Podcasts about The Prodigals

The harvest is now. In this powerful message from Kingdom Builders 2025 Part 3, Pastor George Sawyer brings to life the urgency of the spiritual harvest. When we step out in obedience, God meets us with supernatural power.This message challenges us to connect our everyday work to the mission of Kingdom Builders, showing how even small acts of faith can make a global difference. From local outreach to international missions, Pastor Sawyer reminds us that this is a moment unlike any other, a time of uncommon harvests that requires uncommon seeds.Discover how to live as a laborer in God's field, reach beyond your comfort zone, and join the movement of believers impacting the world for Jesus Christ. The harvest is ready, will you say yes?00:00 – A Heartwarming Encounter00:36 – Testimonies of Faith and Healing02:06 – Connecting Work to Kingdom Builders03:58 – The Urgency of Harvest Time08:04 – Jesus' Compassion and the Call to Action11:56 – Supernatural Harvest and Immediate Response18:41 – Global Mission and Local Impact22:52 – Introduction to Missionary Families23:39 – The Role of Gen Z in Missionary Work25:46 – The Good Samaritan and Love in Action27:37 – The Importance of Seed and Harvest33:22 – The Parables of the Lost Sheep, Coin, and Son41:40 – Preparing for the Prodigals' Return

Today I'm answering your questions—helping a prodigal son grow in faith, guiding teens through friendships and dating, and addressing modesty at church with grace. I'll also share how to speak truth without burning bridges and why religious liberty matters. Grab coffee and join me for practical, Scripture-rooted encouragement you can use right away.Prime Sponsor: No matter where you live, visit the Functional Medical Institute online today to connect with Drs Mark and Michele Sherwood. Go to homeschoolhealth.com to get connected and see some of my favorites items. Use coupon code HEIDI for 20% off!Lifestone Ministries | Lifestoneministries.com/heidiEquipping The Persecuted Coffee | ETPcoffee.comShow mentions: heidistjohn.com/mentionsWebsite | heidistjohn.comSupport the show! | donorbox.org/donation-827Rumble | rumble.com/user/HeidiStJohnYoutube | youtube.com/@HeidiStJohnPodcastInstagram | @heidistjohnFacebook | Heidi St. JohnX | @heidistjohnFaith That Speaks Online CommunitySubmit your questions for Fan Mail Friday | heidistjohn.net/fanmailfriday

Ladies' Day

Ladies' Day

As the father of a prodigal child, Rob Parsons understands your pain. In this heartfelt message, he encourages parents of prodigals to always “leave a light on” for their wayward child. He notes that sometimes parents carry too much guilt over the prodigal child’s circumstances, and also encourages us to not be overly critical of our children. (Part 2 of 2) Receive a copy of Rob Parsons' book "Bringing Home the Prodigals" plus an audio download of today's broadcast for your donation of any amount! Get the 2025 Special Edition Morgan Weistling Print Get More Episode Resources If you enjoyed listening to Focus on the Family with Jim Daly, please give us your feedback.

As the father of a prodigal child, Rob Parsons understands your pain. In this heartfelt message, he encourages parents of prodigals to always “leave a light on” for their wayward child. He notes that sometimes parents carry too much guilt over the prodigal child’s circumstances, and also encourages us to not be overly critical of our children. (Part 1 of 2) Receive a copy of Rob Parsons' book "Bringing Home the Prodigals" plus an audio download of today's broadcast for your donation of any amount! Get the 2025 Special Edition Morgan Weistling Print Get More Episode Resources If you enjoyed listening to Focus on the Family with Jim Daly, please give us your feedback.

Lesley Logan brings you another round of Friday wins to inspire your week. She shares a powerful story of fathers reuniting with daughters, a community win about commitment and accountability, and her own personal milestone with Brad. This episode is all about connection, celebration, and remembering there's room for you at the table.If you have any questions about this episode or want to get some of the resources we mentioned, head over to LesleyLogan.co/podcast https://lesleylogan.co/podcast/. If you have any comments or questions about the Be It pod shoot us a message at beit@lesleylogan.co mailto:beit@lesleylogan.co. And as always, if you're enjoying the show please share it with someone who you think would enjoy it as well. It is your continued support that will help us continue to help others. Thank you so much! Never miss another show by subscribing at LesleyLogan.co/subscribe https://lesleylogan.co/podcast/#follow-subscribe-free.In this episode you will learn about:The power of a prison daddy-daughter dance that reunited families.How Melissa and Lisa reignited their Pilates practice through weekly partner sessions.Why honoring small commitments with an accountability buddy matters.What 10 years of marriage taught Lesley about celebrating past choices.Episode References/Links:Submit your wins or questions - https://beitpod.com/questionsGod Behind Bars - https://godbehindbars.comGod Behind Bars Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/godbehindbars If you enjoyed this episode, make sure and give us a five star rating and leave us a review on iTunes, Podcast Addict, Podchaser or Castbox. https://lovethepodcast.com/BITYSIDEALS! DEALS! DEALS! DEALS! https://onlinepilatesclasses.com/memberships/perks/#equipmentCheck out all our Preferred Vendors & Special Deals from Clair Sparrow, Sensate, Lyfefuel BeeKeeper's Naturals, Sauna Space, HigherDose, AG1 and ToeSox https://onlinepilatesclasses.com/memberships/perks/#equipmentBe in the know with all the workshops at OPC https://workshops.onlinepilatesclasses.com/lp-workshop-waitlistBe It Till You See It Podcast Survey https://pod.lesleylogan.co/be-it-podcasts-surveyBe a part of Lesley's Pilates Mentorship https://lesleylogan.co/elevate/FREE Ditching Busy Webinar https://ditchingbusy.com/Resources:Watch the Be It Till You See It podcast on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCq08HES7xLMvVa3Fy5DR8-gLesley Logan website https://lesleylogan.co/Be It Till You See It Podcast https://lesleylogan.co/podcast/Online Pilates Classes by Lesley Logan https://onlinepilatesclasses.com/Online Pilates Classes by Lesley Logan on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjogqXLnfyhS5VlU4rdzlnQProfitable Pilates https://profitablepilates.com/about/Follow Us on Social Media:Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lesley.logan/The Be It Till You See It Podcast YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCq08HES7xLMvVa3Fy5DR8-gFacebook https://www.facebook.com/llogan.pilatesLinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/lesley-logan/The OPC YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@OnlinePilatesClasses Episode Transcript:Lesley Logan 0:00  It's Fuck Yeah Friday. Brad Crowell 0:01  Fuck yeah.Lesley Logan 0:02  Get ready for some wins. Welcome to the Be It Till You See It podcast where we talk about taking messy action, knowing that perfect is boring. I'm Lesley Logan, Pilates instructor and fitness business coach. I've trained thousands of people around the world and the number one thing I see stopping people from achieving anything is self-doubt. My friends, action brings clarity and it's the antidote to fear. Each week, my guest will bring bold, executable, intrinsic and targeted steps that you can use to put yourself first and Be It Till You See It. It's a practice, not a perfect. Let's get started.Lesley Logan 0:48  Hi, Be It babe. Happy Friday. We made it. We did it. We're here. I am so excited for these short episodes, because they're just, they're here to inspire you. And honestly, like, sometimes, like, we were kids, like, didn't we, like, live for Fridays. And now it's kind of like, okay, we made it. We survived. There's a lot going on. There's a lot always going on. There's always been that way. But these episodes are here to remind you that there's still things that you can celebrate. There's still good stuff that's happening. You're still doing things, even if around you, if it just feels like chaos and overwhelm. So I share a winof yours, a win of mine, also some inspiration from something that I saw, that we can all think about, celebrate or get mad about, and then a little mantra for you to take with you on your way. And hopefully it's something you can share with a friend or run a Post-It, and I love for you to your share your wins, to send them into the beitpod.com/questions. But this really inspired me. So this is really, really cool. 16 incarcerated fathers were reunited with their daughters for a daddy-daughter dance held inside the prison. Freaking the coolest thing the prison system, like bothers me so much because we don't do a really good job like rehabilitating people, making people feel like human beings. We treat them like animals, and we want them to act like a human and like Maslow's hierarchy of needs is like a real thing. So this is so cool, and it's so it says, for a few sacred hours, San Quentin didn't feel like prison. The prison chapel transformed into a holy ground, draped walls, soft music, a red carpet, floral centerpieces replaced concrete and coldness. For a moment, it was hard to believe we were still in a maximum security prison. Outside, 16 incarcerated fathers stood waiting, some in suits for the first time, others trembling as they tied ties with unsteady hands. They waited for years, for this moment, some decades, then the doors open. There's actually like a whole documentary on YouTube. Now I gotta go watch it. But the daughter stepped on the red carpet, little girls in bright dresses, grown women with hearts full of ache and hope. One by one, they walked into arms that had long to hold them. I'm gonna cry. Fathers fell at their knees in tears. Prodigals reunited. Kelon hadn't held his daughter in 20 years. Carrington wept as his daughters hugged him for the first time. Steven danced with his “bundle of joy.” Vincent read a handwritten letter to his daughter Autumn, filled with love, apology, and redemption. It wasn't just beautiful.
It was sacred.
It was the Gospel, tangible, trembling, alive. You made it happen. You gave 21 daughters dresses, flights, hotel rooms, corsages, a meal, and a memory they'll never forget. You brought heaven to prison. You reminded these men: they are still dads. And reminded these girls: they are still daughters. This wasn't just an event.
This was healing.
This was hope.
This was holy. Anyways, there's a the handle that handled that did this is God Behind Bars are doing another father-daughter dance in Angola prison. This year, you can donate $10 a month or anything to help for pay for tuxes, family travel, dresses, food and so much more. You can go to Godbehindbars.com. Like, however you feel about religion. Like, I just think that this is just like the most impactful thing for people in their lives. Like, people make mistakes, people are put in situations that things happen, and our justice system is really not always just. And so I just am this just really melts my heart. And like, how cool, how cool. And I'm from California, up past where San Quentin is. We drive by it, and it's like, just not a place you want to be. And like, the fact that they took the time to do this, to make people feel like the human beings that they are, and really help establish relationships that like can be helpful for for reestablishing these people in society, if they ever get to like, it's humongous. It's a huge deal. So anyways, that is what inspired me. There can be inspiration, right? Lesley Logan 4:16  Okay, a win of yours. Melissa Hargrove, someone I was been around in our lives for a long time and just really inspires me all the time. She said, wanted to share an ongoing win. After our eLevate retreat in March, I reconnected with my OG partner, Lisa. We decided to make a commitment to get together and practice our original goal was to find as much time as we could and do duets with Lesley. After the first lesson, we knew we needed more. We have more duets scheduled through September. Go us! And taking it a step further, we decided to try to do our best to meet weekly, even just to do a Joe's gym or just move. Today, we opted to do the June chair class, It Takes Two, and I'm pretty sure I can speak for us both that we dusted that piece of equipment and we have a new reignited passion for it. So thank you, Lisa for finding time to work with me. And just proud that we have been able to keep the commitment to our practice. I told her today that had we not done the class together it would have taken me two hours to do it, because I would have had to pause, pet my cat, get a drink, maybe change the laundry and so on. But holy cow, when you flow at a brisk pace without pausing, it feels amazing. So thanks again, Lisa for keeping us on point and LL for an inspiring class. Yeah, I want to add to this win. Because you know what, Melissa Hargrove, your partner, Lisa, put a win up that adds to this. So here we go and adding on to that win. This is Melissa. Melissa. I wanted to add to this win this week after already doing two Pilates classes Tuesday, Melissa joined me for our scheduled practice session. I am so very grateful for her commitment to our practice together. It means so much that she did not cancel. As I was looking forward to moving with her, we agreed to do a 30 minute session, which was a win win for both of us since I had the opportunity to walk and do a stair climbing session in 95 degree heat at lunch. Glad we could support each other and can find the time and the win in any situation. Way to go ladies. So this is why Be It Till You See It exists. This is what we're here to do, bring people together, bring women together. Remind you that like you can, right? You can have counterparts that like will show up even when you're like, I don't really want to do this, and this happens all the time. I'm sure I'll have a win coming up with some of our other OPC members who literally get together every Wednesday at 8am to do the workout that they're members of. You know, sometimes it does take that kind of village, and it's okay to take that village time. It's okay to ask for help. It's okay to have an accountability buddy, but this is really important to me. When you make an accountability buddy, you guys need to be completely honest and thoughtful of the other person, so that you don't start canceling here and canceling there, like, oh, it's just 30 minutes. No, show up for each other, right? It helps the other person make time for themselves as well. So I really love this lady. Thank you so much for inspiring us to move our bodies, but also to connect with other people in our lives and realize, like we need each other too. We need to be there too. Lesley Logan 4:39  Okay, so my win, I had a win to share with you. I'm gonna save that win for next week. It's already a little delayed to share with you, so I'm gonna share it because a win is actually, I wish I had Brad here. Tomorrow's our 10 year wedding anniversary. 10 years, holy moly. We're celebrating together. I think we'll actually be together for it, because we're in Chicago, so we'll celebrate it together, and we're like, usually we're on a plane and like, because of the time travel distance, like the third just disappears in our lives. And so multiple anniversaries that we haven't been together, but this one, we get to do it together, doing something we love, with people we love to be around at, Pilates On Tour in Chicago. I know you're like, 10 years how is that like? That's that's a win. It's a win not because, like, it's like a struggle to stay married to him or anything like that, but just that we like continually make time to be with each other and to make sure that we're doing things together that are fun, and we challenge each other in really amazing ways. He challenges me to put things away in an actual spot. I challenged him to be on time. You know, these are, these are these are wins for two ADHD people in the same household. But truly, I'm so blessed. I'm so grateful. And recently, we were sharing how we met, because people always want to know how we met, and maybe that's a podcast episode for a different day, but whenever we get to tell it now that we've been married 10 years, there's there's something really cool about, like, looking back on the people that we were who chose each other and we chose to do something really scary, and that's a win. So here we are celebrating 10 years of marriage. And it's not that the 10 years of marriage is what I'm celebrating for us. I'm, like, kind of celebrating our past selves, making really huge decisions that could have easily been written off and, like, not made a priority. So huge thanks to Brad and Lesley in their early 30s for the things that they did, but also just for all the people in our lives who have been friends along the way, who've become family, and that's our win. 10 years of marriage. I love it. I love you. You're amazing. Lesley Logan 8:58  Okay, let me get you an affirmation to repeat with your on yourself, on your drive, on your walk. There's room for me at the table. There is room for me at the table. There is. Take a seat. You know, sometimes we think, oh, I don't want to bother people, oh, and I'll be I don't have enough accolades. Oh, who am I to do this? My neighbor recently, saw the G7 he's like, oh my god, don't, don't write my thing down. Like, who am I to be here? And like, what he actually is there to do, like, change the lives of people in this world and the politicians that are there need to hear what he has to say. There's room for you at the table. There's room for me at the table. Love you so much, and you know what to do. Until next time, Be It Till You See It.Lesley Logan 9:41  That's all I got for this episode of the Be It Till You See It Podcast. One thing that would help both myself and future listeners is for you to rate the show and leave a review and follow or subscribe for free wherever you listen to your podcast. Also, make sure to introduce yourself over at the Be It Pod on Instagram. I would love to know more about you. Share this episode with whoever you think needs to hear it. Help us and others Be It Till You See It. Have an awesome day. Be It Till You See It is a production of The Bloom Podcast Network. If you want to leave us a message or a question that we might read on another episode, you can text us at +1-310-905-5534 or send a DM on Instagram @BeItPod.Brad Crowell 10:24  It's written, filmed, and recorded by your host, Lesley Logan, and me, Brad Crowell.Lesley Logan 10:29  It is transcribed, produced and edited by the epic team at Disenyo.co.Brad Crowell 10:33  Our theme music is by Ali at Apex Production Music and our branding by designer and artist, Gianfranco Cioffi.Lesley Logan 10:40  Special thanks to Melissa Solomon for creating our visuals.Brad Crowell 10:43  Also to Angelina Herico for adding all of our content to our website. And finally to Meridith Root for keeping us all on point and on time.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/be-it-till-you-see-it/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Sermon Summary – Behind the Veil Part six of a prayer journey series. Focus: moving through each stage of prayer (modeled by tabernacle furniture) to reach the manifest presence of God behind the veil. Tied to the season of the Days of Awe and the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur). The Prayer Journey Thanksgiving (Entering the Gate) Acknowledge dependence on God. Gratitude for daily blessings builds humility and faith. Praise (The Courts) Praise God for His works in Scripture and in personal life. Strengthens confidence before making requests. Brazen Altar (Repentance) Clearing sin and disobedience—both actions committed and duties left undone. Laver (Speaking the Word) Affirming our position in Christ despite our condition. Candlestick (Holy Spirit Illumination) Welcoming the Spirit to renew the mind and guide prayer. Table of Showbread (Truth-telling with God) “Cup of coffee with God”: being fully honest—joys, anger, questions. Example: hard prayer for a loved one to be broken so they might return to God (like the prodigal son). Altar of Incense (Petition) Prayers rise as incense before God (Psalm 141, Revelation 8). Spirit-led petitions avoid selfish, flesh-driven requests. Behind the Veil (The Ark / Manifest Presence) Goal of prayer: intimacy with God, listening more than speaking. Jesus tore the veil, granting direct access—not just distant recognition but true fellowship. Lessons & Applications Manifest vs. Omnipresence: God is everywhere, but He desires to manifest Himself personally to His children. Prayer as Relationship: not “Walmart style” requests, but time invested with God. Hard Prayers: sometimes God calls us to pray for breaking, not blessing, to bring loved ones to repentance. Stillness & Meditation: modern culture overloads us with information; believers must learn to wait in silence before God. Faith & Persistence: Prayer must be effectual (energized by the Spirit), fervent (refusing to be denied), and prevailing (producing results). Biblical Anchors James 5: The effectual, fervent prayer of a righteous person avails much. Ecclesiastes 5: Draw near to hear rather than offer the “sacrifice of fools.” John 14: Jesus promises to manifest Himself to those who obey His Word. Examples of persistence in prayer: Jacob wrestling, Bartimaeus crying out, the woman with the issue of blood, Zacchaeus climbing the tree. Encouragement & Call Prayer is the greatest access point of power, healing, provision, and presence available on earth. Believers are urged to: Commit more time to prayer. Enter with thanksgiving and praise. Seek not just God's hand but His face. Be patient like Job, consistent like Elijah, and persistent like the saints of old. Final invitation: Unbelievers—come to Christ today. Prodigals—return to the Father. Christians—renew prayer life and spend time behind the veil.

In the seventh episode of this season, I examine the 2018 Netflix and BBC One series Troy: Fall of a City. Can a prodigal be redeemed more than once? How do immigrants add to the glory of Troy? Listen and find out. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dear-reader-a-jane-eyre-podcast/id1585429797 Don't use iTunes? Use this link for your podcast catcher: https://feeds.feedburner.com/dear-reader-podcast Also available on Spotify, Amazon Music and Google Podcasts Follow DEAR READER on TWITTER: https://twitter.com/batgirltooracle Put down your comics, pick up your first editions, and subscribe to DEAR READER!

Series: N/AService: Sun PMType: SermonSpeaker: Alan Yeater

Series: N/AService: Sun PMType: SermonSpeaker: Alan Yeater

In this episode, Christopher and Kathryn of Daughters of the King share their personal journey of leaving their church and the challenges they faced in the process. They delve into the reasons behind their decision to walk away from a community they once cherished, discussing the importance of biblical teachings and the struggles with leadership that led to their departure. This candid conversation reveals their quest for truth and the emotional toll it has taken on their lives. The prophecies about prodigals. Christopher & Kathrn discuss 4 prophecies that are from 4 days of prophecy. August 15, 2025; August 16, 2025; August 18, 2025; & August 24, 2025. August 15, 2025 - https://lighthousechurchinc.org/2025/08/15/fresh-word-lost-souls-august-15-2025-evangelist-pastor-barbara/ August 16, 2025 - https://lighthousechurchinc.org/2025/08/16/fresh-word-august-16-2025-evangelist-pastor-barbara/ August 18, 2025 - https://lighthousechurchinc.org/2025/08/18/fresh-word-august-18-2025-evangelist-pastor-barbara/ August 24, 2025 - https://lighthousechurchinc.org/2025/08/24/fresh-word-3-august-24-2025-evangelist-pastor-barbara/ Where is the truth?

In this episode of the Redeeming Truth Podcast, our pastors discuss the challenges and joys of Christian parenting. They share how to present the gospel to your children at home, what to do when adult children stray from the faith, and offer biblical encouragement for parents of prodigals. Whether you're raising little ones or praying for grown children, this conversation is filled with wisdom, hope, and practical advice rooted in Scripture. Click here to Subscribe to our channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCenfIkvDIJa4Qb4WgsH8hkw?sub_confirmation=1 REDEEMING TRUTH MEDIA: http://redeemingtruthmedia.org/ Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/redeemerbibleaz/ For more information about Redeemer Bible Church in Gilbert, Arizona, or to help support this ministry, please visit us at https://www.redeemeraz.org Join our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/redeemeraz Follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/redeemeraz Never miss a sermon, find our Redeeming Truth Podcast in your favorite player, and subscribe!

Larry Dauer unpacks the parable of the Prodigal Son in Luke 15, revealing five prodigals, and the radical, lavish grace of Jesus that rescues both the rebellious and the self-righteous. New to Echo Grace? We'd love to get to know you! Fill out a quick connect form at https://echograce.com/connect. Want to support our ministries & mission? Your generosity makes a difference. Give at https://echograce.com/give.

Join us this week for the third message in our series, "God Focused, God Filled," with Pastor Jared Clausen.

We all experience times in life where we need a second chance. Fortunately for us, God is the God of second chances. In this message Pastor Matt reminds us that God is waiting at the door for us to return. Sermon Notes: http://bible.com/events/49470851 We would love to get to know you: https://arisedenver.com/new Support Arise Church and its mission: https://arisedenver.com/give

We all experience times in life where we need a second chance. Fortunately for us, God is the God of second chances. In this message Pastor Matt reminds us that God is waiting at the door for us to return. Sermon Notes: http://bible.com/events/49470851 We would love to get to know you: https://arisedenver.com/new Support Arise Church and its mission: https://arisedenver.com/give

We all experience times in life where we need a second chance. Fortunately for us, God is the God of second chances. In this message Pastor Matt reminds us that God is waiting at the door for us to return. Sermon Notes: http://bible.com/events/49470851 We would love to get to know you: https://arisedenver.com/new Support Arise Church and its mission: https://arisedenver.com/give

We all experience times in life where we need a second chance. Fortunately for us, God is the God of second chances. In this message Pastor Matt reminds us that God is waiting at the door for us to return. Sermon Notes: http://bible.com/events/49470851 We would love to get to know you: https://arisedenver.com/new Support Arise Church and its mission: https://arisedenver.com/give

Do you know a prodigal or have a prodigal in your life?In this episode of Live the Bible, we'll see some good news for God's prodigals from the book of Hosea. A lot of times people look at God as a mean guy with a big stick ready to clobber us when we do something wrong. Thankfully, that's not the right picture.Our God is a loving Father with arms outstretched ready to welcome back the repentant prodigal.Support the show

Leighann wraps up the Prodigal parent Journey Series with some heartfelt praise to God during storms and struggle. She also reflects on the most recent catastrophic event in Texas. We are praying for the victims and families of the flooding in Texas. Listen for a special 30% off offer on our Perfecting the Art of Parenting Your Prodigal(s) 6 week online study (PAPP30 coupon). Also stay connected with Leighann for updates on the retreat this fall for Mothers Praying for the Prodigals.Stay Connected HerePerfecting the Art of Parenting Your Prodigal Here

Leighann wraps up the Prodigal parent Journey Series with some heartfelt praise to God during storms and struggle. She also reflects on the most recent catastrophic event in Texas. We are praying for the victims and families of the flooding in Texas. Listen for a special 30% off offer on our Perfecting the Art of Parenting Your Prodigal(s) 6 week online study (PAPP30 coupon). Also stay connected with Leighann for updates on the retreat this fall for Mothers Praying for the Prodigals. Stay Connected Here Perfecting the Art of Parenting Your Prodigal Here Retreat in the Fall Here

We tend to forget the best part of a story—the ending. And while how a story starts matters, how it ends matters more. The middle doesn't define the finish. In Jesus' parable, the story ends abruptly—left open on purpose. Why? Because we're the ones who finish it. The questions it leaves us with are powerful: Which brother are you? What's keeping you from the celebration? Can you embrace grace—for others and yourself? How will your story end? And what kind of church are we becoming? (Talk by Joshua Ott)

We tend to forget the best part of a story—the ending. And while how a story starts matters, how it ends matters more. The middle doesn't define the finish. In Jesus' parable, the story ends abruptly—left open on purpose. Why? Because we're the ones who finish it. The questions it leaves us with are powerful: Which brother are you? What's keeping you from the celebration? Can you embrace grace—for others and yourself? How will your story end? And what kind of church are we becoming?

The older brother is a character that's often missed or overlooked—but he's actually the key to the story. Jesus uses him to show that you can be in the house, close to the Father, and still be lost. Proximity doesn't equal intimacy. You can look the part, but religion without relationship is still rebellion. Don't miss out on the joy and grace God wants to give because your heart isn't aligned with His. (Talk by Joshua Ott)

The older brother is a character that's often missed or overlooked—but he's actually the key to the story. Jesus uses him to show that you can be in the house, close to the Father, and still be lost. Proximity doesn't equal intimacy. You can look the part, but religion without relationship is still rebellion. Don't miss out on the joy and grace God wants to give because your heart isn't aligned with His.

God, our Father, is good all the time, even when we don't deserve it. We are all prodigals. He is always waiting to welcome us back with loving open arms.

sermon notes

Sometimes one word can mean two opposite things—like “buckle” (to fasten or to collapse) or “clip” (to cut or to connect). The word “prodigal” is the same. It can mean recklessly wasteful or extravagantly generous. In Luke 15, we see both: a son who wasted everything and a father who gave everything. As Tim Keller points out, this story is really about the father—our God—who is radically generous with grace and love. So the question is: which kind of life are you choosing? One that chases empty things or one defined by a Father who calls you His own? (Talk by Joshua Ott)

Sometimes one word can mean two opposite things—like “buckle” (to fasten or to collapse) or “clip” (to cut or to connect). The word “prodigal” is the same. It can mean recklessly wasteful or extravagantly generous. In Luke 15, we see both: a son who wasted everything and a father who gave everything. As Tim Keller points out, this story is really about the father—our God—who is radically generous with grace and love. So the question is: which kind of life are you choosing? One that chases empty things or one defined by a Father who calls you His own?

The lost son hit rock bottom—and finally woke up. In a moment of painful clarity, he saw his condition for what it was and realized, “I don't belong here.” That self-awareness was the first step home. While some of us learn the hard way, we don't have to. If we truly saw the kindness of the Father and the difference between the emptiness of everything else and the fullness He offers, we might turn back sooner. The son got honest, confessed where he'd gone wrong, and even though he didn't fully grasp the Father's love—he got up and went. (Talk by Joshua Ott)

The lost son hit rock bottom—and finally woke up. In a moment of painful clarity, he saw his condition for what it was and realized, “I don't belong here.” That self-awareness was the first step home. While some of us learn the hard way, we don't have to. If we truly saw the kindness of the Father and the difference between the emptiness of everything else and the fullness He offers, we might turn back sooner. The son got honest, confessed where he'd gone wrong, and even though he didn't fully grasp the Father's love—he got up and went.

In this episode of the Leighann McCoy Podcast, Leighann shares her journey of parenting prodigals, detailing the challenges and heartaches faced as her children made choices that diverged from their family's faith. She reflects on the picture-perfect life they once had, the turning point when her daughter Mikel made life-altering decisions, and the ongoing journey of healing and redemption. Leighann emphasizes the importance of community and support for parents navigating similar struggles and introduces an online course aimed at helping others in their parenting journey.We are giving you early access to the online course, Perfecting the Art of Parenting Your Prodigal. Follow this link here and type in the word PODCAST for 20% offhttps://www.leighannmccoy.com/papp-early-access 

Pastor Jeffrey continues our Summer Baggage series. We go to Luke 15 and look at the story of the prodigal son. We see that there is much more to this story than you might have been taught in the past.ASL interpretation is provided.  Questions? Email: hello@citylifechurch.nyc For more information visit: https://citylifechurch.nyc Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/citylifechurchnyc?locale=eo_EOAll Music Licensed through CCLI - https://us.ccli.comCCLI Streaming Plus License # 21120922 Episode 408

Maybe you've heard it said, "it's not how you start it's how you finish." Which is 100 percent true but also sometimes how I start is a disaster and sets the whole tone for the journey. This story didn't start well and it started well before the son asked for his inheritance and left the father. It started small, subtle, and internal. Maybe with a little dissatisfaction, maybe he started comparing his life with his brothers, maybe he was romanticizing life outside the house, had some unresolved frustration or was indulging private fantasies. What it was let him to a point where he made a decision. It always is a decision that we make after indulging the internal that leads to all the rest. (Talk by Joshua Ott)

Maybe you've heard it said, "it's not how you start it's how you finish." Which is 100 percent true but also sometimes how I start is a disaster and sets the whole tone for the journey. This story didn't start well and it started well before the son asked for his inheritance and left the father. It started small, subtle, and internal. Maybe with a little dissatisfaction, maybe he started comparing his life with his brothers, maybe he was romanticizing life outside the house, had some unresolved frustration or was indulging private fantasies. What it was let him to a point where he made a decision. It always is a decision that we make after indulging the internal that leads to all the rest.

The parable of the lost coin hits differently—because the coin didn't run off, it was simply misplaced. It didn't rebel; it was just lost in the house. Like us. Sometimes we find ourselves feeling lost—not because we've left God, but because we've misplaced things like our identity, purpose, or security. And just like the woman searching for the coin, God doesn't stop looking. He's not just in the business of finding the lost—He's all about restoring what's been misplaced. Your story, your worth, your place still matter to Him. (Talk by Joshua Ott)

The parable of the lost coin hits differently—because the coin didn't run off, it was simply misplaced. It didn't rebel; it was just lost in the house. Like us. Sometimes we find ourselves feeling lost—not because we've left God, but because we've misplaced things like our identity, purpose, or security. And just like the woman searching for the coin, God doesn't stop looking. He's not just in the business of finding the lost—He's all about restoring what's been misplaced. Your story, your worth, your place still matter to Him.

On June 2, about 25 years ago, our prodigal, Josh, met Jesus. He was living at House of Hope, a nearby residential home for troubled teens. His house dad, Mike, loved him, prayed for him, sought to guide him into better life choices, and on June 2, 1997, he introduced our son to Jesus. That evening Mike baptized him in the nearby lake. Josh's life changed then, and when he came home months later. He wanted to walk with God. But wrong friends and the trauma of his early life put him on a roller coaster. He would do well and make good choices for days, weeks, even months. Then down he would go for many months. The unpredictable cycle went on for 15 years.Judy's Resources:Read The Grace-full Father: https://bit.ly/3SiGkImRead A Word from Josh: https://bit.ly/3ZDiH10Join the Prayer for Prodigals community here: https://bit.ly/3uyhSWQSign up for Judy's monthly newsletter here: https://bit.ly/39TBlYtPurchase a copy of the When You Love a Prodigal book for you or a loved one here: https://amzn.to/3RuiUx9Stay connected:Website: judydouglass.com/podcastFacebook: facebook.com/JudyDouglass417Instagram: instagram.com/judydouglass417X: twitter.com/judydouglass417Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/judyddouglass/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JudyDouglass

Join us each Sunday at West Mobile Baptist Church at 8:30 or 11AM. We also stream our services on Youtube and our Facebook page during the 11 service.

It doesn't make sense to leave 99 sheep to chase one that wandered off—but that's exactly what Jesus says the Good Shepherd does. In response to the judgmental muttering of the religious crowd, Jesus tells three parables—simple, relatable stories with deep spiritual truths. And they all aim at one thing: our hearts. In the first story, a sheep doesn't rebel—it just drifts. Distracted, unaware, and vulnerable—just like us. But the Shepherd notices. He sees the one that no one else sees. He pursues. That's the kind of love Jesus has for you. It might not make sense to us, but it makes perfect sense to a God whose love goes further than we can imagine. (Talk by Joshua Ott)

It doesn't make sense to leave 99 sheep to chase one that wandered off—but that's exactly what Jesus says the Good Shepherd does. In response to the judgmental muttering of the religious crowd, Jesus tells three parables—simple, relatable stories with deep spiritual truths. And they all aim at one thing: our hearts. In the first story, a sheep doesn't rebel—it just drifts. Distracted, unaware, and vulnerable—just like us. But the Shepherd notices. He sees the one that no one else sees. He pursues. That's the kind of love Jesus has for you. It might not make sense to us, but it makes perfect sense to a God whose love goes further than we can imagine.

Everyone has friends and family members who either walked away from Jesus or never fully surrendered their heart to Him even though they had opportunities to do so. This reality is heart wrenching and difficult for all of us, and I am sure that we would do anything we could to see our loved ones come back to Jesus. In our passage today, we can clearly see the heart of Christ to bring all people to Himself no matter where they come from or what they have done. As a church, we are taking a stand together to pursue our prodigals until all have returned to Christ!   Speaker: Pastor Ben Dixon Scripture: Luke 15:1-10 Series: Stand Alone Messages   For more information visit www.BenDixon.org

Before Jesus said a word, his actions spoke volumes—he was eating with “sinners,” and the religious crowd couldn't handle it. Their pride and judgment were on full display, and in response, Jesus told three powerful stories that revealed God's heart. A heart that loves more—loves first, loves when we're a mess, loves when we walk away. These stories challenge us: Have we let that kind of love change us? Do we look more like Jesus or more like the ones who judged him? And who are we making room for at our table? (Talk by Joshua Ott)

Pamela Henkelman is a certified Empty Nest Coach, speaker, writer, and host of the Midlife Momma Podcast. With her bright smile and enthusiastic personality, she is passionate about encouraging women, particularly the often-forgotten group of moms with adult children. She has much wisdom for those whose adult children have cut off connection with them.I loved this quote on Pamela's Instagram: “Talk less and pray more! Lead with love!”Pam's Resources:Learn more about Pamela: https://www.pamelahenkelman.com/Listen to Pam's Podcast: https://www.pamelahenkelman.com/podcast10 Things Not to Say to Your Adult Children(and 5 Ways to Stop Yourself from Saying Them). Free resource: https://wandering-union-986.myflodesk.com/atrt8t373zJudy's Resources:Join the Prayer for Prodigals community here: https://bit.ly/3uyhSWQSign up for Judy's monthly newsletter here: https://bit.ly/39TBlYtPurchase a copy of the When You Love a Prodigal book for you or a loved one here: https://amzn.to/3RuiUx9Stay connected:Website: judydouglass.com/podcastFacebook: facebook.com/JudyDouglass417Instagram: instagram.com/judydouglass417X: x.com/judydouglass417Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/judyddouglass/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JudyDouglass

Spring is here on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #705 . Subscribe now! Sheridan Rúitín, Copley Street, Fialla, Malin Lewis, Barrowburn, The Langer's Ball, The Lilies of the Midwest, Mac and Cheese, Juha Rossi, The Secret Commonwealth, Celtic Conundrum, Skyrie, CaliCeltic, Celtic Wood and Wires GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOX The Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items for Celtic music and culture online. Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2025 This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create this year's Best Celtic music of 2025 episode. You have just three weeks to vote this year. Vote Now! You can follow our playlist on YouTube to listen to those top voted tracks as they are added every 2 - 3 weeks. THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC 0:06   - Sheridan Rúitín "Dean McLeod" from Only Savage 3:36   - WELCOME 7:17   - Nathan Gourley, Joey Abarta, and Owen Marshall "Three Little Drummers / The Luck Penny / Patsy Geary's" from Copley Street 2 11:57   - Fialla "The Road to Drumleman" from A Rare Thing 16:47   - Malin Lewis "You Are Not Alone" from Halocline 20:05   - Barrowburn "Cocked Hat" from Mist Covered Mountains 23:48   - FEEDBACK 27:55   - The Langer's Ball "Hoist Your Cup High" from Drinking Song Sing - A - Long 31:37   - The Lilies of the Midwest "Road to the Fairy Fling" from Cat's Ceili 36:06   - Mac and Cheese "Shine Away" from Big Fun 39:34   - Juha  Rossi "James Betagh" from O'Carolan Tunes on Mandolin 42:57   - THANKS 44:43   - The Secret Commonwealth "Lying Among the Shamrocks" from Licensed Beggars 46:48   - Celtic Conundrum "The Land" from Lore 50:54   - Skyrie "Alasdair Gammack's" from Hunger Road 54:48   - CaliCeltic "Shame and Scandal" from Paddy Paradise 58:01   - CLOSING 59:02   - Celtic Wood and Wires "Take A Pass" from Into The Music 1:02:15 - CREDITS The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather and our Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to follow the show. You'll find links to all of the artists played in this episode. Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you'll get 7 weekly news items about what's happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage. Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor. Finally, remember. Climate change is real, and we can fix it. Cutting waste, saving energy, and pushing for clean power all make a difference. A cleaner, safer world benefits everyone. Talk to someone today—our children are counting on you. Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/. WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST * Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn. I'm a Celtic musician and host of Folk Songs & Stories. This podcast is for fans of Celtic music. We are here to build a diverse Celtic community and help the incredible artists who so generously share their music with you. If you hear music you love, please email artists to let them know you heard them on the Irish and Celtic Music Podcast. Musicians depend on your generosity to release new music. So please find a way to support them. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their community on Patreon. You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com. Celtic Musicians on Patreon Email follow@bestcelticmusic to learn how to subscribe to the podcast and you will get a free music - only episode. You'll also learn how to get your band played on the podcast. Bands don't need to send in music, and You will get a free eBook called Celtic Musicians Guide to Digital Music. It's 100% free. Again email follow@bestcelticmusic