Podcasts about throughout lent

In this meditation of our Lenten series, I AM: A Lenten Journey with Jesus, we reflect on one of Jesus’s most powerful declarations in John 11:21–27: “I am the resurrection and the life.” Jesus speaks these words to Martha in the middle of grief. Her brother Lazarus has died. The loss is real. The disappointment is honest. She tells Jesus what many of us have felt: “Lord, if only you had been here…” Into that place of sorrow and confusion, Jesus does not offer an explanation. He offers Himself. He does not merely promise resurrection someday.He declares that He is resurrection.He is life. This is the heart of the gospel. Death does not have the final word. Sin does not have the final word. Despair does not have the final word. In this guided Scripture meditation, you are invited to identify where you need Jesus to be resurrection and life in your own story. Through slow readings of John 11:21–27, you’ll be guided to reflect, respond honestly, and renew your hope in His promise. The story of Lazarus ultimately ends with life walking out of the tomb. But even before the miracle, Jesus gives Martha something just as powerful: a question. “Do you believe this?” Resurrection hope begins with trust. Download your FREE companion journal for I AM: A Lenten Journey with Jesus. This journal includes:• Each week’s Scripture passage• Reflection prompts from the meditations• Space to journal, pray, and notice what God is revealing Throughout Lent, a brief guided prayer will be released each Wednesday to help you pause midweek and prayerfully reset your focus on Jesus. Here are some additional helpful links: Download your FREE Lent Companion Journal Here I AM: A Lenten Journey with Jesus This journal includes:• Each week’s Scripture passage• Reflection prompts from the meditations• Space to journal, pray, and notice what God is revealing Here are some additional helpful links: Learn more about Jodie:http://www.jodieniznik.com Follow on Instagram:@jodieniznik Follow on Facebook:@JodieGNiznik Join the Monday email newsletter for new meditations, HERE Explore other faith-centered podcasts from LifeAudio: https://www.lifeaudio.com Today’s Scripture John 11:21-27 NLT 21 Martha said to Jesus, “Lord, if only you had been here, my brother would not have died. 22 But even now I know that God will give you whatever you ask.” 23 Jesus told her, “Your brother will rise again.” 24 “Yes,” Martha said, “he will rise when everyone else rises, at the last day.” 25 Jesus told her, “I am the resurrection and the life.[a] Anyone who believes in me will live, even after dying. 26 Everyone who lives in me and believes in me will never ever die. Do you believe this, Martha?” 27 “Yes, Lord,” she told him. “I have always believed you are the Messiah, the Son of God, the one who has come into the world from God.” Today’s meditation music entitled Be Still, was generously provided by Simon Wester. If you enjoyed the music, make sure to listen to and follow him on Spotify. https://open.spotify.com/artist/2qUycRIHExBVUPIoq6RUkO?si=vQranvhdRW6NNoMNG7Q9dQ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Throughout Lent, and really throughout the entire Christian life, we keep Christ crucified before our eyes as a reminder of how deeply we are loved. But it also confronts us with a question: Do I want to be associated with that? Fr. Mike Schmitz challenges us, especially during Holy Week but also every day, to answer honestly: Do I want to be associated with Jesus, even if it means suffering? Our hope is that the answer becomes “yes,” day after day. Because no matter the trials or sacrifices, nothing compares to the joy of being with Him at the end of it all.

In this Maundy Thursday meditation of our Lenten series, I AM: A Lenten Journey with Jesus, we slow down with Jesus’s words in John 18:1–8: “I AM He.” This moment takes place in the garden, just hours before the cross. The Passover meal has been shared. Jesus has washed His disciples’ feet. He has given them a new command—to love one another as He has loved them. After singing a hymn, they make their way to the Mount of Olives. And then the soldiers arrive. Torches.Lanterns.Weapons. John tells us that Jesus, knowing all that was going to happen to Him, stepped forward and asked, “Who is it you want?” When they answered, “Jesus of Nazareth,” He replied, “I AM He.” At His words, they drew back and fell to the ground. This is not a frightened man being seized in the dark. This is Jesus, fully aware, fully surrendered, and fully in control. He does not hide. He does not run. He steps forward. In this guided Scripture meditation, you are invited to enter the garden through prayerful imagination. Through several slow readings of John 18:1–8, you will be guided to notice the scene, reflect on Jesus’s willing surrender, and rest in the truth that His sacrificial love was intentional. Maundy Thursday reminds us that love is not passive. It steps forward. It surrenders. It trusts the Father, even in the dark. As we prepare our hearts for Good Friday, we pause here—at the edge of the cross—remembering that Jesus went willingly. Download your FREE companion journal for I AM: A Lenten Journey with Jesus. This journal includes:• Each week’s Scripture passage• Reflection prompts from the meditations• Space to journal, pray, and notice what God is revealing Throughout Lent, a brief guided prayer will be released each Wednesday to help you pause midweek and prayerfully reset your focus on Jesus. Here are some additional helpful links: Download your FREE Lent Companion Journal Here I AM: A Lenten Journey with Jesus This journal includes:• Each week’s Scripture passage• Reflection prompts from the meditations• Space to journal, pray, and notice what God is revealing Here are some additional helpful links: Learn more about Jodie:http://www.jodieniznik.com Follow on Instagram:@jodieniznik Follow on Facebook:@JodieGNiznik Join the Monday email newsletter for new meditations, HERE Explore other faith-centered podcasts from LifeAudio: https://www.lifeaudio.com Today’s Scripture John 18:1–8 (NIV) 1 When he had finished praying, Jesus left with his disciples and crossed the Kidron Valley. On the other side there was a garden,and he and his disciples went into it. 2 Now Judas, who betrayed him, knew the place, because Jesus had often met there with his disciples. 3 So Judas came to the garden, guiding a detachment of soldiers and some officials from the chief priests and the Pharisees. They were carrying torches, lanterns and weapons. 4 Jesus, knowing all that was going to happen to him, went out and asked them, “Who is it you want?” 5 “Jesus of Nazareth,” they replied. “I am he,” Jesus said. (And Judas the traitor was standing there with them.) 6 When Jesus said, “I am he,” they drew back and fell to the ground. 7 Again he asked them, “Who is it you want?” “Jesus of Nazareth,” they said. 8 Jesus answered, “I told you that I am he. If you are looking for me, then let these men go.” Music YouTube Code: Stephen Keech, Occasion YELKPZLMXQKGOTYW Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

As we enter Holy Week, we pause with one of the most direct and striking declarations Jesus ever made. In this seventh meditation of our Lenten series, I AM: A Lenten Journey with Jesus, we reflect on Jesus’s words in John 8:56–59:“Before Abraham was, I AM.” Throughout this series, we have considered the familiar “I am” statements—images and metaphors that reveal Jesus as bread, light, shepherd, gate, and vine. But this moment is different. Here, Jesus is not offering a picture. He is making a claim. Speaking to religious leaders who questioned His authority, Jesus identifies Himself with the very name of God revealed in Exodus. The people listening understood exactly what He was saying. They believed He had committed blasphemy, and they responded by picking up stones. This is a turning point. Jesus does not leave room to be understood merely as a good teacher or wise prophet. He clearly declares His divinity. This guided Scripture meditation invites you to sit with this scene and reflect on what it means that Jesus is fully God and fully man. Through several slow readings of John 8:56–59, you will be guided to listen, imagine the moment, respond honestly, and rest in the truth of who He is. As Holy Week begins, we are reminded that it is because of who Jesus is that the cross matters. It is because of who He is that the resurrection brings salvation and hope. Lent prepares us to celebrate Easter with clarity and conviction. Jesus is not simply part of the story. He is the I AM. Download your FREE companion journal for I AM: A Lenten Journey with Jesus. This journal includes:• Each week’s Scripture passage• Reflection prompts from the meditations• Space to journal, pray, and notice what God is revealing Throughout Lent, a brief guided prayer will be released each Wednesday to help you pause midweek and prayerfully reset your focus on Jesus. Here are some additional helpful links: Download your FREE Lent Companion Journal Here I AM: A Lenten Journey with Jesus This journal includes:• Each week’s Scripture passage• Reflection prompts from the meditations• Space to journal, pray, and notice what God is revealing Here are some additional helpful links: Learn more about Jodie:http://www.jodieniznik.com Follow on Instagram:@jodieniznik Follow on Facebook:@JodieGNiznik Join the Monday email newsletter for new meditations, HERE Explore other faith-centered podcasts from LifeAudio: https://www.lifeaudio.com Today’s Scripture John 8:56–59 (NLT) 56 Your father Abraham rejoiced as he looked forward to my coming. He saw it and was glad.57 The people said, “You aren’t even fifty years old. How can you say you have seen Abraham?”58 Jesus answered, “I tell you the truth, before Abraham was even born, I AM!”59 At that point they picked up stones to throw at him, but Jesus was hidden from them and left the Temple. If you are helped by these meditations, consider sharing them with a friend or leaving a review. Simple acts like these help create space for more people to slow down and listen. Thank you for joining me on So Much More.We really do believe Jesus has so much more to say to us—and this is one way we are creating space to listen. Today’s meditation music was generously provided by Simon Wester. If you enjoyed the music, make sure to listen to and follow him on Spotify. https://open.spotify.com/artist/2qUycRIHExBVUPIoq6RUkO?si=vQranvhdRW6NNoMNG7Q9dQ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

​​Today is Palm Sunday—the last Sunday of Lent, and the beginning of Holy Week. Throughout Lent, we've been asking the simple yet powerful question: Where do we see good news? In a world in which we're inundated with bad news, this question helps us return to the heart of Jesus' teachings, and reminds us that the Gospel is good news! It's the story of a God who loves humanity so deeply that God took on flesh and bone to be with us—a love so deep that even death cannot overcome it. And it's a love that calls us into community: to care for one another, protect one another, and remind each other that we belong. Naming all that goodness reminds us that God is still at work, and it helps us remember that following Jesus isn't meant to be passive—we are called to be messengers of God's Good News right here and right now!

As Lent continues, Jesus invites us to consider where true life and growth actually come from. In this sixth meditation of our Lenten series, I AM: A Lenten Journey with Jesus, we slow down with Jesus’s words in John 15:“I am the true vine.” Spoken on the night before His arrest, this image comes from the conversation in the upper room where Jesus is preparing His disciples for what is ahead. He knows they will face confusion, grief, and uncertainty. And instead of giving them a strategy for survival, He gives them a picture of connection. He is the vine.We are the branches.And apart from Him, we can do nothing. Jesus also reminds us that the Father is the gardener—the One who tends, cares for, and prunes the vine. While pruning can sound painful or unsettling, it is never careless. It is purposeful. It is loving. It is meant to produce even more fruit. This guided Scripture meditation invites you to reflect on what it means to remain in Christ—to abide, to stay connected, to make your home in Him. Through slow readings of John 15:1–2, 4–5, you will be guided to listen, reflect, respond, and rest—allowing Jesus to remind you that fruitfulness flows from closeness, not striving. Lent reminds us that abundant life is not something we manufacture on our own. It grows naturally as we remain rooted in the One who is the source of life. Download your FREE companion journal for I AM: A Lenten Journey with Jesus. This journal includes:• Each week’s Scripture passage• Reflection prompts from the meditations• Space to journal, pray, and notice what God is revealing Throughout Lent, a brief guided prayer will be released each Wednesday to help you pause midweek and prayerfully reset your focus on Jesus. Here are some additional helpful links: Download your FREE Lent Companion Journal Here I AM: A Lenten Journey with Jesus This journal includes:• Each week’s Scripture passage• Reflection prompts from the meditations• Space to journal, pray, and notice what God is revealing Here are some additional helpful links: Learn more about Jodie:http://www.jodieniznik.com Follow on Instagram:@jodieniznik Follow on Facebook:@JodieGNiznik Join the Monday email newsletter for new meditations, HERE Explore other faith-centered podcasts from LifeAudio: https://www.lifeaudio.com Today’s ScriptureJohn 15:1–2, 4–5 (NIV) 1 “I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener.2 He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful.4 Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.5 “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” If you are helped by these meditations, consider sharing them with a friend or leaving a review. Simple acts like these help create space for more people to slow down and listen. Thank you for joining me on So Much More.We really do believe Jesus has so much more to say to us—and this is one way we are creating space to listen. Today’s meditation music was generously provided by Simon Wester. If you enjoyed the music, make sure to listen to and follow him on Spotify. https://open.spotify.com/artist/2qUycRIHExBVUPIoq6RUkO?si=vQranvhdRW6NNoMNG7Q9dQ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Was Jesus resurrected in body or spirit? Does it matter? What does it mean for us today? That’s what Revs. Trudy D. Robinson and Brittany Juliette Hanlin discuss in this episode of Perspectives FUMCSD Pastors Podcast. Throughout Lent, this series—The People of the Passion—has focused on the individuals surrounding Jesus’ crucifixion, not just as historical figures, but as mirrors for who we are today. This week, we turn to a brief but powerful passage: Matthew 27:62–66, where religious and political leaders seal Jesus’ tomb to prevent what they call “deception.” But beneath the surface is a deeper question: Who gets to control the story of resurrection? The female pastors wrestle with: Why the resurrection has been reduced to something overly literal and what we lose as a result The tension between faith, mystery, and the need for certainty How institutions (then and now) shape narratives through doubt and control Whether resurrection is less about what happened to Jesus—and more about what is still happening in us This conversation invites us to move beyond proving resurrection…and instead, to live it. Continue the conversation by reflecting with someone you trust or join the Perspectives community online via Patreon or in person at the weekly Convergence Discussion Group. Reflection questions for Lent: What significance does the resurrection of Jesus mean for you? How does that understanding of resurrection appear in your daily life? How does the resurrection impact your relationship with others? Limited on time? Jump ahead to these pivotal moments. Timestamps 00:00 Introduction: Does the resurrection make sense? 01:43 Scripture Story: Matthew 27, verses 62 to 66 03:18 Is resurrection controversial—or just assumed? 05:00 “Death doesn’t have the final say” – what really matters 07:06 Why we’ve lost the mystery of resurrection 10:46 Resurrection as personal transformation (hope, joy, love) 15:15 Controlling the narrative: doubt, power, and the sealed tomb 19:28 Why Jesus’ story survived—and why that matters 24:18 Resurrection is not just for you 27:45 Reflection questions + closing

This weekend, we wrapped up our Abide series with a powerful Lent Prayer & Worship gathering focused on the spiritual practice of Sunday worship and gathering together as the Church. Drawing from Hebrews 10, Terrence reminded us that perseverance in faith is not an individual pursuit. We are called to encourage one another, hold fast to hope, and resist the temptation to drift. Gathering on Sundays isn't just a habit…it's how God sustains us. It reminds us that darkness hasn't won, our hope is alive, and we belong to something eternal. Sunday worship anchors us in hope, strengthens our endurance, and calls us back into God's bigger story. May we continue to abide in Christ, not alone, but together. Today marks the launch of our 42-Day Lent Rule of Life, a church-wide journey designed to help us intentionally abide in Christ together. Throughout Lent, we're inviting you to step into a simple daily rhythm–putting each spiritual discipline into practice together: Monday – Fasting Tuesday – Confession Wednesday – Gratitude Thursday – Generosity Friday – Celebration Saturday – Rest Sunday – Church Gathering To guide us, we've created a Rule of Life Journal to help you reflect and stay engaged each day. We're also continuing our Bible Before Phone daily devotion that aligns with each day's practice. To download the Rule of Life Journal, visit necchurch.org/resources. To join our Bible Before Phone, text "Bible" to 833-275-2412. Our heart is for the entire church to participate. These practices are not about adding pressure to your schedule; they're about creating space for God to shape us. We believe that leaning into these 42 days will deepen your connection with God, increase your joy, strengthen your mental and spiritual health, and draw us closer together as a church family. Even when the practices feel simple or repetitive, we trust that the Holy Spirit will meet you in fresh and meaningful ways each day. Let's lean in together and allow this Lent season to shape us into a more mature, unified body of Christ.

Stéphanie Rousselle welcomes her friend, author and spiritual director Bonnie O'Neil, to discuss the spiritual significance of Lent through Bonnie's Christ-centered devotional, "Where the Light of Hope Falls." This new book gives us both theological depth and practical advice for those seeking to engage with Lent meaningfully.The title, "Where the Light of Hope Falls," reflects that our ultimate hope is found in Jesus' sacrificial love—His crucifixion and resurrection. Throughout Lent, we are invited to place our failures and longings in the light of the cross, finding forgiveness and strength, and emerging to share that hope with those around us.Lent is one of the two penitential seasons in the church calendar, alongside Advent, and is traditionally a time for deep self-examination and realignment with God. Bonnie O'Neil shares that, although she grew up in a tradition that didn't extensively engage with Lent, her lifelong exposure to global churches deepened her appreciation for its intentionality. Lent offers a set-aside, sacred period—40 days echoing biblical patterns for reflection and preparation, paralleling Jesus' own time in the wilderness. While anyone could, in theory, embark on a season of introspection at any time, Lent's communal and historical significance makes it a uniquely powerful time for spiritual renewal.The process of Lent isn't about guilt or shame but about journeying inward "into the cave"—a metaphor for self-examination. Bonnie O'Neil emphasizes that only by plumbing the depths of our inner lives can we experience true healing and freedom. Importantly, this journey is not taken alone or in harshness. She shares how her approach is shaped by gentleness, beginning with an anchoring in the belovedness we have in Christ. The process starts with focusing on Jesus, remembering that we are utterly loved and safe in God's presence; only then can we honestly bring ourselves to confession and repentance.A central tool Bonnie O'Neil uses is the historic Prayer of Confession from the Book of Common Prayer. Recited slowly, this prayer walks believers through acknowledging specific failings—not to wallow in them but to bring them into the healing presence of God's mercy. Bonnie O'Neil recounts how, in a moment of frustration, quietly praying this confession brought unexpected freedom and release, demonstrating how tender acknowledgment before God removes the power of pride and shame.The end goal of this Lenten journey isn't mere self-improvement. Bonnie O'Neil reminds us, drawing from John 17 and her experiences with Alpha, that true transformation equips us to participate in God's work of reconciliation and hope in the world. After deep inward work, we are called outward—to reflect Christ's hope and love to others, contributing to the revitalization of communities and the world at large.Lent is a sacred opportunity for intentional growth, transformation, and hope. Through honest self-examination, gentle confession, and remembrance of God's abundant mercy, we find freedom—not only for ourselves but for the wider world. This journey, lovingly guided by ancient prayers and the presence of the Holy Spirit, prepares us to walk in the light of Christ's resurrection—the truest hope of all.MORE ABOUT THE BOOKPurchase the book on Amazon today at https://a.co/d/4r14rHm If the Christian life is meant to form us in Christlikeness, then why is transformation so elusive?We yearn to break free from the habits and mindsets that continuously ensnare us and remind us of how far we have to travel in our journey toward Christlikeness. Yet we get locked into the same patterns of control, envy, shame, anger, pride, judgmentalism and more. Can we hope for rescue from these habits that are so contrary to the abundant life of grace and rest Jesus offers us?Incorporating 47 daily Scripture readings and meditations, Where the Light of Hope Falls guides you on a journey inward to discover the roots behind many hidden sin patterns. Beginning by examining Jesus—the one into whose image we seek transformation—and helping us get comfortable with honest confession and repentance, the book then explores twenty-one common sin habits. This daily devotional helps you not only identify these central issues, but also yield to the Holy Spirit's restorative work within you. From this posture of rest, you will discover that transformation into Christlikeness is never meant for your benefit only, but is meant to awaken you to share the love and grace of Jesus with a world in need. Where the Light of Hope Falls offers you:- 47 hope-filled meditations that guide you on a journey of discovering Jesus more intimately, understanding yourself more fully, and loving others more completely;- 47 Bible passages that anchor the meditations;- A journey into deeper rest that's perfect for Lent or anytime.Lent offers us six weeks to wrestle with old habits and press into new ways of being as we accompany Jesus to the cross. Everyone who thirsts for more of God is welcome here, whether Lent is a familiar practice or something brand new—and not only during Lent, but whenever you long for deeper freedom.MORE ABOUT BONNIE O'NEIL“Hi there! I'm Bonnie and I'm glad you stopped by. I'm a hope hunter. As long as I can remember, I have sought to find hope in the hard seasons of life. I believe beauty can be found in every life, and that sometimes beauty does its most transformative work in brokenness.My greatest source of hope comes from trusting in my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. My training and work as a spiritual director has shaped me to go deeper below the surface of our emotions to discover root causes of things that block us from experiencing the love of God.Drawing from a deep well of faith, I have learned the restorative grace of giving space for sorrow rather than pushing quickly past it. Whether writing about discovering deeper freedom in Jesus or searching for hope in the darkest valleys of illness, suffering, and broken dreams, my writing reflects life in all its beauty and messiness, convinced that hope glimmers even in the darkest of shadows.I wrote my latest book, Where the Light of Hope Falls, as a Lenten companion for your six-week journey to the cross with Jesus. The book is for everyone who thirsts for more of God—whether Lent is a familiar practice or something brand new, and for any season— not only during Lent, but whenever you long for deeper freedom.A former banker, I'm now the Executive Director of Alpha Mid Atlantic, the local face of a global ministry called Alpha. Alpha offers churches a post-Christian approach to introducing people to Jesus and is run in nearly every denominational stream within the Church. I live with my husband in greater Philadelphia but have also made my home in New York City, greater Boston, Paris, Florida, Connecticut, and London. My happiest times are spent in the company of my three adult children.I'm passionate about helping others encounter the God of love, finding a cure for type 1 diabetes, filling my senses with beauty and wonder, and exploring all things France.Perhaps you too are hunting for hope in the hard places. I'd love to travel with you through whatever life season you're currently encountering and discover hope and joy together in the journey. Thanks for visiting. I hope you'll continue hunting for hope with me!”More at https://www.bonnieoneil.com/ Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

Today marks the exciting launch of our Lenten series, "Waiting for Weight Loss." This six-week-long journey is designed to reorient your heart towards what’s truly important while acknowledging your goals for body change—whether that’s weight loss, looking younger, or any other transformation you’ve been hoping for or working toward. Throughout Lent, you'll get 20 short, practical podcast episodes—three each week—full of encouragement, strategy, daily prayers, and honest conversations about body image, food, and faith. Today, Heather shares her own experience, inviting listeners to consider the difference between healthy goals and making body change an idol. If you’ve been obsessing over jeans that don’t fit or other physical goals, you’ll find hope and help here. **Join the Waiting for Weight Loss Community!**For the first time, we’ve created a private, secure community (not on social media) where you can connect, ask questions, discuss episode topics, and find resources. To join, simply visit Waitingforweightloss.com and drop your email in the form and you'll get instructions on how to join. Topics this season will include: - How to keep your goals grounded- Why God gave us bodies- Discipline as a servant, not a savior- What scripture really says about body size and transformation- How to rightly order the desire for change This is your opportunity to walk the journey with others who get it. Invite a friend, bring your questions, and join a supportive space focused on wholehearted health (body, soul, and spirit), keeping Jesus—not weight loss—as your primary hope. **Don’t forget**: Whether you’re new to Lent or just want a 40-day journey for your heart before Easter, sign up for our private community at waitingforweightloss.com ! Let’s start a conversation, support one another, and find true freedom together. Tune in tomorrow for Day 1 of this transformative series—and invite someone you love to join! --- Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Lent begins not with strength, but with need. In this first meditation of our Lenten series, I Am: A Lenten Journey with Jesus, we slow down with Jesus’s first I AM statement: “I am the bread of life.” These words come just after Jesus feeds the five thousand—a miracle that meets a very real physical hunger. But as the story unfolds, Jesus gently reveals something deeper: the people were satisfied in their bodies, yet still hungry in their souls. In John 6, Jesus exposes the difference between temporary provision and true sustenance. The crowd wants more bread, more proof, another sign. But Jesus invites them—and us—to look beneath our surface needs and notice where our hearts are truly hungry. This guided Scripture meditation invites you to begin Lent honestly, naming places of physical, emotional, or spiritual need. Through several slow readings of John 6:32–35, you will be guided to listen, reflect, respond, and rest—opening your hands to receive Jesus as your true provision. Lent does not begin with having it all together. It begins with coming to Jesus in our hunger and allowing Him to meet us there. Download your FREE Companion Journal Here I AM: A Lenten Journey with Jesus This journal includes:• Each week’s Scripture passage• Reflection prompts from the meditations• Space to journal, pray, and notice what God is revealing Here are some additional helpful links: Learn more about Jodie:http://www.jodieniznik.com Follow on Instagram:@jodieniznik Follow on Facebook:@JodieGNiznik Join the Monday email newsletter for new meditations, HERE Explore other faith-centered podcasts from LifeAudio:https://www.lifeaudio.com Throughout Lent, a brief guided prayer will be released each Wednesday to help you pause midweek and prayerfully reset your focus on Jesus. Today’s Scripture John 6:32–35 (NLT) 32 Jesus said, “I tell you the truth, Moses didn’t give you bread from heaven. My Father did. And now he offers you the true bread from heaven.33 The true bread of God is the one who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world.” 34 “Sir,” they said, “give us that bread every day.” 35 Jesus replied, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry again. Whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.” If you are helped by these meditations, consider sharing them with a friend or leaving a review. Simple acts like these help create space for more people to slow down and listen. Thank you for joining me on So Much More.We really do believe Jesus has so much more to say to us—and this is one way we are creating space to listen. Learn more about Every Woman’s Bible today by visiting: https://hubs.la/Q041HkRL0 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this teaser episode of Ave Explores: Lent with Fr. Patrick Mary Briscoe, OP, host Katie McGrady sits down with Fr. Gregory Pine, OP, to name a familiar tension: many of us resist Lent, even while longing for the work God wants to do in us. Prayer, fasting, and almsgiving aren't ends in themselves—they're pathways into deeper participation in the divine life and a renewed ability to recognize God in the ordinary. Fr. Gregory invites us to begin simply, with an honest prayer: Lord, I need you. This conversation sets the tone for our Lenten series inspired by Fr. Patrick Mary Briscoe's book Witness. Throughout Lent, we'll walk alongside those who encountered the Passion firsthand, with weekly videos featuring Fr. Patrick and companion podcast episodes with guests including Bishop Andrew Cozzens, Meg Hunter-Kilmer, Ali Hoffman, Fr. Jerónimo Espinosa, Laura Fanucci, and more. This Lent, don't get stuck in what you dislike about the season. Let God meet you where you are—and lead you where he is calling you to go. Get your copy of Witness today, with a foreword by Jonathan Roumie from The Chosen. We would love it if you could leave a written review on Apple and share with your friends! Editing provided by Forte Catholic (https://www.fortecatholic.com/)

In this episode, Kris shares a personal update following his recent car accident and ongoing recovery from a concussion. In a season marked by limitation, rest, and vulnerability, he reflects on what it means to live in the “shallow end” of life — and how being confronted with our mortality can become an unexpected gift.From that deeply personal place, Kris invites us into the season of Lent. In a culture that teaches us to feast constantly, Lent calls us to something different: intentional restraint, wilderness, and honest acknowledgment of our need for mercy. This is not a season of self-improvement or spiritual performance. It is a time to make space — to fast in order to feast, to pull back so that Easter joy can truly feel like joy.Throughout Lent, Trinity will journey through the Psalms — the prayer book of God's people — allowing their language to shape our own prayers, repentance, longing, and hope.At the end of the episode, Kids & Youth Discipleship Pastor David McCune offers practical encouragement for families, including creative ways to practice Lent with children, celebrate Sundays as mini-Easters, and create simple devotional rhythms at home.Wherever you are — eager, exhausted, distracted, hopeful — you are invited. Let's walk this road together.Learn more at atltrinity.org/lent.

April 20           "I Am the Resurrection and the Life" Matthew 28:1-10 & John 11:21-44    When Jesus rose from the grave, He conquered sin and death, showing himself to be Lord over all, the one in whom we hope and who calms our fears.  When Jesus called Himself "the resurrection and the life," He was responding to the death of Lazarus but also to the pain, disappointment, and fear of those who loved Lazarus.  In Jesus, we have a Savior who not only weeps with us but meets us in the hard moments of life and whose resurrection will one day mean the end of pain, disappointment, fear, and death forever.Easter Sunday"I Am"Lent is the season of preparation for Easter, a time to reflect deeply on Jesus- his identity, teachings, and death on the cross—so we can fully understand and celebrate His resurrection. This year, we will focus on the "I am" statements in the Gospel of John. While all four Gospels include instances where Jesus uses the Greek phrase "ego eimi," meaning "I am," John's Gospel records Jesus doing so over 30 times, more than twice the other Gospels combined. Among these, seven instances feature profound metaphors that Jesus used to describe Himself.  Throughout Lent, we will explore these seven metaphors, gaining a deeper and richer understanding of who Jesus was and is.Orchard Community Church8180 Telephone RdVentura CA 93004www.OrchardVentura.orgContact us at Info@OrchardVentura.orgOrchard's Streaming and Song Select CCLI# 160190

Throughout Lent, we've been releasing weekly episodes focused on spiritual practices.In the final episode of the series, this Holy Week we're considering the discipline of waiting: how we can prepare ourselves to receive good news. Our guide today is N.T. Wright, the Anglican Bishop and New Testament scholar. He describes how Jesus invited his hearers into a new way of understanding Israel's ancient story of waiting, the cosmic significance of its sudden fulfillment, and its meaning for us in this in-between time of preparation to receive good news: "The ultimate life after death is not a platonic disembodied immortality, but resurrection life in God‘s new creation. And that new world began when Jesus came out of the tomb on Easter morning. That's the good news. Something happened then as a result of which the world is a different place. And we are summoned, not just to enjoy its benefits, but to take up our own vocations as new creation people, as spirit-filled and spirit-led Jesus followers, bringing his kingdom into reality in our world."We hope that this conversation will help you as you wait and prepare to receive this good news.The podcast is drawn from an evening conversation we hosted back in 2016. You can find our shownotes and much more at ttf.org. Thank you for journeying with us through Lent. Learn more about N.T. Wright. Watch The Good News and the Good Life, with N.T. Wright and Richard Hayes. Authors and books mentioned in the conversation:Who is this Man? by John Ortberg Related Trinity Forum Readings:Devotions by John Donne and paraphrased by Philip YanceyThe Confessions of St. Augustine by Augustine of Hippo, Introduced by James K.A. SmithPilgrim at Tinker Creek by Annie DillardPilgrim's Progress by John BunyanGod's Grandeur: The Poems of Gerard Manley HopkinsA Spiritual Pilgrimage by Malcolm Muggeridge Related Conversations:Liturgy of the Ordinary in Extraordinary Times with Tish Harrison WarrenCaring for Words in a Culture of Lies with Marilyn McEntyreInvitation to Solitude and Silence with Ruth Haley BartonOn the Road with Saint Augustine with James K.A. Smith and Elizabeth BruenigThe Habit Podcast, Episode 26: Tish Harrison Warren with Doug McKelveyThe Spiritual Practice of Remembering with Margaret Bendroth To listen to this or any of our episodes in full, visit ttf.org, and to join the Trinity Forum Society and help make content like this possible, visit ttf.org/join.

April 13           "I Am the Vine" John 12:12-16, 15:1-8On Palm Sunday, the crowds finally seemed to understand and embrace Jesus as the Messiah. Yet, within a week, the same crowds called for him to be crucified, revealing our fickle human nature.  When Jesus calls himself "the true vine" and says that we are the branches, He also calls us to remain connected to Him as the source of our spiritual life, knowing that, given our fickle nature, we are prone not to do so.Palm Sunday"I Am"Lent is the season of preparation for Easter, a time to reflect deeply on Jesus- his identity, teachings, and death on the cross—so we can fully understand and celebrate His resurrection. This year, we will focus on the "I am" statements in the Gospel of John. While all four Gospels include instances where Jesus uses the Greek phrase "ego eimi," meaning "I am," John's Gospel records Jesus doing so over 30 times, more than twice the other Gospels combined. Among these, seven instances feature profound metaphors that Jesus used to describe Himself.  Throughout Lent, we will explore these seven metaphors, gaining a deeper and richer understanding of who Jesus was and is. Orchard Community Church8180 Telephone RdVentura CA 93004www.OrchardVentura.orgContact us at Info@OrchardVentura.orgOrchard's Streaming and Song Select CCLI# 160190

April 6             "I Am the Way, The Truth, And The Life" John 14:1-14                  We live in a world that tells us there are many ways, truths, and kinds of life and that they're all the same and equal.  When Jesus calls himself "the way, the truth, and the life," He is saying that there are absolutes and that they are grounded in Him, the only one through whom salvation comes.  His words are about truly knowing and having a relationship with the Savior of the world."I Am"Lent is the season of preparation for Easter, a time to reflect deeply on Jesus- his identity, teachings, and death on the cross—so we can fully understand and celebrate His resurrection. This year, we will focus on the "I am" statements in the Gospel of John. While all four Gospels include instances where Jesus uses the Greek phrase "ego eimi," meaning "I am," John's Gospel records Jesus doing so over 30 times, more than twice the other Gospels combined. Among these, seven instances feature profound metaphors that Jesus used to describe Himself.  Throughout Lent, we will explore these seven metaphors, gaining a deeper and richer understanding of who Jesus was and is.Orchard Community Church8180 Telephone RdVentura CA 93004www.OrchardVentura.orgContact us at Info@OrchardVentura.orgOrchard's Streaming and Song Select CCLI# 160190

March 30         "I Am the Good Shepherd" John 10:11-18Sheep are vulnerable to predators and their own devices, such as getting lost. For these reasons, sheep thrive under the guidance and protection of their shepherd. The shepherd knows his sheep, and they know their shepherd. When Jesus calls himself "the good shepherd," He means that He knows us and will not only care for and protect us but also lay down His life for us."I Am"Lent is the season of preparation for Easter, a time to reflect deeply on Jesus- his identity, teachings, and death on the cross—so we can fully understand and celebrate His resurrection. This year, we will focus on the "I am" statements in the Gospel of John. While all four Gospels include instances where Jesus uses the Greek phrase "ego eimi," meaning "I am," John's Gospel records Jesus doing so over 30 times, more than twice the other Gospels combined. Among these, seven instances feature profound metaphors that Jesus used to describe Himself.  Throughout Lent, we will explore these seven metaphors, gaining a deeper and richer understanding of who Jesus was and is. Orchard Community Church8180 Telephone RdVentura CA 93004www.OrchardVentura.orgContact us at Info@OrchardVentura.orgOrchard's Streaming and Song Select CCLI# 160190

March 23         "I Am the Gate" John 10:1-10                        We tend to think of gates and doors as things that keep people out, but they're also things that can let people in.  When Jesus calls himself "the gate," He means not only is He the door to salvation, but also the door to being filled with new life here and now.  "I Am"Lent is the season of preparation for Easter, a time to reflect deeply on Jesus- his identity, teachings, and death on the cross—so we can fully understand and celebrate His resurrection. This year, we will focus on the "I am" statements in the Gospel of John. While all four Gospels include instances where Jesus uses the Greek phrase "ego eimi," meaning "I am," John's Gospel records Jesus doing so over 30 times, more than twice the other Gospels combined. Among these, seven instances feature profound metaphors that Jesus used to describe Himself.  Throughout Lent, we will explore these seven metaphors, gaining a deeper and richer understanding of who Jesus was and is.Orchard Community Church8180 Telephone RdVentura CA 93004www.OrchardVentura.orgContact us at Info@OrchardVentura.orgOrchard's Streaming and Song Select CCLI# 160190

March 16         "I Am the Light of the World" John 8: 12-19            Without light, we have trouble knowing where we are and what is around us.  By calling himself the "light of the world," Jesus reveals that He illuminates this world like no other.  His light reveals where we are and leads us to where we need to be. "I Am"Lent is the season of preparation for Easter, a time to reflect deeply on Jesus- his identity, teachings, and death on the cross—so we can fully understand and celebrate His resurrection. This year, we will focus on the "I am" statements in the Gospel of John. While all four Gospels include instances where Jesus uses the Greek phrase "ego eimi," meaning "I am," John's Gospel records Jesus doing so over 30 times, more than twice the other Gospels combined. Among these, seven instances feature profound metaphors that Jesus used to describe Himself.  Throughout Lent, we will explore these seven metaphors, gaining a deeper and richer understanding of who Jesus was and is.Orchard Community Church8180 Telephone RdVentura CA 93004www.OrchardVentura.orgContact us at Info@OrchardVentura.orgOrchard's Streaming and Song Select CCLI# 160190

March 9           "I Am the Bread of Life" John 6:25-59                      Food is one of our basic needs; if we don't have it, we can experience discomfort, sickness, and even death. By calling himself the "bread of life," Jesus invites us to believe in and rely on Him.  Like literal food that nourishes the body, Jesus is the spiritual food and the only thing that will truly satisfy our souls.  "I Am"Lent is the season of preparation for Easter, a time to reflect deeply on Jesus- his identity, teachings, and death on the cross—so we can fully understand and celebrate His resurrection. This year, we will focus on the "I am" statements in the Gospel of John. While all four Gospels include instances where Jesus uses the Greek phrase "ego eimi," meaning "I am," John's Gospel records Jesus doing so over 30 times, more than twice the other Gospels combined. Among these, seven instances feature profound metaphors that Jesus used to describe Himself.  Throughout Lent, we will explore these seven metaphors, gaining a deeper and richer understanding of who Jesus was and is.Orchard Community Church8180 Telephone RdVentura CA 93004www.OrchardVentura.orgContact us at Info@OrchardVentura.orgOrchard's Streaming and Song Select CCLI# 160190

Father Roger J. Landry Leonine Forum New York City Chapter IESE Business School, New York Thursday after Ash Wednesday March 6, 2025 Dt 30:15-20, Ps 1, Lk 9:22-25   To listen to an audio recording of this homily, please click below:  https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/catholicpreaching/3.6.25_Homily_1.mp3   The following points were attempted in the homily:  Throughout Lent, we focus first and […] The post Making the Choice of the Paradoxical Path to Life, Thursday after Ash Wednesday, March 6, 2025 appeared first on Catholic Preaching.

March 5           "I Am" Exodus 3:14, Mark 6:50 & John 8:48-58"I Am" is God's name that He gave Moses on Mt. Sinai, but it's also a name that Jesus claimed for himself in the Gospels to help us more fully understand who He is.Ash Wednesday"I Am"Lent is the season of preparation for Easter, a time to reflect deeply on Jesus- his identity, teachings, and death on the cross—so we can fully understand and celebrate His resurrection. This year, we will focus on the "I am" statements in the Gospel of John. While all four Gospels include instances where Jesus uses the Greek phrase "ego eimi," meaning "I am," John's Gospel records Jesus doing so over 30 times, more than twice the other Gospels combined. Among these, seven instances feature profound metaphors that Jesus used to describe Himself.  Throughout Lent, we will explore these seven metaphors, gaining a deeper and richer understanding of who Jesus was and is.Orchard Community Church8180 Telephone RdVentura CA 93004www.OrchardVentura.orgContact us at Info@OrchardVentura.orgOrchard's Streaming and Song Select CCLI# 160190

Alleluia! Christ is risen! He is risen indeed! Throughout Lent, we have heard a drumbeat call from God to return to Him, and today we rejoice that this call was issued so that we might have life in abundance through the One who lived, died, and rose again to secure our salvation. Join Pastor Johann as he discusses how we are called to come and see the Christ; to see the salvation won for us; to see the life that He has secured; and to see the Word that we are to share with others.

In this week's episode of St. Joseph's Workshop, Fr. Stephen and parishioner Chris Landry delve into the theme of ongoing conversion. Throughout Lent, we will feature discussions with community members who have undergone significant moments of transformation, sharing how these experiences impact their lives. Let's draw inspiration from the ways in which God is working within us this Lenten season.

For the people who drew close to Jesus, everything changed. That is the premise behind our new preaching series: Up Close. Throughout Lent, we will study stories of individuals whose lives were changed when they were up close to Jesus. This week we begin with Nicodemus, who learns what it means to be born of the Spirit but is transformed into a disciple of Christ by his close encounter.

Father Roger J. Landry Columbia Catholic Ministry, Notre Dame Church, Manhattan Thursday after Ash Wednesday Memorial of St. Claude la Colombière February 15, 2024 Dt 30:15-20, Ps 1, Lk 9:22-25   To listen to an audio recording of this homily, please click below:  https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/catholicpreaching/2.15.24_Homily_1.mp3   The following points were attempted in the homily:  Throughout Lent, we focus […] The post Choosing the Lenten Path of Life, Thursday after Ash Wednesday, February 15, 2024 appeared first on Catholic Preaching.

Father Roger J. Landry Columbia Catholic Ministry, Notre Dame Church, Manhattan Thursday after Ash Wednesday Memorial of St. Polycarp, Bishop and Martyr February 23, 2023 Dt 30:15-20, Ps 1, Lk 9:22-25   To listen to an audio recording of this homily, please click below:  https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/catholicpreaching/2.23.23_Homily_1.mp3   The following points were attempted in the homily:  Throughout Lent, we […] The post Persevering in Choosing Life, Thursday after Ash Wednesday, February 23, 2023 appeared first on Catholic Preaching.

This week, Jonathan and Amanda pull some wisdom from St. Josemaría Escrivá's The Way. Throughout Lent, Amanda has been drawing inspiration from this holy man's words, especially what he says about money and wealth. Listen now or watch on YouTube! Passages We Reflect On: - 487 - Don't worry about financial difficulties in store for your apostolic undertaking. Have greater confidence in God; do all that you human means permit, and you'll see how soon money ceases to be a difficulty! - 631 - Detach yourself from the good of this world. Love and practice poverty of spirit: be content with what is sufficient for leading a simple and temperate life. Otherwise, you'll never be an apostle. - 632 - True poverty is not to lack things but to be detached, to give up voluntarily one's dominion over them. That's why some poor people are really rich...and vice versa. - 635 - You don't have the spirit of poverty if you don't select for yourself what is worst, when you are able to choose in such a way that it will not be noticed. - 708 - The world, the devil and the flesh are a band of adventurers who take advantage of the weakness of that savage you have within you. In exchange fo the poor bauble of pleasure, which is worth nothing, they want you to hand over to them the pure gold and the pearls, the diamonds and the rubies, drenched in the living and redeeming blood of your God—the price and the treasure of your eternity. Have questions or leads for us? Leave a voicemail - https://walletwin.com/voicemail Or Email us - email@walletwin.com! Music in this episode is by Dylan Gardner – check out his album Almost Real on iTunes, Spotify, or wherever you listen to great music. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/walletwin/message

Throughout Lent, we'll be publishing daily devotionals written and narrated by members of our congregation. This year, our theme is Transformed in Christ. Today's episode is narrated by Aaron Engelman, and features a reflection written by Roger Theimer, followed by an application written by Gena Lakeman

Throughout Lent, we'll be publishing daily devotionals written and narrated by members of our congregation. This year, our theme is Transformed in Christ. Today's episode is narrated by Becky Pittack, and features a reflection written by Roger Theimer, followed by an application written by Becky Pittack.

Throughout Lent, we'll be publishing daily devotionals written and narrated by members of our congregation. This year, our theme is Transformed in Christ. Today's episode is narrated by Myra Hoffert, and features a reflection written by Roger Theimer, followed by an application written by Myra Hoffert.

Throughout Lent, we'll be publishing daily devotionals written and narrated by members of our congregation. This year, our theme is Transformed in Christ. Today's episode is narrated by Amy Bociek, and features a reflection written by Roger Theimer, followed by an application written by Amy Bociek.

Throughout Lent, we'll be publishing daily devotionals written and narrated by members of our congregation. This year, our theme is Transformed in Christ. Today's episode is narrated by Aaron Engelman, and features a reflection written by Roger Theimer, followed by an application written by Melodee Thompson.

Throughout Lent, we'll be publishing daily devotionals written and narrated by members of our congregation. This year, our theme is Transformed in Christ. Today's episode is narrated by Torri Merten, and features a reflection written by Roger Theimer, followed by an application written by Torri Merten.

Throughout Lent, we'll be publishing daily devotionals written and narrated by members of our congregation. This year, our theme is Transformed in Christ. Today's episode is narrated by Mike White, and features a reflection written by Roger Theimer, followed by an application written by Mike White.

Throughout Lent, we'll be publishing daily devotionals written and narrated by members of our congregation. This year, our theme is Transformed in Christ. Today's episode is narrated by Gwynne Gonnerman, and features a reflection written by Roger Theimer, followed by an application written by Gwynne Gonnerman.

Throughout Lent, we'll be publishing daily devotionals written and narrated by members of our congregation. This year, our theme is Transformed in Christ. Today's episode is narrated by Aaron Engelman, and features a reflection written by Roger Theimer, followed by an application written by Kayla Marty.

Throughout Lent, we'll be publishing daily devotionals written and narrated by members of our congregation. This year, our theme is Transformed in Christ. Today's episode is narrated by Rebecca Seitchick, and features a reflection written by Roger Theimer, followed by an application written by Rebecca Seitchick.

Throughout Lent, we'll be publishing daily devotionals written and narrated by members of our congregation. This year, our theme is Transformed in Christ. Today's episode is narrated by Karen Lovejoy, and features a reflection written by Roger Theimer, followed by an application written by Karen Lovejoy.

Throughout Lent, we'll be publishing daily devotionals written and narrated by members of our congregation. This year, our theme is Transformed in Christ. Today's episode is narrated by Aaron Engelman, and features a reflection written by Roger Theimer, followed by an application written by Roger Theimer.

Throughout Lent, we'll be publishing daily devotionals written and narrated by members of our congregation. This year, our theme is Transformed in Christ. Today's episode is narrated by Adrienne Hardt, and features a reflection written by Roger Theimer, followed by an application written by Adrienne Hardt.

Throughout Lent, we'll be publishing daily devotionals written and narrated by members of our congregation. This year, our theme is Transformed in Christ. Today's episode is narrated by Jay West, and features a reflection written by Roger Theimer, followed by an application written by Jay West.

Throughout Lent, we'll be publishing daily devotionals written and narrated by members of our congregation. This year, our theme is Transformed in Christ. Today's episode is narrated by Kate Allen, and features a reflection written by Roger Theimer, followed by an application written by Kate Allen.

Throughout Lent, we'll be publishing daily devotionals written and narrated by members of our congregation. This year, our theme is Transformed in Christ. Today's episode is narrated by Diana Stiner, and features a reflection written by Roger Theimer, followed by an application written by Diana Stiner.

Throughout Lent, we'll be publishing daily devotionals written and narrated by members of our congregation. This year, our theme is Transformed in Christ. Today's episode is narrated by Lydia Woods, and features a reflection written by Roger Theimer, followed by an application written by Lydia Woods.

Throughout Lent, we'll be publishing daily devotionals written and narrated by members of our congregation. This year, our theme is Transformed in Christ. Today's episode is narrated by Renae Gernant , and features a reflection written by Roger Theimer, followed by an application written by Lisa Ashby .

Throughout Lent, we'll be publishing daily devotionals written and narrated by members of our congregation. This year, our theme is Transformed in Christ. Today's episode is narrated by Sue Hoppen , and features a reflection written by Roger Theimer, followed by an application written by Sue Hoppen .

Throughout Lent, we'll be publishing daily devotionals written and narrated by members of our congregation. This year, our theme is Transformed in Christ. Today's episode is narrated by Amanda Wood , and features a reflection written by Roger Theimer, followed by an application written by Amanda Wood .

Throughout Lent, we'll be publishing daily devotionals written and narrated by members of our congregation. This year, our theme is Transformed in Christ. Today's episode is narrated by Deb Winkelman , and features a reflection written by Roger Theimer, followed by an application written by Deb Winkelman .