Podcasts about Nativity

The story continues as the holy family make their way to Bethlehem for a Roman census. Along the way they meet classic characters from the Nativity including an inn keeper and some shepherds who, while watching their flocks, get jump scared by an angel into going to visit a baby in a manger. But why is Luke, the gospelist, telling us all this? Who is the Jesus Christ he is trying to present in this gospel? Want to delve deeper? Become a This Is History Royal Favourite subscriber on Patreon. You get ad free listening, exclusive behind the scenes videos, and a weekly bonus episode. On this week's bonus episode, Dan and resident Nativity expert Professor Helen Bond zoom into the intentions behind Luke's Gospels. What was the manger really trying to convey — to early Christians and the Romans looking over them? Listen to that episode here: patreon.com/thisishistory – A Sony Music Entertainment production.  Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts  To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com  Learn more about your ad choices.  Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices  Written and presented by Dan Jones.  Producer - Alan Weedon  Senior Producer - Dominic Tyerman Executive Producer - Simon Poole  Production Manager - Jen Mistri  Production coordinator: Eric Ryan  Mixing - Amber Devereux Head of content – Chris Skinner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Patrick answers real-life questions about faith, money, and marriage, weaving in biblical wisdom on trusting God rather than wealth and addressing callers’ struggles with giving and spiritual conversations at home. He sorts out confusion around the Nativity timeline and explains the Catholic view on natural family planning versus contraception, cutting through misunderstandings. Josh - I have a question about Bible translations. There is a difference between trusting in riches and having riches. How do you explain this? Who can get into heaven? (01:46) Amy - Can you explain the timeline of the Nativity? (13:54) Christopher - I want to add that instead of placing Trust in God, it is very easy to place confidence in money as a safety net (instead of God as a safety net). God wants to be our safety net. (21:43) Michael (email) - Is the Church correct about Natural Family Planning (NFP)? (28:12) Mary - How is it that in the Catholic Bibles there is the quote from Mary saying, ' I have no husband’? (40:03) Nick - Christopher brought up a good point. I felt that this was profound. My family and I are blessed financially. When is having enough money enough? (44:41)

What do gold, frankincense, and myrrh really tell us about the world into which Jesus was born? Who were the Magi - kings, mystics, scientists, or traders - and why did they travel vast distances carrying some of the most valuable agricultural products on Earth? How do desert trees in Arabia and the Horn of Africa connect a humble birth in Bethlehem to ancient global supply chains, imperial economics, and the earliest luxury produce markets? And what happened when symbolic gifts became engines of demand, reshaping landscapes, trade routes, and even Christian worship for centuries to come?Join John and Patrick as they follow the scent trail of frankincense and myrrh - from wounded bark and caravan routes to temples, churches, and modern medicine - in a fresh-produce retelling of the Nativity that reveals the Three Wise Men not as fairy-tale kings, but as emissaries of the ancient global economy. This is the Christmas story as you've never heard it before: rooted in trees, trade, and the fragile agricultural systems that quietly changed the world.----------In Sponsorship with Cornell University: Dyson Cornell SC Johnson College of Business-----------Join the History of Fresh Produce Club for ad-free listening, bonus episodes, book discounts and access to an exclusive chatroom community.Support us!Share this episode with your friendsGive a 5-star ratingWrite a review -----------Subscribe to our biweekly newsletter here for extra stories related to recent episodes, book recommendations, a sneak peek of upcoming episodes and more.-----------Instagram, TikTok, Threads:@historyoffreshproduceEmail: historyoffreshproduce@gmail.com

In this special Christmas episode of inContext, Michael Easley invites you into a thoughtful and engaging Christmas Quiz designed to test what we think we know about the Nativity story. Many of our assumptions come from tradition, art, and cultural imagery — but how much of it actually comes from Scripture? As Michael walks through each question, he highlights key biblical details, corrects common misconceptions, and helps us remember the stunning simplicity of the birth of Christ. This episode isn't just trivia. It's a reminder to slow down during a busy season, open the Bible, and return to the true story of the incarnation. Whether you're listening alone, discussing with your family, or using this quiz in a small group, you'll gain a clearer view of what the gospel writers recorded — and a renewed sense of wonder at God's plan in sending His Son. Stay through the final score for a few reflections that will help you read the Christmas story with fresh eyes this year. Resources Mentioned: Download the free Christmas IQ quiz Chapters 00:00 – Intro 01:02 – Why We Mix Up the Christmas Story 01:30 – Kids, Storybooks, and Misleading Illustrations 02:20 – Was the Forbidden Fruit an Apple? 03:00 – Christmas Quiz Question #1 03:31 – Christmas Quiz Question #2 03:55 – Christmas Quiz Question #3 04:40 – Christmas Quiz Question #4 05:28 – Christmas Quiz Question #5 06:17 – Christmas Quiz Question #6 07:37 – Christmas Quiz Question #7 08:16 – Christmas Quiz Question #8 08:48 – Christmas Quiz Question #9 09:48 – Christmas Quiz Question #10 10:51 – Christmas Quiz Question #11 11:33 – Christmas Quiz Question #12 13:22 – Christmas Quiz Question #13 13:40 – Christmas Quiz Question #14 15:09 – Christmas Quiz Question #15 16:32 – Christmas Quiz Question #16 17:43 – Glitter, Nativities, and the Herpes of Crafts 18:31 – Where the Christmas Story Appears in Scripture 19:20 – Joseph, Mary, and the Surprise Pregnancy 20:07 – Who Sent Them to Bethlehem? 21:08 – Did the Angels Sing? (The Debate Continues) 22:08 – A Christmas Book Recommendation 23:58 – What Are You Doing for Christmas? 24:40 – Teaching Kids Contentment at Christmas Follow on Instagram and Facebook For more information on Dr. Michael Easley and Ask Dr. E click here.

“When they say to you, ‘Inquire of the mediums and the necromancers'… should not a people inquire of their God?” In the dark days of Ahaz, Judah turns to superstition and political schemes instead of trusting the Lord. The result is gloom, fear, and thick darkness. Yet into that same darkness Isaiah speaks a breathtaking promise: “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light.” In part 7 of our special 12-part series connecting Old Testament prophecy to New Testament fulfillment, we follow the movement from judgment to hope; from stumbling over the stone of offense to the dawning of a great light in Galilee of the nations. The promised Child, the Son who is given, will be God himself.  The Rev. John Shank, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Edwardsville, IL, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Isaiah 8:19–9:7.  To learn more about Trinity in Edwardsville, visit trinitylutheranministries.org. This Advent series begins by covering the last Old Testament prophet, Malachi, and then spends twelve episodes alternating between Old Testament prophecy and New Testament fulfillment, tracing God's promises from Isaiah to the birth of Christ. The series explores Emmanuel's promise, the Davidic King, John the Baptist as forerunner, and reaches its climax with the Nativity. The final episodes examine the Suffering Servant, the shadow of the cross in Christ's infancy, Isaiah's Messianic mission statement, and John's declaration that "the Word became flesh."  Thy Strong Word, hosted by Rev. Dr. Phil Booe, pastor of St. John Lutheran Church of Luverne, MN, reveals the light of our salvation in Christ through study of God's Word, breaking our darkness with His redeeming light. Each weekday, two pastors fix our eyes on Jesus by considering Holy Scripture, verse by verse, in order to be strengthened in the Word and be equipped to faithfully serve in our daily vocations. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.

Fr. Elias Mary Mills, F.I., served as Rector of the Shrine Church at the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Lacrosse, Wisconsin, from 2016 to 2021. He was ordained in May of 2000. In Today's Show: What are the origins of the Nativity scene? Is it okay for already frozen embryos to be given to surrogate mothers? Why do some areas have a low number of priestly vocations? How should someone deal with intrusive thoughts? If someone lies and renounces their faith when they didn't mean it, would they then lose their salvation? When do thoughts turn into sins? Why does God allow suffering? Why are some embarrassed to show their faith? What should a Marian relationship look like? Why is IVF evil? Resources: Fr. Elias' 2026 Pilgrimage to Japan: Click here Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!

A new study seeks to answer the question: Why do some Americans leave the religion they grew up in? Meanwhile, the Vatican unveils the Christmas tree and Nativity in St. Peter's Square. And, peace in Ukraine still remains highly uncertain despite ongoing efforts by the Trump administration.

In this episode, host Lynne Hilton Wilson uncovers little-known details of the Nativity story by bringing together the unique accounts found in the books of Luke and Matthew. Dive deeper into Luke's intimate portrait of Mary—her lineage, her spiritual preparation, the symbolism of her “highly favored” calling, and the cultural realities she faced as a young mother in ancient Judea. Then explore Matthew's distinctive focus on Joseph—his royal Davidic heritage, his revelatory dreams, his quiet strength, and the legal and spiritual responsibilities he carried in protecting the Holy Family. Lynne illuminates how these two perspectives weave together a richer, more complete tapestry of the birth of Christ. This episode goes beyond the familiar Christmas narrative to highlight historical context, overlooked verses, and surprising insights that reveal the faith, courage, and divine guidance surrounding Jesus's arrival into the world. Perfect for viewers looking to deepen their understanding of the Nativity and appreciate the beauty in both Mary's and Joseph's stories.

What if the way we tell time shapes the way we love God? We trace the deep roots of Advent and Candlemas to show how the early church used feasts to form memory, kindle joy, and carry light from the sanctuary into ordinary homes. Along the way, we meet Anna in Luke 2—a widow of great age whose quiet devotion becomes a loud sermon about steadfast hope. Her story pushes back on the myth that only big platforms change the world, revealing how staying, fasting, worshiping, and praying can open our eyes to recognize Christ when He draws near.We explore how secular calendars took center stage and why the church once organized life around retelling God's acts. From the Nativity candles taken home as living reminders to the offering of light returned on Candlemas, these practices were never about optics; they were about formation. We dig into the history, the Reformers' calendar cuts, and the way those choices still shape how we mark the season today. Then we contrast Zechariah's divinely imposed silence with Anna's honored voice, highlighting Luke's careful theme: God dignifies the overlooked and entrusts His message to those the culture underestimates.This conversation is both historical and deeply practical. You'll leave with simple ways to embody Advent: light a candle and pray at dinner, choose a modest fast to make room for presence over hurry, begin and end each day with short prayers, and serve quietly without fanfare. If you've ever wondered how to move beyond holiday noise into holy attention, Anna's life offers a clear path—steady, unseen, and radiant with hope.My hope is that this podcast helps grow your faith and equips you to accomplish your dreams and goals!Follow me on InstagramFollow me on FacebookFollow me on TikTok

"His name is John." With this written declaration, Zechariah's silence ends and his speech is restored. In part 6 of a special 12-part series connecting Old Testament prophecy to New Testament fulfillment, we witness the birth of the Forerunner. Filled with the Holy Spirit, Zechariah prophesies the Benedictus, proclaiming that God has visited and redeemed His people. He declares that this child will go before the Lord to prepare His ways and give knowledge of salvation by the forgiveness of sins.  The Rev. David Boisclair, senior pastor at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Overland, MO, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Luke 1:57–80.  To learn more about Our Redeemer, visit ourredeemerstl.org. This Advent series begins by covering the last Old Testament prophet, Malachi, and then spends twelve episodes alternating between Old Testament prophecy and New Testament fulfillment, tracing God's promises from Isaiah to the birth of Christ. The series explores Emmanuel's promise, the Davidic King, John the Baptist as forerunner, and reaches its climax with the Nativity. The final episodes examine the Suffering Servant, the shadow of the cross in Christ's infancy, Isaiah's Messianic mission statement, and John's declaration that "the Word became flesh."  Thy Strong Word, hosted by Rev. Dr. Phil Booe, pastor of St. John Lutheran Church of Luverne, MN, reveals the light of our salvation in Christ through study of God's Word, breaking our darkness with His redeeming light. Each weekday, two pastors fix our eyes on Jesus by considering Holy Scripture, verse by verse, in order to be strengthened in the Word and be equipped to faithfully serve in our daily vocations. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.

For decades, scholars have thought that Matthew and Luke composed their nativity stories separately, perhaps drawing on some underlying material. Yet in this special advent episode, Lloyd Lewellyn-Jones interviews his co-host Helen Bond about her proposal that Luke shows an awareness of Matthew's infancy narrative. Together, they unpack the reasons Luke had for 're-writing' Matthew's nativity and explore why Luke composed his birth story in the way that he did. Helen K. Bond is Professor of Christian Origins at the University of Edinburgh. She is a leading scholar of the historical Jesus and early Christianity, with particular expertise in the Roman and Jewish contexts of the Gospels, especially the trial and death of Jesus. Among her many contributions are Pontius Pilate in History and Interpretation, The Historical Jesus: A Guide for the Perplexed and most recently The First Biography of Jesus: Genre and Meaning in Mark's Gospel. SUPPORT BIBLICAL TIME MACHINEIf you enjoy the podcast, please (pretty please!) consider supporting the show through the Time Travellers Club, our Patreon. We are an independent, listener-supported show (no ads!), so please help us continue to showcase high-quality biblical scholarship with a monthly subscription.DOWNLOAD OUR STUDY GUIDE: MARK AS ANCIENT BIOGRAPHYCheck out our 4-part audio study guide called "The Gospel of Mark as an Ancient Biography." While you're there, get yourself a Biblical Time Machine mug or a cool sticker for your water bottle.Support the showTheme music written and performed by Dave Roos, creator of Biblical Time Machine. Season 4 produced by John Nelson.

Message by Doug Bunnell, recorded live December 14, 2025 at First Presbyterian Church of Bellingham. Scripture read by Ann Hinz.Revelation 4:1-111 After this I looked, and there in heaven a door stood open! And the first voice, which I had heard speaking to me like a trumpet, said, “Come up here, and I will show you what must take place after this.” 2At once I was in the spirit, and there in heaven stood a throne, with one seated on the throne! 3And the one seated there looks like jasper and carnelian, and around the throne is a rainbow that looks like an emerald. 4Around the throne are twenty-four thrones, and seated on the thrones are twenty-four elders, dressed in white robes, with golden crowns on their heads. 5Coming from the throne are flashes of lightning and rumblings and peals of thunder, and in front of the throne burn seven flaming torches, which are the seven spirits of God, 6and in front of the throne there is something like a sea of glass, like crystal.Around the throne, and on each side of the throne, are four living creatures, full of eyes in front and back: 7the first living creature like a lion, the second living creature like an ox, the third living creature with a face like a human, and the fourth living creature like a flying eagle. 8And the four living creatures, each of them with six wings, are full of eyes all around and inside. Day and night without ceasing they sing,“Holy, holy, holy,the Lord God the Almighty,who was and is and is to come.”9 And whenever the living creatures give glory and honor and thanks to the one who is seated on the throne, who lives forever and ever, 10the twenty-four elders fall before the one who is seated on the throne and worship the one who lives forever and ever; they cast their crowns before the throne, singing,11 “You are worthy, our Lord and God,to receive glory and honor and power,for you created all things,and by your will they existed and were created.”Isaiah 6:1-91 In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord sitting on a throne, high and lofty, and the hem of his robe filled the temple. 2Seraphs were in attendance above him; each had six wings: with two they covered their faces, and with two they covered their feet, and with two they flew. 3And one called to another and said,“Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of hosts;the whole earth is full of his glory.”4The pivots on the thresholds shook at the voices of those who called, and the house filled with smoke. 5And I said, “Woe is me! I am lost, for I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips, yet my eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts!”6Then one of the seraphs flew to me, holding a live coal that had been taken from the altar with a pair of tongs. 7The seraph touched my mouth with it and said, “Now that this has touched your lips, your guilt has departed and your sin is blotted out.” 8Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” And I said, “Here am I; send me!” 9And he said, “Go and say to this people:‘Keep listening, but do not comprehend;keep looking, but do not understand.'

A Catholic church near Boston changed its usual nativity display.  Mary, Joseph, and baby Jesus are missing. In their place is a sign reading "ICE was here."

A quiet town, a long-echoed promise, and a melody that almost missed its moment—this five-minute journey explores how O Little Town of Bethlehem came to life and why it still carries weight today. We share the scene that shaped Philip Brooks's words: a Christmas Eve ride to Bethlehem, a five-hour service in the Church of the Nativity, and the sound of hymns rolling like tides through the night. Then we follow the poem into music, as organist Lewis Redner wrestled with writer's block until a sudden midnight melody unlocked a carol sung first by a small choir of teachers and children.Along the way, we open the rarely printed stanza that places joy beside sorrow and invites charity and faith to hold the door wide. That small addition reframes the carol, moving it beyond nostalgia into a lived invitation to hope. We also trace the thread back to Micah 5:2, the ancient prophecy that points to Bethlehem and anchors the story of Jesus in a specific place and promise. Whether you come with faith or curiosity, the arc is compelling: a small village chosen for a large purpose, a song shaped by memory, and a message that meets real need.Here is the youtube link for todayhttps://youtu.be/EHKORmpW4Cg?si=i2dfIXcMWXnCSbOw  We would love to hear your comments. Send us a Text MessageSupport the show

In our first Carol Service of the year the children brought us  a lovely Nativity play and Ruth added a Christmas message around a game of "Pass the "parcel"  Do head over to our YouTube channel to watch the whole thing. Lots of fun for all the family! https://youtube.com/live/tUxEY48sXBQ?feature=share

This week on Mel & Floyd: Mr. Smarty-Hat?; Rockin' John's REAL voice; A Catholic Church's Nativity display near Boston “evoking a dialog”;  Supreme Court deciding if “independent agencies” are actually independent; China's trade surplus tops 1 $Trillion; White House attempts to ban sign language at press conferences; And other random topics; Notice something missing?  For the complete Mel and Floyd Experience, buy the CD “The Very Best of James Brown” and play it on your Hi-Fi while listening to this podcast!  Or listen live at 89.9 FM or wortfm.org/listen-live/ every Friday from 1 to 2 PM Central Time. Photo courtesy Fábio Alves on Unsplash Did you enjoy this story? Your funding makes great, local journalism like this possible. Donate hereThe post I'm Not A Hat! appeared first on WORT-FM 89.9.

As Christmas approaches, schools and churches across Wales are busy making costumes, practising songs, and helping children learn their lines for one of our most enduring traditions: the nativity play. Delyth Liddell visits a range of nativities across Wales, from a drop-in immersive nativity performed in the centre of Aberdare, to a damp but joyful roving nativity in Llanidloes, to primary school children performing their first plays in rural Talgarth and urban Cardiff. But behind the tea towels, tinsel, and excited children lies something deeper, a story that has shaped cultures, communities and childhoods for generations. We explore why the nativity still matters. Should plays be re-shaped and told for modern audiences or stick with the traditional versions? Why is this retelling of an ancient story so important? Much of the nativity we know so well isn't true to the Bible - does it matter? Delyth visits St. Philip Evans Roman Catholic Primary School in Cardiff, Ysgol y Mynydd Du in Talgarth, St. Elvans Church in Aberdare for a performance of 'Christmas a Story' and a roving nativity in Treveglois. She speaks to Professor Wyn Evans from the University of Cardiff and Naomi Johnson from 'Out of the Ark', a leading publisher of children's nativity plays.

Rethinking Scripture Podcast - Episode 98:  Introducing the "Rethinking Advent" User GuideDecember 14, 2025 - Host: Dr. Gregory HallRethinking Advent was never meant to be just a podcast series (episodes 28-33)—it was designed to be walked through. In this short special episode, I introduce the new Rethinking Advent User Guide, created to help listeners slow down, reflect, and engage the Advent story through weekly rhythms, discussion questions, and devotional prompts. Whether you're returning to the series or encountering it for the first time, this guide offers a deeper, more formative way to experience Advent. Everything is available for free at: RethinkingScripture.com/rethinking-advent/Referenced Resources:Charlie Brown's Question - "Isn't there anyone who knows what Christmas is all about?"  posed by Charlie Brown in A Charlie Brown Christmas. A tv movie from 1965.Show Music:Background music - jazzy bells (jingle bells) by Dee Yan-Key - https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Dee_Yan-Key/my_christmas_music/02--Dee_Yan-Key-jazzy_bellsPodcast Website:RethinkingScripture.com/rethinking-advent/Sister site: RethinkingRest.comSocial Media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RethinkingScripture Twitter: @RethinkingStuffInstagram: Rethinking_ScriptureYouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6YCLg2UldJiA0dsg0KkvLAPowered and distributed by Simplecast.

Luke 2:1-17; John 1:1-18 // Brooks NesseLuke presents the humble birth of Jesus in Bethlehem, focusing on the historical event, the census, the manger, and the joyful announcement to the shepherds. John's opening reveals the cosmic identity of Christ as the Word of God—who was with God, was God, and became flesh. This sermon beautifully connects the majesty of the eternal Son with the simplicity of the child in the manger, showing that the Creator entered His own creation as our Savior and Light. Essential for understanding the profound reality of Christmas.SERMON NOTES (YouVersion): https://bible.com/events/PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2542/responses/new25.12.14

Luke 2:1-17; John 1:1-18 // Ben BeasleyLuke presents the humble birth of Jesus in Bethlehem, focusing on the historical event, the census, the manger, and the joyful announcement to the shepherds. John's opening reveals the cosmic identity of Christ as the Word of God—who was with God, was God, and became flesh. This sermon beautifully connects the majesty of the eternal Son with the simplicity of the child in the manger, showing that the Creator entered His own creation as our Savior and Light. Essential for understanding the profound reality of Christmas.SERMON NOTES (YouVersion): https://bible.com/events/PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2509/responses/new25.12.14

The holidays are a great time to gather around the table and celebrate with delicious food. This year at Horizon, we'll be hosting our own cooking show, blending the art of festive food preparation with the heart of the Christmas story. Each Sunday a specific dish will be prepared: smoked salmon canapés, potato pancakes, tri-color herbed bread, shepherd's pie, and Polish Angel Wings, with each one relating to that week's exploration of the Nativity narrative. Join Horizon at the 11 a.m. Exploring Service for COOKING UP CHRISTMAS, revealing that the birth of Jesus is a true account, not just some cooked-up tale.

As we enter the Christmas season, we see a lot of Nativity scenes/sets and hear a lot about Jesus Christ's birth. Have you ever wondered WHY Jesus was born; what makes His birth so special; or what should it mean to us, today? Listen as Pastor Kyle addresses these issues as he begins a mini-series for Christmas.

Luke 2:1-17; John 1:1-18 // Manny CheryLuke presents the humble birth of Jesus in Bethlehem, focusing on the historical event, the census, the manger, and the joyful announcement to the shepherds. John's opening reveals the cosmic identity of Christ as the Word of God—who was with God, was God, and became flesh. This sermon beautifully connects the majesty of the eternal Son with the simplicity of the child in the manger, showing that the Creator entered His own creation as our Savior and Light. Essential for understanding the profound reality of Christmas.SERMON NOTES (YouVersion): https://bible.com/events/PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2553/responses/new25.12.14

Luke 2:1-17; John 1:1-18 // Rachel NesseLuke presents the humble birth of Jesus in Bethlehem, focusing on the historical event, the census, the manger, and the joyful announcement to the shepherds. John's opening reveals the cosmic identity of Christ as the Word of God—who was with God, was God, and became flesh. This sermon beautifully connects the majesty of the eternal Son with the simplicity of the child in the manger, showing that the Creator entered His own creation as our Savior and Light. Essential for understanding the profound reality of Christmas.SERMON NOTES (YouVersion): https://bible.com/events/PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2553/responses/new25.12.14

Luke 2:1-17; John 1:1-18 // Tim OverbyLuke presents the humble birth of Jesus in Bethlehem, focusing on the historical event, the census, the manger, and the joyful announcement to the shepherds. John's opening reveals the cosmic identity of Christ as the Word of God—who was with God, was God, and became flesh. This sermon beautifully connects the majesty of the eternal Son with the simplicity of the child in the manger, showing that the Creator entered His own creation as our Savior and Light. Essential for understanding the profound reality of Christmas.SERMON NOTES (YouVersion): https://bible.com/events/PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2574/responses/new25.12.14

In this episode of 'Road to Bethlehem,' we journey with Mary and Joseph as they leave Nazareth, facing the challenges of travel while Mary is in her third trimester. The episode captures the emotional farewells, the physical hardships of the journey, and the spiritual significance of their path. As they travel, they encounter windstorms, wolves, and the weight of their divine mission, all while moving towards Jerusalem and ultimately Bethlehem, where the Messiah is to be born. Keywords Bethlehem, Mary and Joseph, Nativity, Journey, Messiah, Jerusalem, Travel, Faith, Divine Mission, Wolves Takeaways Mary and Joseph's journey was filled with emotional farewells and physical challenges. The couple faced windstorms and wolves, highlighting the dangers of their path. Mary's pregnancy added complexity to their travel, requiring careful planning. Joseph's protective nature was evident as he ensured Mary's safety. The journey was not just physical but deeply spiritual, with divine significance. The episode captures the essence of faith and perseverance in the face of adversity. Jerusalem's sight brought a sense of awe and purpose to Mary and Joseph. The narrative emphasizes the importance of trust in God's plan. The couple's journey symbolizes the intersection of human struggle and divine purpose. The episode sets the stage for the birth of the Messiah in Bethlehem.

We continue our series on the nativity by looking at Mary. She was a young girl called to the most incredible task of being Jesus's mother. We needed to unpack the significance of that truth and why it still matters.For more information visit ChristCommunity.Life

SermonPsalm 40December 14, 2025

Mark highlights the glory of God's impact on the shepherds, showing that the Kingdom comes powerfully to the least and the overlooked.

This Christmas, rediscover the Nativity story through the awe-filled angelic encounters that prepared the way for Jesus birth. From Marys faith to Josephs obedience and the shepherds wonder, each moment shows what happens when heaven touches earth. These encounters arent just ancient storiestheyre reminders that God still meets ordinary people with extraordinary purpose. Join us each week as we explore what happens when God interrupts the ordinary with the extraordinary.

Welcome to "Jesus and the Prophecies of Christmas," a podcast that dives deep into the incredible story of how Jesus' birth was foretold long before the manger. We're exploring how the Old Testament prophecies pointed to the coming Messiah and how ancient promises came to be perfectly fulfilled in the person of Jesus. In chapter one of the discussion, we explore the role and power of biblical prophecy, Jesus' presence throughout the Old Testament, and why the baby in a manger is a fulfillment of God's promises to humanity. This introductory episode sets the stage for what's to come in this powerful, four-part series. Join For King + Country's Joel Smallbone, Greg Laurie, Jeff Kinley, Ray Comfort, Jesse Bradley, Shane Idleman, and CBN's Billy Hallowell for a must-hear conversation. And in the next chapter of "Jesus and the Prophecies of Christmas," we'll explore key figures in the nativity story and how they reacted to the prophecies they were given by God and angels.

Well the holidays are here and trying to keep meaning in those holidays can be pretty tough. One way to do this is to have a correct understanding of the events those holidays are being remembered and the Nativity and Christmas are no exception. This week Drew Briney joins me as we take a more scholarly look at the Nativity story. Drew with his wealth of information and resources lays out the Nativity from scripture to examine what the scripture actually says and what it doesn't, he draws out some hidden symbology, obscure ideas that would have been understood by the ancients, and who the magi were possibly, the significance of the gifts and the ties back to Adam and Eve, and what the timing of the events that made up the story of the Nativity. Stick around for all that and more. The Restored Version Of The Scriptures www.restoredscriptures.com 1830 Mercantilewww.1830mercantile.org

It's that time of year again: the War on Christmas is back—and wilder than ever. This week, Dan and Kate dive into the bizarre conservative outrage over a nativity scene depicting the Holy Family as migrants detained by ICE. Right-wing commentators are furious, churches are divided, and somehow this one small display has become a national symbol of everything they think is wrong with America. We unpack the theology, the politics, and the truly unhinged reactions. Then we get into a whole slate of religious weirdness from around the country: A Florida attorney general tries to shut down a Drag Queen Christmas performance Christian rock band Skillet is accused of releasing "demonic" holiday music West Virginia courts weaken vaccine mandates in the name of religious liberty BYU football players quietly scale back their missionary service A Tennessee woman stages a fake kidnapping "lesson" for kids that backfires spectacularly And for our final segment, Dan dives into research on how former members of insular religious communities talk about forgiveness—and how that differs from what their traditions demand.

This week on “Jesuitical,” Ashley and Zac speak to Noah Banasiewicz, S.J. Noah is a Jesuit scholastic and lecturer in the School of Communication at Loyola University Chicago. Ashley, Zac and Noah talk about: - The opportunities and pitfalls of evangelizing on social media - The fine line between evangelist and Catholic influencer - How media theory can help us understand the evolution of evangelization In Signs of the Times, Ashley and Zac discuss the controversial ICE nativity scene at St. Susanna Catholic Church in Dedham, Mass., and Pope Leo's comments on Ukraine and the Trump administration. They also break down the new Vatican document on ordaining women to the diaconate.  In parish announcements, Zac and Ashley announce that they will be filming a mailbag episode and call for questions from the audience. If you have a question for the “Jesuitical” team, please send your questions to jesuitical@americamedia.org by Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2025. In As One Friend Speaks to Another, Ashley and Zac discuss their thoughts on Pope Leo's explanation for not praying at the Blue Mosque in Turkey.  Links for further reading:  Noah's article in America, “Catholic influencers have a media theory (and evangelization) problem” Boston archdiocese tells church to remove ICE message from Nativity, but pastor refuses for now Pope Leo explains why he appeared not to pray at the Blue Mosque in Turkey Vatican report says no to ordaining women deacons—for now Women Deacons and the Catholic Church | An Explainer video from America You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical.  Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America magazine at americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A Boston parish openly defies its bishop over a controversial ICE-themed Nativity display. Meanwhile, the Indiana Senate rejects a GOP-backed redistricting plan after weeks of intense debate. And finally, The Daily Pennsylvanian shines a spotlight on some of its most unexpected and controversial alumni. All this and more on the LOOPcast!Timestamps:00:00 Welcome to the LOOPcast01:35 Boston Parish Openly Defies Bishop over ICE-Themed Nativity Display11:23 Indiana Redistricting Update36:32 Good News44:45 ACA Plans Fail55:50 Twilight Zone1:03:05 Closing PrayerEMAIL US: loopcast@catholicvote.org SUPPORT LOOPCAST: www.loopcast.orgSubscribe to the LOOP today!https://catholicvote.org/getloop   Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-loopcast/id1643967065 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/08jykZi86H7jKNFLbSesjk?si=ztBTHenFR-6VuegOlklE_w&nd=1&dlsi=bddf79da68c34744 FOLLOW LOOPCast: https://x.com/the_LOOPcast  https://www.instagram.com/the_loopcast/ https://www.tiktok.com/@the_loopcast https://www.facebook.com/LOOPcastPodcast Tom: https://x.com/TPogasic Erika: https://x.com/ErikaAhern2  Josh: https://x.com/joshuamercer Dearest Lady of Guadalupe, fruitful Mother of Holiness, teach me your ways of gentleness and strength. Hear my prayer offered with deepfelt confidence to beg this favor…. O Mary, conceived without sin, I come to your throne of grace to share the fervent devotion of your faithful Mexican children who call to you under the glorious Aztec title of “Guadalupe” the virgin who crushed the serpent. Queen of Martyrs, whose Immaculate heart was pierced by seven wounds of grief, help me to walk valiantly amid the sharp thorns thrown across my pathway. Queen of Apostles aid me to win souls for the Sacred Heart of my Savior. I plead this through the merits of your merciful Son, Our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.All opinions expressed on LOOPcast by the participants are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of CatholicVote.

"Comfort, comfort my people, says your God." With these words, Isaiah delivers a beautiful proclamation of hope to a people in exile. In part 5 of a special 12-part series connecting Old Testament prophecy to New Testament fulfillment, we encounter the "Voice" crying in the wilderness. This Voice is St. John the Baptist, the herald who prepares the way for the Lord. He calls sinners to repentance, pointing to the truth that while all flesh is like grass that withers and fades, the Word of our God stands forever, and the Messiah has come.  The Rev. Robert Smith, pastor emeritus in Ft. Wayne, IN, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Isaiah 40:1–11  This Advent series begins by covering the last Old Testament prophet, Malachi, and then spends twelve episodes alternating between Old Testament prophecy and New Testament fulfillment, tracing God's promises from Isaiah to the birth of Christ. The series explores Emmanuel's promise, the Davidic King, John the Baptist as forerunner, and reaches its climax with the Nativity. The final episodes examine the Suffering Servant, the shadow of the cross in Christ's infancy, Isaiah's Messianic mission statement, and John's declaration that "the Word became flesh."  Thy Strong Word, hosted by Rev. Dr. Phil Booe, pastor of St. John Lutheran Church of Luverne, MN, reveals the light of our salvation in Christ through study of God's Word, breaking our darkness with His redeeming light. Each weekday, two pastors fix our eyes on Jesus by considering Holy Scripture, verse by verse, in order to be strengthened in the Word and be equipped to faithfully serve in our daily vocations. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.

Hello and Merry Christmas! My guest today is podcast host and the only man who dares enter the Grinch's lair, Tim Babb from the "Can't Wait for Christmas" podcast! Tim and I get together to talk about one of our favorite Christmas movies, 2000's "Dr. Suess' How the Grinch Stole Christmas" starring the brilliantly funny Jim Carrey. We talk about our favorite parts, favorite quotes, memories around the film, and more. We also talk about Taylor Momsen (Cindy Lou Who!), her career post-Grinch, and her delightful new Christmas album, "A Pretty Reckless Christmas." After my chat with Tim, I talk a little bit about how to get through the holidays with your mental health intact, and share a few Christmasy things that have brought me laughter.   Find Tim Babb and his podcast here: https://cantwaitforchristmaspod.com/  Check out Taylor Momsen's Pretty Reckless Christmas Album: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdrDVC4Iv189t9UbLBRRUJXMgT3UPdT9i  For more laughs, watch: The Goes Wrong Show, S2: Ep. 1: The Nativity: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oqW3_AZRSlw  A Christmas Carol Goes Wrong: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fLOi5H3ylBo    Ways to support the show: Rate and review: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/a-cozy-christmas-podcast/id1523423375  Buy me a coffee? www.ko-fi.com/cozychristmas  Ornaments, Mugs, and Notebooks: https://www.etsy.com/shop/CozyChristmasPodcast  Logo shirt designs: http://tee.pub/lic/edygC_h4D1c    Contact Me: facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cozychristmaspodcast  instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cozychristmaspodcast/  twitter: https://twitter.com/CozyXmasPod  youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCikiozEbu0h9pKeI1Ei5TQ email: cozychristmaspodcast@gmail.com      #christmas #podcast #thegrinch #christmaspodcast 

Is the Christmas Story a Myth? Can we trust what the Gospel writers said about Jesus? Are the parallels to Greek mythology too compelling to ignore? Is there any evidence that Bethlehem was Jesus' birthplace? To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/701/29?v=20251111

00:00 Intro/Catching up together04:48 Pairing Old & New Testament Icons11:42 Fr Symeon tells a story17:12 Adoption, grafting, Friendsgiving & the cherry on top24:05 Saint Paul explaining the reality of Israel in Romans34:07 The secret in The Nativity icon about Joseph & Mary37:37 The presence of The Son at both ends of The Tree of Jesse41:10 Saint Paul at Mars Hill, is the problem life or death51:15 The importance of physicality & mental stillness55:09 Closing thoughts & outroA Shoot from The Stump of Jesse - S7E15In this special Advent themed conversation we again welcome friend of the show, iconographer Nick Papas to help us dive deep into the relationship between the Old Testament icon of The Tree of Jesse & the icon of The Nativity of Our Lord God & Savior Jesus Christ.If you would like access to the spreadsheet which details the relationship of the figures on the tree to Jesus or The Theotokos, please contact us so we can provide it to you.Reference materials for this episode:  - Nick's work    - https://www.saintdemetriuspress.com   - https://www.facebook.com/Nick.Papas.StudioScripture citations for this episode: - Genesis 18: Sarah laughed - Isaiah 11: The Peaceful Kingdom prophecy of The Messiah - Luke 1: Zechariah doubts the birth of John & Mary is amazed at the birth of Jesus - Luke 24: The Road to Emmaus - Romans 15; references Isaiah 11#advent #christmas #nativity #iconography The Christian Saints Podcast is a joint production of Generative sounds & Paradosis Pavilion with oversight from Fr Symeon KeesParadosis Pavilion - https://youtube.com/@paradosispavilion9555https://www.instagram.com/christiansaintspodcasthttps://twitter.com/podcast_saintshttps://www.facebook.com/christiansaintspodcasthttps://www.threads.net/@christiansaintspodcastIconographic images used by kind permission of Nicholas Papas, who controls distribution rights of these imagesPrints of all of Nick's work can be found at Saint Demetrius Press - http://www.saintdemetriuspress.comAll music in these episodes is a production of Generative Soundshttps://generativesoundsjjm.bandcamp.comDistribution rights of this episode & all music contained in it are controlled by Generative SoundsCopyright 2021 - 2023

This week we consider the annunciation of Jesus in Luke 1:26-38, noticing its parallels and contrasts with the announcement of John the Baptist's coming, and understanding it through reference to some church Fathers, Gen 18, Ezekiel 8, Haggai 1, 2 Sam 7, and Isaiah 29:22. Luke uses his artistry and deep understanding of the Old Testament to show the link between the God-Man and his cousin John, and to put Jesus luminously in the spotlight.

He's the villain of the Nativity. An alleged killer of innocents, remembered as one of history's great monsters. But the truth about Herod the Great is far more dramatic, far more complex, and far more shocking.On today's special episode of The Ancients, Tristan Hughes asks: who was the real Herod behind the legend and the infamy? Joined by Professor Benedict Eckhardt, Dr Kimberly Tchaikovsky and Professor Helen Bond, he charts the gripping rise of one of antiquity's most formidable and misunderstood rulers. From perilous beginnings to becoming Rome's chosen King of Judea, Herod's story blends Greek-style tragedy with ruthless Roman politics and features encounters with towering figures like Julius Caesar, Cleopatra and Mark Antony. Join us to step into the turbulent world of Roman Judea and discover how Herod defied the odds to seize his throne.MOREThe Wise Men:Listen on AppleListen on SpotifyThe Great Jewish Revolt:Listen on AppleListen on Spotify Presented by Tristan Hughes. Audio editor is Aidan Lonergan. The producer is Joseph Knight. The senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.All music courtesy of Epidemic SoundsThe Ancients is a History Hit podcast.Sign up to History Hit for hundreds of hours of original documentaries, with a new release every week. Sign up at https://www.historyhit.com/subscribe. You can take part in our listener survey here:https://insights.historyhit.com/history-hit-podcast-always-on Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We would love to hear from you! Please send us your comments here. --------This Christmas, you can shine the light of Christ into places of darkness and pain with a purchase from the Joni and Friends Christmas catalog. You are sending hope and practical care to people with disabilities, all in the name of Jesus! Thank you for listening! Your support of Joni and Friends helps make this show possible. Joni and Friends envisions a world where every person with a disability finds hope, dignity, and their place in the body of Christ. Become part of the global movement today at www.joniandfriends.org. Find more encouragement on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube.

//The Wire//2300Z December 10, 2025////ROUTINE////BLUF: USA SEIZES TANKER VESSEL OFF COAST OF VENEZUELA. VANDALISM ATTACKS AND INCIDENTS REPORTED AT CHURCHES AND CHRISTMAS MARKETS AROUND EUROPE.// -----BEGIN TEARLINE------International Events-Caribbean: This afternoon the White House announced the seizure of a tanker vessel off the coast of Venezuela. No details were provided on the name or registration of the vessel yet, however President Trump stated that the operation was a joint venture between the US Coast Guard and the US Navy.-HomeFront-Washington D.C. - This morning President Trump's Gold Card program to sell US citizenship officially went live, with the White House stating at least one individual has successfully purchased entry into the program. -----END TEARLINE-----Analyst Comments: Several vandalism reports have been observed at various Nativity scenes at churches throughout Europe over the past few days as the general crackdown on Christianity continues during the Christmas season. In the U.K. this morning, several residents received letters informing them that Christmas decorations are banned at apartment buildings in Portsmouth, continuing the trend from years past. As one might expect, festivity operations are underway in Portsmouth, as residents put up the largest possible Christmas wreaths on their doors to openly defy this policy.Other than the tightening grip on Christianity in the form of local regulations, more kinetic incidents have also been reported. Last week, pro-Palestine protesters disrupted the opening of a Christmas Market in Vienna, targeting the Market with smoke devices and generally causing disruptions.Yesterday, Palestinian activists desecrated a Nativity in the old town district of Brussels. Graffiti was spray painted and various parts of the scene were damaged. This follows a major pro-Palestine protest disrupting the opening ceremony of the Christmas Market just a short distance away, also in Brussels. A little over a week ago, a more disturbing attack took place in Erbach, Germany where the Nativity featured in the town was a Living Nativity that hosted live animals for attendants to see. Two donkeys (Max and Lilly) were wounded by assailants who destroyed not only the Nativity itself, but also broke into a nearby church, causing damage there as well. A local who saw the donkeys being harmed intervened and halted the attack before the assailants egressed from the area. Max and Lilly survived the attack and have been relocated back to their farm to recover. The attackers have not been identified, however local reports assess that it was probably the same group of people who vandalized the nearby church, and also caused disruptions at the town Christmas Market, with all of these incidents taking place at around the same time. As such, if local police are interested in finding these attackers, it would not be hard to do so; they have conducted several different vandalism attacks in the same place at around the same time of day, several days in a row.More broadly, all of these incidents highlight the need for increased vigilance and awareness. It is true, we shouldn't have to live like this. But in the meantime (before more tough decisions are allowed to be made) this is the kind of thing we have to be aware of. It's not something to be downtrodden about either; on the contrary, now the average person has increasing opportunities to stop harm and do good things as the opposition becomes more plainly known. These problems won't be solved overnight, but with every passing day we all have the chance to do what we can to stop the harm from befalling the innocent. Even if it's just one (or two) donkeys at a time.Analyst: S2A1Research: https://publish.obsidian.md/s2undergroundDisclaimer: No LLMs were used in the writing of this report.//END REPORT//

"And when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, the baby leaped in her womb." In the quiet hill country of Judea, the first confession of faith in the New Testament is made not by a scholar, but by an unborn child in the presence of the Incarnate Lord. In part 4 of a special 12-part series connecting Old Testament prophecy to New Testament fulfillment, we witness the joyous meeting of Mary and Elizabeth. As the Holy Spirit fills the house, Mary bursts into song—the Magnificat—proclaiming a God who scatters the proud and lifts up the humble.  The Rev. Mark Loder, pastor of St. James Lutheran Church & School in Howard Lake, MN, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Luke 1:39–56.  To learn more about St. James Lutheran, visit stjameshl.org. This Advent series begins by covering the last Old Testament prophet, Malachi, and then spends twelve episodes alternating between Old Testament prophecy and New Testament fulfillment, tracing God's promises from Isaiah to the birth of Christ. The series explores Emmanuel's promise, the Davidic King, John the Baptist as forerunner, and reaches its climax with the Nativity. The final episodes examine the Suffering Servant, the shadow of the cross in Christ's infancy, Isaiah's Messianic mission statement, and John's declaration that "the Word became flesh."  Thy Strong Word, hosted by Rev. Dr. Phil Booe, pastor of St. John Lutheran Church of Luverne, MN, reveals the light of our salvation in Christ through study of God's Word, breaking our darkness with His redeeming light. Each weekday, two pastors fix our eyes on Jesus by considering Holy Scripture, verse by verse, in order to be strengthened in the Word and be equipped to faithfully serve in our daily vocations. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.

Faith Matters is a weekly podcast for the Messenger newsletter of the Basilica School of Saint Mary, which gets distributed to Basilica School families. It features Father Edward Hathaway, the rector of the Basilica. In this week's episode, he talks about the importance of joy as we celebrate the Third Sunday of Advent this weekend. Join us for festive refreshments and the Basilica Christmas Tree lighting, along with the singing of Christmas carols, in the Parish Courtyard at 6 p.m. this Sunday, December 14th, and then afterwards, at 7 p.m., for Lessons and Carols in the church. This Sunday is also Bambinelli Sunday. All are invited to bring the baby Jesus from your Nativity set to be blessed at all the Masses, including the Saturday 5 p.m. Vigil Mass.  Coming up: Food donations for less fortunate Alexandria families can be dropped off on Thursday evening, December 18th, or Friday, December 19th, during the day in our Lyceum, as part of the Basilica's Christmas Dinner Basket Program. Click here for more information.   

In this episode, host Lynne Hilton Wilson uncovers little-known details of the Nativity story by bringing together the unique accounts found in the books of Luke and Matthew. Dive deeper into Luke's intimate portrait of Mary—her lineage, her spiritual preparation, the symbolism of her “highly favored” calling, and the cultural realities she faced as a young mother in ancient Judea. Then explore Matthew's distinctive focus on Joseph—his royal Davidic heritage, his revelatory dreams, his quiet strength, and the legal and spiritual responsibilities he carried in protecting the Holy Family. Lynne illuminates how these two perspectives weave together a richer, more complete tapestry of the birth of Christ. This episode goes beyond the familiar Christmas narrative to highlight historical context, overlooked verses, and surprising insights that reveal the faith, courage, and divine guidance surrounding Jesus's arrival into the world. Perfect for viewers looking to deepen their understanding of the Nativity and appreciate the beauty in both Mary's and Joseph's stories.

Herod the Great was often not-so-great, but the discovery and excavation of his tomb has revealed much we didn't previously know. World renowned archaeologist and professor Dr. Jodi Magness weighs in.Dr. Magness' 2-part lectureVIDEO of this conversationBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/thethinkingatheist--3270347/support.

Dan kicks off a new three part series with a retelling of the biblical tale of Mary, Joseph and the whole Gospel-featuring Nativity crew, asking questions about why they say what they say - why sometimes they agree, and sometimes they disagree.  In this first episode we meet a peasant girl called Mary who gets jump scared by an angel and thereafter has quite a lot of information to get her head around. First on the list is learning she's pregnant despite being a virgin and having to explain this fact to her carpenter husband… Want to delve deeper? Become a This Is History Royal Favourite subscriber on Patreon. You get ad free listening, exclusive behind the scenes videos, and a weekly bonus episode. On this week's bonus episode, Dan and resident Nativity expert Professor Helen Bond take a forensic lens to Nativity story's authors: Luke, Matthew, and a James that history forgot. Listen to that episode here: patreon.com/thisishistory – A Sony Music Entertainment production.  Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts  To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com  Learn more about your ad choices.  Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices  Written and presented by Dan Jones  Producer - Alan Weedon  Senior Producer - Dominic Tyerman Executive Producer - Simon Poole  Production Manager - Jen Mistri  Production coordinator: Eric Ryan  Mixing - Amber Devereux Head of content – Chris Skinner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices