Podcasts about No Place Like Home

May 17,2026

Is your home a place of peace or just a place you pass through? Pastor Jeff Schreve uses Deuteronomy 6 to reveal how God builds homes filled with love, stability, and spiritual life. He reminds parents that children are a priceless gift and that the tone of the home starts with their walk with God. This episode speaks to both the beauty and the weight of parenting. Lean in and discover how your home can become the place everyone longs to be.

Sixtysomething_S3_Episode 1 – There's No Place Like Home…Except Maybe Las VegasIn this episode of Sixtysometing, I'm sharing what's ahead for Season 3 of Sixtysomething—and why I believe this may be our most meaningful season yet.This year, we're diving into heartfelt conversations about friendship, family, creativity, reinvention, adult children, grandparenting, loneliness, marriage, purpose, and the emotional realities of this stage of life. We'll also be talking about practical and inspiring topics like starting businesses after 60, creating meaningful legacy projects, preserving family stories and photos, and finding new ways to express ourselves creatively through writing, collage, journaling, podcasting, and more.We'll explore everything from AI artwork and storytelling to the bigger emotional and ethical questions many of us are asking about technology and the future.I'll also be introducing a brand-new Sixtysomething Book Club, revisiting some favorite topics from Seasons 1 and 2, and sharing more personal reflections and listener-centered conversations along the way.Most of all, this season is about staying curious, connected, creative, hopeful, and engaged with life—because there is still so much ahead of us.I'm so glad you're here for Season 3.You'll Hear in This EpisodeWhat inspired the direction of Season 3New themes and topics coming this yearWhy creativity matters after 60Conversations about adult children, friendship, and connectionHow AI can help with creativity and everyday lifeThe new Sixtysomething Book ClubRevisiting some favorite topics from earlier seasonsWhy reinvention doesn't end at a certain age* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *Hey Friends! It's me, Grace! I just want to thank you for listening. I hope you'll let me know what you think about the podcast and if any particular episodes resonate with you.Listed just below here is my contact information and all of the social channels where you can find me, as well as the link to our Facebook Group. Contact InfoGrace Taylor SegalEmail: grace@gracetaylorsegal.comFacebook: 60something Page(https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61553062496332)Instagram: @60somethingpodFacebook Group: 60Something Podhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/1665326354000332RESOURCES6LINKSSixtysomething Podcast - Episode - - NOTEShttps://drive.google.com/file/d/1kfJIQ6uvPYy2zkjoQE7yT9g6eDZa7FEO/view?usp=sharingCreditsSixtysomething Theme SongMusic & lyrics by Lizzy SanfordVocals by Lizzy SanfordGuitar: Lizzy & Coco SanfordTo Leave a Review: On Apple Podcasts (no link is available--here are the steps)Open the Apple Podcasts app.Search for the podcast you want to review.Select the podcast show page (not an individual episode).Scroll to the bottom of the page.Click "Write a Review".On the Sixtysomething Podcast Websitehttps://www.sixtysomething.net/reviews/new/Thank you so much for taking the time to review the show!Timestamps:00:00 Welcome and Introduction03:15 What's Ahead in Season 308:40 Friendship, Family & Connection14:10 Creativity, Legacy & Reinvention20:05 AI, Technology & Staying Curious26:40 Introducing the Sixtysomething Book Club29:15 Final Thoughts & Looking Ahead

Balancing work and homelife can be a difficult challenge for many women, which is why moms need our support. Janet Parshall shares more in her commentary this week.Become a Parshall Partner: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/inthemarket/partnersSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Yes it's Homestays week and the couples trek off to see what their lives would be like in the real world. and there are no end of laughs to be had as we watch David meet a giant billboard of his wife at the airport, Chris and Dave fail to talk amongst the cows and Gia lose her shit over a travel pillow. So join Lara and Jan to pick apart the week!

Is Canada's housing market in a correction? One economist thinks so – for a variety of reasons. Our housing market posted its weakest quarter in three years, with home sales down nearly 10 per cent compared to the previous period - according to the Canadian Real Estate Association. And rates are not likely to change anytime soon but that's only part of the story. Host Kris McCusker speaks to David-Alexandre Brassard, Chief Economist at the Chartered Professional Accountants of Canada, for his take on what's contributing to the stall and why come government programs won't really help. Do you have a topic that's confounding you in this economy? We'll be happy to dig into it for you and get you the answers you need. Email us at: rogerspodcastnetwork@rci.rogers.com. Thank you for listening!

Jessica Barrett's new book “No Place Like Home” provides an honest glimpse into Canada's housing crisis.   Host Jacob Shymanski chats with Jessica about the issues of housing affordability and the lessons Canada can take away from other countries.   She also reflects on her own housing experiences and explains the missing key to Canada's housing crisis: understanding the meaning of home.   This episode was produced by Andrika De Lanerolle.  Audiobook Café is broadcast on AMI-audio in Canada and publishes two new podcast episodes a week on Fridays and Saturdays at 1 p.m. ET. Follow Audiobook Café on Instagram @AMIAudiobookCafe We want your feedback!Be that comments, suggestions, hot-takes, audiobook recommendations or reviews of your own… hit us up! Our email address is: AudiobookCafe@ami.ca About AMIAMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+Learn more at AMI.caConnect with Accessible Media Inc. online:X /Twitter @AccessibleMediaInstagram @AccessibleMediaInc / @AMI-audioFacebook at @AccessibleMediaIncTikTok @AccessibleMediaInc Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Send us Fan MailIn the recent Artemis II mission, astronauts captured an iconic photo and although they were surrounded by the very cosmos... their hearts and their comments were about: our amazing HOME!! We were made to long for Home, because God longs - PASSIONATELY - for His home also... He longs to make His Home in and with us!! Join us Sunday morning as Pastor Michael shares the heart of our amazing God who dwells with us.

Dive deep into one of television's most ambitious finales in this episode, where we unpack all three parts of Lost Season 4's explosive conclusion, “There's No Place Like Home.” From the chaos of the freighter to the emotional reunions and shocking twists of the Oceanic Six, we break down how the episode masterfully weaves together on-island survival with off-island consequences.We explore the shifting alliances, the true motives behind the rescue mission, and the haunting introduction of the “flash-forward” structure that redefines everything we thought we knew about the characters' fates. Along the way, we analyze standout performances, key symbolism, and the lingering mysteries that set the stage for the show's endgame.Whether you're revisiting the series or experiencing it for the first time, this episode offers insight, theories, and a fresh perspective on one of Lost's most unforgettable turning points. Be sure to tune in two weeks for Season 5, and be sure to always keep coming back for more #talkintvpodcast

In this episode of Podgap, we explore the concept of “home” — not merely as a physical space, but as a source of identity, memory, and emotional connection.While many of us experience a sense of comfort when returning home after a short trip, this feeling takes on deeper meaning for those who have lived abroad for many years.Today, we examine why some individuals choose to return to their homeland even in challenging or uncertain times and what drives this enduring attachment to the place where their roots lie. Through conversation and personal stories, we seek to understand how the idea of home continues to shape our sense of belonging.We host a new Podgap meeting the day after each episode is published. All Patreon members are welcome to join! Even free members can participate. Visit www.patreon.com/podgap to receive the Google Meet details.***If Podgap makes your Persian learning journey easier and more enjoyable, share it with your friends — it truly means the world to us!We'd also love to hear from you: drop us a message anytime at podgapp@gmail.comWant to dive deeper? By joining us on Patreon.com/podgap

Shownotes can be found on our blog at cogknitivepodcast.blogspot.com and also on our group on Ravelry.

Hey guys on this episode I talk about my recent road trip and going through the middle of the country and what's the deal with Kansas?#roadtripIntro: @victorespada_Outro: stock audio

As the Artemis II crew prepares for their high-stakes return to Earth, the focus shifts to the complex engineering and strategic phases required to safely bring astronauts home from deep space. NASA astronaut and Navy Commander Matthew Dominick joins to explain the physics of the "skip entry" maneuver used to shed extreme heat and the transition from a spacecraft to an aircraft and, finally, into a boat upon splashdown. Matthew shares his perspective on how these current milestones act as vital building blocks for Artemis III and the long-term vision of establishing a permanent base on the lunar surface. Author James Patterson has been known for his storytelling, but his latest mission is personal. As the son of a teacher, he joins guest host Dana Perino to discuss his new book, Thank You, Teachers, and why he calls educators America's "last line of defense." They dive into the alarming literacy statistics facing U.S. students, the "secret sauce" for getting kids to read at grade level, plus, why he believes we must treat our educators with the same respect as military heroes. PLUS, commentary by Jason Rantz , Seattle Red radio talk host PHOTO CREDIT: ASSOCIATED PRESS Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As the Artemis II crew prepares for their high-stakes return to Earth, the focus shifts to the complex engineering and strategic phases required to safely bring astronauts home from deep space. NASA astronaut and Navy Commander Matthew Dominick joins to explain the physics of the "skip entry" maneuver used to shed extreme heat and the transition from a spacecraft to an aircraft and, finally, into a boat upon splashdown. Matthew shares his perspective on how these current milestones act as vital building blocks for Artemis III and the long-term vision of establishing a permanent base on the lunar surface. Author James Patterson has been known for his storytelling, but his latest mission is personal. As the son of a teacher, he joins guest host Dana Perino to discuss his new book, Thank You, Teachers, and why he calls educators America's "last line of defense." They dive into the alarming literacy statistics facing U.S. students, the "secret sauce" for getting kids to read at grade level, plus, why he believes we must treat our educators with the same respect as military heroes. PLUS, commentary by Jason Rantz , Seattle Red radio talk host PHOTO CREDIT: ASSOCIATED PRESS Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As the Artemis II crew prepares for their high-stakes return to Earth, the focus shifts to the complex engineering and strategic phases required to safely bring astronauts home from deep space. NASA astronaut and Navy Commander Matthew Dominick joins to explain the physics of the "skip entry" maneuver used to shed extreme heat and the transition from a spacecraft to an aircraft and, finally, into a boat upon splashdown. Matthew shares his perspective on how these current milestones act as vital building blocks for Artemis III and the long-term vision of establishing a permanent base on the lunar surface. Author James Patterson has been known for his storytelling, but his latest mission is personal. As the son of a teacher, he joins guest host Dana Perino to discuss his new book, Thank You, Teachers, and why he calls educators America's "last line of defense." They dive into the alarming literacy statistics facing U.S. students, the "secret sauce" for getting kids to read at grade level, plus, why he believes we must treat our educators with the same respect as military heroes. PLUS, commentary by Jason Rantz , Seattle Red radio talk host PHOTO CREDIT: ASSOCIATED PRESS Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Eggcellent Food Safety: Keeping Easter Fresh and FunWith the arrival of spring and warmer weather, many people start to think about the upcoming lineup of holidays, including Easter. Some people join friends or family for a big meal and hiding eggs, while others enjoy going out to eat for their celebrations. No matter the plan, make sure that all Easter foods follow the proper safety guidelines.Cooking at HomeWhen cooking an Easter meal at home, the following are important things to remember:Keep it clean. Wash your hands before preparing food and in between different kitchen tasks. Use clean cooking equipment, including tools and countertops.Keep cold foods at an internal food temperature of 41 degrees F or less. Also, keep hot foods at an internal temperature of 140 degrees F or greater.Check temperatures with a food thermometer. Ensure that the thermometer works properly by putting it in ice or boiling water. It should read 32 degrees F and 212 degrees F, respectively.Make sure hot foods are fully cooked to the minimum recommended temperature for that food item. Find recommendations in the publication, HE-0733, There's No Place Like Home for Food Safety.If foods cannot be kept at the correct internal temperatures, limit the time that you serve that food to 2 hours. After then, throw the food away. Do not keep them for leftovers.For more information about keeping it safe at home, see the Extension Brief, Host Guests, Not Bacteria: Simple Food Safety Tips For Entertaining at aces.edu.Easter EggsIt is fun to decorate and hide Easter eggs, but there are a few safety tips to keep in mind.Before decorating, inspect eggs for cracks and cleanliness.Store raw and boiled eggs in the refrigerator.When cooking, cooling, dyeing, and even hiding eggs, wash your hands with soap and water before and after handling the eggs.Consider using plastic eggs for hiding, particularly if the event will take more than 2 hours from the time the eggs would have left refrigeration.If you choose to hide boiled eggs, avoid hiding them in areas where they might come in contact with pets, wild animals, birds, reptiles, insects, lawn chemicals, or other potential sources of bacteria or other contaminants.Discard any cracked or dirty eggs, as well as ones that have been out of refrigeration for more than 2 hours.Rinse uncracked eggs that have been out of refrigeration for less than 2 hours, and put them back in the refrigerator to eat up to 1 week later.If you are using fresh-from-the-flock eggs, find recommendations on how to wash and care for them in the publication, ANR-2642, Enhancing Egg Quality & Safety in Small Flocks.Out to EatIn the restaurant, you should see one or more food safety training certificates on display as you enter the establishment. The Alabama Extension Food Safety and Quality team teaches one of these certifications, ServSafe for Managers. That certificate is usually white and blue. The ServSafe training is a comprehensive class where participants are taught and tested on microbiological, chemical, and physical contamination. To learn more about the scoring system, or to see what your favorite restaurant's score is, visit www.alabamapublichealth.gov/foodscores/system.html.

It's just over a month out from our big show at the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool. Headline act Callum Smith talks his big fight against David Morrell that holds World Title ramifications whilst Molly McCann returns to the arena for the first time since 2018 and big ticket seller 9-0 Ste Clarke continues his development. Hear from the three fighters at a Media Day in town. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

To learn more about Cross Points, check out our website:http://crosspointschurch.comTo stay up to date, check out our social media:Instagram: @crosspointskcFacebook: Cross Points ChurchYoutube: CrossPointsKC

Send a textSome spaces feel calm, clear, and easy to move through. Others quietly drain your energy without you even realizing it. In this episode of the Design + Living Well series, Sheri explores why certain environments support well-being while others create friction that makes everyday life feel harder than it needs to be.In this episode, you'll discover:• How clutter and disorganization increase decision fatigue and mental load• Why sensory input in your home affects your nervous system and energy• How layout and flow influence how easily you move through daily routines• Why simplicity in design makes healthy choices easier to sustain"A disorganized space doesn't just look messy. It generates decisions."Listen in and start noticing how your space may be shaping your well-being.If you enjoyed this episode, you might also like:Episode 58: Beyond Aesthetics: Designing a Healthy Home EnvironmentEpisode 47: Third Spaces: A Design Approach to Your Health and Well-BeingEpisode 81: Stop Doing All the Things: A Simpler Path to Sustainable Wellness_____________________________________________________________________________________________SHOW NOTES:Book: Life at Home in the Twenty-First Century: 32 Families Open Their Doors by Jeanne E. Arnold, Anthony Graesch, Enzo Ragazzini, and Elinor Ochs. Published by UCLA's Cotsen Institute of Archaeology Press, 2012.The cortisol study: Specific cortisol findings came from a related paper by Darby Saxbe and Rena Repetti titled "No Place Like Home," which used linguistic analysis of those home tours to show that women who described their homes as cluttered had flatter cortisol slopes. A pattern associated with adverse health outcomes. PubMed That paper is available on P

Send a textEpisode 322  There's No Place Like Home WaterIn this episode I am joined by my wife Emma and our dog Montana for a morning on our home water, the Taw, in Devon.We talk about some of the times we have experienced here and share stories of fish we have caught.We didn't plan to do a podcast but thought it might be fun to take you fishing, explain a little about where we're fishing and what it means to us.

When Jesus returned to his hometown, even those closest to him struggled to believe.In today's episode, we continue our sermon series from the archives, The Gospel According to Mark, as Paul explores the roots of belief and unbelief and challenges us to ask whether our own hearts resemble Jesus' family more than we'd like to admit.To hear more sermons from Paul, visit PaulTripp.com/Sermons.

No Place Like Home ep 506  Aired November 7th, 2000  IMDB Summary  When relatives arrive in Sunnydale, to celebrate her birthday, Tara uses a magic spell on her friends to keep them from learning her "secret." Meanwhile, Glory unleashes a horde of demons to hunt down Buffy.  Directed by: Joss Whedon Written By: Joss Whedon, Rebecca Kirshner  Connect with us  Instagram www.instagram.com/themistergordo_pod  Tik Tok @themistergordopodcast Email themistergordopod@gmail.com

...So then Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God, Romans 10:17 (KJV)

No Place Like Home ep 505  Aired October 24, 2000  IMDB Summary  Buffy learns more about Dawn after she discovers a mysterious orb linked to a group of monks being pursued by an incredibly powerful force.  Directed by: Douglas Solomon Written By: Douglas Petrie, Rebecca Kirshner   Connect with us  Instagram www.instagram.com/themistergordo_pod  Tik Tok @themistergordopodcast Email themistergordopod@gmail.com

Each Wednesday, we discuss an older entertainment property, and currently, that's Lost. In the final two hours of season 4, the Oceanic Six finally, officially, leave the island. The island also leaves its former location, and Ben beats it, too, leaving Locke in charge. But we also know that that won't last forever. So, a lot to come in seasons 5 and 6. Next week, we'll continue with season 5, episode 1, "Because You Left." We'll be back tomorrow with our weekly roundup.

Here's what we're reading, recommending, and revisiting this week.Catherine's library find is the universe of graphic novels for kids. In addition to mainstays such as Pokémon, Captain Underpants, and Dog Man, you can find beloved series like Magic Tree House and Baby-Sitters Club in graphic novel format, along with classics including Pride and Prejudice. Also mentioned: Cobble Street Cousins series, Nancy Drew: Girl Detective.​Terri's random recommendation is geological (and meteorological) entities on social media, because they're a lot more fun than humans are. She suggests: the San Andreas Fault, Mt. St. Helens, the Atlantic Ocean, Lake Tahoe, Karl the Fog from San Francisco. Mentioned: Library humor on Instagram, like a game of James Patterson Go Fish.In the archives, we checked in on an episode from 2020 on parenting points challenges.Next week's lineup:Shrinking S3 E2, "Happiness Mission," on Tuesday, February 10Lost S4 E13/14, "There's No Place Like Home," parts 2 and 3, on Wednesday, February 11Weekly roundup on Thursday, February 12Until then (and anytime you're in need), the archives are available.

Each Wednesday, we discuss an older entertainment property, and currently, that's Lost. This episode kicks off the three-part season finale. The Oceanic Six are scattered from beach to jungle to freighter, with a very quiet baby in tow. However will they manage to get off the island?Next week, we'll endeavor to find out in season 4, episodes 13 and 14, "There's No Place Like Home, Parts 2 and 3." We'll be back tomorrow with our weekly roundup.

This week on Lost Terminal: Lyosha starts a new hobby, Arctica makes a discovery, and Seth schedules a meeting.Lost Terminal will return next week!

Are you struggling to overcome betrayal or broken trust? We'll help you discover the path toward healing and reconciliation. r. Greg and Lisa will help you solve your problems with relevant, relatable and achievable tools and solutions straight from the genius of the Theology of the Body.

Tired of having the same old arguments over and over? We'll help you wake up to a new day and create lasting change. Dr. Greg and Lisa will help you solve your problems with relevant, relatable and achievable tools and solutions straight from the genius of the Theology of the Body.

Here's what we're reading, recommending, and revisiting this week.Catherine's library find is a parenting book. Its title caught her eye, but it's not necessarily what it seems (who woulda thought?). That title is Just Do Nothing (for Parents): How to Parent Better By Doing Less by Joanna Hardis.​Terri's random recommendation is not to do nothing, but instead to pray regularly. The Prayminder app is helping her do that. Like an Apple Watch for the soul, it issues reminders to keep you on track.In the archives, we checked in on an episode from 2019 on snow days, which are themselves becoming a thing of the past.Next week's lineup:Shrinking S3 E1, "My Bad," on Tuesday, February 3Lost S4 E12, "There's No Place Like Home," on Wednesday, February 4Weekly roundup on Thursday, February 5Until then (and anytime you're in need), the archives are available.

Marty and Kristine open the show talking about home and new Steelers head coach Mike McCarthy

Each Tuesday, we discuss an older entertainment property, and currently, that's Lost. What made Locke the way he is, you ask? Well, you'll find out in this episode, and encounter some creepy characters from the island and its orbit along the way.Next week, we'll adjust our schedule a bit and continue with season 4, episode 12, "There's No Place Like Home, Part 1" on Wednesday. Tomorrow, we'll discuss a newer show, season 2 of A Man on the Inside.This episode was recorded before a live studio audience ... of dogs.

Send us a textThis week the ABINGERS return with their first film review of the new year! We are reviewing the musical Wicked for Good. This time we brought Brandon along to watch both Wicked movies to give us his thoughts as well.Does part two of the movie live up to the first? What were our thoughts on the overall story and songs? As well as the original songs No Place Like Home and The Girl in the Bubble?It's the first movie review of 2026, hell has frozen over because it's a musical. Tune in for the review, stay for the laughs, and enjoy our review and "analysis" of one of the most anticipated movies of last year. We hope you enjoy.To support the show, head over to our Patreon at Patreon.com/ABINGERSPodcast!Thanks for tuning in!The ABINGERSSupport the show

Does the family life you're longing for seem far over the rainbow? We're here to help…no ruby slippers required. Dr. Greg and Lisa will help you solve your problems with relevant, relatable and achievable tools and solutions straight from the genius of the Theology of the Body.

No Place Like Home: A Spirit Message Just for You with Lauren Grace Here's your spirit message of the day ✨ In this mini-episode of The Afterlight Podcast with Lauren Grace, Lauren draws the card No Place Like Home from Colette Baron-Reid's Wisdom of the Oracle deck and channels its meaning just for you. What if the answers you're searching for aren't “out there”… but already within? Tune in for intuitive guidance, grounded insights, and a gentle reminder to come back home—to yourself. Feeling untethered, uncertain, or just craving clarity?This message might be exactly what your soul ordered. Listen now and see what resonates. ----more---- Welcome to The Afterlight Podcast with Lauren Grace, a spiritual podcast full of stories and conversations that prove we're never alone. Lauren Grace, host of The Afterlight Podcast, is a high-impact coach and medium dedicated to helping professionals deepen their connection to their soul so they can experience more freedom, fulfillment, and purpose.   The Afterlight Podcast with Lauren Grace aims to inspire and educate. Remember, you are the authority on your own life. While we encourage you to take what resonates, we also urge you to do your own research and consult with qualified professionals for advice on your personal situation. The opinions shared by guests are their own, and any advice by our guests or Lauren Grace is not a substitute for professional guidance.   Connect with Lauren Grace, Lauren Grace Inspirations: Lauren on Social: @LaurenGraceInspirations Website: laurengraceinspirations.com Want to work with Lauren? Book a Free Discovery Call Free Offers: laurengraceinspirations.com/freeoffers   The Afterlight Podcast: The Afterlight Podcast on Social: @theafterlightpodcast To be a guest, apply here: theafterlightpodcast.com Sign up for our newsletter: laurengraceinspirations.com/contact   Disclaimer: Lauren Grace, Lauren Grace Inspirations, and The Afterlight Podcast are not licensed counselors, medical professionals, or financial advisors. Any information or advice provided during the Podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical, legal, financial, or psychiatric advice. Always seek the advice of qualified professionals regarding any specific questions or concerns you may have.

Luke 15:11-32 - No Place Like Home |  Series: No Place Like Home for Christmas |  Hayden Gilliam, Student Minister |  Preached 12-28-25 4:00pm   Tag: Christmas Eve, Advent, Nativity, Manger, Baby, Jesus, Holiday, Music, Prodigal, Son, Father, Return, Restore, Runaway, Restore, Return, Reaction, Redemption, Pigs, Run, Mess, Disciple, Brother

Christmas Eve – December 24, 2025; May God's words be spoken, may God's words be heard.  Amen. This is the most wonderful time of the year, or so we are told by Johnny Mathis and others.  It really is though, even if the turkey didn't thaw out in time, the kids are hyped up on sugar and dreams of Santa Claus, and the in-laws are about to send you to a therapist's couch.  Yet sometimes when we think about Christmas, we get caught up in the Hallmark version of it – the lights, the carols, the cookies, and the gifts, that when we hear the story of that first Christmas, whether here at church or from Linus in A Charlie Brown Christmas, it seems so far away from who we are that we lose sight of what it means for us.  But the thing is, this story isn't as foreign to our lived reality as we sometimes make it – and that knowledge helps us to see something we need to know now.  The author of Luke, from where Linus and we get the birth story we usually hear on Christmas Eve, sets the scene for us in the midst of human history – it was when a certain ruler was in charge and had commanded a census of “all the world.” Now, just for context, things were difficult in those days – they were indeed a people who walked in darkness (though the prophet Isaiah was speaking about an earlier time).  The empire's taxes were hard, and most labored for their own food.  Poverty was crushing most of the people, while a small elite profited off of them and lived lavishly.  And there was political unrest caused by an appointed ruler, Herod, a larger than life sort, who the people  viewed with suspicion because of his ties to the empire.  This is the setting into which God chooses to enter, and there is a lot we can all resonate with in it to be sure – but more on that later. Back to the story itself – this census moves Mary and Joseph from Nazareth to Bethlehem, a journey of nearly 100 miles (with no trains, planes, or automobiles to get them there).  It also likely meant a lot of others were making similar journeys, so as the song goes – there may be No Place Like Home for the holidays, but the traffic really is terrific!  And then there is the problem of trying to find places to stay along the way.  I have to wonder if Joseph and Mary made their place in Nazareth an Air B&B, given all the folks traveling in the opposite direction. At any rate, all that travel must sound familiar to a lot of folks today who stood in long TSA lines, navigated bumper to bumper traffic, or was trying to figure out where to put everybody who made it home for the holidays.  Add to all of that is the fact that Mary is very pregnant!  Lordy – that's gotta be a tough trip. So, back to our Holy Family – they get to Bethlehem, and there is “no room for them in the inn.” Now, that may mean Joe forgot to make reservations (you know that meant a big argument later – right?).  But it wasn't like they had to go to a barn somewhere on the property.  Likely, because other guests already took over the host family's guest rooms, it was sort of like telling them they had to sleep on the old lumpy sofa in the unfinished basement. Homes in those days had a lower level where animals were brought in for the night and in cold weather.  That is where the host family had to send Mary and Joseph.  If you can imagine that for a moment – it means the house was filled with people – all there for the census taking one supposes.  That is a made for  Hallmark crazy time moment for sure, that many of you here likely know far too well.  And for this couple, who already had a lot going on, sleeping among the animals may have been the most peaceful part of their days – a respite from upstairs where perhaps Joe's crazy Uncle Roy was getting into it with Grandma Lucy, who had a bit too much eggnog.  At least the animals aren't likely to break out into a fight over politics.  From the animals point of view though, this was a nightmare. I mean, first this couple comes down, takes over two of their beds of hay, and dang it – then they have a baby (what a noisy mess) and worse – they put that little human on their food in their manger – yuk!  The animals were probably like – What the heck!  And as for the birth, you know that was crazy time at the OK Corral.  Women upstairs likely came down to help, making things a bit crowded; and birth scenes, even for the virtuous like Mary, are typically not quiet events, despite what the hymn says.  Giving birth then, and even today is joyous and noisy.  Sadly, it is also dangerous – for both the mother and the child.  And after all that – shepherds arrive to tell them that angels appeared in the sky and confirming what the angel had said to Mary at the beginning of this journey.  No wonder she pondered it all in her heart – before nodding off for a much needed nap. What a wild family story this probably became over the years, right?  I mean, can you imagine on the 10th Christmas, somebody saying – Hey Joe and Mary, remember that crazy year of the census?  And them saying back “Lordy what a time that was” as Joe grabs another eggnog and Mary chases Jesus and his siblings away from the presents. Seriously though – that was the Luke story.  Filled with very human stress, joy, and a bit of craziness – and all wrapped up in love.  The Matthew story was much less chaotic, but far more dangerous.  Mary was pregnant, but she and Joseph were engaged, not married – which in those days, and in some parts of the world today – means danger for Mary and her unborn child.  In a dream, Joseph is told by an angel not to discard her, but to marry her as planned.  After the baby is born, a few wise people from the East come to their house (with very impractical and odd gifts).  Then, Joseph has another dream where an angel tells him that King Herod is out to kill Jesus.  So ,the Holy Family become refugees.  They flee the danger in their homeland, cross over the border into Egypt, and stay there until Herod dies.  Thankfully for most, this story in Matthew is not as familiar to their Christmas gatherings as the one in the Gospel of Luke.  But it is to many in this country now, who fled from danger in their home countries, often with children and just the clothes on their backs, to come here for safety.  To them, this flight to Egypt is very familiar. So, if we really take in the story we celebrate tonight we may just find a place for ourselves in its familiarity.  Sure, we don't ride donkeys generally (although how cool would that be – well, except not from the donkey's perspective, I suppose).  We don't trudge for miles on all dirt roads (even if in NJ it feels that way), have farm animals on the first floor of our house, or have to travel for our government census (they kinda frown on that). And we don't typically see choirs of angels singing, have shepherds coming over with strange news, people bearing odd gifts knocking on our door, or an awe inspiring astrological phenomenon shining in the sky above (which I can guarantee meant that it was cloudy over New Jersey that first Christmas night, as it always is when there is something cool to see).   No, we don't have any of that on our Christmas to do or see list, but then again, it is not those things that matter anyway.  What makes this birth we celebrate so important to remember is the rest of it.  God chose to enter into the world through relationships of love – the love of parents for their newborn child, of a young couple starting their life together, of family, friends, and neighbors gathering in likely too small a space but somehow making it work.  This birth, that changed the world forever, begins among family relationships that are messy and wonderful all at the same time, and amid moments when we feel exhausted or lonely even in a crowd (as it must have felt for Mary, Joseph, or the shepherds sometimes). It is in the mundane, the mess, the fear, the joy, the hurt, and the longing – the ever day ordinariness and sometimes craziness of human existence – that God comes – choosing to connect heaven and earth in the form of a vulnerable baby, born to world weary parents, in a humble setting, amid a chaotic family gathering, to a people who walked in darkness.  Today we too are a people who walk in darkness – the deep night of bigotry and hate, oppressive governmental leaders, marginalized people, poverty and loneliness, violence and war. And here's the thing, we who live in a land of deep darkness, need to remember most of all this night – Jesus is being born now too, and we have a part to play in that birth.  Long ago, God chose Mary because God knew she had the courage to say Yes to that call, the faith to trust the Holy Spirit even when things got crazy, and the will to bring Jesus into a world in need.  And God chooses us to do the same now.  You, and you, and you, all you-all, are not spectators this night.  You are a part of the story.  The story that is happening now. You are the one God now calls to bring the light of Christ's love into the darkness.  You are the one that needs to trust the Holy Spirit amid the insanity of this time and place. You may not see angels flying around in the sky, or shepherds knocking at your door in the middle of the night, but you are meant to be a part of this story nonetheless.  You are meant to be Mary – bearers of Christ to those who walk in darkness. We all are. And perhaps Mary's need to ponder all of it in her heart makes a lot more sense to us now.  It is a lot to think about – more than whether the tie you got for your dad was a good idea or not.  Because while the gifts we give at Christmas will someday be put away and forgotten, this gift – to be Mary – to carry Christ's light within us, give birth to his love for the sake of others, nurture him in the world – it is the gift of a lifetime – and the call we all have.  And perhaps like her, we may be wondering: Why me? Why would God come into this crazy world at this time and place? Will I be able to do what God is asking me to do, and will it really matter? And when you need to ponder that, come here among your parish family, where you will be given what you need for your life journey, just as Mary was so long ago.  Remember that when she became pregnant as the Archangel Gabriel told her, she traveled to her cousin Elizabeth, who affirmed her call.  Here is where you too can take a moment from the busy-ness of the world to come among family and be affirmed about your life and in your call. The story of Christmas – of the birth of Jesus – is our story – of God active in our lives and in the world.  It reminds us that mystery and wonder abounds even in chaos, that healing and restoration come with humility and grace, that God's great love appears in the most unexpected ways, and bursts into our ordinary lives to bring freedom and justice for the oppressed, and to proclaim for all to hear that everyone is a beloved child of God – no exceptions.  And perhaps most especially, that God chooses us to help bring this all about. God chooses us to be Mary – bearers of Christ into the world. So let us all have a Mary Christmas!  M-A-R-Y and the other kind too. For then we may one day truly see peace on earth, and good will for all.  Merry Christmas Everyone! For the audio, click below, or subscribe to our iTunes Sermon Podcast by clicking here (also available on Audible): Sermon Podcast https://christchurchepiscopal.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Rec-001-Sermon-Christmas_Eve-11pm.m4a The Rev. Diana L. Wilcox Christ Church in Bloomfield & Glen Ridge December 24, 2025 Christmas Eve 1st Reading – Isaiah 9:2-7 Psalm 96 2nd Reading – Titus 2:11-14 Gospel – Luke 2:1-20     The post “Ponder This” appeared first on Christ Episcopal Church.

This Christmas, learn how Jesus led us out of darkness and into the light. Just like Moses before him, Jesus entered the darkness to save us, but he offers something even greater: freedom from sin and the promise that we are truly loved by the Light of the world.

When Jesus came into history, the world was turbulent and troubled. It was controversial, chaotic, and crazy. It's messy and maddening. Today, the Christmas season can still be hectic and hurried, but in the midst of the mess, we are reminded that Christ came to bring us a type of joy that should far outlast the season and overcome our circumstances.

When the Christmas season feels more like chaos than comfort, how do we find peace? In this episode of Continuing the Conversation, Craig and Abbey Davis dive into the unexpected parts of the Christmas story—messy moments, difficult decisions, and God's presence in it all. Hear a real-life story of redemption in the middle of a car accident, unpack the tension between the law and grace, and explore why redemption often feels harder—but is always better—than rescue. Whether you're carrying your own mess or walking through someone else's, this episode is for you. Whether you're feeling stuck, unseen, or just tired, this episode offers a fresh reminder: Your mess is part of God's message. 

Learn how real peace isn't found in perfect circumstances but in God's presence right in the middle of our mess.

Send me a one-way text about this episode! I'll give you a shout out or answer your question on a future episode.In today's episode I am bringing you a reflection from former guest and writer, Jeanette Rath, a young homemaker disenchanted with the commercial trappings and hustle of our culture's version of Christmas. It's in the sacrificial love of the home where her joy and hope in the season are restored. And I have another essay of mine for you to cap off our 2025 season of Advent reflections. So, enjoy these short little stories as you do some christmas shopping or deck the halls.NOTES & RESOURCES:FREE 2025 Daily Advent Guide: theartofhomepodcast.com/christmasCompanion Blog Post with Full Articles, "There's No Place Like Home for the Holidays" and "The Greatest of These is Love"Other Episodes featuring Today's WritersJeanette Rath's Homemaker Portrait, S7:E2Support the showHOMEMAKING RESOURCES Private Facebook Group, Homemaker Forum Newsletter Archive JR Miller's Homemaking Study Guide SUPPORT & CONNECT Review | Love The Podcast Contact | Voicemail |Instagram | Facebook | Website | Email Follow | Follow The Podcast Support | theartofhomepodcast.com/support **Buy | as an Amazon affiliate, AoH receives a small commission at no extra cost to you when you use our links to purchase items we recommend

Linktree: ⁠https://linktr.ee/Analytic⁠Join The Normandy For Additional Bonus Audio And Visual Content For All Things Nme+! Join Here: ⁠https://ow.ly/msoH50WCu0K⁠ Analytic Dreamz delivers an in-depth segment on Wicked: For Good, dropping worldwide November 21, 2025. Dive into the two brand-new original songs written by Stephen Schwartz: Cynthia Erivo's haunting “No Place Like Home” and Ariana Grande's pivotal “The Girl in the Bubble” — snippets out Nov 6, 2025, with live BTS performances released the week of Nov 17. Analytic Dreamz explores Glinda's emotional turning point, the song's themes of identity, fame, and moral awakening, plus Grande's own words from THR and Governors Awards confirming she earns her “Good” title through self-discovery. Get the latest stats: Part One's record-breaking box office, No. 2 Billboard 200 soundtrack, two Oscars, global promo tour updates (including Grande missing São Paulo over flight safety), NBC/Peacock concert special highlights, and Ariana's tease of the fourth Meet the Parents film, Focker In-Law. From Elphaba's exile to Glinda's bubble finally popping, Analytic Dreamz breaks down every key fact, lyric meaning, and industry context in this must-listen Notorious Mass Effect segment. Stream now.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/analytic-dreamz-notorious-mass-effect/donationsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

When tragedy strikes on a quiet spring morning, Niko Quinn’s tight knit community is torn apart. But that moment is just the start of an investigation that will uncover deep corruption, decades of abuse and a dark scandal at the heart of her hometown, Kansas City Kansas. US resources for Violence and Sexual Assault: https://rainn.org/ International resources for Violence and Sexual Assault: https://nomoredirectory.org/ US Suicide & Crisis Helpline: https://988lifeline.org/ International Suicide & Crisis Helplines: https://blog.opencounseling.com/suicide-hotlines/ The Girlfriends: Untouchable is produced by Novel for iHeart Podcasts. For more from Novel, visit https://novel.audio/. You can listen to new episodes of The Girlfriends: Untouchable completely ad-free and 1 week early with an iHeart True Crime+ subscription, available exclusively on Apple Podcasts. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hail to the Cardinal, Hail to the White, Weirdos!! Welcome to a very special Halloween episode-- It's our WEIRD CENTRALIA LIVE SHOW!! This month Lauren and Ashley had the pleasure of traveling to Centralia, IL to perform to a sold out audience at the Centralia Area Historical Society Museum! We got to chat about ALL THINGS C-TOWN including, but not limited to: The Orphans, May Fete, the Thunderbird, Violin Anne, the 1947 Mine Disaster, Copple's Mansion, the Perrine House & Perrine's Orchard! We laugh, we cry, we SCREAM - this episode is a lot of things. I HIGHLY recommend watching this ep on YOUTUBE (www.youtube.com/keepitweirdpodcast) as we also did have a slideshow presentation and you'll be able to see all the things the audience is reacting to: Old photos, newspaper clippings, even a couple videos! This was one of the most special weekends of our lives and that's all because of the people of Centralia. Everyone who shared their stories with us, taught us about the town's history, invited us to the town museum (Thank you Rick Dodson, Mike Middleton and Jessycka Nix Coleman!) FED us (thank you Simply Soul LLC!) rented us a place to stay (thank you Mallory Fisk!) lent us some audio visual equipment and bought tickets and came out to see our show. We were floored! This show was meant to be a CELEBRATION of Centralia and I do believe we accomplished our goal. I feel closer to my hometown than ever before... and maybe a little more creeped out by it. GO ORPHANS!!!! TRIGGER WARNING: Actually NO cursing-- unless you count "heck" so good for us! But we do talk about death, murder, suicide, slavery AND man-eating birds; so be aware. Get yourself a WEIRD CENTRALIA SHIRT by going to our merch store www.keepitweirdpodcast.com/merch - click on the button that says "Click here for Store" and go nuts! If you want the design on a tote bag, button, hoodie or iphone case just click on the shirt and scroll down and you'll find all the items that you can get the design printed on :) FOLLOW US on social media @keepitweirdcast SUBSCRIBE to our YouTube Channel JOIN OUR PATREON www.patreon.com/keepitweirdpodcast - this is how we make money doing our show and how we are able to KEEP doing our show - you can donate as little as $1 an as high as $50 for one month or set it up to donate monthly and in return you'll get BONUS EPISODES every singe month and FREE tarot card readings!

Check out the first trailer for Gale - Yellow Brick Road: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vfdaizGLg1gIn theatres February 11th, 2026