Priests in Zoroastrianism
POPULARITY
Categories
The Magi traveled far because they believed a true King had been bornand Matthew invites us to see their long journey as an act of worship.
Moms — we made it!! We're celebrating 200 episodes of the Gather Moms podcast AND kicking off Christmas together! Whether you've been with us since those early COVID-era episodes or you just found us last week, we are so grateful you’re here. In this milestone episode, we're unwrapping favorite gifts, Christmas hilarity, biblical truths, and some deeply meaningful encouragement for the season. Big Takeaways 1. Good mom ≠ big Christmas Stop carrying the weight of magical expectations. A meaningful Christmas isn't built on stuff — it's built on values, presence, and generosity. 2. Start with values, not expectations Decide what matters most: togetherness, service, slowing down, telling the story of Jesus — then shape December around that. 3. Generosity beats guilt every time Don't aim for “perfect.” Aim for generous: time, kindness, prayers, small acts, and loving others with your kids. 4. The Magi point us to Jesus in a deeper way Their extravagant gifts weren't random — they reflected worship, prophecy, priesthood, and God's perfect provision. Even at Jesus' birth, God was caring for Mary in the sweetest ways. 5. Small rhythms make a big impact A weekly Advent reading, a service project, handmade cards, or simply talking about Jesus — simple is beautiful. Links & Mentions Ruffle socks (Rebecca's current obsession) Shark hair dryer Vuori joggers Favorite diffusers Advent devotionals & Gather Moms Patreon studies Giveaway Alert! To celebrate 200 EPISODES, we're giving away “Pick Your Present” gifts from our favorite-things list! (No ruffle socks for Kate… but maybe for YOU!) Follow along on Gather Moms social media to win! Gather Moms: Instagram | Twitter | Facebook Kate Henderson: Instagram | Facebook Rebecca Bradford: Instagram | Facebook
Send us a textIn this episode of the Called By God podcast, hosts Brother Nic and Sister Tylaria Curry delve into the early life of Jesus Christ, exploring the prophecies surrounding his birth, the significance of the virgin birth, and the visit of the Magi. They discuss the divine warnings given to Joseph and Mary, the importance of obedience to God's guidance, and the spiritual growth that can occur during childhood. The conversation also touches on the importance of teaching children about God and the reflections on their own experiences growing up. Support the showSocial Media/Follow Us: Website:https://www.calledbygodpodcast.com/IG: https://www.instagram.com/cbg.podcast/Twitter: https://twitter.com/CalledbyGodPodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@calledbygodpodcast
Christmas proves how Jesus is Messiah — a King, and Promise-Fulfiller — for all the nations, not just Israel.
1. Bethlehem: The Little Town with a Big Assignment Micah 5:2: “But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are SMALL among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel.” (NIV) 2. The Manger: A Small Place for a Big Savior Luke 2:7 and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a MANGER, because there was no guest room available for them. (NIV) 3. The Clothes: A Little Garment for a Loving God Luke 2:7 and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in CLOTHES and placed him in a manager, because there was no guest room available for them. (NIV) 4. The Shepherds: Ordinary People with an Extraordinary Message Luke 2:8-10 “And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.’” (NIV) 5. The Little Star: The Tiny Light Led to a Tremendous Moment Matthew 2:1–2 “After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem 2 and asked, ‘Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his STAR when it rose and have come to worship him.’” (NIV) 6. The Magi: A Minor Part with a Major Impact Matthew 2:9-10 After they had heard the king, they went on their way, and the star they had seen when it rose went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was. 10 When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. (NIV) 7. The Gifts: The Giving That Saved Lives Matthew 2:11 On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. (NIV) 1. The Little Blessing of SALVATION Hebrews 2:1–3 We must pay the most careful attention, therefore, to what we have heard, so that we do not drift away. 2 For since the message spoken through angels was binding, and every violation and disobedience received its just punishment, 3 how shall we escape if we IF WE IGNORE SO GREAT A SALVATION? This salvation, which was first announced by the Lord, was confirmed to us by those who heard him. (NIV) 2. The Little Blessing of LIFE Psalm 91:16 With long life I will satisfy him and show him my salvation.” (NIV) Psalm 150:6 Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord. (NIV) 3. The Little Blessing of HEALTH Psalm 103:2–3 Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all his benefits— 3 who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases, (NIV) 4. The Little Blessing of RELATIONSHIPS Ephesians 1:16 I do not cease to give thanks for YOU, remembering you in my prayers, (ESV) 1 Corinthians 1:4 I give thanks to my God always for YOU because of the grace of God that was given you in Christ Jesus (ESV) Philippians 1:3 I thank my God in all my remembrance of YOU (ESV) 1 Thessalonians 1:2 We give thanks to God always for all of YOU, constantly mentioning you in our prayers (ESV) 5. The Little Blessing of PROVISION Psalm 34:10 The lions may grow weak and hungry, but those who seek the Lord lack no good thing. (NIV) Psalm 37:25 I was young and now I am old, yet I have never seen the RIGHTEOUS FORSAKEN or their children begging bread. (NIV) 2 Corinthians 9:10-11 Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. 11 You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God. (NIV)
In this Advent message, Pastor Gabe unpacks the faith-filled journey of the Magi to Bethlehem in Matthew 2. We learn four marks of faith that help us trust God in the little, follow Him in the unknown, endure the distance, and offer Him our very best.
On a recent trip to the United Kingdom, host Tosha Williams encountered velvet ropes at the crown jewels, barricades in palaces, and secret service agents keeping the royalty removed from civilian reality. These real encounters with earthly monarchy frame a deeper truth: Jesus is the kind of King who draws seekers near. From the Tower of London to Windsor and an unexpected brush with the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, the contrast sets the stage for the Magi's journey and a fresh look at what it means to seek and find. For the truth is, in Jesus, we discover a King who removes the distance. We unpack who the Magi were and why they took the star seriously, and we also consider how Jeremiah 29:13 becomes a lived promise for anyone willing to move from curiosity to commitment. Along the way, we highlight a striking detail from Matthew's Gospel: Gentile outsiders become the first recorded worshipers of Jesus, signaling a kingdom where access isn't gated by status. This is not a museum of faith where you watch from behind glass. It's an open invitation from a King who welcomes the far-off first.From there we get practical. We walk through a Seek Him Speak Him rhythm with simple questions that turn Scripture into conversation and courage into action. You'll hear how to share what you're seeing with your kids, a friend, or someone who feels far from God, and why telling your story matters more than polished words. We also share our “Wise Man Hunt,” a joyful tradition that turns your space into a map of pursuit and discovery - - - perfect for families, small groups, or anyone who wants a tactile reminder that the path to Jesus is open and the welcome is warm.If you're hungry for a faith that closes the gap between longing and presence, this conversation will help you take the next step. Subscribe, share this with someone who needs hope, and leave a review to help others find a King who says, “Come closer.”The devotion-driven discipleship guide that goes along with this episode can be found HERE.______________________The Family Disciple Me ministry exists to catalyze devotion driven discipleship in our homes and around the world. We believe that discipleship starts with a conversation, and FDM provides free, easily-accessible, biblical resources to encourage these meaningful conversations along life's way. Sign up through our website to be "the first to know" about upcoming releases and resources (including the FDM App - coming soon!!!) You can also follow Family Disciple Me on social media. Family Disciple Me is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit ministry, and all donations are tax deductible. More information, blogs, statement of faith and contact info can be found at familydiscipleme.org
Long before Christmas lists, shopping carts, and wrapping paper, there were gifts given for one reason alone: worship. Sophia Bricker opens this devotional with the story of Saint Nicholas—a man whose quiet, selfless generosity became the seed of a much later legend. His life reflects the heart of someone whose giving flowed out of devotion to Christ, not cultural expectation. But even before Nicholas, Scripture gives us another unforgettable picture of joyful generosity: the wise men. The Magi traveled far, guided by a star and propelled by hope. When they finally reached the child Jesus, they didn’t debate whether the gifts were too costly or wonder if He “needed” them. They simply bowed in awe and opened their treasures. Their gifts were symbolic—and sincere: Gold for His kingship. Frankincense for His priesthood. Myrrh for His sacrificial death. But more than symbolism, their offering revealed their hearts. They gave because they loved. They gave because they believed. They gave because worship compelled them. Jesus later taught, “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:21).Our spending, our giving, our serving—they all reveal what we value most. For the follower of Christ, generosity is not an obligation. It is an overflow. Like Saint Nicholas, we feel convicted when our resources center on ourselves. Like the wise men, we long to lay what we have at Jesus’ feet. Like those early givers, our generosity flows from beholding the Savior for who He truly is. And the way generosity looks will be unique for each of us. Not everyone gives gold or frankincense. Not everyone tosses gifts through windows. But every believer has something to offer—time, talent, resources, compassion, presence, or encouragement. Generosity begins with worship.Worship leads to open hands.Open hands lead to lives that honor Christ. Bible Reading:“When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.” – Matthew 2:10–11 (NIV) Takeaway Truths The wise men’s gifts were rooted in joyful worship, not duty. Generosity reveals what we treasure most. Followers of Christ give from abundance, not scarcity. True generosity begins with beholding Jesus. Let’s Pray Great Savior, I stand in awe of Your majesty and grace. How incredible it is that You, the King of all creation, entered this world as a humble child and chose to identify Yourself with us. The wise men saw what so many missed—Your worth, Your glory, and Your identity as the promised Messiah. They bowed in worship and gave freely, not from pressure, but from overflowing joy. Lord, develop in me this same heart of generosity. Help me to use my time, my resources, and my gifts to honor You. Guide my giving so that it reflects trust, gratitude, and devotion. Everything I have is from You. Make me courageous and joyful in sharing my life with others, so that my generosity points back to You, the Giver of salvation and life. Amen. Scriptures for Further Reflection Matthew 6:21 2 Corinthians 9:7 Proverbs 11:25 John 10:10 Additional Encouragement How to cultivate a generous heart – Crosswalk.com Devotionals for Christmas worship – Christianity.com Listen to more daily audio prayers at LifeAudio.com Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Listener Q&A where Andy talks about: A correction on something incorrect I said last week regarding deciding which spouse's pre-tax account to distribute or convert from ( 3:28 )Pros and cons of using a single total global stock market fund vs multiple other funds such as just US and just international ( 8:17 )What's in the calculation for Modified Adjusted Gross Income ("MAGI") for purposes of determining eligibility to contribute to a Roth IRA ( 14:49 )Deciding when to start a Roth account, and whether it should be a Roth IRA or Roth 401(K) (if you have the option), and whether it should be funded via conversion or contribution ( 20:40 )What to consider when deciding on which pension payment type of choose ( 27:52 )Should IRA distributions instead be converted to Roth if you don't need to use the money any time soon ( 35:50 )What to consider when retiring late (e.g. late-60s or 70s) ( 42:02 )Explaining certain "fees" on trade confirmations, such as when buying coupon-paying bonds or stocks/ETFs ( 47:21 )Why just looking at unrealized gains or losses on a position in a dividend or distribution paying security don't tell the whole story with regards to how much money you've actually made or lost in the position ( 53:45 )To send Andy questions to be addressed on future Q&A episodes, email andy@andypanko.comLinks in this episode:My company newsletter - Retirement Planning InsightsFacebook group - Retirement Planning Education (formerly Taxes in Retirement)YouTube channel - Retirement Planning Education (formerly Retirement Planning Demystified)Retirement Planning Education website - www.RetirementPlanningEducation.com
Welcome to the Typical Skeptic Podcast. Tonight's episode is for educational, historical, and spiritual discussion only. We're going to explore symbolism, ancient traditions, mythological references, and esoteric perspectives. Nothing in this show is medical advice, nor are we promoting the use or ingestion of any substances. Always follow local laws and consult a licensed professional for health-related matters. This is a conversation meant for open-minded exploration and consciousness studies. Viewer discretion and discernment are advised.
Well, we kicked off our Advent Against Empire series with Diana Butler Bass diving deep into Matthew's birth narrative, and wow—it did not disappoint. Diana brought her three signature lenses (anti-imperialism, non-violence, and eco-wholeness) to the most Jewish of all the gospels, and things got delightfully nerdy. We explored how Matthew's genealogy isn't just a boring list of "begats"—it's a subversive royal document packed with scandalous women and outsiders that announces Jesus as the true king in direct confrontation with Rome and Herod. Diana walked us through a brilliant two-act structure: Act One is all about the birth of Wisdom and Joseph (a dreamer who winds up in Egypt—sound familiar?) receiving divine announcements. Act Two gives us the Apocalyptic clash between the World as it is and the World to come, with the Magi's cosmic rebellion against Herod, the horrific violence that follows when the empire doesn't get its way, and the holy family's return. We also geeked out on Jesus as the embodiment of Sophia—Wisdom incarnate—and how Matthew's five-discourse structure mirrors the Torah itself. If you've always thought of Matthew as the "Christmas pageant gospel," prepare to have your assumptions lovingly dismantled. Want to go deeper? Join Diana and me for our full four-week Advent journey, The Beginning of Another World: Advent Against Empire. Each week we're letting a different gospel speak its revolutionary word—no harmonizing, no smoothing over the rough edges. The class is fully asynchronous so that you can participate on your own schedule or join us live for our recordings. Sign up HERE and contribute whatever you can (including 0). Come get nerdy with us! You can WATCH the conversation on YouTube here Diana Butler Bass, Ph.D., is an award-winning author, popular speaker, inspiring preacher, and one of America's most trusted commentators on religion and contemporary spirituality. Previous Episodes with Diana & Tripp How the Lectionary Kept Me Christian: Diana Butler Bass on Practicing the Year Two Books, One Night: Finding Beauty in What We Can't Control Religious Liberty & Violence – Unpacking the First 100 Days of Trump 2.0 The Interlocking Crises of Religion & Democracy Faith in a Toxic Public Square The Resurrection of Jesus 2024: The Sequel The Christology Ladder ONLINE ADVENT CLASS w/ Diana Butler Bass Join us for a transformative four-week Advent journey exploring how the four gospels speak their own revolutionary word against empire—both in their ancient context under Roman occupation and for our contemporary world shaped by capitalism, militarism, and nationalism. This course invites you into an alternative calendar and rhythm. We'll discover how these ancient texts of resistance offer wisdom for our own moment of political turmoil, economic inequality, and ecological crisis. This class is donation-based, including 0. You can sign-up at www.HomebrewedClasses.com This podcast is a Homebrewed Christianity production. Follow the Homebrewed Christianity, Theology Nerd Throwdown, & The Rise of Bonhoeffer podcasts for more theological goodness for your earbuds. Join over 75,000 other people by joining our Substack - Process This! Get instant access to over 50 classes at www.TheologyClass.com Follow the podcast, drop a review, send feedback/questions or become a member of the HBC Community. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Week 1 Day 6 Gifts from the Magi
Free Advent Guide: Are you looking to deepen your prayer life this season? Download our free guide to Carmelite spirituality to help you navigate Advent with purpose: https://midnightcarmelite.com/reset Is silence just empty space, or is it something more? In our modern world, we often view silence as a vacuum—an absence of noise. But true spiritual silence is actually a form of active receptivity. Just as you must be silent to truly hear a friend or imagine a story while reading, you must cultivate interior silence to perceive the reality of God. In the hustle of the holiday season, it is easy to miss the Incarnation if we are not prepared to listen. In this week's episode of Midnight Carmelite, we explore how to prepare for the feast of the Incarnation. We look to the Nativity story—where Christ was born into a silence—as our guide. We also discuss the practical tool of mortification. Far from being a negative practice, we frame mortification as the "shovel" used to clear the stable of our hearts, while our good deeds become the straw that cushions the manger for the Christ Child. In this episode, you will learn: The definition of Active Receptivity: Why silence is not a void, but a necessary state of listening for God's disclosure.Lessons from the Nativity: How the humility of the shepherds and Magi allowed them to notice what the rest of the world missed.The "Shovel" and the "Straw": A practical metaphor for using mortification to remove worldly attachments and good deeds to welcome the Lord.Practical Advent Steps: How to replace distractions (like excessive shopping) with ten minutes of Scripture and silence.
We're popping a Curiously Kaitlyn episode into your feed this week because we're starting a brand-new Advent series, and—let's be honest—the nativity story gets weird. Kids notice all the odd details we learned to ignore, and suddenly you're fielding questions you did not prepare for in Sunday School.So instead of scrambling for answers all by yourself, you can join us all month as we explore the questions your kids (and most adults!) are genuinely curious about. First up: Who exactly are the wise men, and why do they show up in the nativity scene at all? If you enjoy the conversation, make sure you're subscribed to Curiously Kaitlyn wherever you get your podcasts. We've got a whole month of Christmas episodes coming your way. 0:00 - Theme Song 2:05 - What's Up With the Star? 9:00 - How Many Wise Men? 12:50 - Sponsor - Blueland - For 15% off first order of Blueland cleaning products, go to this link: https://www.blueland.com/CURIOUSLY 14:03 - Sponsor - Aura Frames - Need a holiday gift to share memories? Get 35% off the Aura Carver Mat Frame with promo code KAITLYN at https://www.auraframes.com 15:04 - Sponsor - Hiya Health - Go to https://www.hiyahealth.com/CURIOUSLY to receive 50% off your first order 17:00 - Why's this in the Bible? 27:00 - Balaam and the Magi 37:37 - End Credits
We all know the wise men from our nativity sets, but what's actually going on in this story? Who were the wise men, and why did Matthew include them in his accounting of the birth of Christ? This well-known but undeniably odd part of the nativity story is loaded with meaning that can reorient how we enter Advent. Kaitlyn and Producer Mike follow kids' simple questions about stars, gifts, and travel timelines into the deeper layers of Matthew's Gospel, where foreign astrologers, of all people, become some of the first to recognize Jesus as king. 0:00 - Theme Song 2:05 - What's Up With the Star? 9:00 - How Many Wise Men? 12:50 - Sponsor - Blueland - For 15% off first order of Blueland cleaning products, go to this link: https://www.blueland.com/CURIOUSLY 14:03 - Sponsor - Aura Frames - Need a holiday gift to share memories? Get 35% off the Aura Carver Mat Frame with promo code KAITLYN at https://www.auraframes.com 15:04 - Sponsor - Hiya Health - Go to https://www.hiyahealth.com/CURIOUSLY to receive 50% off your first order 17:00 - Why's this in the Bible? 27:00 - Balaam and the Magi 37:37 - End Credits
In this episode, Rob and Magi dive into batch operations and the unique complexities they pose when compared to continuous processes. They discuss following guidelines from the book Guidelines for Process Safety in Batch Reaction Systems, written in 1999, and other safeguards that can be added when dealing with batch processes. Tune in to find out more!Interested in learning more about Batch Systems? Order Guidelines for Process Safety in Batch Reaction Systems here!
Healthcare planning is a huge part of getting ready for your retirement. In this episode, I tackle one of the most pressing updates for retirees: the latest changes to Medicare premiums for 2026, including important surcharges, deductibles, and strategies to help you manage your healthcare expenses. I'm helping you understand the significant increases in Medicare Part B premiums and deductibles, the impact these changes will have on your Social Security benefits, and why waiting to claim Social Security might pay off. Listen in to get helpful strategies for appealing IRMAA surcharges and practical tips for structuring your income to minimize additional Medicare costs. If you're planning for retirement or already navigating Medicare, this episode is packed with timely advice to help you make informed decisions about your healthcare and finances. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... [00:00] 2026 Medicare vs. Social Security. [02:23] Part B Medicare surprise announced. [04:08] Social Security timing and medicare basics. [10:07] Appealing the Medicare IRMAA surcharge. [12:13] Avoid IRMAA by keeping an eye on your retirement income. [14:08] Key Medicare changes for 2026. Medicare Part B Premiums Are Increasing in 2026 The standard monthly premium will jump to $202.90 per individual, a striking 9.7% rise from the 2025 rate of $185. This marks the largest increase since 2022, signaling that healthcare costs for retirees continue to climb at rates surpassing even Social Security's cost of living adjustment, which will be 2.8% for 2026. For retirees collecting Social Security, Part B premiums are automatically deducted from their benefits, while those not yet collecting must pay separately, typically on a quarterly basis. It's possible for individuals with lower Social Security benefits to see the entire annual cost-of-living increase consumed, and even exceeded, by higher Medicare premiums. Understanding Medicare's Two Parts: A and B It's important to understand Medicare's original coverage: Part A and Part B. Part A (Hospital Insurance): Most retirees won't pay a premium for Part A if they (or a spouse) have worked at least 10 years in the U.S. Those with fewer qualifying quarters face monthly premiums of either $311 or $565, depending on how long they've paid in. The Part A deductible will also rise to $1,736 in 2026. Part B (Medical Insurance): Covers preventive care, with the standard premium set at $202.90 and a deductible of $283 for 2026 (about a 10% increase from 2025). IRMAA: Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amounts & Surcharges Higher-income retirees may be subject to IRMAA, leading to additional surcharges on Part B premiums. This is determined by your modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) from two years prior (2024 for the 2026 premiums). The IRMAA threshold for single filers is $109,000 and $218,000 for joint filers, with surcharges starting at $284.10 per person and escalating through higher brackets, potentially doubling your premium if you cross certain income thresholds. Medicare will send IRMAA notifications, but an appeal process is available. If your income drops due to retirement or other qualifying life events, you can use SSA Form 44 to appeal unwanted surcharges. Reasons might include a work stoppage, divorce, loss of a pension, or the death of a spouse. Strategic Planning for Retirees How can retirees manage these costs and avoid sudden surcharge surprises? Ryan Morrissey provides practical guidance: Delay Social Security: Waiting until full retirement age or later can mean higher monthly benefits and greater long-term cost-of-living increases. Monitor Your Income: Large IRA withdrawals, significant capital gains, or property sales can raise your MAGI and push you into higher IRMAA brackets. Appeal When Justified: Act quickly if you're eligible for an IRMAA appeal, as processing can take time and surcharges last 12 months before adjusting. Retirees should work closely with financial advisors to manage income distributions and plan for healthcare expenses as part of their broader retirement strategy. With healthcare costs rising faster than Social Security increases, retirees must stay vigilant. Whether you're newly eligible for Medicare or well into your retirement journey, understanding these changes is super important. Resources Mentioned Retirement Readiness Review Subscribe to the Retire with Ryan YouTube Channel Download my entire book for FREE Medicare.gov Connect With Morrissey Wealth Management www.MorrisseyWealthManagement.com/contact Subscribe to Retire With Ryan
This week we explore how the first Christmas was fueled by a generosity that did not make sense. Jesus invites us into a way of giving that is quiet, joyful, and formed by awe, not pressure. We will look at the Magi, the words of Jesus in Matthew 6, and what happens when generosity becomes a way of life.
While our culture rushes to Christmas searching for joy, hope, and meaning, real joy is only found in Jesus. This weekend, Tyler continued our Great Joy series by focusing on spiritual curiosity. Drawing from Matthew 2:1–13, he used the Magi as a model for curious people and highlighted three lessons: → The Purpose of Curiosity → The Insufficiency of Curiosity → The Joy of Curiosity Spiritual curiosity is meant to guide us toward Jesus, not keep us wandering. Curiosity may get us close to truth, but only God's Word can lead us all the way–and true joy comes not from merely knowing about Jesus, but from worshiping Him. Tyler urged the spiritually curious to take a committed step of faith, specifically through baptism, and reminded us that worship is a God-given “medicine” proven to strengthen mental, emotional, and physical health. Whether you're a new, wandering, or longtime believer, come to Jesus, receive His joy, and worship freely.
Send us a textThe most wonderful time of the year is upon us! In the midst of decorations, presents and grocery shopping, we need to take some time to ponder the story of the first Christmas. On this edition of Finish Strong, we are joined by New York Times best-selling author and former award-winning investigative journalist for the Chicago Tribune, Mr. Lee Strobel. While working for the Tribune, Lee met a destitute family at Christmas time that transformed his life. He began a journey that led him from atheism to Christianity. And it all happened because of Christmas!Join us as we explore the evidence for the virgin birth of Jesus, the Old Testament prophecies fulfilled by His birth, and the most common questions about the Christmas story. After examining these topics more closely, you'll want to celebrate the season more deeply!Support the showFearless Faith Websiteffaith.orgTo leave a review - Open Finish Strong on the Apple Podcast app and scroll down until you see "Ratings & Reviews". There will be a link to click so that you can "Write A Review"FacebookYouTubeInstagram
Welcome to the Christmas series! Magi, masters of alchemy and astronomy, notice an anomaly in the constellations. Their curiosity leads them to the scriptures, where they become convinced God has done something miraculous. Sign up for special devotionals at StoriesoftheMessiah.com. As we dive deeply into iconic Bible heroes' enthralling narratives, we find more than just stories of faith and miracles. We discover a recurrent theme, a spiritual undertone that connects each tale to the grandeur of the Gospel. They're not just standalone legends; they're threads in a divine tapestry, weaving a story that foreshadows Jesus Christ, the ultimate hero, the promised Messiah who brings light to the darkest corners of history. For more Bible stories download the Pray.com app. To learn more about Rabbi Schneider visit https://discoveringthejewishjesus.com/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Hello everyone,Todays episode is The Gift of the Magi, a short story by O. Henry first published in 1905. Read by Clara.If you enjoy listening to these stories, please do leave an Apple review so we can grow and reach more people.Sweet Dreams. Lucy ❤#SleepStories #BedtimeStories #GuidedMeditation #Relaxation #Calm #Mindfulness #MeditationPodcast #SleepPodcast #Folktales #FairyTales #Storytelling #SoothingVoices #SleepAid #RelaxingStories #Tranquility #DriftOffToSleep
https://www.bible.com/events/49528267 Church of the Nazarene – East Rockingham Campus The Gifts Part 1 Strange men from a strange land Today we are starting our advent teaching series called “The gifts”. throughout this series we will study the story of the Magi and the gifts that they presented to Jesus. Frankincense, Myrrh, and Gold. On their own these […]
Everyone's searching for something—hope that endures, peace that lasts, joy that overflows, love that changes everything. The Magi followed a distant light across unfamiliar terrain, unsure of where it would lead but certain it was worth the journey. This Advent, we join them. As we search for the same things, we discover that every longing finds its answer in Jesus. The search doesn't just lead us to Him—it changes the way we live when we leave His presence.
Following the heart and actions of the Magi, we can choose to be intentional givers during this season. Amidst the hustle and bustle, it is sometimes valuable to take a journey from the east and hear our own heart and actions tuned into Christmas.
Have you ever wondered how light can transform darkness in your life? You will learn how God's light pierces through the shadows, guiding you toward Jesus, the true King. Expect to discover how this divine light draws you closer, reveals hidden truths, and transforms your path, just as it did for the Magi. Embrace the invitation to let God's light shine in and through you, bringing hope and change to the world around you.Passages in this message: Matthew 2 John 8:12 Numbers 24:17 Genesis 1 Exodus 13:21 Isaiah 9:2 John 1:5 Revelation 21:23 Subscribe to stay updated with the latest content from The Story!TAKE YOUR NEXT STEP HERE:Thestorygr.com/connectJOIN US IN PERSON:The Story Church475 6 Mile Road NW, Comstock Park, MI 49321You can support the ministry happening at The Story at thestorygr.com/give#thestorychurch #comstockparkmi
FC Midtjylland udraderede FC Nordsjælland i en historisk stor sejr på MCH Arena på hele 6-0 - et resultat, der kunne være endnu større. Panelet vender følgende temaer: - Rekordsejr på Heden - Optakt til Derby - Fyringer og forlængelser Panel: Anders Susgaard, Nicolaj Bruun Rasmussen og Kasper Gantzhorn Petersen Vært: Jakob Nørgaard
Advent 1: The Truth Behind the Magi by Burleigh Village Uniting Church
Support Our Advent Challenge – Donate Now!Become a Spiritual Mentor!Today's transcript. We depend on donations from exceptional listeners like you. To donate, click here.The Daily Rosary Meditations is now an app! Click here for more info.To find out more about The Movement and enroll: https://www.schooloffaith.com/membershipPrayer requests | Subscribe by email | Download our app | Donate
This week we start our Christmas series, where we look through the story of Jesus' birth in Matthew 2. Pastor Dustin walks us through what following the Star meant to the Magi and what they had to go through to get to the place where they could worship Jesus. – Listen to the message here!
"He will never negotiate for space in our life. He is preeminent. He deserves everything. He takes the first and foremost place over every aspect of our life." — Pastor Steve Dow Join Pastor Steve Dow as he explores the true significance of the Magi's gift of gold in "A King's Christmas." This message challenges us to move past "leftover offerings" and polite gifts, revealing that the gold symbolizes not just who Jesus is—the King of Kings—but also what we truly value. Learn why full surrender of our treasures, time, and will to Jesus is the key to knowing the peace, power, and practical provision of His kingdom. +++++++ You can find our service times on our website: https://www.anctally.com/ You can find sermon highlights on Twitter here: https://x.com/allnationstally
In this message, Minister Mark Ashton explores the powerful story of the Star of Bethlehem in Matthew 2:1–12, showing how God uses light, signs, and Scripture to guide people toward Jesus. This Christmas season, Mark unpacks why the star appeared, what the Magi understood, how Herod resisted God's revelation, and how the same God still speaks to us today in ways we can understand.This sermon launches our Christmas series “Lights of Christmas: Witness the Wonder”—a journey through the characters, signs, and moments that prepared the world for the arrival of Jesus. Together we look at how God leads step by step, how He uses creation, circumstances, people, His Word, and His Spirit to draw us near, and how the star points us to the true Light of the World.If you're longing for direction, clarity, peace, or renewed faith, this message will help you open your heart, look up, and follow God's leading just like the Magi. Whether you're exploring faith or growing deeper as a disciple, this teaching invites you to pause, pray, and ask: How is God speaking to you today?
The Magi were people who didn't fit the mold, didn't have the right background, and weren't following all the rules. Yet somehow, they're invited straight into the center of the story. The first Christmas wasn't polished or predictable. It was messy, surprising, and full of people you'd never expect to see. But maybe that's the point...
Website ホームページ - https://www.sdjcc.net
Jane unpacks the significance of the Magi who saw, went, and took time to find Jesus.
A Prayer to Let Jesus Lead by Katie J. TrentWhat is the significance of the Christmas star? In today's episode, we learn how the star points us to the greater truth of Jesus’ guidance in our lives. Just as the star led the Magi on their long journey to find the newborn Messiah, Jesus promises to lead and direct us as we trust Him.We reflect on how stars fill our homes and holiday traditions—tree toppers, decorations, and even cookie cutters—reminding us of the light that guided wise men to Jesus. Yet Scripture tells us something even more astounding: God not only created the stars but counts and names them (Psalm 147). If He knows every star, how much more does He care about us? Reference: Matthew 2:9-10 Prayer: Jesus, we choose to trust in You and ask You to lead and guide us all the days of our lives, just like You led the magi. Help us not to lean on our own understanding, but to seek Your will and Your wisdom in all we do. And let us become an example for our children so that they will allow You to lead them all the days of their lives as well. Amen. LINKS: How to Pray God's Word For Your Children Guide Connect with Katie J. Trent Get today's devotion and prayer in written form to keep for future use! Support the ministry with your $5 monthly gift through Patreon. Discover more Christian podcasts at LifeAudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at LifeAudio.com/contact-us Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Share a commentWhat if the timeline of Abraham's life overturns everything you thought about how God saves? We walk through Romans 4, Galatians 3, and Genesis to show why Abraham was counted righteous long before he received any covenant sign—and why that changes how we think about faith, ritual, and belonging. By contrasting Abraham and David—both undeniably flawed—we spotlight Paul's central claim: justification is God's gift, not a reward for a moral record. Grace is credited through faith, not sealed by ancestry or secured by law.From there, we tackle a common confusion: the role of signs. Circumcision was a sign and a seal, like a wedding ring—it points to a deeper covenant but doesn't create it. That distinction matters today when outward practices can eclipse inward reality. We draw a straight line from Abraham's seal to ours: the Holy Spirit, who indwells believers as heaven's official pledge and marks us as citizens of a better country. This lens reframes identity. Abraham is called the father of all who believe, not because faith follows bloodlines, but because trust in God's promise makes a family that crosses cultures and languages.We also explore how faith waits. Abraham wandered the promised land while owning only a gravesite, trusting a future he couldn't yet touch. That same resilient trust carries us now—we believe the promised King and the coming kingdom, even when circumstances lag behind. Along the way, we trace fellow travelers in Abraham's footsteps: Rahab, Ruth, the Magi, the Ethiopian, Cornelius, and more—people who heard, believed, and moved toward God's promise.If you've ever wondered whether you've confused the sign for the substance, or if your background could ever be enough, this conversation calls you back to the core: Christ's finished work credited to those who believe. Subscribe, share this episode with a friend who needs clarity about faith and ritual, and leave a review telling us how this shaped your view of belonging in God's family.Support the showStephen's latest book, The Disciples Prayer, is available now. https://www.wisdomonline.org/store/view/the-disciples-prayer-hardback
Share a commentWhat if the timeline of Abraham's life overturns everything you thought about how God saves? We walk through Romans 4, Galatians 3, and Genesis to show why Abraham was counted righteous long before he received any covenant sign—and why that changes how we think about faith, ritual, and belonging. By contrasting Abraham and David—both undeniably flawed—we spotlight Paul's central claim: justification is God's gift, not a reward for a moral record. Grace is credited through faith, not sealed by ancestry or secured by law.From there, we tackle a common confusion: the role of signs. Circumcision was a sign and a seal, like a wedding ring—it points to a deeper covenant but doesn't create it. That distinction matters today when outward practices can eclipse inward reality. We draw a straight line from Abraham's seal to ours: the Holy Spirit, who indwells believers as heaven's official pledge and marks us as citizens of a better country. This lens reframes identity. Abraham is called the father of all who believe, not because faith follows bloodlines, but because trust in God's promise makes a family that crosses cultures and languages.We also explore how faith waits. Abraham wandered the promised land while owning only a gravesite, trusting a future he couldn't yet touch. That same resilient trust carries us now—we believe the promised King and the coming kingdom, even when circumstances lag behind. Along the way, we trace fellow travelers in Abraham's footsteps: Rahab, Ruth, the Magi, the Ethiopian, Cornelius, and more—people who heard, believed, and moved toward God's promise.If you've ever wondered whether you've confused the sign for the substance, or if your background could ever be enough, this conversation calls you back to the core: Christ's finished work credited to those who believe. Subscribe, share this episode with a friend who needs clarity about faith and ritual, and leave a review telling us how this shaped your view of belonging in God's family.Support the showStephen's latest book, The Disciples Prayer, is available now. https://www.wisdomonline.org/store/view/the-disciples-prayer-hardback
Lara Molettiere is a Charlotte Mason homeschooling mom of 2 who believes that as mothers we are the gate-keepers, grace givers, and cultivators of our homes and that when we step into our God-given capacity, we are capable of providing a delightful and life-giving education to our children. In this episode, Lara shares how we can make Advent a sacred time for our families by slowing down and making space for restful traditions that help us savor our faith.You can find show notes for this episode including links to all the books and resources Lara mentioned at https://homeschoolcompass.com/episode-61-preparing-room-for-jesus-in-your-homeschool-this-advent-with-lara-molettiere/.Visit A Gentle Advent to learn more about Lara's Advent courses.Here are some of the favorite Advent books Lara's family enjoys each year:Jotham's Journey by Arnold YtreeideThe Crippled Lamb by Max LucadoOne Wintry Night by Ruth Bell GrahamThe Christmas Miracle of Jonathan Toomey by Susan WojciechowskiThe Tale of the Three Trees by Angela Elwell HuntThe Gift of the Magi by O. HenryAlso check out Lara's 20 Living Books for Advent and Christmas.You might also enjoy Aimee's list of Favorite Christmas Books to Read Aloud.Lara recommended several resources that she uses for her personal reflection and study during Advent:Waiting on the Word by Malcolm GuiteCome, Let Us Adore Him by Paul David TrippAdorning the Dark by Andrew PetersonWe would love to connect with you outside your podcast player:Follow the Homeschool Compass on Instagram or FacebookDownload free printable resources for your homeschoolBrowse our book listsSign up for the Homeschool Compass email newsletter
Hvad var det egentlig, der skete – inde i spillernes hoveder – i Glasgow i tirsdags? Hvordan kunne det danske herrelandshold i fodbold spille langt bedre end skotterne – og alligevel tabe 4-2? Og hvordan kunne de få dage forinden spille uafgjort imod Belarus, som de for nylig har lammetævet med 6-0? Er det bare historien om dansk fodbold? At vi er allerbedst til én ting: at overraske. Og at vi gør det ved skiftevis at spille lige op med nogle af de største fodboldnationer i verden, samtidig med vi taber til nogle af de mindste. Eller siger opstandelsen over, at vi nu er gået glip af den direkte billet til VM i USA, Canada og Mexico, i virkeligheden mere om os – alle os mandagstrænere? Simpelthen fordi vi forlanger noget andet og mere af vores landshold, end fodboldfans i mange andre lande? Det spørger vi Politikens sportsredaktør Christian Heide-Jørgensen om i dagens afsnit af 'Du lytter til Politiken'.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This is the fifteenth episode in the Crypto Hipster's Curtain Calls Series, which includes 3–4-minute clips from Seasons 6-8. This compilation draws upon my conversations with:Jonathan Padilla, CEO and co-founder @ Snickerdoodle Labs (5/11/2024, Season 7)Jerry Li, CEO and co-founder @ Artela Network (6/24/2024, Season 7)Dr. Alan Tominey, Director of Product and Technology @ Gorki (12/24/2023, Season 6)Joshua Scigala, co-founder @ The Standard (3/24/2024, Season 7)
Send us a textWe trace the fine line between admiring the night sky and worshiping it, then show how Scripture locates meaning in the Creator, not the constellations. We talk dominion, identity, open doors, and the subtle ways culture crowns astrology as authority.• sponsors and gratitude for Halo City and Bougie Bully Trade Lines• Genesis 1 on signs, seasons, days, years• Psalms 19 and the heavens declaring God's glory• fall of man, dominion lost and regained in Christ• Isaiah 14 and “stars” as people, not destiny• Magi corrected by “thus it is written”• acting, channeling, and mental doors• fasting as closing background apps• guarding gates against fear and obsession• why horoscopes feel accurate and expectation bias• Job's hedge, fear, and spiritual breaches• separating natural rhythms from occult practices• practical steps to renounce objects and influencesBe sure to tune in and hear the rest of the conversation and some thought provoking topics in part two available right nowSupport the showSunday Schoolers!! Hope you enjoyed class!
Send us a textWe challenge the pull of horoscopes and redirect attention to the Holy Spirit, practical witness, and generous living that proves what we preach. Through Scripture rereads and real stories, we map a path from signs in the sky to a life led from within.• gentle questions that move people from zodiac talk to real study• witness over words as the apologetic that convinces• humility redefined as sourced power, not passivity• prosperity held in check by generosity and purpose• prophecy vs psychics and why mixture misleads• Magi myths clarified and design language for abomination• rereads on the alabaster box and Adam's covering• types and shadows pointing to Christ across Scripture• hearing God's warnings, training to discern the Spirit• fasting from information to recover attention and communityFor all things Halo City, be sure to check out payhip.com/HaloCity. Or follow us on Facebook at Halo City or Instagram at Wings n Halos. Contact Angela at bougiebully@gmail.com or 1980-677-1595. Allow them to bully those bureaus on your behalf by using Bougie Bully Trade Lines LLC. They look forward to working with youSupport the showSunday Schoolers!! Hope you enjoyed class!
Dan E. Hendrickson's historical fiction "Magi Apprentice" follows the Wise Men as they venture to find the Christ child.
Ever fall in love with a movie's world while side-eyeing its logic? That's the neon paradox of Tron. We dive straight into how Steven Lisberger's Pong epiphany became a Disney gamble that pushed live action, backlit animation, and early CGI into a single, striking language—and why that language still speaks to us. From Moebius-inspired suits to hand-processed frames and vendor tag-teams like MAGI and Triple-I, we unpack the painstaking craft that birthed a timeless visual grammar of grids, glow, and velocity.We also confront the chewy stuff: a digitization beam that turns users into avatars, identity discs that are both passports and plot holes, and an MCP that behaves like a walled-garden overlord long before big tech made the term feel familiar. The story inverts expectations—Flynn as creator without control, Tron as titular champion without the spotlight—and lands somewhere between rebellion myth and systems metaphor. It's messy, yes, but the ideas are weirdly prescient: corporate capture of technology, AI consolidation of power, and the uneasy line between play, surveillance, and ownership.Along the way, we trace Disney's state of flux after The Black Hole, the greenlight born of a killer sizzle reel, and the great irony that the Tron arcade cabinet out-earned the film. The Academy may have snubbed the VFX, but the look rewired pop culture's sense of the digital future. We close by asking the big question: why do we keep wanting more Tron? Maybe it's the unspent potential, maybe it's the vibes, maybe it's both. Hit play to join a candid, curious tour through the franchise's origin story, its technical miracles, and the blueprint for a version that finally matches the glow.Enjoyed the ride? Follow, share with a friend who loves neon worlds, and leave a review to help more curious listeners find us.
The Museum of Fine Arts (MFA) in Boston, US, has agreed to return two works from 1857 by the enslaved 19th-century potter David Drake to his present-day descendants. By the terms of the contract, one vessel will remain on loan to the museum for at least two years. The other—known as the “Poem Jar”—has been purchased back by the museum from the heirs for an undisclosed sum and now comes with “a certificate of ethical ownership”. Ben Luke talks to Ethan Lasser, the MFA's chair of the art of Americas, about this landmark agreement. At the Museum of Modern Art in New York, the exhibition Wifredo Lam: When I Don't Sleep, I Dream opens on Monday. Lam, who was of African and Chinese descent, is now widely regarded as a key, and singular, figure in Modernist painting. Connected in his long life to the Surrealists and Pablo Picasso, and to literary greats including Aimé Césaire and Edouard Glissant, his distinctive practice was above all centred on a profound engagement with Black diasporic culture. Ben talks to the two lead curators of the exhibition, Beverly Adams, curator of Latin American Art at MoMA, and the museum's new director, Christophe Cherix. And this episode's Work of the Week is the Adoration of the Magi (1488) by Domenico Ghirlandaio. The painting is in the Ospedale degli Innocenti, the first hospital for unwanted or orphaned infants, or foundlings, in Europe, built by the great Renaissance architect, Filippo Brunelleschi. The Innocenti, as it is called, is the subject of a new book, called The Innocents of Florence: The Renaissance Discovery of Childhood, by Joseph Luzzi, and Ben speaks to him about the painting and its significance in the Innocenti's collection.Wifredo Lam, Museum of Modern Art, New York, 10 November-11 April 2026.The Innocents of Florence: The Renaissance Discovery of Childhood, published in hardback by WW Norton, from 11 November in the US, priced $29.99, and from 28 November in the UK, priced £23.New subscription offer: eight-week free digital trial of The Art Newspaper. The subscription auto-renews at full price for your region. Cancel anytime. www.theartnewspaper.com/subscriptions-8WEEKSOFFER Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.