Podcasts about theholyspirit

Delivered by Ariel of the Parish of Saint Albert the Great in the Archdiocese of Makassar, Indonesia. Acts of the Apostles 20: 28-38; Rs psalm 68: 29-30.33-35a.35b-35c; John 17: 11b-19.SHARING THE HOLY SPIRIT Our meditation today is entitled:Sharing The Holy Spirit. The expression of “sharing the Holy Spirit” here is akind of spiritual work to signify that after receiving the outpouring andempowerment of the Holy Spirit, the person who receives it assume the duty toshare the gift of the Holy Spirit to others. He or she shares the Holy Spirit in thescope of the mission entrusted. For example, the parents bring the Holy Spiritinto their family. Father and mother show their mutual and loving kindness oftheir marriage, and therefore, they give positive effect on the whole family.Everyone wants to contribute what is good and positive so that joy and peacegrow in the family. One is a God's gift to another.  We have an example from the tworeadings today. Jesus strengthened the apostles and disciples, that their liveswithout His physical presence were actually the lives under the guidance of theHoly Spirit. They must had experienced many challenges and difficulties,especially the threat of enemies from various directions. But the fullness ofthe Holy Spirit in Jesus is to be shared among them. Likewise, Saint Paul, whowas going to leave the Ephesian church he had cared for three years. Heguaranteed that the Holy Spirit fully strengthened and guided them. Why should we share the Holy Spirit?There are several importants reasons. First, because God has shared fromHimself. He who is pure and most holy in heaven, wants to share His life withhumans through the Son of God becoming Jesus of Nazareth; then Jesus Himselfsent His Spirit to us. God has shared Himself, then we must also share fromourselves. Second, the Holy Spirit moves andacts. He moved every person in the Early Church and then animated all theiractivities so that they did not stay silent or hid themselves from differentkinds of opposition. Each of them moved and committed in every corner of theworld to testify about Jesus Christ. We also have to do so, especially sharingtestimonies about Jesus Christ to others. Third, the Church is inclusive and sheobeys Jesus' command to make the whole nations His disciples. Thus, there is noother right way except to move every follower of Christ to share the gifts ofthe Holy Spirit, which are to convey all kindness, joy and truth to the wholeworld. Sharing with others in the unity of Jesus Christ is a law that never tobe neglected and not to be undermined. It is basically the responsibility ofevery follower of Chirst as member of the holy Church. Let's pray. In the name of theFather ... O Jesus Christ, in the moments of waiting the coming of the HolySpirit, we put our faith in you with all our hearts, so that through thefullness of the Holy Spirit we share it with those around us. Our Father whoart in heaven ... In the name of the Father ...

Delivered by Nia from the Parish of the Good Shepherd in the Diocese of Surabaya, Indonesia. Zephaniah 3: 14-18a; Rs psalm Isaiah 12: 2-3.4bcd.5-6; Luke 1: 39-56.SISTERHOOD VISIT The title for our meditation today is:Sisterhood Visit. When brothers and sisters visit one another, they normallyexchange spirit and energy that represent their wills to foster unity, familyspirit and togetherness. Those who meet with intention to find out faults inothers, even among brothers and sisters, will just create conflict and forceviolence toward others. It is not a brotherhood or sisterhood meeting. We always believe that a sisterhood orbrotherhood visit will benefit the meeting itself and unity among sisters orbrothers. The meeting of siblings really strengthens their bonding and mutuallove. There is no way to replace one's own sister or brother. Those who are notsiblings can do also sisterhood or brotherhood visit to show how they really needone another and the values or meaning that they nourish together from thatencounter. The holy scriptures have a lot ofevents on the meaningful meetings of persons. One of those meetings is what wecelebrate today as a feast, namely the visit of the Virgin Mary to her hersister Elisabeth. We know that every visit of a sister or brother has good andnoble purposes. In that encounter the spirit of sisterhood or brotherhood bindsthem strongly. Blood relationship and solidarity or love between them becomespiritual wealth that sustain their unity. Today, the visit of the Virgin Mary toher sister Elisabeth presents us a higher meaning  of such encounter than simply an encounterbetween sisters. If a meeting of sisters or brothers can produce goodness andmutuality between them, in the meeting of Virgin Mary and Elisabeth, itssignificance rises to the fullness of grace in which the power of the almightyGod intervened extraordinarily. This is the point of holiness. At this level the Holy Spirit worksand moves all human activities. Elisabeth who first obtained the result of thework of the Holy Spirit, rejoiced to welcome her sister Mary who was filledwith the Holy Spirit to become the Mother of God, whose motherly womb conceivedthe Son of God. This sisterhood bond of Mary and Elisabeth gives us inspirationthat our sisterly or brotherly relationships need to be empowered by the HolySpirit. This is the true sign of our being followers of Christ. The Holy Spirit animates our visit orencounter when we involve in the sacred activities such as personal renewal,repentance, works of mercy, forgiveness, consolation for the sufferings,assistance for the needy, cooperation of parties to face together calamities,and unity of faith to glorify and praise the Lord. We need to always invoke theHoly Spirit to take part in every visit of ours as brothers and sisters.  Let's pray. In the name of theFather ... O Lord Jesus Christ, bless us to always obey the guidance of yourHoly Spirit. Glory to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit ... Inthe name of the Father ...

Delivered by Jonathan Axel, Jovinson Tansil, Gregory Octaviano, dan Kezia Nikita from the Parish of Sacred Heart of Jesus Cathedral in the Archdiocese of Makassar, Indonesia. Acts of the Apostles 15: 1-2.22-29; Rs psalm 67: 2-3.5.6.8; Revelation 21: 10-14.22-23; John 14: 23-29.THE HOLY SPIRIT WHO IS CATHOLIC The title for our meditation on this 6thSunday of Easter is: The Holy Spirit Who is Catholic. We need to clarify theterm or name "Catholic" that we use here. The term"Catholic" here is not to put in comparation between theRoman-Catholic with the Pope as its head and other Christian denominations inthe Reformation movement. The term "Catholic" here refers to allChristians and believers who believe in Jesus Christ, the only Savior of theworld. If Christ is the principal reason forall of us to become "Catholics", then logically speaking, the HolySpirit is also Catholic, because Jesus Himself sends His Spirit to us. The eraof this world after Jesus Christ ascended into heaven is called the Age of theHoly Spirit. The work of the Holy Spirit is the continuation of the work ofJesus Christ, whose main task is to renew the whole face of the earth and makeevery creation belong to God. The question is: how can we understandthat the Holy Spirit makes everything belong to God, and that is why He istruly Catholic? To answer this question, we need to depart from the Gospelreading of today, which says that the Holy Spirit sent by Jesus has a role toremind us of everything Jesus has taught and said. The role to teach everythingis an essential element of universality, namely the Catholic. The Holy Spiritworks totally and reaches a complete result. The fullness of our lives becomesthe fruit of the work of the Holy Spirit. The early Church in Jerusalem and anumber of cities around it realized that under the guidance of the Holy Spirit,the Church truly became Catholic. The universal character of the Church as theword “Catholic” refers to, became the very important message of the Council ofJerusalem, with the mandate that all nations regardless of culture andbackgrounds can become disciples of the Lord and enter into the Church.Catholicism includes all people from all cultures, tribes, languages, races,religions, places and regions. In a short time, thanks to the hard work of Pauland Barnabas and a number of elected Church leaders, the face of the CatholicChurch became evident in the world and in the hearts of all people. As the Spirit of the Divine or God'sown Spirit, the role of the Holy Spirit is to sanctify this world and all thatdwell in it. The Apostle John's vision in the Book of Revelation shows that thefullness of God's grace, or holiness for all, is like a holy city, Jerusalem,came down from heaven and established on this earth. We are Catholics, so weneed to always be in the light of the Holy Spirit and always radiate thatlight.Let's pray. In the name of theFather ... O Lord Jesus Christ, may Your Spirit always be the light and powerto renew the whole face of the earth, and make it a holy city for all. OurFather who art in heaven ... In the name of the Father ...

Delivered by Clifford Erikson Guandang from the Parish of Saint Vincent a Paulo in the Diocese of Malang -East Jawa, Indonesia. Acts of the Apostles 14: 5-18; Rs psalm 115: 1-2.3-4.15-16; John 14: 21-26.THE PERSEVERING, THE SUCCESSFUL The title for our meditation today is:The Persevering, The Successful. There was a boy who approached his father andasked a question as he said: "Father, if I am good at learning and smart,will I succeed?" The father replied: "It is not intelligence thatmakes a person successful in life, son, but his perseverance." To this boy's question, the Lord JesusChrist through the Gospel of today says that perseverance is more necessary.Jesus says that the Holy Spirit sent by Him is our comforter and teacher. TheHoly Spirit guides us, the disciples of Jesus, and we are required todiligently follow and learn to become perfect like our Master Jesus. In the guidance of the Holy Spirit, wedo not aim to become intelligent and successful persons. Because if we allbecome intelligent and smart, many of us might want to compete with the HolySpirit, or even the Holy Spirit becomes confused to guide and teach us. Therefore, the virtue that is veryimportant to us is perseverance or faithfulness, and not intelligence or smartness.The life expereince of the early Church proved that the apostles were not smartand intelligent persons. But because they were diligent and committed to JesusChrist, they were able to mature and master all the knowledge of Jesus Christand the Kingdom of God. Saints Paul and Barnabas were diligentby being steadfast in Jesus Christ and His gospel, even though they facedintelligent and scholarly minded persons from cultures that were totallydifferent from theirs. They showed perseverance as a very strong testimony, inorder to convince all newly baptized Christians that they could persevere infaith and made them steadfast in defending their faith in Jesus Christ. Perseverance must start from each of usbecause there is a willingness to achieve a goal that is good and right.Through a combination of diligence, focus and enthusiasm, one can achieve thedesired results. A person who is good at math because he has ever been andcontinues to work and explore that field. A soccer player is involved in allthe playing techniques constantly so he  then becomes a great player. Likewise, if we intend and commitourselves as sons and daughters of God, or as followers of Christ, we willsucceed in enjoying what Jesus says, namely to occupy a place in the house ofthe Father in heaven that has been provided for each one of us. Let's pray. In the name of theFather ... O Jesus Christ, we are so happy with Your Holy Spirit who is alwaysour comforter and teacher. May we always be diligent and faithful under Hisguidance and teaching, now and for ever, amin. Our Father who art in heaven ...In the name of the Father ...

Longview Campus | Pastor Nick continues our series on the Holy Spirit by sharing on living a life submitted to the Lordship of the Spirit.

Delivered by Chendani Budhi from the Parish of the Assumption of Mary in the Archdiocese of Makassar, Indonesia. Acts of the Apostles 4: 23-31; Rs psalm 2: 1-3.4-6.7-9; John 3: 1-8.OURCHRISTIAN REBIRTH Ourmeditation today is entitled: Our Christian Rebirth. Jesus' conversation withNicodemus in today's gospel reading presents a challenge to the faith that weall face today. That challenge is on how we renew our faith to become what iscalled our Christian rebirth. The teaching of Jesus Christ leads us to have theright understanding about our rebirth. This is so necessary in our journey offaith on earth. But this rebirth is not biological, which means we shouldreturn to our mothers' womb to be born the second time. Thatconversation actually wants to change the biological understanding of rebirthinto a rebirth in the water and the Spirit. The birth in the water is an act offorgiveness of sins and this brings us back to the baptism in the Jordan riverthat John the Baptist had done. Whereas the birth in the Spirit is the baptismin the Holy Spirit to make those baptized truly belong to the life of JesusChrist. It is through the birth in the water and the Spirit, then lies thesacrament of baptism in the Church that we have until now. Thebaptized persons are those who are full with the Holy Spirit. Long before ourbaptism in Jesus Christ, the apostles who gathered and prayed in the name ofthe Lord Jesus Christ, were all full with the Holy Spirit. This fulness in theHoly Spirit then led them to preach the gospel so openly to the world aroundthem. After the fullness of the Holy Spirit that we have received in baptism, theLord then strengthened or confirmed us in the sacrament of Confirmation. Basically,the one who has received this sacrament is considered to have the ability topreach the gospel by his or her knowledge, words, deeds, and his or her own Christianwitness of life. He or she also dares to defend the faith even thoughchallenges and obstacles may cause him or her danger and hardship. Thepoint is this, we obtain the fullness of the Holy Spirit through the renewal ofour faith. The meaningful faith experience of Nicodemus was something alreadyhappened in the past during the time of Jesus. Our situation today is absolutelydifferent. However, the challenge is still the same, namely the faith we haveobtained through the Sacrament of initiation needs renewal. The Apostles' Creedthat we regularly recite in our profession of faith should remind us of therenewal of our baptism. The Eucharist that we celebrate daily or weekly is therenewal of the First Communion that we had received for the first time. Thecommission that we always receive in liturgical celebrations is the moment ofthe renewal of the sacrament of Confirmation that we had received before. Everytime we make these renewals it is worth remembering and realizing that we areactually full with the Holy Spirit.Let's pray. In thename of the Father ... O heavenly Father, may Your Spirit always strengthen ourfaith now and for ever. Hail Mary full of grace ... In the nameof the Father ...

Genesis 1:26 Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in ourlikeness…”You can't fill a SPIRITUAL hole with an EARTHLY thing.There is NOTHING this world can give you that will ULTIMATELY fill you.“I think everyone should get rich and famous and do everything they everdreamed of so they can see that it's not the answer.”—Jim CarreyMatthew 16:26 What good would it be for someone to gain the whole WORLD,yet forfeit their SOUL?The “4 MORES” we think will lead to happiness1. More SUCCESS2. More STUFF3. More SEX (pleasure)4. More SELF-RIGHTEOUSNESSA. ADMIT you have a PROBLEM.Romans 3:23 For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God's gloriousstandard.James 2:10 For the person who keeps all the laws except one is as guilty as theperson who has broken all of God's laws.B. BELIEVE that Jesus is the ONLY ANSWER.John 3:16 For God so loved ________ (the world) that he gave his one and onlySon, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.C. COMMIT your life to Jesus by REPENTING and FOLLOWING.Acts 2:38 Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name ofJesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of theHoly Spirit.“If we find ourselves with a desire that nothing in this world can satisfy, themost probable explanation is that we were made for a different world.”—C.S.LewisYou can't fill a SPIRITUAL void with an EARTHLY thing.

Picturea woman in a dimly lit Palestinian home, realizing one of her ten silver coinsis missing. These coins were more than money, they formed a headband worn by abride, a symbol of her marriage, like a wedding ring. Losing one was a crisis.So, she lights a lamp, grabs a broom, and searches every corner, sweeping awaydust and peering into shadows. When she finally finds that glinting coin, herjoy overflows.  Inthe first parable of Luke 15, the shepherd seeking the lost sheep shows usJesus, the Good Shepherd, pursuing a foolish lost sinner far from God. Thissecond parable, the lost coin, offers another layer. The coin, still in thehouse but hidden in the dirt, can picture a believer who has lost theirusefulness to God, perhaps through sin, neglect, distraction, or carelessness.  Thewoman represents the Holy Spirit, who brings the light of God's Word to exposehidden sin, sweeps the heart clean through conviction, and restores thebeliever to fellowship with the Lord. Every person, sinner or saint, bearsGod's image, like a coin stamped with a king's likeness. Even when sin marsthat image, God sees their worth and pursues them. Jesussays heaven rejoices when one sinner repents, but this parable also hints atthe joy when a believer is restored. Angels celebrate when a lost soul comes toChrist or when a wayward Christian returns to God's purpose. This challenges usto see everyone, unbelievers and struggling believers alike, as precious toGod, worth seeking and restoring. Thisparable reveals God's heart for both the lost sinner and the believer who'sdrifted. If you feel far from God today, maybe as a believer who's lost yourspiritual fire, know that the Holy Spirit is searching for you, ready torestore you with the light of His Word. If you're walking closely with God,you're called to join this mission.  Peoplearound you, friends, coworkers, or even fellow Christians, may be like thatlost coin, in God's house but not shining for Him. You can help by sharing thetruth of Scripture, praying for their restoration, or encouraging them toreturn to fellowship. (Read Galatians 6:1-5). Thisalso challenges our attitudes. The religious leaders grumbled when Jesuswelcomed sinners. Jesus was saying that God actually searches for lost sinners!No wonder the scribes and Pharisees were offended, for there was no place intheir legalistic theology for a God like that. They had forgotten that God hadsought out Adam and Eve when they had sinned and hidden from God (Gen. 3:8-9).In spite of their supposed knowledge of Scripture, the scribes and Phariseesforgot that God was like a father who pitied his wayward children (Ps.103:8-14).  Dowe ever judge those who've wandered, whether unbelievers or believers caught insin? God pursues both with equal love, and we must too. Let's be vessels of theHoly Spirit, bringing light and hope to those who need it. James ended hisepistle with these words: “Brethren, if anyone among you wanders from thetruth, and someone turns him back, let him know that he who turns a sinner fromthe error of his way will save a soul from death and cover a multitude of sins”(James 5:19-20). Challenge: Bea light this week and identify one person who seems far from God, either anunbeliever or a believer who's drifted. Pray for them daily, asking the HolySpirit to shine His light and restore them. Look for one chance to showkindness, share a Scripture, or invite them to reconnect with God, maybethrough a conversation or a church invitation. Then, watch for God to work andbe ready to rejoice when He does. Prayer:Lord,thank You for pursuing us when we're lost, whether as sinners or believerswho've wandered. Fill us with Your Spirit to shine Your Word and restore othersto You. Give us boldness this week to pray, love, and reach out. May we joinheaven's joy over every restored soul. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Delivered by Vivian from the Parish of Santo Thomas in the Diocese of Bogor, West Jawa, Indonesia. Isaiah 50: 4-9a; Rs psalm 69: 8-10.21bcd-22.31.33-34; Matthew 26: 14-25KILLING INSTINCT The title for our meditation today is: KillingInstinct. "We all humans have an instinct to kill. Everyone must naturallydefend oneself, including by killing other parties who are considered to beobstacles," Anthony said such statement to his friends. There was a groupof students living in the school dormitory were sharing something in oneoccasion of their free times. Each shared what was interested in their livestogether. Anthony was considered strange by his colleagues. Henever killed a single mosquito, even though in the dormitory mosquitoes werefound all over the place. He never threw and chased away dogs or cats like hisfriends did. He bent to the side the branches of ornamental plants and not cutor broke them. To his friends, he prioritized friendliness, politeness,patience, and understanding. He never showed any resentment, anger andrudeness. Anthony reminds us all that the killing instinct ispart of our nature as animal beings. A different person or party is considereda threat. People or friends who have more ability become the cause of hurt orenvy. People who create progress or offer change are considered enemies to beeliminated. Those who do good in serving others because they are leaders or publicservants are considered to be the ones who bring bad luck, so they must befought and eliminated. Those are all behaviours that fall into the categoryof killing instinct. There are still so many of the same types that fall intothis category. In essence, humans are inherently animals that always have anuncomfortable circle. A person himself, his home, his family, his environment,culture, religion and country must be fortified so strongly, so that they areprotected from threats of other parties. When a man becomes insecure and feelsthreatened, he will try to fight back, and can destroy the other party. The presence of Jesus Christ and His mission in theworld became an anti-climax in the eyes of the world, and therefore, he wasdestroyed by His enemies. They found a possible instrument in the person ofJudas Iscariot, who was full of his murderous instincts. Judas was identifiedas having been possessed by a demon. This killing instinct was judged by theLord Jesus Himself through His following words: "Woe to the man by whomthe Son of Man is betrayed". The judgment is clear, namely the destructionof life both in this world and in the hereafter. We innately have a killing instinct, but we are alsogiven the responsibility not to use it to harm and destroy others. Only lovecan control this instinct.Let us pray. In the name of the Father... O Lord JesusChrist, enlighten us always to avoid the killing instinct in us so that we canlive in the spirit of Your love. Glory to the Father and to the Son and to theHoly Spirit ... In the name of the Father ...

Delivered by Father Peter Tukan, SDB from Salesian Don Bosco Gerak in the Diocese of Labuan Bajo, Indonesia. Hosea 6: 1-6; Rs psalm 51: 3-4.18-19.20-21ab; Luke 18: 9-14SINCERE SINNERS Our meditation today has the theme: Sincere Sinners. Thereis only one of all God's created human beings is sinless. She is the blessedMother, Mary, conceived by her mother free of sins. That is why she is calledMary Immaculate. Apart from her, we are all sinners, either great or small,many or few, visible or invisible. There have been two persons who have been friendssince childhood. Their friendship is still maintained until now when each has hisown family. One day the two friends were engaged in a conversation involvingpersonal matters. Mario, one of the two said that he corrupted money from hisoffice. He shared everything such as the amount of money, how many times hecorrupted, where the money was kept, what use of those money. He believed hisbest friend Mateo must keep all those information in secret.  His best friend Mateo enjoyed the story. Sometimes heasked for clarification on the things that were not clear. He nodded to showhis support. He understood everything that was being told. For Mario, beingopen to his best friend, he already felt lighter about the burden he carried.There was a feeling of relief and an open path in front of him for thepossibility in the future of changing from corruption. On Mateo's part, heshowed no signs of speaking about himself. Even though it has become a commonsuspicion that he was in an unlawful relationship with a woman. Mateo seemed tobe tormented and suffering in solitude with the sin that was tourturing him. Hedid not dare to open up to his best friend.  This story at least gives us some enlightenment thatthere are two types of sinners. Those who are called sincere sinners are those peoplewho are open about the sins they have committed. They do this in the confessionalroom, with a life partner, a friend, or with a trusted person. The motivationis that with that sincerity, he can be free from the shackles and torment ofthe gravity of sin. The most important goal is for him to get help in the formof understanding, moral support and forgiveness. On the other hand, those of the veiled or closed sinnersare those who cover up the mistakes or sins that have been committed. There aremany reasons for this introverted attitude: for example, shame, fear, orarrogance. The Pharisee in the Gospel story above is at least haunted by thesethree reasons. God was really displeased with the Pharisees. We should, andespecially in this period of Lent, realize ourselves as sincere sinners. Godalready knows everything, and in this age of communication, whatever form ofsin will be revealed in due course. So let us get rid of our closed attitudeover our sins.Let us pray. In the name of the Father ... O heavenly Father,increase our courage and openness, so that we may sincerely admit our sins inorder to obtain Your forgiveness. Glory to the Father and to the Son and to theHoly Spirit ... In the name of the Father ...

Delivered by Father Peter Tukan, SDB from Salesian Don Bosco Gerak in the Diocese of Labuan Bajo, Indonesia. 2 Samuel 7: 4-5a.12-14a.16; Rs psalm 89: 2-3.4-5.27.29; Romans 4: 13.16-18.22; Matthew 1: 16.18-21.24aJOSEPH THE MAN WHO GIVES SOLUTIONS Our meditation today has the theme: Joseph the Man WhoGives Solutions. The historical account of salvation conveyed by the scripturesshows great figures who have had a great influence on us. A man as great asAbraham, as the second reading of the Letter of the Apostle Paul to the Romansconveys, was the father of many nations on the basis of his faith. A figure aspowerful as King David, as the first reading of the second book of Samuelconveys, occupies the throne of government that God has prepared for generationsto be passed down from generation to generation in order to realize God's willfor the coming of the Messiah. But in their times, the coming of the Messiah wasstill limited to the promises and prophecies of the prophets. The generalunderstanding of the profile of the Messiah is that of a fighter, warrior,liberator, and ruler of mankind. Period after period and characters change, thediscussion of the figure of the Messiah seems to contradict between God's willwith limited human understanding and belief. This continued until the Lord'stime was right to signify the coming of the true Messiah, which began with theevent of the glad tidings from heaven to a very humble virgin named Mary ofNazareth.  The Messiah must give up all privileges that accordingto the general assumption are entirely supernatural. The most sensitive issuethat could become a public scandal was that the virgin conceived the Son of Godto be a human person, who had to become the Messiah. Who can be the solution,in anticipation of the spread of a great scandal, so that the prodigy child whowas born later to be declared to have biological parents? Without giving roomfor people to polemic or question it, the Lord God already has the answer,namely a man of David's descendance who lived in Nazareth. He was Joseph, thecarpenter, who was made the Virgin Mary's husband. A man of great modesty, sincerity, and purity, Josephwas made by God the solution to the plan of salvation of the coming of theMessiah, Jesus Christ. Thus, the Nazareth family is complete as a solutionwhose characteristic is their modesty, sincerity, humility, willingness, andpurity of heart. The Virgin Mary stands out for being just as simple andsincere as her husband. They are united with the Savior Jesus Christ whodisplays togetherness and fellowship as God's solution to the problems thatafflict our individuals, families, the Church, and our communities. Livingmodestly and sincerely became a solution to the life style of materialism andfalsehood. Communion as a family and community of faith is a solution to thethreat of division and disintegration. Let us pray. In the name of the Father... O Jesus Christ,make our hearts sincere and holy like Saint Joseph so that we may serve You andour neighbors with good faith. Glory to the Father and to the Son and to theHoly Spirit ... In the name of the Father...

In Luke 11:1-13, the Lord is not only teaching Hisdisciples about prayer, but He is also giving us some powerful incentives tolearn to pray. I'mconvinced that the best way to learn to be good at anything in life is to workat it, to be disciplined to practice the same thing over and over again. I'm saying allthis to say, the best way to learn to pray is to pray! To pray daily andcontinuously. This is what the above verses in Luke 11:9-13 are about. First, the Lord gives us the pattern of prayer (vv.1-4). Secondly, He gives the persistence of prayer (vv. 5-8). Now Jesusis giving us the promise of prayer (vv. 9-13). After Jesus tells thestory or parable of the friend who is asking his neighbor friend at midnightfor three loaves of bread for his tired and weary friend who has showed up athis house unexpectedly, you might get the idea that our heavenly Father isreluctant to answer our prayers, and we have pester Him to get His attention.But with what the Lord says in these next verses, should put that wrongconclusion to rest. Our Father is heaven is not a reluctant Giver, He is aready Giver. I love verse 9, "So I say to you, ask, and it willbe given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.”The tenses of the verbs are important here: "Keep on asking... keep onseeking... keep on knocking." In other words, don't come to God only inthe midnight emergencies, but keep in constant communion with your Father.Jesus called this "abiding" (John 15:1-18), and Paul exhorted,"Pray without ceasing" (1 Thessalonians 5:17). As we pray, God willeither answer or show us why He cannot answer. Then it is up to us to dowhatever is necessary in our lives so that the Father can trust us with theanswer. The main thing about prayer is not getting what we want or need,but true prayer is first and foremost about communion with our holy heavenly Father!Spending time in His presence! God's delays are not always His denials. Maybe Hehas noticed that the only time we spend time praying is when we desperatelyneed something, and He enjoys our asking so much, and our attitude ofdependence upon Him, that He waits to answer so we will learn to spend moretime with Him! We can't help but notice that this lesson on prayer closesagain with the emphasis on God as Father (vv. 11-13). Because He knows us andloves us, we never need to be afraid of the answers that He gives. Again, Jesusargued from the lesser to the greater: if an earthly father gives what is bestto his children, surely the Father in heaven will do even more. Here we arealso impressed with the “simplicity of prayer”. We come to our heavenly Fatherin childlike faith. When a baby or a child cries, the mother instinctively interpretsthat cry and knows the need of the child. The child is hungry and needs milk,or needs a diaper change, or just needs assurance of love and wants to bepicked up!  Our Father in heaven knowshow to interpret our cries in prayer and knows what our need is even before weask! If our human father knows how to give us good things whenwe ask, “how much more” does our heavenly Father know how to give us goodthings. In these verses we are reminded of our heavenly Father's goodness, Hisgenerosity, and His greatness! The greatest gift first given to the earlydisciples was called, “the Promise of the Father which you heard from Me”(Acts 1:4). We are also heirs of this same “Promise” which is the “gift of theHoly Spirit”.  According to Matthew 7:11, I believe this means that I am continuouslyasking and receiving from my heavenly Father “all the good things” that comewith the Holy Spirit who now lives inside of me as a believer! (Ephesians3:14-19).  Have you ever received the “Promise Gift of the Holy Spirit”? God bless!

God often speaks, leads, and guides you not just in a way but in a combination of ways to eliminate doubt in your heart.   However, whichever way the Holy Spirit chooses to speak, lead, or guide you, He will never speak, lead, or guide you contrary to God's Word and Character.   Learn how to receive divine leading through inward knowing, voice, and witness of the Holy Spirit in Part 4 of this informative teaching series.   Listen and enjoy divine guidance!

2/9/25 Sermon:"The Kingdom Drift" (Kingdom Culture, Pt. 2)Matthew 7:21-24 & Matthew 24:14Last Sunday we looked at the importance of having a Kingdom of God Culture and Worldview. We stressed the importance of the Kingdom to Jesus. As a matter of fact, Jesus talks about the Kingdom 20 out of 28 chapters in Matthew. This Sunday we will look at the beliefs and assumptions of the Kingdom of God. 1. The Kingdom of God is present, at hand, now.2. It has already begun yet has not been fully consummated.3. The Kingdom of God comes with the Presence and Power of theHoly Spirit.4. The Kingdom of God is our alternate frame of reference, i.e.context (As opposed to the kingdom of this world).5. The Kingdom is the rule and reign of Jesus; the Holy and AnointedOne; an eternal Kingdom that will never end.6. The Kingdom will be fully consummated at the return of JesusChrist. Quite often the problem churches encounter is called Kingdom Drift, where secular thinking and practices have crept into the life and fabric of the church and the resulting outcome has been churches who are acting and thinking more like the world than the Kingdom of God as revealed in the scriptures. Sunday, I will address three secular and unspiritual trends often found in today's church, which work to undermine the vitality of Kingdom work and effectiveness:Disrespect for authority, a consumer mentality, and an entitlement mentality. The sermon highlights that these behaviors lead to Kingdom Drift, where church practices stray from biblical teachings, causing churches to operate more like the world than as communities guided by God's Kingdom. By looking at scriptural guidance, I will emphasize the importance of respecting church leadership, prioritizing God's will over personal preferences and fostering a spirit of humility and service. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a return to Kingdom Culture through repentance and a commitment to align church practices with biblical principles to achieve spiritual vitality and effectiveness.  Grace and Peace,Stephen

The Path of a Worshipper: Part 2 by Selloane Asiamah

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How did a Baptist boy end up filled with the spirit? Tonight, Rick Renner discusses radical prophetic words, the Baptism in the Holy Spirit, intense push-back, and more. This is going to bless you! Join our premium membership here: https://encountertoday.com/exclusive-... 

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Dear friends,This podcast was truly God-ordained. It was guided, like recording a miracle in the making.  We are honored to have Angelica Diaz, a female pastor, preacher, author, speaker, emotional maturity, and faith restoration coach.In this episode, we discuss:•⁠ ⁠The power of being a child of God•⁠ ⁠The trifecta of well-being•⁠ ⁠The spiritual food that can save us•⁠ ⁠The importance of not playing God•⁠ ⁠God as your and my ally•⁠ ⁠Scriptures: John 14:27 and Philippians 4:4•⁠ ⁠Comparing and discussing Bodhisattva vows, Buddhist precepts, and Christianity•⁠ ⁠What it means to be the chosen one•⁠ ⁠And so much moreDon't miss this special podcast where you can feel the presence of theHoly Spirit and the Holy Instant in a truly powerful way. Listen on Spotify, iTunes, Amazon Podcasts, Google Podcasts, iHeartRadio, or your preferred platform.Watch and follow us on YouTube: https://youtu.be/UNSw0EM3Lt4To learn more about Angelica, follow her on social media or visit her Linktree:https://www.instagram.com/angelica_deer https://www.facebook.com/Angel7777diaz https://linktr.ee/angelicadeer Podcast produced by Brilliant Futures Productions.Sponsored by Delaflor Teachings Int.

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The genesis of sin and the fall left an imprint on humanity for generations. We are still dying to this day. Although we bear the consequence of Adam's sin, we are not doomed. Genesis 3-Romans 5. VF-2214 Watch, Listen and Learn 24x7 at PastorMelissaScott.com   Pastor Melissa Scott teaches from Faith Center in Glendale. Call 1-800-338-3030 24x7 to leave a message for Pastor Scott. You may make reservations to attend a live service, leave a prayer request or make a commitment. Pastor Scott appreciates messages and reads them often during live broadcasts. Follow @Pastor_Scott on Twitter and visit her official Facebook page @Pastor.M.Scott. Download Pastor Scott's "Understand the Bible" app for iPhone, iPad and iPod at the Apple App Store and for Android devices in the Google Store. Pastor Scott can also be seen 24x7 on Roku and Amazon Fire on the "Understand the Bible?" channel.    ©2024 Pastor Melissa Scott, Ph.D., All Rights Reserved

As an introduction to the subject of heaven and hell, we must be careful about what we “think” we know. Some common misconceptions are addressed, and the question is answered, “What exactly does God require of us to make it in?” Luke 16:19-31 Watch, Listen and Learn 24x7 at PastorMelissaScott.com Pastor Melissa Scott teaches from Faith Center in Glendale. Call 1-800-338-3030 24x7 to leave a message for Pastor Scott. You may make reservations to attend a live service, leave a prayer request or make a commitment. Pastor Scott appreciates messages and reads them often during live broadcasts. Follow @Pastor_Scott on Twitter and visit her official Facebook page @Pastor.M.Scott. Download Pastor Scott's "Understand the Bible" app for iPhone, iPad and iPod at the Apple App Store and for Android devices in the Google Store. Pastor Scott can also be seen 24x7 on Roku and Amazon Fire on the "Understand the Bible?" channel. ©2024 Pastor Melissa Scott, All Rights Reserved

Matthew's gospel was written primarily to a Jewish audience, so he is careful in how he uses the name of God. He focuses on the kingdom of heaven, emphasizing who the king is, what His kingdom is about, and who will enter the kingdom. We are told to seek His kingdom and His righteousness first. He must be our priority above all else, and if we trust in Him, He will take care of our needs. Matthew 6:24-34  VF-2222 Watch, Listen and Learn 24x7 at PastorMelissaScott.com Pastor Melissa Scott teaches from Faith Center in Glendale. Call 1-800-338-3030 24x7 to leave a message for Pastor Scott. You may make reservations to attend a live service, leave a prayer request or make a commitment. Pastor Scott appreciates messages and reads them often during live broadcasts. Follow @Pastor_Scott on Twitter and visit her official Facebook page @Pastor.M.Scott. Download Pastor Scott's "Understand the Bible" app for iPhone, iPad and iPod at the Apple App Store and for Android devices in the Google Store. Pastor Scott can also be seen 24x7 on Roku and Amazon Fire on the "Understand the Bible?" channel. © Pastor Melissa Scott, All Rights Reserved

Take the challenge to read and listen to Bible teaching, examining whether or not the things that Jesus foretold of Himself were manipulated or true before throwing away the hope of life eternal.  John 11:23-26 1 Corinthians 15:3-4  VF-1970 Watch, Listen and Learn 24x7 at PastorMelissaScott.com Pastor Melissa Scott teaches from Faith Center in Glendale. Call 1-800-338-3030 24x7 to leave a message for Pastor Scott. You may make reservations to attend a live service, leave a prayer request or make a commitment. Pastor Scott appreciates messages and reads them often during live broadcasts. Follow @Pastor_Scott on Twitter and visit her official Facebook page @Pastor.M.Scott. Download Pastor Scott's "Understand the Bible" app for iPhone, iPad and iPod at the Apple App Store and for Android devices in the Google Store. Pastor Scott can also be seen 24x7 on Roku and Amazon Fire on the "Understand the Bible?" channel. © Pastor Melissa Scott, All Rights Reserved

Season 6: Episode 5 - Secure the Cookie JarIn this episode, I how important it is to do a deep dive into any open doors from soul ties. God created sex for marriage. It is an amazing expression of love. It is VERY powerful. This is why it is so sacred. When we break this sacred expression we open ourselves up to soul ties which open doors to things like depression, anxiety, pain, disease, low self-worth etc.I want to encourage you today to look back to past sexual relationships. Did they work out? What were the repercussions? Are you still connected? Are there any open doors? Listen to this message and share your thoughts with me. Also if you have any questions about business, real estate, healing, marriage, or entrepreneurship, feel free to comment. If I can be of service or if you have questions on how I can assist you, you can book a consultation on my website www.drkerriecarterwalker.com, or email me at info@drkerriecarterwalker.com.I pray you enjoy this episode! Please share this with a family member, friend, or coworker. They can listen to the audio on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio, or other podcast platforms.Stay Anchored with me on all social platforms at dr_kerrieJoin me next week for Season 6: Episode 6 of The More Than The Bag Podcast.Don't forget to HIT the follow button, comment, and turn on your notifications so you don't miss any of my messages. God loves you! I love you! Stay Blessed! Stay Anchored! -Dr. Kerrie

Woodland Campus | Pastor Jonathan shares on the Baptism of the Holy Spirit.

Woodland Campus | Pastor Jonathan shares on The Holy Spirit our helper.

Being filled with the Holy Spirit is not having the Spirit or seeking for more of the Spirit, but rather letting the Spirit have you and more of you. Being filled with the Spirit is simply letting the Spirit control entirely the whole of your being or life. It is impossible to live a Christian life and do Christian work effectively without always yielding to the overpowering influence of the Holy Spirit. But how do you get filled with the Holy Spirit? How do you know if or when you are filled with the Holy Spirit? Listen and learn from this enlightening and inspiring teaching!

Being Spirit-filled is God's command or instruction to all believers. It is the only acceptable way to live a Christian life. It is also the only acceptable way to do Christian work or service. Therefore, it is not optional for you as a believer to be filled with the Holy Spirit. This informative teaching (Part 2 in a series) clearly explains why it is a must for every believer to be filled with the Spirit. It will inspire and challenge you to begin to walk in the Spirit!

Every believer in Christ has the Spirit of God indwelling them. Yet, every believer is commanded to be filled with the Spirit. Receiving the Holy Spirit is a one-time spiritual experience, but Getting filled with the Spirit is a progressive spiritual experience. Part 1 of this enlightening teaching series explains what it means to be filled with the Holy Spirit. Listen and be filled with the Holy Spirit!

The beginning of a series for the sake of two people who are dear friends but far from the knowledge of God.  Bad experiences with the church at large or a "brand" of Christianity cause many to be turned off on the church.  There is corruption in all of humanity, so we should not ignore God because of that.  A look at the church history surrounding Easter and at the traditions of men becoming dogma show why we should not simply trust the institution, but we can still trust God. VF-2178 Watch, listen and learn 24x7 at PastorMelissaScott.com  Pastor Melissa Scott teaches from Faith Center in Glendale. Call 1-800-338-3030 24x7 to leave a message for Pastor Scott. You may make reservations to attend a live service, leave a prayer request or make a commitment. Pastor Scott appreciates messages and reads them often during live broadcasts. Follow @Pastor_Scott on Twitter and visit her official Facebook page @Pastor.M.Scott. Download Pastor Scott's "Understand the Bible" app for iPhone, iPad and iPod at the Apple App Store and for Android devices in the Google Store. Pastor Scott can also be seen 24x7 on Roku and Amazon Fire on the "Understand the Bible?" channel.   

Today Louis J. Locke takes us through a section of Acts 16 Today

In this episode we will discuss the invaluable role of the Holy Spirit in believers' lives. Also looking at how theHoly Spirit is presented as a divine guide, teacher, and comforter, helping individuals navigate challenges, speak with wisdom, and understand the will of God. This episode emphasizes the Spirit's active involvement in daily situations, providing clarity, insight, and direction.

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https://www.patreon.com/GoodShepherdTrainingHere is the Training Course of Fire / QualA Modern Rifleman Training Course. I Hope it's a Blessing.U.S. Army 25Meter Alt Qual Target Available Herehttps://www.riteintherain.com25 Rounds Total.Couse is Shot En Todo from 25 MAlthough Many of the Stages Have No Time Limit Unless Unsafe Conditions Arise Once in Position Shooter Should Keep Muzzle Up! I found this to be a render most time limits superfluous. If say moving from kneeling to standing Muzzle goes Down Okay But One Standing Muzzle Up until All Shot that Target are Delivered.Stage 1: Prone Unsupported 5 Shots N.T.L. No Time Limit on 300M Silhouette Top RightStage 2: Standing Condition 3 (No Round in Weapon) / Low Ready / Gun Up Make Ready & Fire Fire One Round 50m Bottom Center Target N.T.L.Keep Rifle in Condition 1 Fully Loaded Standing Low Ready (base of target) Same Target 1 Hit 1.5 Sec Do this 2 Times.Stage 3: Standing Rifle Condition 3 to Low Profile Position I.E. Kneeling 1 o 2 Knee, Sitting or Squalling (Shooters Choice) Center 100M Target on Signal From Standing to Low Profile While making Weapon Ready to Fire 1 shot on 100M Target N.T.L.Stage 4: Low Profile Position (Shooters Choice) 100M Left & Right Lateral 100M Targets / Shoot 1 Round on One 100m Silhouette Reload and Engage the other 100M Target N.T.L. Reload of Shooters Choice Speed Tactical / One Round from Stock Ect. Just Add Ammo to Rifle.Stage 5: (My Favorite) On the Top Left 250M 200M and 150M Silhouettes. Start Prone 1 Shot 250M from prone go to Low Profile 200M target standing 150M Target (1 shot from each Position) Now Reverse Order Standing 150M - Low Pro 200M - Prone 250M N.T.L.Stage 6: Start Prone Position, Top Right Side 200m and 150m Targets, Don't Fire Prone, Move From Prone to Kneeling 2 hits 200M Silhouette Move to Standing 2 Hits 150M Silhouette N.T.L.Stage 7: Standing Start Move Laterally L or R 2 Hits Bottom 50M Target Them Move the Opposite Direction into a Low Profile Position and give 2 Hits on the Bottom Center 100M Target N.T.L.Scoring:Shots Hitting Silhouette 1 Point. Shots Hitting Circle 2 Points50 Total Points40 and Above Expert35-40 Sharp Shooter25 -35 Passing Marksman

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Season 5 starts now. Episode 1 "The Holy Spirit and the Old Testament."

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Season 4 Episode 18 "The Holy Spirit and Creation."

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Season 4 Episode 17 "The Eternal Holy Spirit."

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Jesus Foretells Destruction of the Temple 13 And as he came out of the temple, one of his disciples said to him, “Look,Teacher, what wonderful stones and what wonderful buildings!” 2 And Jesussaid to him, “Do you see these great buildings? zThere will not be left here one stone uponanother that will not be thrown down.” Signs of the End of the Age 3 And as he sat on the Mount of Olives opposite the temple, Peter and James andJohn and Andrew asked him privately, 4 “Tell us, when will these things be, and what will be the sign when all these things are about to be accomplished?” 5 And Jesus began to say to them, “See that no one leads you astray. 6 Many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am he!' and they will lead many astray. 7 And when you hear of wars and rumors of wars, do not be alarmed. This must take place, but the end is not yet. 8 For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be earthquakes in various places; there will be famines. These are but the beginning of the birth pains. 9 “But be on your guard. For they will deliver you over to councils, and you will be beaten in synagogues, and you will stand before governors and kings for my sake, to bear witness before them. 10 And the gospel must first be proclaimed to all nations. 11 And when they bring you to trial and deliver you over, do not be anxious beforehand what you are to say, but say whatever is given you in that hour, for it is not you who speak, but theHoly Spirit. 12 And brother will deliver brother over to death, and the father his child, and children will rise against parents and have them put to death. 13 And you will be hated byall for my name's sake. But the one who endures to the end will be saved. The Abomination of Desolation 14 “But when you see the abomination of desolation standing where he ought not to be(let the reader understand), then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains. 15 Let the one who is on the housetop not go down, nor enter his house, to take anything out,16 and let the one who is in the field not turn back to take his cloak. 17 And alas for women who are pregnant and for those who are nursing infants in those days! 18 Pray that it maynot happen in winter. 19 For in those days there will be such tribulation as has not been from the beginning of the creation that God created until now, and never will be. 20 Andif the Lord had not cut short the days, no human being would be saved. But for the sake of the elect, whom he chose, he shortened the days. 21 And then if anyone says to you,‘Look, here is the Christ!' or ‘Look, there he is!' do not believe it. 22 For false christs and false prophets will arise and perform signs and wonders, to lead astray, if possible, the elect. 23 But be on guard; I have told you all things beforehand. The Coming of the Son of Man 24 “But in those days, after that tribulation, the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light, 25 and the stars will be falling from heaven, and the powers in the heavens will be shaken. 26 And then they will see the Son of Man coming in clouds with great power and glory. 27 And then he will send out the angels and gather his elect from the four winds, from the ends of the earth to the ends of heaven. The Lesson of the Fig Tree 28 “From the fig tree learn its lesson: as soon as its branch becomes tender and puts outits leaves, you know that summer is near. 29 So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that he is near, at the very gates. 30 Truly, I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all these things take place. 31 Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away. No One Knows That Day or Hour 32 “But concerning that day or that hour, no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. 33 Be on guard, keep awake. For you do not know when the time will come. 34 It is like a man going on a journey, when he leaves home and puts his servants in charge, each with his work, and commands the doorkeeper to stay awake. 35 Therefore stay awake—for you do not know when the master of the house will come, in the evening, or at midnight, or when the rooster crows, or in the morning — 36 lest he come suddenly and find you asleep. 37 And what I say to you I say to all: Stay awake.”

Fallen Condition FocusOur nature is to procrastinate and not prepare.IntroductionDo you know those people who always seem to be prepared for anything? I am notone of those people. I am more of a, “will figure it out later” kind of person. It'sfunny because as I was preparing to preach this morning I was thinking aboutpreparation. Some things I have to force myself to prepare for.Our family loves to go camping, and we really do 2 different kinds of camping.First there is the main activity we do which is better called “glamping”. In fact,Lucy, Joe, and I are doing this right now. My preparation for this kind of campingis very casual. I know I will be by my truck. I know that I'm just a few minutesdrive to the nearest store. So when I go to pack for the things we need, I don'treally sweat it too much. The worst thing that can happen is that I will need todrive down the road a few miles and pick up whatever it is that we may haveforgotten.On the flip side of this is, sometimes I will take a couple of my kids backpacking.Now this is an entirely different thing. We have to pack everything we are goingto need for the trip on our back. Typically, we will find a trail and hike severalmiles into the woods. We don't have access to a car, or a store, electricity, or anyof the modern luxuries of life.Now, even though I am not by nature a preparer, when I go backpacking, Isuddenly intentionally become a very prepared person. Spreadsheets are involved,2I have lists. I sit down an methodically load all the items into my packs and thekids packs so that we have everything we might need. Why do I do this for abackpacking trip, but not for a trip in the glamper?The answer is, the stakes are so much higher. If we get out into the woods andrealize we don't have anything to start a fire with, we are going to be miserable. Ican't just jump in the truck and go get what we need.Jesus has been teaching us this lesson on a spiritual level. And he has beenteaching it over and over again. He, gives us so many warnings on this topic,because he knows our nature. He knows we tend to think, I will worry about itlater. I've got time to deal with spiritual things some other time. He knows thatsome of will one day realize we never prepared ourselves to meet him.Remember back to how Jesus closed his Sermon on the Mount. It is one of themost troubling passages in all of Scripture. Jesus leaves his hearers in that passagewith some really troubling words about a “narrow gate” “few find it”. He reallydepicts this mass of people who all think they are moving toward the kingdom ofheaven but they are deceived.[Mat 7:22-23 ESV] 22 On that day many will say to me, 'Lord, Lord, did we notprophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mightyworks in your name?' 23 And then will I declare to them, 'I never knew you;depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.'This is the exact same warning that we get as we look at this parable teachingtoday.25:1 Then the kingdom of heaven will be like ten virgins who tooktheir lamps and went to meet the bridegroom.3Right of the bat Jesus informs us exactly what the parable is intended to illustrate.We are talking about the kingdom of heaven. And we continue the same flow ofend times teaching that Jesus had been talking about in chapter 24.[Mat 24:44 ESV] 44 Therefore you also must be ready, for the Son of Man iscoming at an hour you do not expect.The point of this teaching is to emphasize what we read in Matthew 24:44. Youmust be ready. Jesus effectively gives us warning after warning after warningabout this topic.To understand the parable we need to understand a little about ancient Jewishwedding practices because that is the setting of this parable. It was customary inthose days for the bridesmaids and the bride to wait at the family home of thebride. Unlike modern times there really was not a set schedule for when the eventsof the wedding would take place.What we have pictured in the parable is basically a wedding party. Those who willactually be in the wedding ceremony.At some point the groom would arrive at the family home of the bride. And whenhe would arrive something kind of like a parade would take place as the weddingparty would move from the bride's family home to the groom's family home.This parade if you will would be a great honor and a significant part of the overallwedding celebration.We see that the 10 bridesmaids are equipped with lamps. The same word can betranslated either lamp or even torches. It could be either, but the point is the same.Seemingly when the bridegroom arrives they will be expected to light the torchesand proceed as a wedding party with the groom.25:2 Five of them were foolish, and five were wise.4While the 10 bridesmaids seem to be one unit, Jesus draws our attention tosomething right in the beginning. These 10 people are not the same. Even thoughthey all appear to be ready for the wedding procession, they all are equipped withlamps, but there is something very different under the surface. In fact they couldnot be more different. 5 of them are wise, and 5 of them are foolish.I don't know if it's because I'm an engineer, but sometimes I am tempted toprobably read too much into the mathematics of the situation. Jesus is making thisstory up. He could have used any number he wanted here. He could have had 8wise and 2 fools, or 2 fools and 8 wise, but he does a 50/50 split. I don't know ifthat is significant, but perhaps it is. Is Jesus trying to tell us that about 50% of thepeople who profess to be a Christian are inwardly fooling themselves? I don'tknow, but I think it bears some consideration.25:3 & 4 3 For when the foolish took their lamps, they took no oil withthem, 4 but the wise took flasks of oil with their lamps.We find in verse 3 what separates the foolish from the wise. If it is a torch orlamp it does not matter, because they work the same way. If it is a lamp then thewick will pull up the oil from a well and the oil will fuel the flame. If it is a torchthen the same principle holds.If one were to light a wick or a torch without any oil the flame would consumethe fabric in mere moments. The flame would not last.This is common knowledge and the entire wedding party is seemingly aware ofthe laws of combustion. However 5 of them have made the proper preparations.But 5 of them have not prepared because they have brought no oil.I think we have to be careful not to allegorize the entire parable, but it seems safeto me to say that the oil represents a reborn heart or even the Holy Spirit livingwithin a reborn heart. No person will see the kingdom of God without being bornagain.5We (overall church not necessarily GCF) have made church pretty comfortablefor worldly folks. We have dismissed books of the Bible as outdated, we haveadjusted our theology, skipped over the difficult passages, and reinterpreted theothers so that they are no longer hard to hear.Many times the church does this with the best of intentions. We want ourcongregation to grow. We want people to understand the gospel, and if we canskip the hard stuff, then maybe they will get connected and be ready for that later.But later never seems to come. Or even worse we start ourselves down a slipperyslope of symbolic interpretation of scripture that allows the entire bible to be bentinto whatever shape the reader wants.What we end up with is churches full of people who are not true Christians.Hearts that have never been reborn. These people come to church each and everyweek, and they are carrying a lamp that has no oil. Can you image 5 out of 10 ofthem have no oil!25:5 As the bridegroom was delayed, they all became drowsy andslept.The bridegroom is delayed. In fact we still are in a period of waiting for thebridegroom to return. You'll notice that the wedding party becomes tired andsleepy. So they sleep.This is not a negative thing. Jesus is not suggesting that they should not havegone to sleep. Is just illustrating the point that it takes a will. So true believer ornot we all are going to sleep. Remember the verse that Jesus is really expoundingon is[Mat 24:44 ESV] 44 Therefore you also must be ready, for the Son of Man iscoming at an hour you do not expect.6Jesus is highlighting the “hour you do not expect” part of this principle. The lostdon't know when he is coming, the saved don't know when he is coming.Whenever he comes again, it will be when he is not expected. And what are we todo to with that information? We are to be ready.25:6 But at midnight there was a cry, 'Here is the bridegroom! Comeout to meet him.'It is at midnight when he arrives. In the darkest part of the night. When he is leastexpected to arrive he shows up. (Think Matthew 24:44)There is an interesting shift at this point in the parable. The time for preparationhas come to an end. Now is time for the wedding procession. There is no time toget right, to gather supplies, to get oil that time has passed. It's at this point wherewe start to see some panic set in.25:7&8 Then all those virgins rose and trimmed their lamps. 8 And thefoolish said to the wise, 'Give us some of your oil, for our lampsare going out.'Because these 5 foolish bridesmaids did not prepare they now realize that theyhave a problem. Panic begins to set in.I think the panic that is depicted here in verse 6 is troubling. It's that comfort Idescribed, when I talked about going camping. In our minds we sort of alwaysthink we have the chance to get what we need. But the reality is, there is coming aday when the store won't be open any more. The time for preparation will havepassed, and the only thing left for us will be judgement.This is why Jesus continually reminds us to prepare.725:9 But the wise answered, saying, 'Since there will not be enough for usand for you, go rather to the dealers and buy for yourselves..There is another lesson here. You cannot get your preparation from someone else.You cannot get your righteousness from your parents, from your pastor, fromyour family, you are responsible for yourself.It's like when you go to a theme park and the massive crowds of people are allfunneling down to the entrance. And when you get to the entrance they have thatlittle turnstile that only 1 person can fit in. They look at your ticket, and if itchecks out you enter all by yourself. Jesus says you can't look to those in yourgroup to get you into the kingdom.There is a problem here. The shop is closed. There is no hope at this point. And indesperation they fill the streets to try to find oil, but they will find none. Such willbe the day for all of us.25:10 10 And while they were going to buy, the bridegroom came, and thosewho were ready went in with him to the marriage feast, and the door wasshut.Notice the wedding party is not effected. It continues as scheduled. For those whowere prepared a feast is set and the celebration begins. The door is sealed and nomore will be allowed in.Indeed they return in verse 11, but are not permitted to enter.25:11 Afterward the other virgins came also, saying, 'Lord, lord, open to us.'12 But he answered, 'Truly, I say to you, I do not know you.' 13Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour.We here again here echos back to the sermon on the mount. Jesus says, I do notknow you.8Jesus underscores the entire point yet another time at the end of the parable inverse 13, “Watch”. We are to be watching. We are to be prepared. The day iscoming when we will be expected to go.How then can we prepare?1) Step 1 - You must be born again. John 3[Jhn 3:5-6 ESV] 5 Jesus answered, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one isborn of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. 6 That whichis born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.There is something supernatural that must occur in our lives. We must be bornspiritually in the same way we were born physically. In this Spiritual birth theHoly Spirit will convict you of sin, and you must confess the sin, and repent. Infaith trusting that you are saved.2) Step 2 – Develop Spiritual Discipline[1Ti 4:7-8 ESV] 7 Have nothing to do with irreverent, silly myths. Rather trainyourself for godliness; 8 for while bodily training is of some value, godliness isof value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for thelife to come.3) Persevere In Trials to the End[1Pe 1:6-7 ESV] 6 In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, ifnecessary, you have been grieved by various trials, 7 so that the testedgenuineness of your faith--more precious than gold that perishes though it istested by fire--may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at therevelation of Jesus Christ.4) Live the Great CommissionLord's Supper:Invite musicians and server's to go ahead and come.Explain, this is the response part of the service. The covering or wedding garmentthat Jesus provided, was not free. His blood was spilled, his body was broken. Sotoday as we partake in the Lord's supper we remember that.9You don't have to be a member here to participate, but you do have to be abeliever in good standing with the Lord. Meaning you have no unconfessed sin orbroken fellowship with others in the congregation.Perhaps you want to come up here and pray, or pray where you are, that's allokay. I'll be standing right over here if you want to come pray with me.

The Visitation of Mary and the Holy Spirit* The Visitation, The Cord of Grace, & The Bonds of Death *Heavenly Visitation Subscribe and Rate on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sermons-for-everyday-living/id1259945127

Today Aaron and Tony are going to discuss how the Holy Spirit works today. This topic has always proven difficult for some who take a more mystic approach to the Bible. There is no room for mysticism in the lives of God's people. If you want to support the show with a one time donation, go to www.buymeacoffee.com/christianitynow   If you want to support the show monthly, www.patreon.com/christianitynow   

Hunger is a genuine and consistent pursuit of God for who He is that is void of selfish gainand selfish expectations. We can cultivate a hunger for God through worship. gettingaround people that are hungry, and when we pray for and welcome the conviction of theHoly Spirit. We are not to settle on the comfortable and casual.Notes for this sermon: http://bit.ly/3ZgXKXDTake your next step and connect with us here: bit.ly/3Q5s2Z8 Website | lifechurchww.com​​​Facebook | facebook.com/lifechurchww​​Instagram | instagram.com/lifechurchww​​Vida Music | vidamsc.com​​

Summary:Are you satisfied with your life and relationship with the Lord?Just how far is the Lord from us? How close is the Lord to us?Is there a hunger to know more about who the Lord is?Show Notes:• When He imparts to us or leads us, are we obedient?• Do we have a drive to be obedient in order to get more from Him?• He gives us His nature as we seek Him.References:1 John 4:16 NASBWe have come to know and have believed the love which God has forus. God is love, and the one who abides in love abides in God, and Godabides in him.Acts 1:2-4 NKJV2. until the day in which He was taken up, after He through theHoly Spirit had given commandments to the apostles whom Hehad chosen,3. to whom He also presented Himself alive after His suffering bymany infallible proofs, being seen by them during forty days andspeaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God.4. And being assembled together with them, He commandedthem not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the Promise ofthe Father, “which,” He said, “you have heard from Me;1 John 3:2 ISVDear friends, we are now God's children, but what we will be likehas not been revealed yet. We know that when the Messiah isrevealed, we will be like him, because we will see him as he is.Romans 8:14 NIVFor those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God.Ephesians 3:19 BSBof the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpassesknowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.Quotes:• I want the truth, I'm not afraid. I'm hungry for the truth• We hunger and thirst after what He is bringing• One of the drives of hunger is: we want to be like Him.Take Away:In hungering after Him, we loose our own drives and ambitions. Wewant to be like Him, we want to know him in the fulness of God(Ephesians 3:19).