Podcasts about Simeon

Welcome to New England Legends From the Vault – FtV Episode 158 –  Jeff Belanger and Ray Auger visit the border town of Fort Fairfield, Maine, in search of Simeon Cary's gold-hunting chickens. In 1898, Cary was quietly using chickens to peck for gold just over the Canadian border. His technique was so strange, it made the news in July of 1899. This episode first aired August 8, 2019 Listen ad-free plus get early access and bonus episodes at: https://www.patreon.com/NewEnglandLegends 

Fr. Joseph Johnson joins Patrick for the third of a special Lenten Series on the 7 Last Words of Jesus – today’s topic: Mary’s Role at the Cross (3:26) What is the context in these words of Jesus from the Cross? What Who does John represent in this scene? (13:25) What is Mary’s role in the Passion of our Lord? (18:08) Break 1 What are practical ways in which we can share in the passion of Christ? (25:39) Jim - My mother is starting to fail. My wife asked who should we pray for as a caregiver. We stopped thinking about the saints and then turned to Jesus on the cross. Jesus found a caregiver for his own mother. Found great consolation. Kurt - Redemptive suffering and joining to Christ on the cross. Very rarely do I hear anyone talking about that. We not only have that opportunity, but for the redemption of the world. We are commanded to that in John 15 and John 13. I give you a new commandment... There's no greater good than to offer suffering for them. (34:06) Break 2 How does the prophecy of Simeon play a role in Mary’s heart at the Cross? (38:37) what can we expect from the love of Mary and how it helps us in our lives? (41:21) Sharon - When my son died. I identified with Mary for release. My son was 50 and died of a rare cancer. The loss was something I knew she understood. Gave me a great deal of help during that time. Michelle - Abortion and aborted children. Great sorrow. I delivered that child into Mary's hands.

Simeon and I share some of our family's favorite board games for younger and older children!   Resources Referenced: NHC Blog: Family Game Night Favorites FIND ALL THE LINKS! https://nohighercalling.org/family-game-night-favorites/  Our favorite games on Amazon https://www.amazon.com/shop/nohighercalling_/list/2F0XWD60PQMRZ?ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ofs_mixed_d  NHC Podcast: Spending One-on-One Time with Your Children https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/spending-one-on-one-time-with-your-kids/id1547126864?i=1000634580156  Head to Toe Prayer Journal https://nohighercalling.org/shop/devotional/head-to-toe/    Follow my  journey by subscribing to this podcast. You can also follow me on Instagram, YouTube, and www.nohighercalling.org Subscribe to the NHC email at www.nohighercalling.org 

The PPP is back we start off by breaking down par for the puff night brought to you by Ayrloom . What a great event up at PSG in Saratoga special shout out to Kary from Ayrloom and Mike from PSG when everybody that showed up was a really good time tonight's episode, though joined by Simeon everybody that showed was a really good time tonight‘s episode, though joined by Simeon owner of talk a little bit of every thing from how the started where the passion came from and we even dive into a little bit of college football tune in to a new episode of the PPP

This week, we explore Jesus' presentation at the temple in Luke 2:22–40. As we consider the faithfulness of Mary, Joseph, Simeon, and Anna, we center our discussion around three questions:What stands out to us from this passage? What is God like according to this text? Why do the truths of this text matter? 

In this follow-up episode of The Hacka Podcast, I am joined by Evangelist Simeon Costa to respond directly to the questions and pushback sparked by their previous conversation on baptism.- Does 1 Corinthians 1 mean baptism isn't necessary?- Is Romans 10:9 the only requirement for salvation?- What about the thief on the cross?- Was John's baptism the same as Christian baptism?Together, we walk carefully through Scripture—Acts, Romans, Corinthians, the Gospels, and more—addressing common objections while keeping the focus where it belongs: biblical context.This episode isn't about debate. It's about clarity. If you've wrestled with how baptism connects to salvation, grace, faith, and obedience, this conversation will help you think deeper and read Scripture more consistently.Extended show notes - ⁠https://hacka.org/2026/02/23/218-simeon-costa-answering-objections-to-the-necessity-of-baptism/⁠——————Order Hacka Merch - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://the-hacka-podcast.myspreadshop.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠------------Listen to all episodes:Apple Podcasts - https://apple.co/3PRSYKUSpotify - https://spoti.fi/3zCUsUoFollow us on social:Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thehackapod/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/hackaorgTikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@thehackapod#christianpodcast #apostolicpentecostal #churchleader

• Paul delights in life after death; II Corinthians 5:8-9• Psalm 116:15 - “precious”• Simeon in Luke 2, “I can depart in peace”• Jesus in John 14:1-3I. The Finish Line of Faith:1. Paul speaks of his death - v. 62. Paul speaks of his life - v. 7• Paul fought (soldier, boxer)• Paul finished (athlete)• Paul kept (words of a vow)3. Paul speaks of his afterlife - v . 8a4. Paul speaks of our afterlife - v. 8b• There is laid up for me -• There is laid up for you -• There is a qualifier - “to all who loved His appearing”II. The Crowns Promised by God:• Some crowns are given on earth: God has been good to His children!• Psalm 8:5 (quoted in Hebrews 2:9) - Humanity has been crowned with incredible sanctity (of life)• The others have qualifiers like the future crowns.• Psalm 103:4 (our salvation) - crowned with steadfast love and mercy• Proverbs 12:4 - An excellent wife is the crown of her husband• Proverbs 14:18, The prudent are crowned with knowledge• Proverbs 16:31 - Gray hair is a crown of splendor; it is attained in the way of righteousness.• Proverbs 17:6 - Grandparents are crowned, Children's children are a crown to the aged.

Ephesians 4:10-13 God speaks thru prophets and apostles. Jesus loves you so much that he gave the church gifts. “The One who climbed down is the One who climbed back up, up to highest heaven. He handed out gifts above and below, filled heaven with his gifts, filled earth with his gifts. He handed out gifts of apostle, prophet, evangelist, and pastor-teacher to train Christ's followers in skilled servant work, working within Christ's body, the church, until we're all moving rhythmically and easily with each other, efficient and graceful in response to God's Son, fully mature adults, fully developed within and without, fully alive like Christ.” – Ephesians 4:10-13  The Message by Eugene Peterson “And he (Jesus) himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, some pastors and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, to build up the body of Christ, until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of God's Son, growing into maturity with a stature measured by Christ's fullness.” – Ephesians 4:11-13  CSB 1. Prophets God speaks. Prophecy – speak on behalf of God before others Prophet – one who speaks inspired utterances on behalf of God “The name ‘prophets' (in Eph. 4:11) is given to those who, having received the Spirit of God, spoke beforehand of Christ and his advent. These were the prophets who “were until Christ.” But after he arrived, was there no reason for any further prophecy? What prophets does Paul speak of here? It is obviously those who being full of the Spirit spoke of God after his coming, continuing to expound the divine teaching.” – Marius Victorinus 280-363 Old Testament prophets spoke the message God gave them, and many pointed to Jesus Christ. “Now all this took place to fulfill what was spoken by the Lord through the prophet.” – Matthew 1:22  CSB Some New Testament prophets: John the Baptist, Anna in Luke 2:36, Agabus in Acts 11:29, 21:10,  Barnabas, Simeon who was called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen in Acts 13:1-2, Silas & Judas Barsabbas in Acts 15:32, 4 daughters of Phillip in Acts 21:8-9,  John in Revelation “the spirit of prophecy” – Revelation 19:10 “This means that prophecy at its very heart is designed to unfold the beauty and loveliness of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” – John Walvoord Training, Discernment, and Accountability:  “Two or three prophets should speak, and the others should evaluate. But if something has been revealed to another person sitting there, the first prophet should be silent. For you can all prophesy one by one, so that everyone may learn and everyone may be encouraged. And the prophets' spirits are subject to the prophets, 33 since God is not a God of disorder but of peace.” – 1 Corinthians 14:29–33   CSB  “many false prophets will appear and fool many people,” – Matthew 24:11    Elijah school of the prophets in 1 Kings 19:18, training people in understanding the Scripture, discerning God's voice, and speaking it. In 2 Kings 2 we see groups of prophets interacting with Elijah and Elisha. Paul & Barnabas – described as “prophets and teachers” then commissioned, sent in apostolic ministry “Now in the church at Antioch there were prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon who was called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen, a close friend of Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. As they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, ‘Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.' Then after they had fasted, prayed, and laid hands on them, they sent them off.” – Acts 13:1-3  CSB 2. Apostle – an envoy of Jesus, a representative messenger sent, a “special” messenger (having been commissioned by Jesus Christ for a particular task or role, invested with the authority to speak on his behalf)   …borrowing and changing a Greek term for, emissaries, one who is to carry a message and is commissioned to extend the kingdom (military or naval) a commander of a naval expedition (generally restricted to the immediate followers of Jesus Christ, but also extended, as in the case of Paul, to other early Christians active in proclaiming the message of the gospel) – Louw, J. P., & Nida, E. A. (1996). In Greek-English lexicon of the New Testament “Paul, chosen by God to be an apostle and sent out to preach his Good News.” – Romans 1:1  (possible reference to a Jewish embassy in Rome that required travel by sea) Denotes God-given spiritual authority, mission and message, to be recognized by others (including leaders) Influence in more than one local church Alignment > Heirarchy  God speaks. God had spoken. God is speaking. God will speak. “This is a house set up and ordered by Jesus.… He does not do this in a casual manner. It is with the utmost discrimination and discretion: One is assigned to the rank of an apostle, one to the place of a prophet, others to look after the flock of Christ and to work at the divine instruction of others for those saints who are prepared to learn.” – Didymus the Blind a Biblical scholar 313-398 What are prophets & apostles? Gifts from Jesus to his church. Representatives and messengers. They speak when God has given them something to say. The church leaders recognize it and the church receives it. Each of the 4 Gifts function when recognized and received. What are prophets & apostles NOT? Free to do what they want, however they want. Not dictators. Not celebrities. Not gurus. What is the purpose of our interactions with the 4 Gifts? Sent to equip the church for ministry. Sent to build up the church. Sent to help the church learn about Jesus and become more like Jesus. Sent to help the church grow stronger spiritually, able to refute wrong thinking. Equipping – making, preparing, training, perfecting, making fully qualified for service, (in classical language the word was used to describe setting a bone during surgery – The Great Physician is now making all the necessary adjustments so the church will not be “out of joint”) What should we do? 1.       Read Ephesians 3:14-21 and 4:1-16. 2.       Pray, asking God for guidance. 3.       Think about what we are reading. 4.       Write down elements of God's purpose for us. 5.       Write down ways in which we should interact with the 4 Gifts. Extra notes: “the spirit of prophecy” – Revelation 19:10 Worship God, because the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.” – Revelation 19:10  CSB The word “testimony,” or witness, references someone who has seen or experienced something to be the case. John and his brothers are therefore witnesses and the bearers of testimony to the plan and purpose of God for redemption in Jesus. Consequently, God is the only appropriate object of worship. This is explained by the somewhat enigmatic statement, “For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.” Here the word “prophecy” (proph?teia), which arises from a combination of “speak” (ph?mi) and “before” (pro), an important use of the word essentially meaning “speak for God before.” Before what? is an appropriate question. One sense of the preposition (pro) would be to speak about an event before it happens. Another sense would be to speak before listeners of the purpose and acts of God. Likely in this case both of these senses are paramount. In any event, the meaning is actually reasonably clear: The spirit of both the proclamation and the telling of the future is bound up in the testimony of Jesus. Jesus the Lamb—and not just a chronology of last things—is the theme of the Revelation. As Walvoord succinctly declares, “This means that prophecy at its very heart is designed to unfold the beauty and loveliness of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” – Patterson, P. (2012). Revelation (E. R. Clendenen, Ed.; Vol. 39, pp. 345–346). B&H. Evangelist – one who announces the Good News of Jesus (in particular a function rather than an office) …such as Philip in Acts 8:4, 12, 35, 40, 21:8 and Timothy in 2 Timothy 4:5  1 Thessalonians 3:2  Philippians 2:22  and two women in Philippians 4:3  Titus in 2 Corinthians 8:18  Epaphras in Colossians 1:7  NT Evangelists – Paul/Phillip NT Church – 1 Tim 3:15, 5:1-2  1 Cor. 12:16-17 Note: not all evangelists were apostles, but all apostles were evangelists “Then he said to them, ‘Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation. Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.'” – Jesus in Mark 16:15-16  CSB All disciples – “Make disciples,” – Jesus in Matthew 28:18-20  “How, then, can they call on him they have not believed in? And how can they believe without hearing about him? And how can they hear without a preacher? And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written: How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news.” – Romans 10:14-15  CSB Preachers: Apostles, Prophets, Evangelists, Pastors/Teachers will preach. Greek definition of the word “preach” ·       To publicly proclaim or announce news. ·       To proclaim as a herald.  Matthew 4:17; 10:7; 24:14; Acts 8:5; Acts 28:31  A person who had particular responsibilities. Someone sent to say something specific. ·       To announce good tidings or good news.  Luke 3:18; Luke 4:43; Luke 9:6; Acts 8:4; Rev 14:6  Euaggelizo – good news of the gospel ·       To teach or instruct.  Matthew 4:23; 13:36; John 6:59; I Cor 4:17; 1 Tim 2:12; Rom 2:20; Acts 13:1; Rom 12:7; 1 Cor 12:28; Mt 28:19;  Mk 16:15; Eph 4:1 ·       To cause people to learn.  Mt 11:29; 28:19; Acts 14:21  ·       To place beside, as in clear presentation.  Mt 13:24; Mk 8:6 ; Acts 16:34; 1 Cor 10:27; 2 Tim 4:3; Heb 5:12-14  Paratithemi – to place beside so you can pick up again ·       To interpret and make clear and simple.  Lk 24:27; 1 Cor 12;30; 14:5,13,27 ·       To bring out the hidden meanings.  Acts 11:4; 18:26; 28:23  Scripture has obvious and non-obvious meaning. Matthew 10:7              And as you go preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand. Matthew 24:14            And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, Colossians 1:28         Him we preach, warning every man and teaching every man in all wisdom, that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus. 2 Corinthians 4:5         For we do not preach ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord, and ourselves your bondservants for Jesus’ sake. 2 Timothy 2:15            Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. Romans 10:14             How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher?

Luke 2:22-38 |What are you ultimately waiting for with eager anticipation? We may eagerly anticipate many good things, but only one can be ultimate: the day our faith becomes sight. The day we see our Savior face to face. In Luke 2 we are introduced to Simeon and Anna, two aged saints waiting and longing for their faith to become sight. Though we now live between the two comings of Christ, we can learn much from these two saints about what it looks like to wait and worship until our faith becomes sight.

Acts 13:1-13 1 Now there were in the church at Antioch prophets and teachers, Barnabas, Simeon who was called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen a lifelong friend of Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. 2 While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the […] The post Visions and Realities of Ministry (Acts 13:1-13) first appeared on Hope of Christ Church.

Every Nation Helderberg - Romans Season 2 - Sermon Series - Week 2 - Simeon Labuschagne by Every Nation Helderberg

Lent does not begin with improvement. It begins with illumination. Before Jesus calls anyone to change, he reveals what is true. Before repentance, there is revelation. Before clarity of action, there is clarity of sight.This Sunday we meet Simeon, a man who waited long enough, trusted deeply enough, and listened carefully enough to recognize salvation when it was placed quietly in his arms. He did not figure Jesus out. He recognized him.There is a difference.

We trace the story of Jesus' presentation in the temple and ask where light can be found when the world feels dark. Simeon, Anna, and Miep Gies show how ordinary people carry hope that grows from small, faithful acts into a bright, shared flame.

Psalmer: 441:1-2; 543:4; 136; 541; 700:1; 439:3-5; 139

Before Jesus comes into Bethany, Martha meets Him and shares her disappointment. Yes, she believes Lazarus will rise again, but is resurrection is some dim and misty future concept? No, for Jesus is the resurrection and life! It is a reality in Him.

We're hundreds of episodes into Sleeping with Celebrities but we're just now getting a PBS voice on? I know. We're so sorry. But this will make up for it. The brilliant, engaging, and funny Simeon Lipman from Antiques Roadshow knows more about baseball cards and, actually, punk rock memorabilia than most people will ever know about anything. And his knowledge includes a whole lot of arcane data. Let him regale with tales of Jimmy Claxton and of Simeon's long quest to acquire that one Billy Ripken card. You know the one I'm talking about. Yes, baseball can be exciting, and, yes, punk rock even more so, but we promise you that the dulcet tones of Simeon Lipman (current PBS voice) and John Moe (former public radio voice) will zonk you out faster than a fastball to the head and with much less pain.Watch Antiques Roadshow online or on PBS. Learn more about Simeon, his work, and his auctions by visiting his website, www.SimeonLipman.com.Hey Sleepy Heads, is there anyone whose voice you'd like to drift off to, or do you have suggestions on things we could do to aid your slumber?Email us at: sleepwithcelebs@maximumfun.org.Follow the Show on:Instagram @sleepwcelebsBluesky @sleepwithcelebsTikTok @SleepWithCelebsJohn is on Bluesky @JohnMoeJohn's acclaimed, best-selling memoir, The Hilarious World of Depression, is now available in paperback._________________________________________________________________________Join | Maximum FunIf you like one or more shows on MaxFun, and you value independent artists being able to do their thing, you're the perfect person to become a MaxFun monthly member.

Episode 2.83In this episode, Michael and Zach walk through Joshua 18–21, a section often dismissed as tedious land surveys but loaded with theological weight. As the conquest narrative slows, the focus shifts from battle scenes to boundary lines—yet the central theme remains unchanged: Yahweh keeps His promises.Joshua 18 opens at Shiloh, where the tabernacle is established and the remaining tribes are confronted for their hesitation. Though the land has been subdued, Israel has grown slack in fully possessing what God has given. Through the casting of lots, the inheritance is formally distributed—Benjamin, Simeon, Zebulun, Issachar, Asher, Naphtali, and Dan—each territory marking tangible fulfillment of ancient covenant promises.The episode highlights the structural bookends of this section: Caleb's bold faith (Joshua 14), the hesitation of the Joseph tribes (Joshua 17), the sluggishness of the remaining seven tribes (Joshua 18), and finally Joshua's quiet reward (Joshua 19). The contrast echoes the twelve spies: faith versus fear, obedience versus delay.Joshua 20–21 then move to the “finishing touches” of the land. The Cities of Refuge reveal a profound theology of justice, mercy, and substitution—where freedom comes through the death of the high priest, pointing forward typologically to Christ. The Levites receive no territorial inheritance, yet are scattered throughout Israel as a reminder that worship and instruction remain central in a decentralized, kingless nation.The episode culminates in Joshua 21:43–45—one of the theological high points of the book—declaring that not one word of the Lord's promises failed. What appears mundane proves monumental. The dividing of the land is not administrative filler; it is covenant fulfillment in geographic form.Find our videocast here: https://youtu.be/t9RNimPBL28Merch here: https://take-2-podcast.printify.me/Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):⁠https://uppbeat.io/t/reakt-music/deep-stone⁠License code: 2QZOZ2YHZ5UTE7C8Find more Take 2 Theology content at http://www.take2theology.com

Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the meaning of the glory of God through the feast of the Presentation of the Lord, highlighting its biblical foundations and spiritual significance. He discusses the role of Simeon the Elder and the prophecy revealing Christ as the light for the Gentiles and the glory of Israel. Fr. Matthias examines how God's glory is shown in scripture through creation, miracles like healing the man born blind, and the deliverance of Israel from Egypt. He emphasizes that God's glory is not for self-exaltation but so that people may believe and receive salvation. Fr. Matthias encourages believers to reflect on how their lives can glorify God through obedience, faith, compassion, and perseverance in suffering, citing the example of the Coptic martyrs. He also addresses the importance of forgiveness and prayer in manifesting God's glory and calls Christians to live in a way that draws others to glorify God through their witness and good works.

Den Autor Simeon Elias Hüttel fasziniert die Gestalt des Vampirs, weil sie sich über die Jahrhunderte gegenüber anderen Nachtgestalten durchgesetzt hat. Von WDR 5.

Revelation 7:1–8The 144,000 of Israel Sealed[1] After this I saw four angels standing at the four corners of the earth, holding back the four winds of the earth, that no wind might blow on earth or sea or against any tree. [2] Then I saw another angel ascending from the rising of the sun, with the seal of the living God, and he called with a loud voice to the four angels who had been given power to harm earth and sea, [3] saying, “Do not harm the earth or the sea or the trees, until we have sealed the servants of our God on their foreheads.” [4] And I heard the number of the sealed, 144,000, sealed from every tribe of the sons of Israel:[5] 12,000 from the tribe of Judah were sealed,12,000 from the tribe of Reuben,12,000 from the tribe of Gad,[6] 12,000 from the tribe of Asher,12,000 from the tribe of Naphtali,12,000 from the tribe of Manasseh,[7] 12,000 from the tribe of Simeon,12,000 from the tribe of Levi,12,000 from the tribe of Issachar,[8] 12,000 from the tribe of Zebulun,12,000 from the tribe of Joseph,12,000 from the tribe of Benjamin were sealed. (ESV)Revelation 14:1–5The Lamb and the 144,000[1] Then I looked, and behold, on Mount Zion stood the Lamb, and with him 144,000 who had his name and his Father's name written on their foreheads. [2] And I heard a voice from heaven like the roar of many waters and like the sound of loud thunder. The voice I heard was like the sound of harpists playing on their harps, [3] and they were singing a new song before the throne and before the four living creatures and before the elders. No one could learn that song except the 144,000 who had been redeemed from the earth. [4] It is these who have not defiled themselves with women, for they are virgins. It is these who follow the Lamb wherever he goes. These have been redeemed from mankind as firstfruits for God and the Lamb, [5] and in their mouth no lie was found, for they are blameless. (ESV)

What does an ancient prophetic blessing from a dying patriarch have to do with your life today?More than you think.In Genesis 49–50, Jacob gathers his twelve sons and speaks over them—not just as a father, but as a prophet. These blessings reveal the character of each tribe, the consequences of their choices, and the unstoppable plan of God moving toward Jesus Christ, our Shiloh.This message walks verse-by-verse through each tribe and uncovers powerful truths for believers today.Highlights from the Message• Reuben — The firstborn who lost his place through instability and sin• Simeon & Levi — Anger without restraint, yet Levi becomes a picture of grace and redemption• Judah — The tribe of kings, the Lion, and the coming Messiah• Zebulun — Positioned for influence• Issachar — Strong, but trapped by comfort• Dan — Gifted, yet dangerously drawn to idolatry• Gad, Asher, Naphtali — Warriors, blessings, and freedom• Joseph — The fruitful branch protected by God• Benjamin — Fierce, complex, and impactfulEvery tribe shows us something about human nature—and something even greater about the faithfulness of God.Key Takeaways1. Obedience to God does not guarantee an easy life. Joseph obeyed—and walked through betrayal, slavery, false accusation, and prison. Yet God used every hardship for His purpose.2. Your performance does not determine your purpose. God's calling is rooted in His sovereignty, not your perfection. Judah, Levi, Joseph—each shows us that God writes the story.3. Sin blinds us to our only hope. Joseph's brothers rejected the one sent to save them. Israel rejected Jesus, the true Shiloh. Sin always resists the Savior—until grace opens our eyes.

Tuesday, 10 February 2026   Then Jesus said to His disciples, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. Matthew 16:24   “Then Jesus, He said to His disciples, ‘If any, he desires to come after Me, let him disown himself, and he took his cross, and he follows Me'” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus turned and said to Peter to get behind Him because Peter was an offense to Him. Peter was being mindful of the things of men rather than God. Matthew next records, “Then Jesus, He said to His disciples.”   Mark and Luke add more detail. Mark says, “When He had called the people to Himself, with His disciples also.” Luke apparently confirms this, saying, “Then He said to them all.” There is no contradiction. Matthew is focusing on the disciples. What Jesus says is, “If any, he desires to come after Me.”   Many translations say, “If any man will come after me...” Unless you are using the word to mean “desire,” which it doesn't always mean, the thought is insufficient. The word theló signifies a determined intent, such as want, desire, etc. To say, “If any man will,” might include those who do, but don't desire to do so.   Jesus is referring to those who voluntarily follow in His footsteps. Of them, He continues, “let him disown himself.”   It is a new word, aparneomai, to deny utterly or disown. It is an intensification of arneomai, to deny. There is a sense of an utter refusal to identify with the original source involved. In essence, “I once followed this path. It was my general walk of life. However, I am now following Jesus' path and utterly reject the one I once followed.”   There is a break from the old to take up the new. In this new path, He next says, “and he took his cross, and he follows Me.”   Notice how Jesus doesn't say, “And he takes up My cross and follows Me.” This is similar to Matthew 10:38 –   “And who not, he receives his cross, and he follows after Me, not he is worthy of Me” (CG).   In both instances, Jesus instructs His hearers to receive their cross, not His. This, then, is the beginning and fundamental error of ten thousand commentaries and sermons over the years. Does what Jesus just said square with these words –   “The allusion is, to Christ's bearing his own cross, and Simeon's carrying it after him, which afterwards came to pass.” John Gill, et. al.   It is true that Jesus has alluded to His suffering and death, but that is future. He is not asking them to pick up His cross at all. They have a cross to bear in following Him at this time. Whatever burden He bears, they should be willing to follow Him. They have no idea that He will die on a cross, and when it happened, they were utterly dejected and confused. In fact –   “Then the one whose name was Cleopas answered and said to Him, ‘Are You the only stranger in Jerusalem, and have You not known the things which happened there in these days?' 19 And He said to them, ‘What things?' So they said to Him, ‘The things concerning Jesus of Nazareth, who was a Prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people, 20 and how the chief priests and our rulers delivered Him to be condemned to death, and crucified Him. 21 But we were hoping that it was He who was going to redeem Israel. Indeed, besides all this, today is the third day since these things happened.'” Luke 24:18-21   These disciples, indicative of all of them, failed to understand anything at all about Jesus' cross. When Jesus tells them to pick up their cross, He is telling them that whatever burdens they have on His path, even if it results in death, is a path they must choose. This is why Jesus rebuked Peter over His appeal concerning the things He would suffer.   In the new dispensation, the dispensation of grace, which began after Jesus' completed work, we are not instructed to take up our cross at all. That is failed sermon speak. What does Paul say? In Galatians 6, the answer is seen –   “For not even those who are circumcised keep the law, but they desire to have you circumcised that they may boast in your flesh. 14 But God forbid that I should boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. 15 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision avails anything, but a new creation.” Galatians 6:13-15   Jesus was on a trek to fulfill the law and die in fulfillment of it. Those who followed Him were to see this, understand that this was what had to take place (as He explicitly told them), and to take up their own cross, following Him.   With Jesus' work complete, we now accept peace with God through His cross.   Life application: The dispensational model is correct. God is working in certain ways at certain times to reveal and complete His plan of redemption. The problem is that even dispensationalist teachers and preachers fail to keep the boxes straight.   We do not have a cross to bear in the sense that people speak of when they evaluate Matthew 16:24. Rather, we have a cross to accept, revel in, and boast about, meaning the cross of Jesus Christ. Pay attention to what Jesus says in the context in which He says it.   Consider the full scope of what He is referring to, including the stunned reaction of those who saw Christ crucified and thought, “We had a failed hope.” Then consider the victory of what really transpired. Jesus Christ did redeem Israel. He also redeemed all of Adam's fallen seed who are willing to come to Him through His cross.   We don't have to give up this life to obtain it, except in the sense that we are converted to a new life in Christ positionally. We can continue as plumbers, executives, store clerks, or whatever other profession we find ourselves in. We can continue to live in our homes, remain married to our spouses, and so on.   Revel in the new life you have been given, even as you continue to live out your current life in the presence of God who sent His Son to redeem you unto Himself. Yes, revel in the cross of Jesus Christ our Lord.   Lord God Almighty, You are great and greatly to be praised. All glory, honor, and majesty belong to You, forever and ever. Thank You for Jesus Christ and His cross. May that always be our boast. To Your glory, amen.

Simeon and Anna - Luke 2: 21-40 - Brian Wakelin (10am) by Christ Church Winchester

Anna is one of the Bible's most unusual women. She, along with a man named Simeon, had spent a lifetime in loyal service to God and was finally able to meet her Messiah. Though only three verses give us all the information we have about her, it's sufficient to get a profile of her.I. SpiritualII. VenerableIII. SingleIV. FaithfulV. VocalTalk with God: Meditate on Lamentations 3:25–26 this week, and surrender the things you've been holding too tightly, trusting the Lord and His perfect timing.Talk with others: Encourage your Connect Group to remain deeply rooted in God's Word as they walk through their present season.Talk with kids: Why is knowing God and following Him most important?

Edge God In Podcast 309: Faith that Moves before the Miracle EdgeGodIn.com | Host: Lauren E Miller Championing Human Potential in Christ Download Bible Study Template Learning Objective: Learn how to get faith that moves before the miracle. Discover what expectant faith is, who had it and how to get it. Scriptures: Mark 5:28 | Matthew 8:8 | John 2:5 | Mark 2:5 | Luke 2:26 | Hebrews 11. Old Testament witnesses to expectant faith: Noah built before rain fell. Abraham left without knowing the destination. Moses stepped toward the sea before it parted. Reflective Questions Where in my life am I waiting for evidence before I'm willing to trust God? (What would it look like to believe before I see?) Which biblical example of expectant faith do I resonate with most right now—and why? (Am I being invited to move boldly like the friends, wait patiently like Simeon, or obey quietly like Mary?) What fear, outcome, or need for control is keeping my faith from moving? (What am I holding onto that God is asking me to release?) If I truly believed God was already at work, what would change in my posture, prayers, or actions this week? Prayer: Lord, I want expectant faith that moves before your respond. Show me the way and increase my faith to match those who have gone before me. Action Step: Move Before the Miracle Identify one area where you have been praying but not yet moving. Take one small, obedient step that aligns with trust rather than certainty. Make the call. Have the conversation. Serve where you feel prompted. Pause and pray before acting. Obey the instruction God has already given. Previous Edge God In Podcast: 3 Ways to Cultivate a Monk Mindset Support Resources: Award Winning Books: Hearing His Whisper, with Every Storm Jesus Comes Too  https://amzn.to/3nNxdya 99 Things You Want to Know Before Stressing Out!  Emotional Intelligence in Christ Project: Book, 6-Week Study Guide & Course Now Launched Stress Relief Video Techniques: Click Here https://laurenemiller.com/stress-relief-coaching-expert/

In the Gospel of St. Luke 2, the Blessed Virgin Mary and Joseph present Christ our God to blessed St. Simeon in the Temple. There, the Messiah is revealed to both the aged Priest Simeon and the aged prophetess Anna, both of whom had been eagerly waiting for the Consolation of Israel to come. Christ our God was revealed to them, which brought them great joy and welled up great praise from within them. They needed Christ to be revealed to them. We have the same need for Christ to shine upon us and reveal Himself to us again and again in our lives. Today, we consider how they waited for this revelation to learn how we, too, might wait upon God daily.

A talk from the 2013 Mbird NYC Conference "Good News That Never Gets Old". Property of Mockingbird Ministries, all rights reserved (www.mbird.com).

Simeon Hyman attributes the continuing sell-off on Wednesday in part to the bar being set so high for this earnings season. That said, he sees opportunity as the market broadens, particularly through small cap exposure and ETFs tied to the trade. Simeon also talks about the silver trade through ETFs and how to brace for future metal volatility. ======== Schwab Network ========Empowering every investor and trader, every market day.Options involve risks and are not suitable for all investors. Before trading, read the Options Disclosure Document. http://bit.ly/2v9tH6DSubscribe to the Market Minute newsletter - https://schwabnetwork.com/subscribeDownload the iOS app - https://apps.apple.com/us/app/schwab-network/id1460719185Download the Amazon Fire Tv App - https://www.amazon.com/TD-Ameritrade-Network/dp/B07KRD76C7Watch on Sling - https://watch.sling.com/1/asset/191928615bd8d47686f94682aefaa007/watchWatch on Vizio - https://www.vizio.com/en/watchfreeplus-exploreWatch on DistroTV - https://www.distro.tv/live/schwab-network/Follow us on X – https://twitter.com/schwabnetworkFollow us on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/schwabnetworkFollow us on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/schwab-network/About Schwab Network - https://schwabnetwork.com/about

Experience Immanuel: The Season of Expectancy, a powerful Christmas message here at Calvary Orlando. In this sermon, we explore what it means to live in the season of expectancy, trusting God when all we have is a promise and the Word of the Lord. Mary shows us what faith looks like when she declares, “I am the Lord's servant. May it be to me as you have said.” Her response invites us to believe even when we don't understand the how of God's plan. Like Mary, God calls us not for our credentials but our willingness and availability. We dive into the power of spiritual growth, the gestation of God's promises, and how every vision has a God-designed timeline. From Abraham and Joseph to David, Anna, and Simeon, Scripture shows us that expectancy is part of God's process of shaping our faith. If you have been waiting, praying, hoping, or holding onto a word from God, this message is for you.

Genesis 29 | Pastor Greg Packinghouse's Wednesday night worship service from January 28, 2026. Jacob reaches Haran, meets Rachel at the well, and serves seven years that feel like days to marry her—but Laban deceives him into marrying Leah first, then grants Rachel for seven more years of service. This deception mirrors Jacob's own earlier deceit of Esau and Isaac, showing how God uses a reflected wrong to confront and shape Jacob's character. In the tension of a polygamous home, jealousy and sorrow surface, yet God sees Leah's pain and opens her womb. As her sons are born—Reuben, Simeon, Levi—she longs for Jacob's affection, but with Judah she shifts from striving to surrender: “I will praise the Lord.” The chapter reveals God advancing His purposes through flawed people while gently transforming them. Our identity and hope rest not in human approval but in God's faithful love and redemptive plan. - Greg Opean - Wednesday, January 28, 2026

Genesis 29 | Pastor Greg Packinghouse's Wednesday night worship service from January 28, 2026. Jacob reaches Haran, meets Rachel at the well, and serves seven years that feel like days to marry her—but Laban deceives him into marrying Leah first, then grants Rachel for seven more years of service. This deception mirrors Jacob's own earlier deceit of Esau and Isaac, showing how God uses a reflected wrong to confront and shape Jacob's character. In the tension of a polygamous home, jealousy and sorrow surface, yet God sees Leah's pain and opens her womb. As her sons are born—Reuben, Simeon, Levi—she longs for Jacob's affection, but with Judah she shifts from striving to surrender: “I will praise the Lord.” The chapter reveals God advancing His purposes through flawed people while gently transforming them. Our identity and hope rest not in human approval but in God's faithful love and redemptive plan. - Greg Opean - Wednesday, January 28, 2026

Welcome to Day 2789 of Wisdom-Trek. Thank you for joining me. This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom. Day 2789 – A Sacrifice, A Savior, a Sword – Luke 2:21-38 Putnam Church Message – 12/28/2025 Luke's Account of the Good News - “A Sacrifice, A Savior, a Sword”   Last week, we continued our year-long study of Luke's Narrative of the Good News in a message titled: “The Nativity Revisited – Love Came Down.” This week is the final Sunday of 2025 – in some ways, it flew by in a flash, but in others, it has been a very long year. Today, we find the newborn Christ eight days old, and he is taken to the temple for circumcision and naming of the child, as every devout Hebrew did. Today's passage is the story of “A Sacrifice, A Savior, a Sword.” Our Core verses for this week are Luke 2:21-38, found on page 1591 of your Pew Bibles. Jesus Presented in the Temple  21 On the eighth day, when it was time to circumcise the child, he was named Jesus, the name the angel had given him before he was conceived. 22 When the time came for the purification rites required by the Law of Moses, Joseph and Mary took him to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord 23 (as it is written in the Law of the Lord, “Every firstborn male is to be consecrated to the Lord”[b]), 24 and to offer a sacrifice in keeping with what is said in the Law of the Lord: “a pair of doves or two young pigeons.”[c] 25 Now there was a man in Jerusalem called Simeon, who was righteous and devout. He was waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was on him. 26 It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before he had seen the Lord's Messiah. 27 Moved by the Spirit, he went into the temple courts. When the parents brought in the child Jesus to do for him what the custom of the Law required, 28 Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying: 29 “Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you may now dismiss[d] your servant in peace. 30 For my eyes have seen your salvation, 31     which you have prepared in the sight of all nations: 32 a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of your people Israel.” 33 The child's father and mother marveled at what was said about him. 34 Then Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, his mother: “This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against, 35 so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your own soul, too.” 36

Recorded February 2, in this episode Joe reflects on the day's special occasion. Yes, that one. Which is to say both. Or, all three. Hear his musings on the Presentation (and the Purification), Simeon's prophecy, the "missing years" of Jesus' life, and... a certain famous Pennsylvania rodent. Want to see Punxsutawney Phil's prediction? Watch here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kiHIkoPHdrc FOLLOW US Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chestertonsociety  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AmericanChestertonSociety X: https://twitter.com/chestertonsoc SUPPORT Consider making a donation: https://www.chesterton.org/give/ Visit our Shop at https://www.chesterton.org/shop/

The SSPX announces plans to ordain its own bishops, breaking with Rome. We break down what happened and what it means for the Church. Meanwhile, a landmark legal win for detransitioners in New York could reshape gender medicine nationwide. And finally, what is going on at the University of Notre Dame? All this and more on the LOOPcast.Families can now find over 100 faithful Catholic schools, colleges, and graduate programs that meet The Cardinal Newman Society's high standards of fidelity and formation in The Newman Guide. Request your FREE eBook copy of the 2025-2026 Newman Guide here: https://cardinalnewmansociety.org/loopcast  00:00 Welcome to the LOOPcast06:43 What's going on with the SSPX?34:00 Landmark Detransitioning Case42:35 Good News57:10 The GOV Shutdown… AGAIN59:37 Epstein File Drop1:09:04 Twilight Zone1:24:26 Closing PrayerEMAIL US: loopcast@catholicvote.org SUPPORT LOOPCAST: www.loopcast.orgCheck out the LOOPcast on Zeale: https://zeale.co Subscribe to the LOOP today!https://catholicvote.org/getloop  Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-loopcast/id1643967065 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/08jykZi86H7jKNFLbSesjk?si=ztBTHenFR-6VuegOlklE_w&nd=1&dlsi=bddf79da68c34744 FOLLOW LOOPCast: https://x.com/the_LOOPcast  https://www.instagram.com/the_loopcast/ https://www.tiktok.com/@the_loopcast https://www.facebook.com/LOOPcastPodcast Tom: https://x.com/TPogasic Erika: https://x.com/ErikaAhern2  Josh: https://x.com/joshuamercer Lord God, you are the source of everlasting light.Your son, our beloved Lord Jesuswas presented in the temple 40 days after his birth.He was recognised by Simeon and Anna,and welcomed as the promised Messiah.May we like them, behold the glory of the Lord Jesus.Grant that we may stand before youwith hearts cleansed by your forgiving love.May we serve you all our daysand make your name knownas we worship you as our Lord.So may we come by your graceto eternal life .Amen.All opinions expressed on LOOPcast by the participants are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of CatholicVote.

SCRIPTURE- Luke 2:27-28, 38"Simeon came in the Spirit into the temple and when the parents brought in the child Jesus to perform the custom of the law he took Jesus in his arms and blessed God.  And the prophetess Anna, coming forward at that very time, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were awaiting the redemption of Jerusalem.”REFLECTION- Sr. KathleenMUSIC- "Nunc Dimittis (The Canticle of Simeon)" by Cistercian Monks of Stift Heiligenkreuz- "Jesus, My Lord, My God, My All (Sweet Sacrament)" by Luca RaggiNOTES-PRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God, into Your hands I surrender my life. Pour out Your Spirit upon me that I may love You perfectly, and serve You faithfully until my soul rests in You.

Gospel Luke 2:22-40 When the days were completed for their purification according to the law of Moses, Mary and Joseph took Jesus up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord, just as it is written in the law of the Lord, Every male that opens the womb shall be consecrated to the Lord, and to offer the sacrifice of a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons, in accordance with the dictate in the law of the Lord. Now there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon. This man was righteous and devout, awaiting the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he should not see death before he had seen the Christ of the Lord. He came in the Spirit into the temple; and when the parents brought in the child Jesus to perform the custom of the law in regard to him, he took him into his arms and blessed God, saying: “Now, Master, you may let your servant go in peace, according to your word, for my eyes have seen your salvation, which you prepared in the sight of all the peoples: a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and glory for your people Israel.” The child's father and mother were amazed at what was said about him; and Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, “Behold, this child is destined for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be contradicted —and you yourself a sword will pierce— so that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.” There was also a prophetess, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was advanced in years, having lived seven years with her husband after her marriage, and then as a widow until she was eighty-four. She never left the temple, but worshiped night and day with fasting and prayer. And coming forward at that very time, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were awaiting the redemption of Jerusalem. When they had fulfilled all the prescriptions of the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own town of Nazareth. The child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom; and the favor of God was upon him. Reflection The thing that's interesting about this gospel is that Simeon and Anna are the two people that had some foresight into what it was that Jesus would become, how he would work in this world. And it's so fascinating that as they explain this to Mary and Joseph, they seem surprised. Like they didn't realize this. Yet they must have known that he was special because of the way he was born. But still, it shows how natural in these stories we see the evolution of God revealing himself into the world it's the way he does it with each of us, naturally, slowly, insight after insight, until we become fully aware of the mystery of God entering into us and changing everything. Closing Prayer Father, awaken us to the mystery of the incarnation happening within each of us. Help us to be open to the transforming gift to the Holy Spirit's presence that enables us to resonate your love, your life, your truth to those around us. And we ask this in Jesus' name, Amen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Friends of the Rosary,Today, February 2, the Catholic Church celebrates the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord.This celebration, which takes place forty days after the birth of Jesus, is also known as Candlemas Day, since the blessing and procession of candles are included in the Mass.Christ is the light of the nations, hence the blessing and procession of candles on this day.Jesus' presentation signifies God's entrance to His temple. Soon after the Baptists' birth, God made man enter His temple, presenting Himself to those who were truly seeking Him.Attached to “Candlemas Day”, we also celebrate the World Day of Prayer for Consecrated Life, founded by Pope St. John Paul II in 1997. That's because the consecrated men and women are to be the light in the world, imitating Jesus, the Light of the World.On this day, the Church expresses its gratitude to all in the community who dedicate themselves in a special way to prayer, and to those with a particular religious vocation to the contemplative life.In the figures of Simeon and Anna, Jesus' presentation in the temple reminds us that prayer and contemplation are well-spent time. Only those who pray and offer penance, like Simeon and Anna, are open to the breath of the Spirit.This feast of the Presentation has a strong Marian dimension:On one hand, Simeon's prophecy emphasizes Mary's sufferings. Pope John Paul II taught that, “Simeon's words seem like a second Annunciation to Mary.”In the previous Liturgical Calendar, it was called the Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary. indicating the renewal of her total offering to God for the accomplishment of His Divine Plan.On February 2nd, a secular tradition unfolds: Groundhog Day, well known to schoolchildren and adults alike. The fate of Spring hangs in the balance as a burrowing animal looks for its shadow.Ave Maria!Come, 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

The Feast of the Purification, otherwise known as Candlemas, represents the end of the Christmas liturgical cycle. It is also a feast directed toward Our Lord and Simeon's great longing for the day of His Incarnation. Simeon represents the expectation of the nations, awaiting the day when God would come to dispel darkness from the world.

Send us a textWhat if the most powerful kind of faith looks ordinary—humble offerings, long waits, and a twelve-year-old lingering in his Father's house? We open Luke 2:22–52 and trace three threads that quietly shape a life with God: obedient parenting, Spirit-led prophecy, and a purpose so clear that even a child can carry it.We start with Mary and Joseph, who bring the offering allowed for the poor and remind us that obedience isn't about optics; it's about trust. Their choices form a model of parenting as discipleship—small, steady acts that teach children to love God's ways. Then we meet Simeon and Anna, two saints of holy patience. Simeon holds the infant Messiah and names him salvation for all peoples, while warning Mary of a sword to come. Anna, decades into widowhood, shows what hopeful waiting looks like: prayer, fasting, and public witness. Together they press us to wait well, not by idling, but by rooting ourselves in Scripture, the Spirit's leading, and the gathered people of God.Finally, Luke lets us see what no other Gospel records: Jesus at twelve. He amazes teachers with wisdom, claims his Father's house as home, and still submits to Mary and Joseph. Identity and humility meet in one boy who knows who he is and lives it out. That vision reframes our formation: grow in wisdom, stature, and favor with God and people; let purpose guide choices; and practice obedience that is both courageous and quiet.If this conversation helped you think, pray, or parent with more intention, share it with a friend, subscribe for the journey through Luke, and leave a review so others can find the show. What promise are you learning to wait on this week?New episodes every Mondaywww.lifehousemot.cominfo@lifehousede.com Join us Sundays at 9 & 11 AM Intro music by Joey Blair

Fr. Matthew Widder joins Patrick to discuss The Presentation of the Lord What is happening in our Church today? (2:01) Why does Mary get purified if she is perfect? (12:57) Nick - Love the presentation. Love the old testament connection. Amazing how Jesus celebrates major accomplishments through the old. Waiting for something...I wait for so much because there's so much to overcome. How the law is given to us...how it is written into our hearts. What does the sacrifice mean in the bible? (21:49) Michael - I'm a parishioner of Fr. Matthew's parish. I've been going through a lot of stuff and might not be here without Fr. Matthew. (23:59) Break 1 What is Candlemas, and how are we called to be light? (31:09) What is a world day of consecrated life? (38:29) what does Simeon’s prophecy mean in the Bible? How can we turn over our trails to the Lord?

Dr. Tom Curran and Fr. Kurt Nagel explore questions about the Feast of the Presentation, such as: Is it STILL Christmas? What's Candlemas? What's happening to Jesus at The Presentation at the Temple? Who are Simeon and Anna?

The selflessness of Simeon and Anna – Fr. Lucas Laborde. Click here for today's readings.How does this passage resonate with you? What is that big picture the Lord wants to remind you of? What is the Lord teaching you through the selflessness of Simeon and Anna?

Full Text of Readings The Saint of the day is Presentation of the Lord The Story of the Presentation of the Lord At the end of the fourth century, a woman named Etheria made a pilgrimage to Jerusalem. Her journal, discovered in 1887, gives an unprecedented glimpse of liturgical life there. Among the celebrations she describes is the Epiphany, the observance of Christ's birth, and the gala procession in honor of his Presentation in the Temple 40 days later. Under the Mosaic Law, a woman was ritually “unclean” for 40 days after childbirth, when she was to present herself to the priests and offer sacrifice—her “purification.” Contact with anyone who had brushed against mystery—birth or death—excluded a person from Jewish worship. This feast emphasizes Jesus' first appearance in the Temple more than Mary's purification. The observance spread throughout the Western Church in the fifth and sixth centuries. Because the Church in the West celebrated Jesus' birth on December 25, the Presentation was moved to February 2, 40 days after Christmas. At the beginning of the eighth century, Pope Sergius inaugurated a candlelight procession; at the end of the same century the blessing and distribution of candles which continues to this day became part of the celebration, giving the feast its popular name: Candlemas. Reflection In Luke's account, Jesus was welcomed in the temple by two elderly people, Simeon and the widow Anna. They embody Israel in their patient expectation; they acknowledge the infant Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah. Early references to the Roman feast dub it the feast of Saint Simeon, the old man who burst into a song of joy which the Church still sings at day's end.Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

This is a week of Encounter in Many Eastern Catholic churches. We encounter another pre-Lenten Sunday. Our Lord encounters Simeon. And we, encounter liturgically our deceased family members.

Today, churches around thew world are marking Candlemas, and stepping into that moment in the Temple when the infant Jesus was presented, and Simeon proclaimed him a light for all nations — a light that still reaches into every culture, every community, every corner of our world. But what does that look like in multicultural Wales today? How does that light sound, feel, and take shape among the many voices that make up our shared life? Jonathan Thomas explores the concept of a Polyphonic Church with Craig Gardner from Cardiff Baptist College; Tim Gill from Newtown Evangelical Church; Jessica Morgan from the Bont Church in Pontypridd, and Rev. Dominic DeSouza who recently co-authored a chapter in the book 'Polyphonic God'.

Welcome to a bonus episode of ALIVE as we prepare to celebrate Candlemas, the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord.   This beautiful feast marks the 40th day of Christmas, when Mary and Joseph bring Jesus—the Light of the world—into the Temple. In this reflection, Father Jonathan Blyer explains why we bless and carry candles, why this liturgy is so powerful, and how Candlemas invites us to reflect on the light Christ brings into our own lives.   We reflect on: The blessing and procession of candles Jesus as the Light entering the darkness The Presentation in the Temple (the Fourth Joyful Mystery) Simeon's canticle and the prophetess Anna The role of candles in prayer, both at church and at home   You're also encouraged to bring candles from home to Mass to be blessed, and to consider how candlelight might deepen your personal and family prayer life.   ✨ When was the last time you lit a candle and prayed?   Discussion questions are included below. We're glad you're here. Be a saint.

February 1, 2026: May God's words be spoken, may God's words be heard.  Amen. Tomorrow there's this pesky groundhog that is supposed to tell us how much winter we have left, and I swear, if that rodent sees his shadow I'm gonna go have a word with him, and it won't be pretty.  This has been a rough winter – bitter cold, lots of snow, and darkness that is cutting us to the core. But the groundhog isn't the only thing that happens tomorrow.  February 2nd is primarily, for catholics, Roman or Anglican anyway, the Feast of the Presentation, which is the final day of Christmas – for real this time – despite the stores telling you that Valentine's Day goes from December 26th– February 14th. Now, you may have noted that our gospel today is from Luke Chapter 2, and we are clearly still in the birth narrative, as Jesus is all of 40 days old.  He isn't even out of onesies or eating solid food yet.  It's a bit of whiplash, since he was just walking around as a 30 something calling his disciples in the gospel we heard the last time we were able to be here on January 18th.  But as it is such an important moment in his life, the church marks it as a special feast day on February 2nd.. Now, the church expects us to only celebrate this feast on the actual day.  But, because so many do not attend special weekday services, this day, like other feasts – of the Magi, for example – will get ignored if we do not celebrate them on a Sunday.  So, as we did last year, today we will celebrate the Feast of the Presentation today.  It is also a day on which candles are blessed for use at home and the church, so it is called Candlemas.  The scriptures of this moment feature so much in our daily lives for those of us who pray what is known in our church as the Daily Office.  It also is part of our parish's history, with two prominent stained glass windows associated with it – the center window of the Tiffany triptych in St. Mary's chapel, and this one up there in the main tower.  The chapel window shows the scene, and the tower windows have the words of Simeon, which we heard in the gospel reading.  Now, let's get to this story, because it is offers something important for us in the context in which we live now. In the verse just before what we heard today, we find that Jesus is going to a bris, and unfortunately for him, he isn't the one bringing a gift.  Joseph and Mary have him circumcised and he is named.  Then we get to this story today, where 40 days after his birth, they bring Jesus to the temple to be presented to God in accordance with the law for her purification and his redemption that we get in that fabulous book that everyone loves – Leviticus.  All this to say that Jesus is raised in the knowledge and adherence to Jewish scripture and law.  There's a lot going on in these verses, but I want to focus on two people – Simeon and Anna. Now first we need to set the scene.  The temple isn't like the size of our churches today.  This place is huge – many times larger than our largest cathedrals. So, you'd think no one would really pay any attention to this little family walking in.  And yet, against all odds, two people did notice them – Simeon and Anna. Simeon was, according to the text, a righteous and devout man who had been told by God that he would not die until he had seen the Messiah.  He is guided by the Holy Spirit to come to the temple that day, and he listens and goes.  There he sees the child Jesus, and takes him in his arms and says what is known in the church as the Nunc Dimmitis, Latin for the first words “now depart.” I will use the version we say in Evening Prayer, which differs slightly from the wording we heard today: “Lord, you now have set your servant free to go in peace as you have promised; For these eyes of mine have seen the Savior, whom you have prepared for all the world to see: A Light to enlighten the nations, and the glory of your people Israel.”  He then foretells to Mary the destiny that awaits this child, and that it will pierce her heart. Then Anna, a prophet, sees the baby Jesus, and also proclaims the destiny that awaits him and what it will mean for the people of Israel.  Of course, Simeon gets the focus in our prayer book, and Anna is essentially forgotten – what else is new, right? So, what does all this have to say to us? Well, let's go back to our righteous guy Simeon.  He says “…these eyes of mine have seen the Savior, whom you have prepared for all the world to see: A Light to enlighten the nations…”  To be sure, this is about far more than bringing light into the darkness – which, of course, is a powerfully important thing to do.  But this is also about that light casting aside ignorance and bringing knowledge to the people – specifically, the knowledge of God.  Jesus would do both.  His presence among the people was the light that overcame the shadows of darkness, and he taught his followers what it meant to be part of the kingdom of God, rather than of humanity.  He did this, not by sitting back in Galilee preaching in the synagogue, but by being out in the world healing the sick, advocating for the vulnerable, and spreading the good news of God's love. We are called to be like Jesus – a light to enlighten the nations. – in what we proclaim, and by our actions in the world. And if there was ever a time to live out our lives in Christ, it is now, because darkness has spread across our country.  People are being snatched out of their homes without a warrant, pushed to the ground and beaten, children are grabbed and sent to prison, protestors exercising their first amendment rights are sprayed intentionally up close with chemical irritants or bombed with tear gas, and others are brutally killed.  This is a time when all the world hopes for a light to enlighten our nation!  And folks, there are a LOT of followers of Jesus being exactly that right here in our country.  Clergy and laity are in the streets loving their neighbor, welcoming the stranger, protecting the vulnerable, and crying out for justice for the oppressed.  Two days ago, 150 Episcopal bishops signed a letter that put a simple question before us: “Whose dignity matters?”  They called “on Americans to trust their moral compass” – “to question rhetoric that trades in fear rather than truth.” Noting that “As Episcopalians, our moral compass is rooted firmly in the Gospel of Jesus Christ.” Indeed.  And I take heart, as I hope you do, that our leadership in the church is witnessing to that gospel of all inclusive love. We must join with them, and so many others, as a witness to the gospel – as lights to enlighten this nation.  We must do this both by what we proclaim and by our actions in the world.  What that looks like will depend on your own situation. As I said last time we were together, if you are caring for others, are aged or infirm, or are vulnerable yourself – you will need to protect yourself first, and proclaim the gospel in ways that do not put yourselves at risk.  The rest of us – we need to be out in the streets.  And as your priest, I cannot ask of you what I will not do myself.  I am called to set an example in word and deed, even to the cross if necessary. Now, I shared much of what I am about to tell you in an article I wrote for the Diocese of Newark, but I also want to share it with you now, in case some have not read it. When I got home from church two weeks ago, after preaching on the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Sunday, a call went out from clergy in Minneapolis to clergy across the country. Echoing King's call to clergy to come to Selma, they asked us to come to Minneapolis to stand, march, and pray with them on January 23rd for what was being called A Day of Truth & Freedom. Like many others, I knew in my heart that I had to answer that call.  Yes, we were being asked to enter a dangerous situation. Yes, it would be winter in Minnesota, with temperatures predicted to be 30 below with the windchill. Yes, we are exhausted, like so many of you, having shown up again and again for vigils, marches, and protests. And yet, as King's words resounded from our pulpits on the day we celebrated him, I was reminded of something he said that I had just included in my sermon on that very Sunday: that there comes a time when one must take a position that is neither safe, nor politic, nor popular, but must do it because conscience demands it.  How could I preach it, and not live it? And so, on Thursday night, January 22nd, I found myself in Minneapolis during an extreme cold warning. The morning of the march, I woke to a temperature of -21 degrees and layered myself accordingly. I headed to Gethsemane Episcopal Church, a closed parish of the Diocese of Minnesota just a few blocks from The Commons, where the march was to begin. The streets were empty, the shops and schools closed – all part of this act of resistance. When I arrived, clergy and laity were already gathered to pray  before joining the thousands who had come to stand against the brutality, cruelty, and lawlessness of the federal occupation of this once-peaceful city.  While there, I received a text warning that federal agents might use water cannons on protesters – which, of course, in that type of cold, would be deadly. I put my phone away, donned my make-shift tear-gas mask, and joined my colleagues as we headed out the door. Singing “This Little Light of Mine,” we left the church and merged with thousands entering from every direction. The crowd was so massive that it took nearly an hour for those of us gathered at the starting point to fully enter the march. We moved slowly, navigating ice-covered streets before surging forward into the march itself. Despite the bitter cold, which with windchill was about -35, nothing could dampen the fervor of the protesters or quiet our voices. We called for ICE to leave Minnesota. We spoke aloud the name of Renee Good, killed by an ICE agent. We named Liam Ramos, a five-year-old child used as bait by ICE to lure out his family before being sent with his father to a prison in Texas. We demanded justice, accountability, and an end to the occupation. It is impossible to describe the joy I felt seeing so many people there – 50,000, we were told. For most, this was not a single day of action. They were living this resistance daily: patrolling neighborhoods to warn of federal agents, distributing food to those unable to leave their homes, and caring for one another. Clergy tended their people, preaching the gospel in both word and deed. I was surrounded by prophets – exhausted, unwavering, and deeply inspiring. When I could no longer feel my feet with a quarter mile left to go, their courage carried me forward. People passed out hand warmers and tissues. Two marchers ahead of me wore backpacks reading, “If you are hungry, tap my shoulder,” and “If you need hand warmers, tap my shoulder.” Even in anger and pain, Minnesotans chose to meet hate and violence with compassion, grace, and love.  At the rally, which thankfully had been moved inside, faith leaders proclaimed that God's love is greater than any hate this government can unleash. And, indigenous leaders reminded us that no one is illegal on stolen land. Walking back through deserted streets, I passed the statue of Mary Tyler Moore tossing her hat into the air in an iconic moment of liberation. It is from a TV show that some of a certain age remember well.  The theme song's title came to my mind: “Love Is All Around,” and I thought – it sure was that day. I went back to my hotel believing, as the song says, that we're “gonna make it after all.” I flew out the next morning, later learning that as I traveled above the city, below Alex Pretti was being beaten and killed by Federal agents. Does that mean it was all for nothing? Not at all. It means the struggle continues, and those of us who are able must keep answering the call of Christ – to be the light that enlightens the nations – our nation – even to the cross. To bring the knowledge of the gospel to those who need it most.  The ones who govern – that they may turn from their evil acts against our neighbors, and live the law of God – to love one another, and to care for the least of these.  And the ones being oppressed – that they may know that they are loved, and they are not alone or forgotten – not by God, and not by any of us. That is our faith and it will change the world, but it will not be easy, and it will pierce our own hearts too.  It was reported yesterday that an ICE agent told a protestor “If you raise your voice, I will erase your voice.”  I kid you not.  But let me be perfectly clear – they can try to erase our voice – but we will only grow louder, because no ICE agent, or anyone else, can ever erase the voice of Jesus.  Lord knows, and he does, the Romans tried that long ago in the most brutal way.  It didn't work then, and it won't work now. Christ showed the world that God's love is stronger than human hate, and Christ's light will always overcome the darkest of humanity in the end.  So, in the days ahead, we will with our voices and our actions show the world that God's love is all around, and I promise you, that if we do that – we will make it after all. Amen. For the audio, click below, or subscribe to our iTunes Sermon Podcast by clicking here (also available on Audible): Sermon Podcast https://christchurchepiscopal.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Sermon-February-1-2026-1.m4a The Rev. Diana L. Wilcox Christ Church in Bloomfield & Glen Ridge February 1, 2026 Feast of the Presentation (trans.) 1st Reading – Malachi 3:1-4 Psalm 84 2nd Reading – Hebrews 2:14-18 Gospel – Luke 2:22-40  

In this episode, we welcome back Evangelist Simeon Costa for a deep, Scripture-driven conversation on the necessity of baptism. Together, we unpack why baptism is more than a symbolic act—exploring its role in salvation, covenant, and spiritual awakening.Drawing from Acts, Romans, Galatians, Colossians, and the Old Testament, this conversation addresses common objections to baptism, clarifies the difference between works and obedience, and explains why the early church treated baptism with urgency. Simeon also traces how historical shifts in theology shaped modern views on baptism and why returning to Scripture restores clarity.If you've ever wondered why baptism matters, why it was commanded, or how the apostles understood it, this episode will challenge and equip you.---------Order Hacka Merch - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://the-hacka-podcast.myspreadshop.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠------------Listen to all episodes:Apple Podcasts - https://apple.co/3PRSYKUSpotify - https://spoti.fi/3zCUsUoFollow us on social:Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thehackapod/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/hackaorgTikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@thehackapod

The sermon you are about to hear was preached by Archbishop Marcel Lefebvre on the feast of the Purification, a day when the Church contemplates Christ as the Light revealed to the nations and received in faith by Simeon. Speaking to seminarians receiving clerical investiture and Minor Orders, Archbishop Lefebvre uses this liturgical moment to reflect on separation from the world, the dignity of the soul, and the light of eternal truth given by Our Lord Jesus Christ. His words are not limited to those preparing for the priesthood. They speak to every Christian called to live in the light of Christ rather than the blindness of the world. With clarity and fatherly gravity, he presents the cassock, the minor orders, and the discipline of the seminary as signs of an interior calling: to belong wholly to God, to know Christ above all else, and to become a light for others. Rooted in Scripture, the Church's prayers, and devotion to Our Lady, this sermon reminds us that only those who receive the light of Christ can truly give it to the world. We'd love your feedback on this series! podcast@sspx.org – – – – – – – The Society of Saint Pius X offers this series and all of its content free of charge. If you are able to offer a one time or a small monthly recurring donation, it will assist us greatly in continuing to provide these videos for the good of the Church and Catholic Tradition. Please Support this Apostolate with 1-time or Monthly Donation >> – – – – – – – Explore more: Subscribe to this Podcast to receive this and all our audio episodesSubscribe to the SSPX YouTube channel for video versions of our podcast series and SermonsFSSPX News Website: https://fsspx.newsVisit the US District website: https://sspx.org/ – – – – – What is the SSPX Podcast? The SSPX Podcast is produced by Angelus Press, which has as its mission the fortification of traditional Catholics so that they can defend the Faith, and reaching out to those who have not yet found Tradition.  – – – – – – What is the SSPX? The main goal of the Society of Saint Pius X is to preserve the Catholic Faith in its fullness and purity, to teach its truths, and to diffuse its virtues, especially through the Roman Catholic priesthood. Authentic spiritual life, the sacraments, and the traditional liturgy are its primary means of bringing this life of grace to souls. Although the traditional Latin Mass is the most visible and public expression of the work of the Society, we are committed to defending Catholic Tradition in its entirety: all of Catholic doctrine and morals as the Church has always defended them. What people need is the Catholic Faith, without compromise, with all the truth and beauty which accompanies it. https://sspx.org