquired of them where the Christ was to be born. They said to him, “In Bethlehem of Judea, for thus it has been written through the prophet: And you, Bethlehem, land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; since from you shall come a ruler, who is to shepherd my people Israel.” Then Herod called the magi secretly and ascertained from them the time of the star's appearance. He sent them to Bethlehem and said, “Go and search diligently for the child. When you have found him, bring me word, that I too may go and do him homage.” After their audience with the king they set out. And behold, the star that they had seen at its rising preceded them, until it came and stopped over the place where the child was. They were overjoyed at seeing the star, and on entering the house they saw the child with Mary his mother. They prostrated themselves and did him homage. Then they opened their treasures and offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. And having been warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they departed for their country by another way.

Matthew 2:1-12 When Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, in the days of King Herod, behold, magi from the east arrived in Jerusalem, saying, “Where is the newborn king of the Jews? We saw his star at its rising and have come to do him homage.” When King Herod heard this, he was greatly troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. Assembling all the chief priests and the scribes of the people, He inquired of them where the Christ was to be born. They said to him, “In Bethlehem of Judea, for thus it has been written through the prophet: And you, Bethlehem, land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; since from you shall come a ruler, who is to shepherd my people Israel.” Then Herod called the magi secretly and ascertained from them the time of the star's appearance. He sent them to Bethlehem and said, “Go and search diligently for the child. When you have found him, bring me word, that I too may go and do him homage.” After their audience with the king they set out. And behold, the star that they had seen at its rising preceded them, until it came and stopped over the place where the child was. They were overjoyed at seeing the star, and on entering the house they saw the child with Mary his mother. They prostrated themselves and did him homage. Then they opened their treasures and offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. And having been warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they departed for their country by another way.

Matthew 2:1-12 When Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, in the days of King Herod, behold, magi from the east arrived in Jerusalem, saying, “Where is the newborn king of the Jews? We saw his star at its rising and have come to do him homage.” When King Herod heard this, he was greatly troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. Assembling all the chief priests and the scribes of the people, He inquired of them where the Christ was to be born. They said to him, “In Bethlehem of Judea, for thus it has been written through the prophet: And you, Bethlehem, land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; since from you shall come a ruler, who is to shepherd my people Israel.” Then Herod called the magi secretly and ascertained from them the time of the star's appearance. He sent them to Bethlehem and said, “Go and search diligently for the child. When you have found him, bring me word, that I too may go and do him homage.” After their audience with the king they set out. And behold, the star that they had seen at its rising preceded them, until it came and stopped over the place where the child was. They were overjoyed at seeing the star, and on entering the house they saw the child with Mary his mother. They prostrated themselves and did him homage. Then they opened their treasures and offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. And having been warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they departed for their country by another way.

Matthew 2:1-12 When Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, in the days of King Herod, behold, magi from the east arrived in Jerusalem, saying, “Where is the newborn king of the Jews? We saw his star at its rising and have come to do him homage.” When King Herod heard this, he was greatly troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. Assembling all the chief priests and the scribes of the people, He inquired of them where the Christ was to be born. They said to him, “In Bethlehem of Judea, for thus it has been written through the prophet: And you, Bethlehem, land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; since from you shall come a ruler, who is to shepherd my people Israel.” Then Herod called the magi secretly and ascertained from them the time of the star's appearance. He sent them to Bethlehem and said, “Go and search diligently for the child. When you have found him, bring me word, that I too may go and do him homage.” After their audience with the king they set out. And behold, the star that they had seen at its rising preceded them, until it came and stopped over the place where the child was. They were overjoyed at seeing the star, and on entering the house they saw the child with Mary his mother. They prostrated themselves and did him homage. Then they opened their treasures and offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. And having been warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they departed for their country by another way.

Homily for the Epiphany of the Lord - January 7, 2024

Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, and God's revelation to humanity. 

Join us in praying with the Weekly Prayer for the week of the Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord, January 7th, 2024.  Lector: Katie Wong.

Thank you for listening to this worship service from Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Dublin, Ohio! For more information about Prince of Peace, please visit our website at princeofpeacedublin.org.Connect with us on facebook and instagram.Email us at office@princeofpeacedublin.org.

The Magi made many Sacrifices to bring gifts to the King of the JewsPlease use the following link if you would like to financially support Church of the Holy Family:https://pushpay.com/g/hfgrandblanc?sr...

Homily given at St. Thomas à Becket on the Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord (January 7, 2023). --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/fr-rich-dyer/message

Welcome to the Word at St Francis, a welcoming and inclusive parish community coming to you from E 96th St in New York City. The Gospel is Mt 2:1-12: When Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, in the days of King Herod,  behold, magi from the east arrived in Jerusalem, saying,  “Where is the newborn king of the Jews? We saw his star at its rising and have come to do him homage.” When King Herod heard this, he was greatly troubled,  and all Jerusalem with him. Assembling all the chief priests and the scribes of the people,  He inquired of them where the Christ was to be born. They said to him, “In Bethlehem of Judea,  for thus it has been written through the prophet: And you, Bethlehem, land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; since from you shall come a ruler, who is to shepherd my people Israel.” Then Herod called the magi secretly  and ascertained from them the time of the star's appearance. He sent them to Bethlehem and said,  “Go and search diligently for the child. When you have found him, bring me word,  that I too may go and do him homage.” After their audience with the king they set out. And behold, the star that they had seen at its rising preceded them,  until it came and stopped over the place where the child was. They were overjoyed at seeing the star,  and on entering the house they saw the child with Mary his mother. They prostrated themselves and did him homage. Then they opened their treasures  and offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. And having been warned in a dream not to return to Herod,  they departed for their country by another way.  

Scriptures: Isaiah 42:1–9; Psalm 89:20–29; Acts 10:34–38; Mark 1:7–11 | By: Kevin Whitfield | Topic: Beloved, Receive Jesus' Life as Your Own Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This sermon is drawn from Mark 1:4-11.

Father Tom Wilson joined Patrick to discuss Jesus' Baptism. Topics included: the Baptism of the Lord in the Gospels (4:55), Baptism as a foundational moment (11:19), caller: my daughter won't baptize her children (21:56), Jesus as priest, prophet, and king (26:12), caller: recognizing Jesus as Messiah (31:22), knowing the date of our Baptism (37:48), connection between Baptism and confession (47:23). 

This week on Unpacking the Mass, we look at the readings for the Epiphany of the Lord. In this episode, we will explore ideas such as: Seeking God for God. Following when you can't see the end. Being a "star" to guide others to Jesus. The readings can be found here:  https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/010724.cfm To support the channel and Keith's ministry:  https://www.patreon.com/keithnester For more info about Keith, visit: https://down2earthministry.org/

Join Profs. Karoline Lewis, Joy J. Moore, and Matt Skinner for a conversation on the Revised Common Lectionary texts for Baptism of Our Lord on January 7, 2024. If you'd like to read the commentaries for Baptism of Our Lord, go to https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/revised-common-lectionary/baptism-of-our-lord-2/commentary-on-mark-14-11-5 First Reading | Genesis 1:1-5 Psalm | Psalm 29 Second Reading | Acts 19:1-7 Gospel | Mark 1:4-11 This episode was aired on Thursday, December 21, 2023  #workingpreacher #lutherseminary #faithlead #revisedcommonlectionary #joyjmoore #matthewskinner #karolinelewis #sermonbrainwave #podcast #baptism #yearb Watch the video version on YouTube at https://youtu.be/SXwZx2IZwvw