Podcasts about Ruler

This is the last chapter, of the last epistle, that will be coming from Paul as he is about to meet death when Nero has him beheaded. It is absolutely packed with some dynamic teaching as Paul urges Timothy to keep the fight going for Jesus, the gospel, and the kingdom of God. In the very first verse, we are challenged with some rich thoughts that Paul is writing in the very presence of God and Jesus, who will judge the living and the dead when Jesus comes to set up the kingdom of God. Is the kingdom of God now or coming in the future? Check out today's podcast!

Marc Bracketts Permission to Feel er en tankevekkende oppfordring til å endre måten vi forholder oss til følelser på, både individuelt og som samfunn. Som professor ved Yale University og direktør for Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence, har Brackett viet sitt liv til å fremme emosjonell intelligens (EQ) som en grunnleggende ferdighet for velvære, læring og mellommenneskelige relasjoner. I boken deler han innsikter og praktiske verktøy for å integrere følelsesmessig kompetanse i hverdagen. Her ser vi nærmere på hans viktigste argumenter, hva EQ er, og hvordan RULER-programmet kan gi oss de nødvendige ferdighetene for å håndtere følelser på en konstruktiv måte.Hvis du skal bli med på reality serien 71 Grader Nord, bør du sette deg inn i kart og kompass på forhånd. Det er noe du garantert vil trenge på tur med Tom Stiansen. Når du skal leve et liv blant andre mennesker, trenger du å navigere etter ditt eget indre emosjonelle navigasjonssystem, og derfor er EQ noe du også bør trene på. Hvordan man kan bli kjent med sitt eget følelsesliv og bruke det som en viktig ressurs i livet blir tema for dagens episode her på SinnSyn. Velkommen skal du være!Vil du ha mer psykologi og flere dypdykk i menneskets sjelsliv? Bli medlem på vårt Mentale Helsestudio.Last ned SinSyn-appen på www.sinnsyn.no/download/ Eller meld deg inn via www.patron.com/sinsyn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we are covering some Mudane Astrology and looking at the chart for the U.K and the transits for 2026 Here is the link to the .gov website that has the date this was passed https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/Geo5/17-18/4/enacted?view=plain UK natal chart, showing transits for 1st January 2026 Asc Sagittarius with Saturn on the Asc Sun Aries in the 5th house, Moon Leo conjunct Neptune in the 9th house Ruler to the chart is Jupiter, in Pisces in the 4th UK's 2026 transit Rhythmogram

In this series, we've been talking about four names given to Jesus before He was born. In this message, Lead Pastor Jamie Nunnally shares the significance of the name: Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6 tells us that Messiah's name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.Today we focus on Prince of Peace. In Hebrew, Sar Shalom.Sar means Captain, Chief, General, Ruler. Jesus doesn't give sentimental peace—He establishes peace by enforcing the rule of the King.So what is peace? In Hebrew, Shalom.Shalom is an all-encompassing word that describes when everything is as it should be.Calling the Messiah the Prince of Peace isn't a promise of fewer battles; it's God promising His presence through them. When your world is falling apart, God sent the One who holds all things together. He doesn't just have peace—He is peace.Peace does not come from inactivity.1 Peter 3:11 says to seek peace and pursue it. Peace won't come by doing nothing. If the world has to stop for you to have peace, you'll never have peace. Peace isn't the absence of problems; it's remaining resolute despite them.Peace does not come from control.Some people think peace comes when they get their own way. That's not peace—that's immaturity. Proverbs 3:5 reminds us to trust in the Lord and not lean on our own understanding. You cannot control your way into peace.Three Things Jesus Does as the Prince of PeaceJesus demonstrates how to live a life of peace. In Mark 4, Jesus sleeps during a storm while the disciples panic. A storm outside doesn't have to mean a storm inside. Fear responds to facts; faith responds to truth. Sometimes peace isn't God calming the storm as much as God calming His child.Jesus secured the peace treaty between God and mankind. Colossians 1 tells us that through the cross, Jesus made peace between God and humanity. You can't experience the peace of God until you've made peace with God. Peace with God isn't earned—it's received.Jesus offers us His peace. John 14:27 says Jesus gives us His peace, not the world's version. You can't have the peace of God while fighting the rule of God. Peace is a person you must yield to. Where Jesus is Lord, peace will rule; where He is not, chaos will rule.ClosingIsaiah 26:3 says God keeps in perfect peace those whose minds are fixed on Him. Peace doesn't come from changing everything around you—it comes from fixing your focus. When your thoughts are fixed on fear, peace gets blurry. When they're fixed on the Prince of Peace, clarity comes.A new year is right around the corner. What if we don't need a new year—we just need a new ruler? Where the Prince rules, His peace reigns.Are you letting Jesus be your Prince of Peace?

11:00 a.m. Rev. Richard AasmanPreservice Song: Hymn 24: 1, 2, 6 *Votum and Salutation*Psalm 100:1, 2, 3, 4 10 Words of the CovenantPsalm 132: 1, 6, 10 PrayerScripture Reading: Matthew 1:18-2:12Psalm 23:1, 2, 3 Sermon: Micah 5: 1-5a The Ruler to be born in Bethlehem1. O little town of Bethlehem, from you will come the Ruler (verses 1, 2)2. His origin is from ancient of days (verses 2, 3)3. He shall shepherd his flock and be their peace (verses 4, 5)*Hymn 14: 1, 9, 10 Thanksgiving PrayerThanksgiving Offering (e-transfer offerings@edmontonimmanuel.ca )*Hymn 15:1, 2, 3 *BenedictionTime:MorningMinister:Rev. R. AasmanTexts:Micah 5:1–5Matthew 1:18—2:12

I. The Surprise II. The Purpose III. The Origin

Perhaps your default perception of God lives in the “Ruler” category. And rightly so. But do we sometimes miss out on the compassionate care that our God has for us? We'll look at that attribute in our study today.John 10:11

The story of Bethlehem is the promise of the prophet Micah. He predicted the birthplace of the Messiah. But he did more. Micah also predicts a time of global peace and righteousness. Listen as Dr. John rehearses the words of Micah. We will find that the One who is born is Bethlehem is the instrument and Ruler of peace. For those who long for peace, there is hope. Christmas: Hype or Hope?: In our culture, Christmas has become a celebration disjointed from its original intent. The party of Christmas overshadows the meaning of Christmas. In our society, it has the "too much makeup" appearance and is exploited for commercial profit. There is a lot of hype. Where is the hope? In this 5-message series, Dr. John Neufeld distills the meaning from the mayhem. Listen to recover the reason and joy of Christmas. 

Text: Micah 5:2-6 by John Williams, pastor | Christmas Eve | 12.24.25

NXT bringt uns nochmal so richtig in Weihnachtsstimmung und wir bekommen DEN Christmas-Fight des Jahres! Was sonst im Geschehen um den Ruler passiert und wie der überraschende Sieg von Thea Hail in dieser Woche behandelt wird erfahrt ihr jetzt in der Spotfight NXT Review. Peer: Peer Richard Oberhoff ist aktiver Wrestling Manager im Deutschen Catch und konnte bereits den ein oder anderen Wrestler zum Titelgold verhelfen. Auch bei Spotfight kümmert er sich um die "Nächste Generation" und verfolgt seit Jahren das NXT-Produkt bei WWE.Twitter: https://twitter.com/Peter_ohne_TInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/prowrestlingagent/ Kris Melzig: Kris hat in der wXw-Wrestling-Academy trainiert. Zusammen ...Dieser Podcast wird vermarktet von der Podcastbude.www.podcastbu.de - Full-Service-Podcast-Agentur - Konzeption, Produktion, Vermarktung, Distribution und Hosting.Du möchtest deinen Podcast auch kostenlos hosten und damit Geld verdienen?Dann schaue auf www.kostenlos-hosten.de und informiere dich.Dort erhältst du alle Informationen zu unseren kostenlosen Podcast-Hosting-Angeboten. kostenlos-hosten.de ist ein Produkt der Podcastbude.

In this final Advent episode, we explore the image (from Micah) of the Ruler.Asking how THIS Ruler is different. What that meant for people then and what THAT means for people today.

Some look to government as a panacea for all things. They act as if good government can bring a utopia on earth. That's hype. It is an expectation that not only exceeds the government's power, but ignores the fallen nature of everyone in authority. But there is hope. Dr. John points to the only Ruler who is worthy to reign forever. He is promised by God and sung by angelic choirs. Christmas: Hype or Hope?: In our culture, Christmas has become a celebration disjointed from its original intent. The party of Christmas overshadows the meaning of Christmas. In our society, it has the "too much makeup" appearance and is exploited for commercial profit. There is a lot of hype. Where is the hope? In this 5-message series, Dr. John Neufeld distills the meaning from the mayhem. Listen to recover the reason and joy of Christmas. 

Sermon Passage: Matthew 2:1-12 December 21st, 2025 at Harvest Bible Church.

Reach Out: Please include your email and I will get back to you. Thanks!Revelation 13 A beast emerges from the sea with ten horns and seven heads, receiving authority from the dragon. It speaks proud and blasphemous words and wages war against the saints for forty-two months. The world is amazed and follows the beast, worshiping both it and the dragon. Another beast comes from the earth, with two horns like a lamb but speaking like a dragon. It performs signs, deceives people, and tells them to make an image of the first beast. Those who refuse to worship the image are threatened with death. It causes all people to receive a mark on their hand or forehead, without which no one can buy or sell. The number of the beast is revealed as six hundred sixty-six, a number God gives the wisdom to understand.  Evil often appears powerful and convincing, but its strength is ultimately limited and short-lived. The beasts symbolize forces opposing God and deceiving many with false authority and signs. We must be careful not to follow what is sinful, even if it looks powerful or seems to have an unstoppable influence. The mark of the beast represents loyalty, but we are called to stay loyal to God, even when it is hard. Our worship belongs to Him alone. Although the enemy might appear to be winning temporarily, God remains in complete control. We should not fear those who can harm our bodies, but instead remain faithful to the One who holds our souls. Our perseverance and trust in Christ are our victory. Mighty God, we praise You as the one true Ruler who reigned even when the beasts rose in power. Though they once deceived the nations and fought against the faithful, their time was brief, and their authority was limited. You allowed their rise for a purpose, but You also brought about their fall. Strengthen us through this reminder of Your past sovereignty and unshakable rule. Help us stay faithful as others did when pressured to compromise. Let us worship You alone and cling to truth. Your victory lasts forever. Keep us loyal to Christ through every trial we face. Thought Questions: Evil powers attacked God's people. How did the faithful endure, and how are you preparing to stand firm under governmental pressure? “Here is the perseverance and the faith of the saints.” What kind of faith can accept captivity or death in the name of Jesus Christ? Why would Christians give up worldly comfort and financial stability to follow Jesus, and what are you willing to surrender now?

The roe of the Jew in the Egyptian economy foreshadowed the role of the Jew in later economies: find a niche not occupied by the native inhabitants.לע"נ יששכר מאיר בן ברוך סטפנסקי

Christmas Unwrapped: "The Gift of King Ruler" By Bobby Wallace 12/21/2025. Who is on your throne?

Pastor Garrison GreeneTEXT: Isaiah 9:6BIG IDEA: The promised Ruler has established peace with God and will one day bring that peace to fullness forever when he comes again.OUTLINE:1. Our Pining for Peace2. His Promise of Peace3. The Prince of PeaceResources: ESV Study Bible; Things Unseen: A Systematic Introduction to the Christian Faith and Reformed Theology by J. Gresham Machen; The Book of Isaiah (Commentary) by Edward J. Young; Welwyn Commentary Series: Isaiah by Derek Thomas

  Scripture Reading: Micah 5:1-5a There are many prophecies in the Old Testament regarding the coming of Jesus Christ in His first advent, beginning with a very early reference in Genesis 3:15.  One of the wonderful predictions of the coming of Christ is found in Micah 5.  Micah lived and wrote 700 years before Christ, during a time of rampant wickedness . . . idolatry (Mic 1:7), greed (2:2), thievery (2:2), injustice (3:2,3), falsehood (5:5), bloodshed (3:10).  Micah sounds two great messages in this book . . . the consuming judgment of God, on one hand (1:3,4), and the compassionate mercy of God, on the other (7:18).  Sooner or later every person will face one or the other of these characteristics of the Almighty. In the book of Micah, against the dark background of Israel's failure and Judah's spiritual hardness, there blazes a blinding light of hope in Micah 5:2-5a.  Although the kings of Israel and Judah had not led the people to holiness and peace, a ruler would one day arise who would be like no other.  He would care for His people like a shepherd, guarding them and feeding them in the strength and majesty of God (5:4). It is a message filled with relevance for our time.  Our world stands, desperately, in need of a king . . . and our own hearts need a king.  We need someone to guard us and lead us and feed our souls,  in strength and majesty.  Our hearts yearn for such a sovereign in whom we can safely rest in peace.  We have such a Ruler.  The baby in the manger . . . is the King of Kings.

Text: Isaiah 9:1-7 View this week's bulletin and sermon discussion questions.

Yale psychologist Marc Brackett, bestselling author of Permission to Feel, joins Mosh to break down his new book ⁠Dealing With Feeling⁠ — a practical guide to emotional regulation at a moment when society seems more reactive, overwhelmed, and dis-regulated than ever. Brackett, who founded the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence, explains what emotional regulation really is (and isn't). It's not suppressing emotions or “checking them at the door,” he says — it's learning to use your feelings wisely to achieve your goals. The episode dives into: Why most adults were never taught emotional regulation and how beliefs from childhood still shape our reactions. The crucial difference between emotions — anger vs. disappointment, anxiety vs. stress — and why naming them accurately changes everything. Co-regulation: how to support your partner, friend, colleague, or child through difficult feelings without fixing or lecturing. Why venting often backfires, and how to help someone break the cycle of rumination. The role of sleep, exercise, food, and technology in stabilizing your emotional life — and why doom-scrolling is one of the worst “strategies.” Setting boundaries, managing family conflict, and navigating political tension without losing yourself. Why savoring positive emotions is as important as managing the negative ones — and how kids learn this faster than adults. Brackett also shares how his own childhood — bullying, loss, trauma — shaped his work, and how one emotionally intelligent uncle changed the trajectory of his life. He also discusses his work with kids, including ⁠RULER, the emotional intelligence curriculum now used in thousands of schools⁠, and why he believes emotional skills should be taught from birth through adulthood.

Friends of the Rosary,Today is Day Three of the Christmas Novena. It's also the Second of the O Antiphons, O Adonai (O Almighty God/O Lord and Ruler).As Moses approached the burning bush ("Put off the shoes from thy feet, for the place whereon thou standest is holy ground . . . I am who am."). So we approach the divine Savior in the form of the consecrated host, falling to adore Him.We say, "Come and redeem us with outstretched arm." Ave MariaCome, Holy Spirit, come!To Jesus through Mary!Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will.Please give us the grace to respond with joy!+ Mikel Amigot w/ María Blanca | RosaryNetwork.com, New YorkEnhance your faith with the new Holy Rosary University app:Apple iOS | New! Android Google Play• ⁠December 18, 2025, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET

In this third episode of Promised & Fulfilled: Christmas through the Eyes of Prophecy, hosts Greg and Nathan turn their attention to a small town with an enormous promise. “From Ancient Days: The Ruler from Bethlehem” explores Micah 5:2 and its stunning claim that Israel's long-awaited ruler would come from humble Bethlehem—yet have origins stretching back to eternity. Set against the looming threat of Assyrian invasion, Micah's prophecy reignited hope by pointing to a future king in the line of David. Greg and Nathan unpack why Bethlehem mattered so deeply in Israel's story, how first-century Jews understood this promise, and why Matthew highlights the prophecy when recounting the Magi's visit and Herod's fear. This episode connects the geography of Jesus' birth with the theology of His identity, showing how the One born in David's city is also the eternal ruler “from ancient days.” Along the way, the conversation explores Jesus' lineage, messianic expectations, and what Micah 5 reveals about Christ's divine nature. Join Greg and Nathan as they trace the promise from prophecy to fulfillment—and discover how the Christmas story declares that the eternal King entered history in the most unexpected place.

Micah Part 3: The ruler to comeMicah 5:1-5aRev. Justin OlivettiMain point: Christmas is about the greatest ruler of them all

Esther O'Donovan shares Tuesday's devotional podcast from Bible Fellowship Church. 

The Ruler of All Elves finally gets the Lorecast Treatment! We dive into the lore, church and more of Corellon Larethian! DnD Lorecast Discord | DnD Lorecast t-shirts, stickers and more! Order Lore TA Shaun's Alien novel, PERFECT ORGANISMS First Look at Lore TA Shaun's next book, the first ever Solomon Kane novel Homebrew Corner: The Castle of Corellon Links: Lore TA Shaun's second novel, The Dissonance, is out NOW Pantheon/PRH! Buy it ANYWHERE books are sold! And pick up Shaun's Conan the Barbarian ebook short story, also available now! The 616 Files - Shaun and Sergio's OTHER nerdy podcast! A deep dive into the 616 Marvel Universe, comic by comic, year by year Fandom University - And yet ANOTHER nerdy podcast! Multi-episodes arcs deep-diving into various nerdy topics *SEASON 1 NOW COMPLETE* Check out all the socials at dndlorecast.com And send us a note! Email us at dndlorecast@gmail.com  ROBOTSRADIO.net - Smart Shows for Interesting People. Explore all the awesome shows on the network. Robots Radio Network Discord: discord.gg/JXKfVhM Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week we look at a powerful ruler named King Herod in the advent story. He shows us the sort of things we are tempted to do with our power, but also the sort of leaders we are tempted to give our allegiance to. God calls us to bow to him and live under his rule instead. 

Support our sponsors this week by using the links below for the exclusive Solomonster offers!HIMS ▶ Start your FREE online visit today at http://www.hims.com/SOLOMONSTER for your personalized hair loss treatment options!EXPRESSVPN ▶ Get an extra FOUR MONTHS FREE of the #1 trusted VPN at http://www.expressvpn.com/solomonsterReviewing WWE Smackdown with lots of new NXT faces making appearances ahead of Saturday Night's Main Event, Dragunov BLEEDS in a banger for the US title, a scary main event where it's a miracle Zelina didn't break her neck and the start date confirmed for THREE HOURS of Smackdown.  I am in mourning.***Follow Solomonster on X (formerly Twitter) for news and opinion:http://x.com/solomonsterSubscribe to the Solomonster Sounds Off on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/user/TheSolomonster?sub_confirmation=1Become a Solomonster Sounds Off Channel Member:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9jcg7mk93fGNqWPMfl_Aig/join

The Ruler of All Elves finally gets the Lorecast Treatment! We dive into the lore, church and more of Corellon Larethian! DnD Lorecast Discord | DnD Lorecast t-shirts, stickers and more! Order Lore TA Shaun's Alien novel, PERFECT ORGANISMS First Look at Lore TA Shaun's next book, the first ever Solomon Kane novel Homebrew Corner: The Castle of Corellon Links: Lore TA Shaun's second novel, The Dissonance, is out NOW Pantheon/PRH! Buy it ANYWHERE books are sold! And pick up Shaun's Conan the Barbarian ebook short story, also available now! The 616 Files - Shaun and Sergio's OTHER nerdy podcast! A deep dive into the 616 Marvel Universe, comic by comic, year by year Fandom University - And yet ANOTHER nerdy podcast! Multi-episodes arcs deep-diving into various nerdy topics *SEASON 1 NOW COMPLETE* Check out all the socials at dndlorecast.com And send us a note! Email us at dndlorecast@gmail.com  ROBOTSRADIO.net - Smart Shows for Interesting People. Explore all the awesome shows on the network. Robots Radio Network Discord: discord.gg/JXKfVhM Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hey lady! You know we’re all about our gentle growth and continuous improvement over here so we’re excited to share an episode that will help grow your toolkit for whatever life may bring your way.As we heal and process it’s common to notice where your childhood has yet again shaped your behavior and caused patterns that at one time seemed normal but now no longer serve you. Growing up in environments where our caregivers were doing the best they could with the tools they had means that we may not have always had the space to be your full self. And, if you grew up in a Black household it’s entirely plausible to not be allowed to feel your feelings and bury them instead.But, we’re grown now and you are not only allowed to feel your feelings but you are encouraged to and there are frameworks that can help. This week, Dr. Dom and Terri present the RULER method, a powerful tool that can help you make your way through difficult and complex emotions so that you can remain in your sovereignty and stand in your integrity.This five-step method can help you meet life as it comes, which will help you loosen the grip of needing to control life. Understanding your emotions offers you more choice in your experience, which can lead to feeling more stable, grounded and having increased capacity to feel the richness and beauty that life has to offer you. Using RULER in Real Life· Recognizing: “How do I know what I’m feeling? What signals does my body send?”· Understanding: “Where did this emotion come from? Is it layered with past wounds?”· Labeling: Talk about the power of language—using words like “disrespected” vs “angry.”· Expressing: “Who is safe to share this with? What’s an empowered way to show this?”· Regulating: Tools and tips (breathwork, journaling, therapy, movement, prayer, etc.)Quote of the Day:“If you don’t know what you’re feeling, it’s hard to know what to do with your feelings.” – Dr. Marc Brackett Goal Mapping Starter GuideCultivating H.E.R. Space Sanctuary Resources:Dr. Dom’s Therapy PracticeThe Perfect Pitch Cheat SheetMelanin and Mental HealthTherapy for Black Girls Psychology TodayTherapy for QPOC Where to find us:Twitter: @HERspacepodcastInstagram: @herspacepodcastFacebook: @herspacepodcastWebsite: cultivatingherspace.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Annie and company are at Ruler Foods, they discuss how to greet people during the holiday season. Marc Cox from the Marc Cox Morning Show joins to talk about fundraisers and how the listeners show up to support.

In today's episode, I'm joined by Professor Marc Brackett, founding director of the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence and author of the newly published Dealing With Feeling, to untangle one of the big questions: what actually are emotions - and how are they different from feelings, moods, or just “being in a state”? We talk about why there's no such thing as a “bad” emotion, how emotions act as data rather than problems to get rid of, and why so many of us - especially in places like the UK - were raised to “keep calm and carry on” instead of learning how to work with what we feel.Marc walks us through his simple RULER framework, why labelling your emotions properly can completely change how you cope, and the practical tools we can all use to regulate our moods without repressing or overindulging them. If you've ever wondered whether you're “too emotional,” “not emotional enough,” or just confused about what's going on inside, this conversation will give you language, clarity and a far kinder way of understanding yourself.Find Professor Marc Brackett:Website: https://marcbrackett.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marc.brackett/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@marcbrackettBuy his book, Dealing with Feeling: https://marcbrackett.com/dealing-with-feeling/Stay Connected with Hurt to Healing:Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpodTikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpodLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/hurt-to-healingSubstack: substack.com/@hurttohealingWebsite: hurttohealing.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Season's Beatings from the @BrokenPencilBC (@Suave4Mayor x @DanjahOne)! Episode 265 presents the return of a Ruler, a media buyout, a media buy-in for TNA, a WarGames recap, math not mathing, Cena's last call, and much more.  Check your preferred streaming  home & set a reminder. Like. Rate. Share. Most importantly, Subscribe for auto-delivery. https://pods.link/brokenpencilbc Available on all streaming platforms.  #BrokenPencilLogic #VidaHermosaCigars​ #MarkMyWords​ #WCW​ #WWE​ #NXT​ #AEW​ #ROH​ #ImpactWrestling​ #NJPW​ #NWA​ #Podcast​ #NowStreaming​ #ApplePodcasts​ #Spotify​ #Pandora​ #TuneIn​ #prowrestling​ #VidaHermosaCigars​ #CerwinVega

Join Pastor Cameron as he begins discussing the next reason for Christmas - Christmas exists because we needed a King! Jesus came as the Perfect King and Ruler that we always needed. 

This recording is a recording of the meaning of the Advent Wreath used during the season of Advent. To hear the sermon preached at Immanuel Evangelical Lutheran Church in Mankato, Minnesota on December 7, 2025, go to our YouTube Channel. Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying, “I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.” John 8:12   The Prophecy Candle is the 1st candle lit the first week in Advent.  It is symbolic of the long years of waiting during which the prophets, inspired of God, kept alive the hope that the Son of God was coming to redeem His people from their sins. "Therefore... rest your hope fully upon the grace that is to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ" (1 Peter 1:13) The Bethlehem Candle is the 2nd candle lit.  It symbolizes the peace that comes to sinners and the preparations God made for the coming of the world's Savior. The prophecy in Micah 5:2 that foretold Jesus' birthplace at Bethlehem may seem to be a minor revelation, but it shows how God prepared even the least detail for the coming of Christ. “But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, Though you are little among the thousands of Judah, Yet out of you shall come forth to Me The One to be Ruler in Israel, Whose goings forth are from of old, From everlasting.” (Micah 5:2) The Shepherds' Candle is the 3rd candle lit and reminds us of our responsibility to share the Savior and His promises. The shepherds left their task and went with haste to see the Christ-child; then they returned to joyfully tell others about the good news of the Savior. “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people." ...  Now when they had seen Him, they made widely known the saying which was told them concerning this Child. (Luke 2:11,17) The Angels' Candle is lit the 4th week of Advent.  It reminds us of the activity of the angels before and after Jesus' birth, bearing messages, ministering, protecting, praising; they will be with Jesus at His final coming on Judgment Day, to gather the nations. "All the angels stood around the throne and the elders and the four living creatures, and fell on their faces before the throne and worshiped God" (Revelation 7:11) The Christ Candle is the white candle in the center, and is lit on Christmas Eve. It signals that He Who is the Light of the world has been born.   The light these candles put forth seems small;  so does the gospel at times.  But to those in lonely darkness, it is the powerful light which shows the way to Heaven.

In this week's Advent message, Pastor Mark dives deep into our universal longing for peace—peace in our homes, our relationships, our workplaces, our finances, and even within ourselves.From Micah 5, we explore a 2,700-year-old prophecy that points directly to Jesus as our Shepherd, our Ruler, and ultimately our Peace. Mark unpacks the meaning behind Bethlehem, the humanity and divinity of Christ, and why only Jesus can offer the kind of peace our souls are desperate for.Through practical steps, biblical truth, and memorable stories (Big Wheels, runaway horses, and more), this message shows how we can experience God's peace right now and not just someday in eternity.If you've been feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or longing for stability in a chaotic season, this sermon offers hope and a clear path forward.

In this week's Advent message, Pastor Mark dives deep into our universal longing for peace—peace in our homes, our relationships, our workplaces, our finances, and even within ourselves.From Micah 5, we explore a 2,700-year-old prophecy that points directly to Jesus as our Shepherd, our Ruler, and ultimately our Peace. Mark unpacks the meaning behind Bethlehem, the humanity and divinity of Christ, and why only Jesus can offer the kind of peace our souls are desperate for.Through practical steps, biblical truth, and memorable stories (Big Wheels, runaway horses, and more), this message shows how we can experience God's peace right now and not just someday in eternity.If you've been feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or longing for stability in a chaotic season, this sermon offers hope and a clear path forward.

The Gospel is simple: That if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead you will be saved. Romans 10:9 But God is extremely intelligent, and His message sometimes comes across as rather complicated. You will probably think that about this message. Just keep in mind the big picture: The Messiah is coming into the world, and everything, including the Mosiac Law and all the religious traditions, must yield to the new order. Micah 5:1-4 Now muster yourselves in troops, daughter of troops: they have laid siege against us; with a rod they will strike the judge of Israel on the cheek. But as for you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, too little to be among the clans of Judah, from you One will come forth for Me to be ruler in Israel. His times of coming forth are from long ago, from the days of eternity. Therefore, He will give them up until the time when she who is in labor has given birth. Then the remainder of His kinsmen will return to the sons of Israel. And He will arise and shepherd His flock in the strength of the LORD, in the majesty of the name of the LORD His God. And they will remain, because at that time He will be great to the ends of the earth. And we see the fulfillment of this prophecy in Luke Chapter 2: Luke 2:8-11 In the same region there were some shepherds staying out in the fields and keeping watch over their flock at night. And an angel of the Lord suddenly stood near them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them; and they were terribly frightened. And so the angel said to them, Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people; for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. The city of David. Sometimes we think of Jerusalem as the city of David, but David was not from Jerusalem. He conquered Jerusalem and drove out the Jebusites in 2 Samuel 5:6-8. If you recall from a previous sermon, thats where David developed the loathing for the blind and lame that figures so prominently in the meeting with Mephibosheth. The original city of David is Bethlehem (house of bread). As we saw recently, in Keiths sermon on Ruth, that story of how Boaz and Ruth unite is set in Bethlehem, and at the end of that book, we see the lineage traced down to David. Further evidence of Davids ties to Bethlehem occurs in I Samuel 20:27-29, where Jonathan tests his father Saul to see what his true intentions toward David are by stating that David was not present because he had to go to Bethlehem for a family gathering. To fulfill Scripture, God influences Caesar Augustus to issue a decree for a world-wide census, and all people must return to their birthplace. Joseph was betrothed to Mary at the time, and she was pregnant with the Messiah. Since he was from Bethlehem, he had to return there from Nazareth in Galilee. When Joseph and Mary arrive in Bethlehem, Marys time to deliver her baby arrives, and Jesus is born in Bethlehem, just as prophesied in Micah. Micah gives us an intriguing detail about this ruler from Bethlehem. His times of coming are from long ago, from the days of eternity. Now, how can a person who comes from Bethlehem come from eternity? Well, the answer is that the person must be eternal, and that has to be God. So, we have an eternal ruler of Israel who will be born in Bethlehem. This prophecy about the Messiah was well known in Jesus day. In Matthew 2:1-6, we see the chief priests and scribes correctly identify the location of the birth of the King of the Jews as Bethlehem, and they quote our passage from Micah 5. The first reference to a ruler from Judah (Bethlehem is in the province of Judah) is in Genesis 49:10 The scepter will not depart from Judah, nor the rulers staff from between his feet, until Shiloh comes. Another similar prophecy occurs in Numbers 24:17, spoken by Balaam: I see him, but not now; I look at him, but not near; a star shall appear from Jacob, a scepter shall rise from Israel, and shall smash the forehead of Moab, and overcome all the sons of Sheth. This prophecy does not mention Judah specifically, but mentions a scepter which will arise from Jacob, and of course Judah is one of Jacob (Israels) sons. All the verses we have looked at so far have focused on political and governmental power. But the Messiah is not just a King; He is also a Priest, but not a Levitical priest. What if, as a God-fearing person under the Mosaic Law, you became hopelessly frustrated with your own sinfulness and inability to obey the Law. Suppose you cried out to God for mercy because you knew that, according to the Mosaic Law, you stood condemned. And suddenly, God opened your eyes to another way to approach Him: Psalm 40:6-8 You have not desired sacrifice and meal offering; You have opened my ears; You have not required burnt offering and sin offering. Then I said, Behold, I have come; it is written of me in the scroll of the book. I delight to do Your will, my God; Your Law is within my heart. According to Numbers 3:9, Levites were the only permissible priests: So you shall assign the Levites to Aaron and to his sons; they are exclusively assigned to him from the sons of Israel. So you shall appoint Aaron and his sons that they may keep their priesthood, but the layman who comes near shall be put to death. But if you are no longer trying to approach God through the Law of Moses, you need another Priest outside the Levitical priesthood, because they only serve the Tabernacle. Fortunately, God provided us a Priest that fits our needs. To see this, we must turn to the Psalms. There are psalms known as Messianic Psalms which prophetically point to the ministry of the Messiah. Some of them are Psalm 2, 8, 16, 22 and 110. It is in Psalm 110 that we see the combined offices of King and Priest: Psalm 110:1-4 The LORD says to my Lord: Sit at My right hand until I make Your enemies a footstool for Your feet. The LORD will stretch out Your strong scepter from Zion, saying, Rule in the midst of Your enemies. Your people will volunteer freely on the day of Your power; in holy splendor, from the womb or the dawn, Your youth are to You as the dew. The LORD has sworn and will not change His mind, You are a priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek. In this passage, we see the scepter of the ruler and the role of the priest, combined in this Person to whom the LORD (Yahweh) speaks, identified as Lord (Adonai). This Lord (Adonai) is both Ruler and Priest, but not a Levitical priest. Instead, He is identified as a priest according to the order of Melchizedek. If you were a Jewish scribe, this passage should have troubled you. How could the Ruler of Israel, the Messiah, be a priest if he came from Judah, rather than Levi? Very mysterious. Melchizedek is only mentioned one other place in the Old Testament. He shows up in Genesis 14. This is after Abram rescues his nephew Lot from Chedorlaomer king of Elam and three other kings with him. Abram had also reclaimed other persons who were captured as well as many of their possessions. He was indirectly helping the king of Sodom, since that is where Lot lived. Abram meets up with the king of Sodom in the Valley of Shaveh. In verses 18-20, we are told, And Melchizedek the king of Salem brought out bread and wine; now he was a priest of God Most High. And he blessed him and said, Blessed be Abram of God Most High, possessor of heaven and earth; and blessed be God Most High, who has handed over your enemies to you. And he gave him a tenth of everything. Melchizedek is the king of Salem (peace), which most Jewish scholars interpret as the location of Jerusalem before Israel occupied Caanan. So, Melchizedek is a king and priest in the location where Abraham will take Isaac to be sacrificed; where Jerusalem will be located; and where the Messiah will be crucified. It is also in the land that will become Judahs territory after Israel occupies Caanan. Melchizedek is described as holding the offices of both king and priest. This is a very unusual combination, and typically was prohibited under Mosaic Law. In fact, Saul was dethroned in part because he presumed to offer sacrifices in Samuels absence, illegally usurping the priestly role as the king of Israel. In Second Chronicles Chapter 26, King Uzziah becomes a leper after he usurps the priests role and burns incense in the temple. But the Messiah, according to Psalm 110, is a priest forever, according to the order of Melchizedek, and is also the ruler over Israel. So, like Melchizedek, he is both a king and a priest. But, since the Messiah must come from Judah and be born in Bethlehem, he cannot be from the tribe of Levi, and his priesthood is therefore illegal under Mosaic Law. But thats not a problem for you because you have quit trying to obtain righteousness under the Mosaic Law. In fact, lets say you have become aware that you can achieve righteousness in Gods eyes by faith, just as Abraham did in Genesis 15:6: Then he believed in the LORD, and He credited it to him as righteousness. The covenant of works has a priesthood, so maybe the covenant of faith also has a priesthood. As a matter of fact, it does, and it has a priesthood superior to the Levitical priesthood, as described in Hebrews Chapter 7. In contrasting the Levitical priests with Jesus, Hebrews 7:23 says, The former priests, on the one hand, existed in greater numbers because they were prevented by death from continuing; Jesus, on the other hand, because He continues forever, holds His priesthood permanently. Therefore, He is also able to save forever those who come to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them. As noted in Hebrews 7:12, When the priesthood is changed, of necessity there takes place a change of law also. When we quit trying to earn righteousness, we leave the law of works and turn to the law of grace. In so doing, we turn from a religious system that uses frail human priests to a system that has a perfect eternal priest who is always interceding on our behalf. Now, some theologians believe that Melchizedek was a Christophany, an appearance of Christ in the Old Testament. Heres how the Hebrews writer describes Melchizedek in Hebrews 7:3 Without father, without mother, without genealogy, having neither beginning of days nor end of life, but made like the Son of God, he remains a priest perpetually. If that description were literally true, then it would have to be referring to Jesus. But the Hebrew writer is attributing the complete lack of genealogy about Melchizedek as suggestive of an eternal nature. We dont see any of the typical language used of Melchizedek that we see in other Christophanies. For instance, no other Christophany identifies anyone by a proper name or being an office bearer in any earthly position. Also, we see no command to, for example, remove Abrams sandals because the ground is holy. But clearly, God intends us to note the complete lack of genealogy, especially in Psalm 110:4, as being instructive that the Messiah will have a priesthood that is eternal. So, when we think of Born in Bethlehem, we think of a precious infant, a manger, Joseph and Mary, and all the pageantry of Christmas. But to receive a forever priest from the Tribe of Judah, we must leave behind our love affair with salvation by our own works and receive the righteousness that comes only through faith. Romans 3:19-26 explains the procedural change: Now we know that whatever the Law says, it speaks to those who are under the Law, so that every mouth may be closed and all the world may become accountable to God; because by the works of the Law none of mankind will be justified in His sight; for through the Law comes knowledge of sin. BUT NOW apart from the Law the righteousness of God has been revealed, being witnessed by the Law and the Prophets, but it is the righteousness of God THROUGH FAITH in Jesus Christ for all those who believe; for there is no distinction, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, being justified as a gift by His grace through the redemption which is in Christ Jesus, whom God displayed publicly as a propitiation in His blood through faith. This was to demonstrate His righteousness, because in Gods merciful restraint He let the sins previously committed go unpunished; for the demonstration, that is, of His righteousness at the present time, so that He would be just and THE JUSTIFIER OF THE ONE WHO HAS FAITH IN JESUS. Thats what Christmas is all about. Its the coming of the King and Priest who changes the Law and eternal future for all of us who will transition out of trying to save ourselves, and trust in the blood of Christ as our only righteousness. Amen and hallelujah forever!

The Gospel is simple: That if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead you will be saved. Romans 10:9 But God is extremely intelligent, and His message sometimes comes across as rather complicated. You will probably think that about this message. Just keep in mind the big picture: The Messiah is coming into the world, and everything, including the Mosiac Law and all the religious traditions, must yield to the new order. Micah 5:1-4 Now muster yourselves in troops, daughter of troops: they have laid siege against us; with a rod they will strike the judge of Israel on the cheek. But as for you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, too little to be among the clans of Judah, from you One will come forth for Me to be ruler in Israel. His times of coming forth are from long ago, from the days of eternity. Therefore, He will give them up until the time when she who is in labor has given birth. Then the remainder of His kinsmen will return to the sons of Israel. And He will arise and shepherd His flock in the strength of the LORD, in the majesty of the name of the LORD His God. And they will remain, because at that time He will be great to the ends of the earth. And we see the fulfillment of this prophecy in Luke Chapter 2: Luke 2:8-11 In the same region there were some shepherds staying out in the fields and keeping watch over their flock at night. And an angel of the Lord suddenly stood near them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them; and they were terribly frightened. And so the angel said to them, Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people; for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. The city of David. Sometimes we think of Jerusalem as the city of David, but David was not from Jerusalem. He conquered Jerusalem and drove out the Jebusites in 2 Samuel 5:6-8. If you recall from a previous sermon, thats where David developed the loathing for the blind and lame that figures so prominently in the meeting with Mephibosheth. The original city of David is Bethlehem (house of bread). As we saw recently, in Keiths sermon on Ruth, that story of how Boaz and Ruth unite is set in Bethlehem, and at the end of that book, we see the lineage traced down to David. Further evidence of Davids ties to Bethlehem occurs in I Samuel 20:27-29, where Jonathan tests his father Saul to see what his true intentions toward David are by stating that David was not present because he had to go to Bethlehem for a family gathering. To fulfill Scripture, God influences Caesar Augustus to issue a decree for a world-wide census, and all people must return to their birthplace. Joseph was betrothed to Mary at the time, and she was pregnant with the Messiah. Since he was from Bethlehem, he had to return there from Nazareth in Galilee. When Joseph and Mary arrive in Bethlehem, Marys time to deliver her baby arrives, and Jesus is born in Bethlehem, just as prophesied in Micah. Micah gives us an intriguing detail about this ruler from Bethlehem. His times of coming are from long ago, from the days of eternity. Now, how can a person who comes from Bethlehem come from eternity? Well, the answer is that the person must be eternal, and that has to be God. So, we have an eternal ruler of Israel who will be born in Bethlehem. This prophecy about the Messiah was well known in Jesus day. In Matthew 2:1-6, we see the chief priests and scribes correctly identify the location of the birth of the King of the Jews as Bethlehem, and they quote our passage from Micah 5. The first reference to a ruler from Judah (Bethlehem is in the province of Judah) is in Genesis 49:10 The scepter will not depart from Judah, nor the rulers staff from between his feet, until Shiloh comes. Another similar prophecy occurs in Numbers 24:17, spoken by Balaam: I see him, but not now; I look at him, but not near; a star shall appear from Jacob, a scepter shall rise from Israel, and shall smash the forehead of Moab, and overcome all the sons of Sheth. This prophecy does not mention Judah specifically, but mentions a scepter which will arise from Jacob, and of course Judah is one of Jacob (Israels) sons. All the verses we have looked at so far have focused on political and governmental power. But the Messiah is not just a King; He is also a Priest, but not a Levitical priest. What if, as a God-fearing person under the Mosaic Law, you became hopelessly frustrated with your own sinfulness and inability to obey the Law. Suppose you cried out to God for mercy because you knew that, according to the Mosaic Law, you stood condemned. And suddenly, God opened your eyes to another way to approach Him: Psalm 40:6-8 You have not desired sacrifice and meal offering; You have opened my ears; You have not required burnt offering and sin offering. Then I said, Behold, I have come; it is written of me in the scroll of the book. I delight to do Your will, my God; Your Law is within my heart. According to Numbers 3:9, Levites were the only permissible priests: So you shall assign the Levites to Aaron and to his sons; they are exclusively assigned to him from the sons of Israel. So you shall appoint Aaron and his sons that they may keep their priesthood, but the layman who comes near shall be put to death. But if you are no longer trying to approach God through the Law of Moses, you need another Priest outside the Levitical priesthood, because they only serve the Tabernacle. Fortunately, God provided us a Priest that fits our needs. To see this, we must turn to the Psalms. There are psalms known as Messianic Psalms which prophetically point to the ministry of the Messiah. Some of them are Psalm 2, 8, 16, 22 and 110. It is in Psalm 110 that we see the combined offices of King and Priest: Psalm 110:1-4 The LORD says to my Lord: Sit at My right hand until I make Your enemies a footstool for Your feet. The LORD will stretch out Your strong scepter from Zion, saying, Rule in the midst of Your enemies. Your people will volunteer freely on the day of Your power; in holy splendor, from the womb or the dawn, Your youth are to You as the dew. The LORD has sworn and will not change His mind, You are a priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek. In this passage, we see the scepter of the ruler and the role of the priest, combined in this Person to whom the LORD (Yahweh) speaks, identified as Lord (Adonai). This Lord (Adonai) is both Ruler and Priest, but not a Levitical priest. Instead, He is identified as a priest according to the order of Melchizedek. If you were a Jewish scribe, this passage should have troubled you. How could the Ruler of Israel, the Messiah, be a priest if he came from Judah, rather than Levi? Very mysterious. Melchizedek is only mentioned one other place in the Old Testament. He shows up in Genesis 14. This is after Abram rescues his nephew Lot from Chedorlaomer king of Elam and three other kings with him. Abram had also reclaimed other persons who were captured as well as many of their possessions. He was indirectly helping the king of Sodom, since that is where Lot lived. Abram meets up with the king of Sodom in the Valley of Shaveh. In verses 18-20, we are told, And Melchizedek the king of Salem brought out bread and wine; now he was a priest of God Most High. And he blessed him and said, Blessed be Abram of God Most High, possessor of heaven and earth; and blessed be God Most High, who has handed over your enemies to you. And he gave him a tenth of everything. Melchizedek is the king of Salem (peace), which most Jewish scholars interpret as the location of Jerusalem before Israel occupied Caanan. So, Melchizedek is a king and priest in the location where Abraham will take Isaac to be sacrificed; where Jerusalem will be located; and where the Messiah will be crucified. It is also in the land that will become Judahs territory after Israel occupies Caanan. Melchizedek is described as holding the offices of both king and priest. This is a very unusual combination, and typically was prohibited under Mosaic Law. In fact, Saul was dethroned in part because he presumed to offer sacrifices in Samuels absence, illegally usurping the priestly role as the king of Israel. In Second Chronicles Chapter 26, King Uzziah becomes a leper after he usurps the priests role and burns incense in the temple. But the Messiah, according to Psalm 110, is a priest forever, according to the order of Melchizedek, and is also the ruler over Israel. So, like Melchizedek, he is both a king and a priest. But, since the Messiah must come from Judah and be born in Bethlehem, he cannot be from the tribe of Levi, and his priesthood is therefore illegal under Mosaic Law. But thats not a problem for you because you have quit trying to obtain righteousness under the Mosaic Law. In fact, lets say you have become aware that you can achieve righteousness in Gods eyes by faith, just as Abraham did in Genesis 15:6: Then he believed in the LORD, and He credited it to him as righteousness. The covenant of works has a priesthood, so maybe the covenant of faith also has a priesthood. As a matter of fact, it does, and it has a priesthood superior to the Levitical priesthood, as described in Hebrews Chapter 7. In contrasting the Levitical priests with Jesus, Hebrews 7:23 says, The former priests, on the one hand, existed in greater numbers because they were prevented by death from continuing; Jesus, on the other hand, because He continues forever, holds His priesthood permanently. Therefore, He is also able to save forever those who come to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them. As noted in Hebrews 7:12, When the priesthood is changed, of necessity there takes place a change of law also. When we quit trying to earn righteousness, we leave the law of works and turn to the law of grace. In so doing, we turn from a religious system that uses frail human priests to a system that has a perfect eternal priest who is always interceding on our behalf. Now, some theologians believe that Melchizedek was a Christophany, an appearance of Christ in the Old Testament. Heres how the Hebrews writer describes Melchizedek in Hebrews 7:3 Without father, without mother, without genealogy, having neither beginning of days nor end of life, but made like the Son of God, he remains a priest perpetually. If that description were literally true, then it would have to be referring to Jesus. But the Hebrew writer is attributing the complete lack of genealogy about Melchizedek as suggestive of an eternal nature. We dont see any of the typical language used of Melchizedek that we see in other Christophanies. For instance, no other Christophany identifies anyone by a proper name or being an office bearer in any earthly position. Also, we see no command to, for example, remove Abrams sandals because the ground is holy. But clearly, God intends us to note the complete lack of genealogy, especially in Psalm 110:4, as being instructive that the Messiah will have a priesthood that is eternal. So, when we think of Born in Bethlehem, we think of a precious infant, a manger, Joseph and Mary, and all the pageantry of Christmas. But to receive a forever priest from the Tribe of Judah, we must leave behind our love affair with salvation by our own works and receive the righteousness that comes only through faith. Romans 3:19-26 explains the procedural change: Now we know that whatever the Law says, it speaks to those who are under the Law, so that every mouth may be closed and all the world may become accountable to God; because by the works of the Law none of mankind will be justified in His sight; for through the Law comes knowledge of sin. BUT NOW apart from the Law the righteousness of God has been revealed, being witnessed by the Law and the Prophets, but it is the righteousness of God THROUGH FAITH in Jesus Christ for all those who believe; for there is no distinction, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, being justified as a gift by His grace through the redemption which is in Christ Jesus, whom God displayed publicly as a propitiation in His blood through faith. This was to demonstrate His righteousness, because in Gods merciful restraint He let the sins previously committed go unpunished; for the demonstration, that is, of His righteousness at the present time, so that He would be just and THE JUSTIFIER OF THE ONE WHO HAS FAITH IN JESUS. Thats what Christmas is all about. Its the coming of the King and Priest who changes the Law and eternal future for all of us who will transition out of trying to save ourselves, and trust in the blood of Christ as our only righteousness. Amen and hallelujah forever!

Listen along as Mike Gaston continues our Advent series. Notes//Quotes: Matthew 2:1-12 - Faith Reading   Slide 1 The Big Idea The Magi prove that God keeps His promise to bless all the nations of the earth   Slide 2 Who was Herod the King?   Slide 3 “There are lots of Herods in the New Testament—this one is the first Herod, Herod the Great, the King of the Jews. But the thing about Herod the Great, the King of the Jews, is that he wasn't a Jew and shouldn't have been king. He wasn't from the tribe of Judah, or the house of David. He wasn't actually a Jew—he was an Idumean, an Edomite, technically, one of Israel's historical enemies. He ruled by terror and murder. He was paranoid and at times seems legit crazy. At one point when he was literally on his death bed, he thought his own sons were trying to assassinate him. He's literally on his death bed actually dying—so he had his own sons executed. By the last few years of his life it seems like he was completely out of his tree.”   Craig Hamilton   Slide 4 Who were the wise men?   Slide 5 “Then Pharaoh summoned the wise men and the sorcerers, and they, the magicians of Egypt, also did the same by their secret arts. For each man cast down his staff, and they became serpents. But Aaron's staff swallowed up their staffs.” Exodus 7:11-12   Slide 6 “Then the king gave Daniel high honors and many great gifts, and made him ruler of the whole province of Babylon and chief prefect over all the wise men of Babylon.” Daniel 2:48 Slide 7 ““The group of Magi in question came “from the East.” They might have been Zoroastrians, Medes, Persians, Arabs, or even Jews. They probably served as court advisors, making forecasts and predictions for their royal patrons based on their study of the stars, about which they were quite knowledgeable. Magi often wandered from court to court, and it was not unusual for them to cover great distances in order to attend the birth or crowning of a king, paying their respects and offering gifts. It is not surprising, therefore, that Matthew would mention them as validation of Jesus' kingship, or that Herod would regard their arrival as a very serious matter.”   Craig Chester   Slide 8 What was the star?   Slide 9 “And the city has no need of sun or moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light, and its lamp is the Lamb. By its light will the nations walk, and the kings of the earth will bring their glory into it, and its gates will never be shut by day—and there will be no night there.” Revelation 21:23-25   Slide 10 What do the gifts mean?   Slide 11 The ultimate question: What's the point?   Slide 12 “I will bless those who bless you, and him who dishonors you I will curse., and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.” Genesis 12:3   Slide 13 “For the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord as the waters cover the sea.” Habakkuk 2:14   Slide 14 “Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth. Psalm 46:10   Slide 15 “Matthew plainly says that, though Jesus was the Messiah, born in David's line and certain to be Shepherd and Ruler of Israel, it was the Gentiles who came to worship him.” D.A. Carson   Slide 16 “And he came and preached peace to you who were far off and peace to those who were near. For through him we both have access in one Spirit to the Father. So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God.” Ephesians 2:17-19   Slide 17 The Big Idea The Magi prove that God keeps His promise to bless all the nations of the earth  

Ever watch a simple contact spiral because someone felt disrespected? We sat down with Ofc. Jorge Lopez, a 30-year officer and veteran trainer, to unpack why ego flares so fast on the street and how to keep decisions anchored in reason, law, and outcome. Jorge doesn't preach clichés—he maps the psychology. Using Freud's id–ego–superego as a field-ready model, he shows how the “horse” (id) wants instant gratification, the “reins” (superego) tug toward ideals, and the “rider” (ego) has to steer under stress. When a “snake on the trail” appears—insults, defiance, a sudden kick—officers feel before they think. The trick is noticing the spike and buying time.We break down the limbic system and amygdala's threat signals versus the prefrontal cortex where law, policy, and judgment live. Anger is fast, fear is loud, and love—duty to protect—often proves stronger than both. George offers practical tools: the RULER method to recognize, label, and regulate emotions; the Johari Window to reveal blind spots that only emerge under heat; and his Four C's—Camera, Communicate, Contact, Control—to structure every interaction. Add his favorite formula—Distance + Cover = Time—and you get a simple path to safer, smarter choices that hold up in court and on camera.We also challenge the illusion of control. Crowds can't be commanded into calm; you monitor potential threats while solving the actual problem. Talk more, force less. Competence breeds calm, and the best fighters rarely need to prove it. You'll hear how internal scripts—It's not personal; Don't take the bait; Is this worth my career?—help officers steer back to thinking. And beyond tactics, we talk identity: building a life outside the badge so the job doesn't own you.If you're a cop, trainer, or curious citizen, this conversation delivers actionable mindset, emotional intelligence, scenario training insights, and street-proven frameworks to reduce unnecessary force and improve outcomes. Subscribe, share this with a teammate, and leave a review with the one tool you'll practsend us a message! twocopsonedonut@yahoo.comPeregrine.io: Turn your worst detectives into Sherlock Holmes, head to Peregrine.io tell them Two Cops One Donut sent you or direct message me and I'll get you directly connected and skip the salesmen.Support the showPlease see our Youtube channel https://www.youtube.com/c/TwoCopsOneDonut Join our Discord!! https://discord.gg/BdjeTEAc *Send us a message! twocopsonedonut@yahoo.com

Part 3 - "In the Beginning"… exists Light and... Word... and Life... andWhat if “In the beginning” was not a timestamp, rather both Ruler and Rule of a Throne?John 1 does more than echo Genesis 1 - it expands it into eternity.In Part 3, we explore the connections between Genesis 1:1-5 and John 1:1-5, uncovering the Hebrew and Greek nuances of “beginning,” “word,” and “light”... and much more through the lens of Logos as Life and Light. This is a conversation about scripture, about you... about your origin, your existence, you as Light in the light of Light Himself. Keywords: John 1 and Genesis 1, Greek word etymology and meaning, Hebrew word etymology and meaning, Logos as Light, Christ-centered creation, Light in the Gospel, Word made flesh, eternity in time, Light, Life, Existence, God, in Him, Be the Light, Identity, who you are, I am, you are

I. Rebels II. Response III. Reign IV. Refuge

Mark 12 (NKJV)Andrew and Edwin learn hope and trust from a poor widow. They also recognize this chapter has been setting the stage for all the coming discussion about judgment on Jerusalem and the temple.Read the written devo that goes along with this episode by clicking here.    Let us know what you are learning or any questions you have. Email us at TextTalk@ChristiansMeetHere.org.    Join the Facebook community and join the conversation by clicking here. We'd love to meet you. Be a guest among the Christians who meet on Livingston Avenue. Click here to find out more. Michael Eldridge sang all four parts of our theme song. Find more from him by clicking here.   Thanks for talking about the text with us today.________________________________________________If the hyperlinks do not work, copy the following addresses and paste them into the URL bar of your web browser: Daily Written Devo: https://readthebiblemakedisciples.wordpress.com/?p=23545The Christians Who Meet on Livingston Avenue: http://www.christiansmeethere.org/Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/TalkAboutTheTextFacebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/texttalkMichael Eldridge: https://acapeldridge.com/ 

Mark 12 (ESV)Andrew and Edwin discuss what we can learn from a scribe who seemed to be asking Jesus an honest question and recognizing a wise answer.Read the written devo that goes along with this episode by clicking here.    Let us know what you are learning or any questions you have. Email us at TextTalk@ChristiansMeetHere.org.    Join the Facebook community and join the conversation by clicking here. We'd love to meet you. Be a guest among the Christians who meet on Livingston Avenue. Click here to find out more. Michael Eldridge sang all four parts of our theme song. Find more from him by clicking here.   Thanks for talking about the text with us today.________________________________________________If the hyperlinks do not work, copy the following addresses and paste them into the URL bar of your web browser: Daily Written Devo: https://readthebiblemakedisciples.wordpress.com/?p=23517The Christians Who Meet on Livingston Avenue: http://www.christiansmeethere.org/Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/TalkAboutTheTextFacebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/texttalkMichael Eldridge: https://acapeldridge.com/ 

Pastor Eugene Park

The news to know for Tuesday, November 18, 2025! What to know about mounting support for releasing the Epstein Files. And a key step for the future of Gaza as President Trump envisioned it. Also, how Trump is once again cooperating with Saudi Arabia despite some pushback here in the U.S. Plus: enrollment at American colleges has shifted, there's a new plan to help international soccer fans see the World Cup in the U.S., and Jeff Bezos is taking on his first new hands-on role since Amazon. Those stories and even more news to know in about 10 minutes!    Join us every Mon-Fri for more daily news roundups!  See sources: https://www.theNewsWorthy.com/shownotes Become an INSIDER to get AD-FREE episodes here: https://www.theNewsWorthy.com/insider Get The NewsWorthy MERCH here: https://thenewsworthy.dashery.com/ Sponsors: This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/NEWSWORTHY and get on your way to being your best self. Receive 50% off your first order of Hiya's best-selling children's vitamins at hiyahealth.com/NEWSWORTHY To advertise on our podcast, please reach out to ad-sales@libsyn.com

Dr. Marc Brackett has spent decades at Yale studying the one skill that determines the quality of your entire life: emotional intelligence. He reveals why even experts struggle to regulate their emotions, especially during crisis. Lewis opens up about his own journey from explosive reactions and ruined relationships to finding emotional mastery at 30, and Marc shares the RULER method that's transforming how millions of people understand their inner world. This isn't theory, it's survival tools for modern life. You'll learn why permission to feel is revolutionary, how to break cycles of emotional trauma, and why your emotions aren't the enemy. They're the roadmap.Marc's book's:Dealing with Feeling: Use Your Emotions to Create the Life You WantPermission to Feel: The Power of Emotional Intelligence to Achieve Well-Being and SuccessLearn more about Dr. Marc BrackettIn this episode you will:Discover why 90% of people never received emotional education and how this one gap sabotages relationships, careers, and healthLearn the RULER method, a five-step framework to recognize, understand, label, express, and regulate emotions in real timeBreak free from childhood patterns of gaslighting and narcissistic parenting by becoming an emotion scientist of your own lifeTransform how you show up in relationships through co-regulation, the skill of managing emotions together instead of aloneUnderstand why giving yourself permission to feel all emotions, even the uncomfortable ones, is the first step to genuine freedomFor more information go to https://lewishowes.com/1843For more Greatness text PODCAST to +1 (614) 350-3960More SOG episodes we think you'll love:Jerry Wise – greatness.lnk.to/1747SCDr. Becky Kennedy  – greatness.lnk.to/1586SCDr. Mariel Buqué – greatness.lnk.to/1555SC Get more from Lewis! Get my New York Times Bestselling book, Make Money Easy!Get The Greatness Mindset audiobook on SpotifyText Lewis AIYouTubeInstagramWebsiteTiktokFacebookX Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.