Gospel Spice | Awaken Delight in God through faith in Jesus Christ

In the midst of the rich tapestry of Jewish feasts and celebrations, Yom Kippur, known as the Day of Atonement, holds a pivotal place. In our Christian faith, we can draw stunning parallels with Jesus as our high priest and ultimate sacrifice.Yom Kippur is a solemn and holy day in the Jewish calendar, a festival centered around national atonement, involving deep personal and communal repentance. The significance of the great high priest entering the holy of holies, dressed humbly and carrying the prayers of the people, serves as a central element of the day's rituals.Central to the observance of Yom Kippur are the two goats chosen for sacrifice. One goat, known as the Jehovah goat, serves as a sin offering and is killed, symbolizing the atonement for sins. The other goat, the Azazel goat, is set free, representing the removal of sin. The casting of lots by the high priest determines the fate of each goat, highlighting the profound symbolism and purpose behind each sacrifice.Drawing from passages in Isaiah and Psalms, we highlight the mission of the Messiah as outlined in the prophetic Scriptures. Despite initial rejection by the people of Israel, the Messiah's mission is to atone for the sins of the people and ultimately bring salvation to the entire world. This parallels the sacrificial roles of the goats in the Yom Kippur observance, with Jesus serving as both the sacrificial offering and the one who removes the sins of all people.Jesus is our great high priest; the book of Hebrews explores the doctrine of Jesus' superior and eternal priesthood, surpassing that of Melchizedek, a figure of significance in both Jewish and Christian traditions. The criteria for the great high priest—being human, compassionate, and appointed by God—are elaborated upon, positioning Jesus as the perfect and compassionate high priest who mediates between God and humanity.An essential component of Yom Kippur is the shedding of blood for the confession of sins, emphasizing the need for atonement and repentance. The sacrifices offered on Yom Kippur serve as a reminder of the inherent sinfulness of humanity and the need for a better and permanent solution. Through the lens of the New Testament, Yom Kippur underscores Jesus' sacrificial offering as the ultimate and permanent solution for the atonement of sins.What about the future fulfillment of Yom Kippur? It points to the future acknowledgment of Jesus as the Messiah by Israel, aligning with the prophecies outlined in the scripture. The essence of true Yom Kippur will be realized through hardship and repentance, paving the way for national and individual acknowledgment of the Messiah.Don’t forget to check out our essential workbook to accompany this study. Stephanie personally created the content to invite you deeper into study. Don’t miss out! It’s at https://www.gospelspice.com/storeWe invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with.Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blogIdentity in the battle | Ephesianshttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/372022/link/Malachi: Messenger to Messiahhttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/356130/link/Wisdom from the Book of Proverbshttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/324347/link/Come to the Table | The Feasts Jesus celebratedhttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/309956/link/Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

Stephanie has a fun surprise for anyone who has loved the show for some time! She is joined by her husband Jonah, for the first time on the show, to celebrate a momentous milestone: the fifth anniversary of the podcast! Through a heartfelt conversation, they invite you to explore the themes of spiritual growth, understanding God’s love, and the journey of faith. They hope to point us to God’s faithfulness and the transforming power of His presence.In a world rife with distractions, Stephanie and Jonah invite you to remember our need for intentional presence. They discuss practical steps like spending quiet time with God, paying attention to distractions, and listening to the Holy Spirit's nudges. This investment in intimacy with God allows for discerning His guidance and being His hands and feet in daily life. Scripture challenges us to engage our faith deeply through Christ.Jonah opens up about his spiritual journey, transitioning from a works-based faith, to understanding sanctification as a divine gift through the Holy Spirit's work. He highlights the importance of obedience stemming from gratitude rather than religious vanity, noting the critical need to avoid the pitfalls of pride and self-righteousness.Stephanie asks Jonah about a Bible character he relates to. Jonah finds a connection with King David, appreciating his acknowledgment of grace and his deep yearning for divine presence. He draws a beautiful parallel with an imagined “third brother” in the parable of the prodigal son, the brother who is content simply being in his father's presence. This will inspire you! Make sure to listen.Jonah admires David's profound understanding of grace and his relentless pursuit of God's presence. David’s journey, especially as portrayed in Psalm 56 and Psalm 27, serves as a roadmap for seeking God’s presence amid crises and life's challenges. Jonah encourages us to embrace God’s goodness, trusting Him with our sorrows and tears, much like David did.Jonah’s aspiration to reject shallow spirituality is another powerful point. He invites us towards deeper wisdom and joy through God’s presence, rather than transient cultural practices, urging us to develop mindful habits centered on Christ. This intentionality in connecting with God’s presence is essential in today’s distraction-filled world.Stephanie and Jonah provide practical advice for growing in grace and holiness. They emphasize that sanctification should not be self-centered, but focused on reflecting Christ’s image on earth. This aligns with God’s broader goal for us - of transforming us from within, in order to then share love externally, cultivating an internal source of life that impacts outward actions.As they conclude the episode, Jonah and Stephanie reflect on the journey of Gospel Spice, expressing gratitude for its impact over the past five years. They offer a prayer of thanksgiving for the ministry and its listeners, invoking God’s guidance and blessings.Fun Fact from the Episode: Stephanie and Jonah usually chat in French, but for this special episode, they switched to English, making the conversation an adventurous and fun challenge for them both!YOUR FREE GIFT FROM JONAH ON OUR ANNIVERSARY:Want to use the prayer that Jonah uses at the end of the episode? Click HERE to download a beautiful printable version. Also available here: https://www.gospelspice.com/free KEY TAKEAWAYS1.      Intentional Presence: Invest time and focus to truly connect with God’s presence, setting aside daily distractions to foster deeper spiritual growth. Use Scripture, prayer, worship.2.      Responding to Divine Nudges: Cultivate an awareness of the Holy Spirit’s guidance in your everyday life, aiming to be God's hands and feet in all you do.3.      Reflecting Christ's Image: Sanctification is about transforming from within to reflect Christ’s love outwardly—impacting your actions and interactions with others.4.      God’s Balance of Might and Love: Understanding both aspects of God is essential to a complete faith.5.      Journey from Works-Based Faith to Grace: Discover Jonah’s transformation from a works-focused faith to embracing sanctification through the Holy Spirit.6.      The Real Meaning of Obedience: True obedience stems from gratitude and the Holy Spirit, not religious vanity.7.      David’s Example of Grace: King David’s pursuit of God’s presence can inspire a deeper, more genuine faith.8.      Cultural Contentment and Spiritual Practices: Explore ways to find true contentment in God’s presence amidst the distractions of modern life.We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with.Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blogIdentity in the battle | Ephesianshttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/372022/link/Malachi: Messenger to Messiahhttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/356130/link/Wisdom from the Book of Proverbshttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/324347/link/Come to the Table | The Feasts Jesus celebratedhttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/309956/link/Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

Stephanie navigates through key biblical passages that tie Rosh Hashanah (also called the Feast of Trumpets) to the second coming of Jesus. This feast invites us to tell the Lord, in answer to His invitation to seek Him, “Your Face, Lord, will I seek.” He always initiates relationship: How will we choose to respond to His holy trumpet call?Picture this: the sound of trumpets, a grand gathering of believers, and the triumphant return of Jesus. It's like something out of a thrilling movie, but it's actual biblical truth! The Jewish fall feasts remind us, it's time for introspection and readiness. The feasts invite us to embrace a season of repentance, anticipation, and fervent prayer. It's a divine blend of remembering and looking forward—a call to prepare our hearts for the imminent return of Jesus.The Feast of Trumpets echoes the Shofar to lead us into awe and worship through its prophetic biblical truths. Our episode today peels back the layers of significance behind the trumpet call and how it links to the church’s rapture. Rosh Hashanah is an invitation to embrace the call of the trumpets, marvel at the profound threads of prophecy, and prep our hearts for the triumphant return of Jesus Christ.Rosh Hashanah is not your average New Year's celebration. It's a powerful blend of reminiscing and gazing ahead with hope. The blowing of the shofar during this feast serves as a wake-up call for repentance and a reminder to seek God's grace. For believers in Christ, embracing the new beginnings and spiritual awakening embedded in Rosh Hashanah paves the way for readiness for Christ's return.Psalm 27 has traditionally been used to prepare hearts and minds for the grand Autumn feasts. This sacred song sets the stage, resonating with themes of Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, and the millennial kingdom. It's like a spiritual GPS, guiding our hearts as we gear up for the festivities ahead. So, join Stephanie in telling the Lord, “Your Face, Lord, will I seek.”DISCOVER THE GOSPEL SPICE MINISTRIES The Gospel Spice Podcast is part of a larger range of tools given to you by Gospel Spice Ministries.In a nutshell, we exist to inspire Christ-followers to delight in God.In more details: we provide resources to empower Christian leaders across generational, social, ethnic and geographical boundaries towards more intimacy with Jesus Christ and discipleship effectiveness through a Biblical Christocentric foundation. The Gospel-Spice Ministries provide a safe environment for spiritual and community growth empowering people to know Christ more intimately, serve one another more powerfully, and reach the world for Jesus.PLAY IT FORWARD by SHARING the link with friends and family.PRAY IT FORWARD by praying for us and those you share it with!PAY IT FORWARD!! Would you consider supporting this show today to help others enjoy it for free? It comes to you completely free, but is labor-intensive to produce, and we want to keep putting it in the ears of people!Gospel Spice Ministries is a non-profit organization registered under the tax-exempt 501c3 status. Your donations are tax-deductible under IRS Section 170. We want to be the best possible stewards of your financial support. All donations above our minimal operating costs go to Christian organizations fighting human trafficking.Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog(*ListenNotes ranking, 2023)Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

Today, we invite you to join us as Sandra McCracken and Stephanie explore the interplay of faith, cultural insights, and the essence of beauty in worship music.Stephanie sits down with renowned musician Sandra McCracken to dive into the multifaceted ways God uses to connect us to Him, including beauty, language, and culture. Their conversation touches on various facets—from the linguistic richness of French expressions of delight and light, to the role of the local church and the importance of worship. Join us as we explore how experiencing God's beauty through nature, music, and community can deepen our spiritual journey.Sandra McCracken's songwriting serves as a rich medium to convey scriptural truths and draw us deep in worship through music. Her goal is to help people delight in God's presence through her music, creating songs that resonate with the heart's deepest longings. She shares how singing these truths repeatedly helps align her heart with them, even amid doubts or fears. Her work embodies the connection between light and delight, encouraging us to find joy and hope in God's presence.Let’s talk about beauty for a minute. In today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world, the perception of beauty can often become obscured. Sandra and Stephanie discuss the necessity of slowing down to truly appreciate and experience deeper, non-disposable beauty. Pausing to engage with our surroundings and community, allows us to witness God’s presence in the ordinary moments of life. By embracing this slower pace, we open ourselves up to deeper intimacy with God, finding beauty and inspiration in the everyday and the extraordinary alike.Beauty serves as a 'homing device,' drawing us toward God. Whether through the breathtaking landscapes of Yellowstone and Tetons or through the creative brilliance of European architecture, beauty reveals the hand of the divine in our world. Stephanie echoes this sentiment by highlighting how the unique expressions of beauty in different cultures enrich our spiritual experience, offering a fuller understanding of God's nature.During her visit to a botanical garden in Colorado, Sandra was struck by the diverse beauty of the garden, from the tall milkweeds to the fluttering butterflies. The process of pruning in gardening parallels life's trials. Just as a gardener prunes to encourage growth and beauty, God, the "master gardener," prunes us through life's challenges. Although this process can be uncomfortable, it is essential for our spiritual growth and transformation. Embracing this divine pruning allows us to develop into the people God intends us to be.The conversation takes a deeper turn as Sandra explores the concept of true beauty through the lens of the cross. The cross represents the epitome of humility, sacrifice, and power, embodying the ultimate beauty in the biblical narrative. Facing our brokenness within a community helps us understand and experience God's beauty in a transformative way. This vulnerability and honesty before God and one another reflect the beauty that comes from embracing our imperfections and relying on divine grace.Sandra invites us to consider how beauty, language, and community play pivotal roles in our faith journey. From the linguistic richness of French to Jesus’ teaching on pruning, Sandra encourages us to slow down, appreciate beauty, and engage deeply with our faith communities. Through her music and reflections, Sandra McCracken helps us find delight in God's light, inviting us into a richer, more authentic experience of God in Christ.MEET SANDRA MCCRACKENSandra McCracken is a GRAMMY-nominated and Dove Award-winning singer-songwriter from Nashville, Tennessee. The daughter of a biology teacher and a seminary secretary, Sandra was born the youngest of five children in a house with music continually streaming from the record player. A prolific recording artist, McCracken has produced 18 solo albums. She has also produced 4 albums of children's music through the project Rain for Roots. Her best-selling release, Psalms (2015), received critical acclaim, followed by God’s Highway (2017) which made the top 50 on the Billboard charts without a major label. Her album, Light in the Canyon, won the 2023 GMA Dove Award for Bluegrass/Country/Roots Album of the year. She has had songs featured in TV, including on ABC’s Grey’s Anatomy. Blending the old and new, Sandra has also shown a unique ability to recast sacred scripture texts into theologically rich yet accessible songs. Her thoughtful lyrics and gospel melodies in songs like “We Will Feast In The House Of Zion” and “Steadfast" have become staple anthems in churches across the U.S. Sandra regularly partners with International Justice Mission, Blood:Water Mission, and ARocha, and her writing has been published by The Gospel Coalition, She Read Truth, and Relevant Magazine, in addition to her regular column with Christianity Today.  Sandra released her first book, Send Out Your Light, in September 2021 with B&H. She lives in Nashville with her husband, three children, and two dogs.https://www.sandramccracken.com/ MORE ABOUT “SEND OUT YOUR LIGHT”In the middle of Psalm 43, God offers us a dynamic invitation: Send out your light.Prolific singer-songwriter Sandra McCracken believes we each have the opportunity to hear and answer this invitation. This book is written in three parts: part one is the becoming, the creation, how God makes us and gives us an identity. Part two is the disorientation of loss, displacement, and the dark night of the soul. Part three is reorientation, how God brings us through the darkness and illuminates our path with Scripture, sending us out to take his light to others.This has been the shape of Sandra McCracken’s life. Through it all, songs and Scripture have been there to light the way, helping her respond to God’s call.How will you respond to God’s call to send out his light?We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with.Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blogIdentity in the battle | Ephesianshttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/372022/link/Malachi: Messenger to Messiahhttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/356130/link/Wisdom from the Book of Proverbshttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/324347/link/Come to the Table | The Feasts Jesus celebratedhttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/309956/link/Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

Have you ever wondered if God speaks more loudly through our feasts and fasts, than He does through our mundane, ordinary circumstances? In this episode in our “Come to the Table” series on the Jewish and Christian feasts, Stephanie reflects on the significance of ordinary time, the ordinary moments of life. They are the backdrop to our feast days. They are the bulk of our time. The present, nestled between special feasts, serves as a space where believers are called to live in anticipation of Jesus' return and seek God’s presence and delight in all moments. The question is, how did Jesus experience His own mundane and ordinary days? What does He wish to impart to us through them?So, Stephanie invites us to consider how the body of Christ functions during ordinary time, focusing on the importance of living in unity. This period of ordinary time is an opportunity for spiritual growth and for experiencing the lived reality of Jesus in everyday moments, celebrating the cyclical nature of the liturgical calendar.That word, liturgy. It can be ambiguous. Off-putting to some, attractive to others. Liturgy is simply the chosen flow of a service, or a day, or a life. It is how a particular local body of believers chooses to approach God, especially on Sundays but not only. It varies from church to church, with much to learn from the manifold practices of our brothers and sisters around the world. Stephanie’s extensive personal experience with various church traditions, including Anglican, charismatic, reformed, Pentecostal, and non-denominational, highlights the diverse ways in which different traditions approach worship and liturgical practices. Understanding the concept of liturgy as the way a particular tradition conducts its services, including prayers, readings, and rituals, is an invitation into the richness and diversity within the body of Christ.Ordinary time is characterized by its lack of special feasts, representing the ordered life of the church and a period of watchfulness for the second coming of Jesus. Divided into two seasons, ordinary time serves as a call to unity within the body of Christ, inviting believers to keep Jesus at the center of mundane routines.Within ordinary time, we have weekly min-feasts called Sabbaths. So, how did Jesus experience them? How do Sabbaths fit at the table of God’s Presence? Sabbath is associated with rest, refreshment, freedom, and joy, serving as a day of rest and a reminder of humanity’s co-partnership with God. Stephanie discusses Jesus' claim of authority over the Sabbath, highlighting how He emphasized its wholesome nature to be a source of blessing. The Sabbath is a time of rest and delight, providing a sacred space to experience God’s presence and embrace His joy.Today, we invite you to embrace the beauty of ordinary days, seek unity in the body of Christ, and live in hopeful expectation while finding rest and delight in the Sabbath. We invite you to cultivate a lifelong liturgy of delight in Christ, breathing new life into everyday moments as we journey towards the eagerly anticipated return of Jesus. Join us!OPTIONAL RESOURCE | Stephanie mentions the creation of a liturgy booklet designed to cultivate a lifelong liturgy of delight in Christ. This booklet consists of short liturgies for everyday moments, aiming to inspire you in building and nurturing a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ. The liturgical year is presented as a means to grow in intimacy with Christ, providing an avenue to know Him more intimately in everyday life. Go to gospelspice.com or ask us about it!Don’t forget to check out our essential workbook to accompany this study. Stephanie personally created the content to invite you deeper into study. Don’t miss out! It’s at https://www.gospelspice.com/storeWe invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with.Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blogIdentity in the battle | Ephesianshttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/372022/link/Malachi: Messenger to Messiahhttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/356130/link/Wisdom from the Book of Proverbshttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/324347/link/Come to the Table | The Feasts Jesus celebratedhttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/309956/link/Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

Stephanie sits down with Pam Farrel to discuss a harrowing yet faith-affirming journey through unexpected medical emergencies, profound spiritual experiences in Christ, and the indomitable power of joy. Pam's story is not just one of survival but of thriving through adversity, guided by God’s presence, Pam’s steadfast faith, and the prayers of many.Heaven’s Glimpse and Joy’s PowerDuring a medical emergency, Pam felt God's peace envelop her as she transitioned into a medically induced coma. In this state of near-death, she was ushered into heaven, welcomed by angels of various ethnicities, and enveloped in a sacred dance above the gates of glory. Experiencing deep peace and engaging in a mental conversation with God, she saw visions of her loved ones benefiting from her prayers. Her profound spiritual encounter with Christ reaffirmed her mission on earth and underscored the miraculous elements of her faith journey.A Family Visit Turned Medical EmergencyWhat started as a joyful family gathering in Salt Lake City for Mother's Day turned into a harrowing experience for Pam Farrel. In the middle of the night, severe pain led Pam to the emergency room.. The diagnosis was clear: the chilling reality of stage 1 ovarian cancer. Always seeing the bright side of her circumstances, Pam reminds us of the blessing that pain can be, in the crucial role pain played in alerting her to the severity of her condition. Pain allowed for an early diagnosis that is rare with ovarian cancer, which is often not detected until it reaches stage 4.Pam was transferred to a main hospital where a divine coincidence awaited—a Christian oncologist familiar with her book, "Men Are Like Waffles, Women Are Like Spaghetti." Pam’s journey through six rounds of chemotherapy three weeks apart, her struggle with hair loss, and her graceful acceptance of these side effects paint a portrait of resilience. Throughout, Pam continued to contribute to her ministry and even received a Life Impact Award at the Golden Scrolls.Rebuilding and Cultivating JoyPam’s recovery period with her son’s family demonstrated the importance of a supportive community. Despite undergoing rigorous treatments, Pam persisted in her work, mentoring others, and presenting at conferences. She emphasizes the key importance of joy, especially during adversity. Pam shares her methods for cultivating joy, including:·         Proactive Joy : Create a list of simple, joy-inducing activities and commit to one daily.·         Reflective Joy : Maintain a gratitude journal to note everyday blessings.·         Rejoice in the Lord : See joy as a proactive choice, focusing on calming actions during stressful times.·         Creative Joy : Engage in creative activities like Bible art doodling to shift focus away from problems.·         Interactive Joy : Use joy to enhance relationships, making interactions more positive.ENTER TO WIN!Win a copy of each of Pam's latest books - all you need to do is subscribe to our newsletter to enter for a chance to win! Sign up here: https://www.gospelspice.com/signupCONNECT WITH PAM:Pam says, "We live a rather unconventional life. We spend about 200 days per year traveling to conferences for men, women and couples. We meet fascinating people, eat at interesting places and experience every climate imaginable. And, when we are home, we live on a boat in Southern California. Through our videos and blogs, we would like to take you with us."Bill and Pam are prolific conference and church communicators. They speak together at marriage and parenting conferences with a unique ability to “speak as one” in all their presentations. Bill helps people gain strength and real-world wisdom through messages at men’s retreats and church services. Pam equips and encourages women to be courageous, influential and strong in faith at women’s gatherings around the world.With seamless transitions, natural timing and contagious energy, Bill and Pam inspire audiences around the world to live better, laugh often and love skillfully. It has often been said, “More is caught than taught,” and this is the secret to Bill and Pam’s effectiveness. They are a real couple helping real couples. As couples watch Bill and Pam present, they see a couple in action, experience the kind of support that builds trust in relationships and can visualize their own success. Bill and Pam don’t just teach about marriage, they demonstrate it for their audiences.People who hear them speak say:“They made it simple to be in love again.”“After hearing them, I know what to do next!”“I was nervous about coming because I thought I would hear about what I was doing wrong but boy am I glad I came.”“This was awesome.”“They didn’t just tell us what to do, they showed us how.”“We rediscovered each other this weekend.”“We haven’t laughed together this much in years.”Find Pam and Bill at https://www.love-wise.com/ Receive Pam's Infectious Joy 30 day e-book by subscribing to her newsletter here: https://mailchi.mp/love-wise.com/infectiousjoy  We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with.Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blogIdentity in the battle | Ephesianshttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/372022/link/Malachi: Messenger to Messiahhttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/356130/link/Wisdom from the Book of Proverbshttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/324347/link/Come to the Table | The Feasts Jesus celebratedhttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/309956/link/Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

Today we discuss our sacred journey from mourning to joy, desolation to restoration. It is about the legacy of holy sorrow. In this new episode of our new series around the Jewish feasts, I invite you to travel into the historical and spiritual significance of Tisha B'Av, the 9th of Av in the Jewish calendar, and the hope it holds for the future. This day beckons us into a profound journey through grief, remembrance, and ultimately, hope. On the 9th of Av, also known as Tisha B'Av, the Jewish community commemorates the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem – not once, but twice. This day, while marked by deep mourning, also carries profound messianic overtones and a powerful message of hope.🕊️ The 9th of Av invites us to embrace history and Scripture in a fresh way: By understanding the observance of the 9th of Av and its deep-rooted historical significance, we gain a fresh approach to our study of Scripture and history. It's a reminder to look beyond ourselves and explore the rich tapestry of faith and culture. Ultimately, it points to Jesus in unique ways that can nourish and maybe even transform our faith towards deeper intimacy.🙏 It challenges us to find hope and patience in the midst of grief: The 9th of Av serves as a poignant reminder that grief is not forever and that there is always hope on the horizon. Sometimes it's challenging to see beyond personal struggles, but the day's significance encourages us to have patience and faith in understanding the deeper meanings of our studies.🔍 It gives us permission to seek transformation in tragedy: Despite the sorrowful nature of the day, Tisha B'Av reveals an inspiring message – even the most tragic events can be transformed into occasions of joy and glory. It's a powerful testament to the resilience and hope that stems from faith, reminding us of the promise of future restoration.WHAT IS THE 9TH OF AV?Tisha B'Av is a day of fasting in the Jewish calendar, symbolizing a time of lamentation and remembrance. It is a day when the Jewish people reflect on the tragedies and calamities that have befallen their community throughout history, particularly the destruction of the first and second Temples in Jerusalem.The 9th of Av isn't part of the Mosaic law but was instituted by the prophet Zechariah to commemorate the fall of Jerusalem. This day of mourning has deep historical and biblical roots, with connections to the Jewish exile and the prophet's message of hope and restoration.Mourning on the 9th of Av also serves as a reminder of the consequences of turning away from God and failing to see His promises. It's a day to reflect on the loss of the promised land, the destruction of the Temple, and the exile of the Jewish people.But amid the solemnity, there's a profound message of hope intertwined with the grief. The longing for the restoration of Jerusalem and the reconciliation of God with His people echo throughout history, pointing to a future where sorrow will be turned into joy and mourning into celebration in Christ.The depth of historical significance behind Tisha B'Av invites us to look beyond our own struggles and sorrow, acknowledging that even in the most tragic events lies potential for transformation and a promise of hope. It calls for faith in the understanding that God can lead us from grief to glory in Christ.So, as we reflect on the solemnity of Tisha B'Av, may we also hold onto the profound hope and promise of transformation we firmly possess in Christ Jesus. Throughout Scripture, we're reminded that even in the darkest times, God's power can turn mourning into joy and tragedy into triumph. 🌟Do you enjoy Gospel Spice? Then let's deepen our relationship! There are 4 very simple ways to do that, and it would truly mean the world to us. 1- If you’ve enjoyed this episode, you will love receiving our newsletter. It contains value-packed free gifts and rich content each month. It’s at gospelspice.com/signup. There is always something new and exciting happening around here, and I don’t want you to miss out! Sign up at Gospelspice.com/signup2- Did you know Gospel Spice has a YouTube Channel? There’s exclusive content there too. So, join Gospel Spice on YouTube! It's at https://www.youtube.com/gospelspice 3- Also please give us a star rating and a comment on your podcast listening app. Your reviews actually really do make a difference to help others discover and experience Gospel Spice. You would be surprised how helpful these are! So please leave a star rating and a review of a sentence or two. Thank you!4- As always, we are praying for you! You can confidentially email us your prayer requests and praise items at the email address contact@gospelspice.com. It is our privilege to pray for you!So, would you please invest 3 to 5 minutes of your time, maybe even right now, to do one (or more!) of the following suggestions:1-      signup on our website for our newsletter to receive gifts you’re going to love - at Gospelspice.com/signup 2-      find us on YouTube, and see what content we’ve put together to help you grow closer to Jesus - at https://www.youtube.com/gospelspice3-      rate Gospel Spice on your listening app – it’s one of the easiest ways to share the gospel!4-      and finally, tell us how we can pray for you!Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? 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Stephanie here! I have often found that, when I'm discouraged, or when I struggle to see things from the perspective that God might have on a situation, a relationship, maybe my own heart, I find it so useful to dig into Scripture and look at the stories of people in Scripture who may have experienced something similar. I also find that, beyond Scripture, it is useful to look at the lives of faithful men and women in history, saints who have really clung to God, and who have experienced so much of his goodness, his holiness, his beauty, his faithfulness, his kindness, his generosity. I love to spend time through biographies of these people of faith. I'm looking forward to meeting them in heaven and learning from them even more. Which means,  I love when a new book comes out that invites me to do just that. And the book Portrait of God by Jack Mooring does just that.I'm welcoming Jack today. And he experienced the same thing that I'm describing to you. His book is a bit of a guidebook. It uses the stories of influential Christian figures like C.S. Lewis, Saint Augustine, Fanny Crosby, and so many more, to help us, believers, find stability in our faith amidst the chaos of this world. He and I chat about the fact that this world is pretty chaotic right now.This book and this conversation hope to be one of the tools that equips us in this ever-changing turbulent world we live in. Now, to recognize God's goodness in the midst of chaos, well, I know it can be challenging. Our faith can so often seem like a roller coaster as a result of that. Jack says, “I've learned that the Christian life is less about learning and more about remembering. I wrote this book to remind myself and the rest of us, forgetful people, that this is God whom we love and he really is who he says he is.”MORE ABOUT THE BOOK “PORTRAIT OF GODIn an ever-changing, often turbulent world, recognizing God’s goodness can be challenging. Many Christians describe their faith as a rollercoaster, with seasons of feeling close to God and having a clear sense of His presence, and others where He seems distant.Author Jack Mooring experienced this personally, and by reflecting on and learning from the lives of the faithful men and women in history, he uncovered powerful reminders of God’s unchanging truths.Mooring’s new book, Portrait of God: Rediscovering the Attributes of God through the Stories of His People (David C Cook, August 6, 2024) serves as a guidebook, using the stories of influential Christian figures like C.S. Lewis and St. Augustine to help modern-day believers find stability in their faith amidst the chaos of the world. In Portrait of God, Mooring provides thought-provoking questions and a list of further readings about each faith leader, allowing readers to dig even deeper into the truths about the unchanging character of God.“I’ve learned that the Christian life is less about learning and more about remembering,” writes Mooring. “I grew up in a rich tradition of truth, but life’s lies have often buried those true ideas about God. So I wrote this book to remind myself and the rest of us forgetful people that this God we love is really who He says He is. This book is an attempt to rediscover our wonder about who He is. For each attribute of God, I chose a person in church history who actually experienced that part of God’s nature. The goal is that, as we hear the stories of these people, we can get a glimpse of God through their eyes.”Each chapter explores an attribute of God through a person in church history who radicallyexperienced His nature, applying it as a brushstroke to our portrait.Readers will uncover:●           Faith: How an all-powerful God worked miracles in the life of Kathryn Kuhlman.●           Holiness: What Augustine of Hippo’s life in a secular world teaches us about God.●           Compassion: How William and Catherine Booth’s service to others radiated God’s love.MORE ABOUT JACK MOORINGJack Mooring is a pastor, speaker, songwriter, and author. Beginning in ministry from an early age with his family, he and his brother went on to start the band LEELAND. Signing to Provident Music Group (A division of SONY BMG), the band released seven records, four of which received Grammy Nominations for “Best Contemporary Christian Music Album.” After touring full time and ministering around the world from 2005-2014, Jack left the band in order to pastor full time. For several years he served on the pastoral staff of two different churches before planting Celebration of Life Church: Nashville. Jack continues to make music as a songwriter signed with Integrity Music. As both a pastor and creative, Jack is passionate about communicating the gospel in a post-Christian culture. He resides in Franklin, TN with his wife Whitney and four children: Smith, Kate, Anthony, and Gabriel.We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with.Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blogIdentity in the battle | Ephesianshttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/372022/link/Malachi: Messenger to Messiahhttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/356130/link/Wisdom from the Book of Proverbshttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/324347/link/Come to the Table | The Feasts Jesus celebratedhttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/309956/link/Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

We need our eyes on Jesus. We need to train ourselves to see Him even where it is not obvious. Because He is here. He is in the middle of every detail we are going through. We just forget.So, Stephanie invites you to join us as we train ourselves to see Him.There is something profound in seeking Jesus in the routine of daily life and also in the unusual moments of our years. To find him through our feasts and our fasts – our joys and our sadnesses, our happiness and our grief.Through the series and in this episode, Stephanie hopes to provide an overview of the Jewish and Christian feasts and how, for example, some of them were fulfilled by the death and resurrection of Jesus, and then the birth of the church in the first coming of Jesus. The remaining feasts are yet to be fulfilled in the second coming of Jesus. This broad perspective allows us to see the feasts as part of a larger narrative under the sovereignty of God, pointing to the continuing, redemptive work of Christ. The Jewish and Christian liturgical calendars remind us to keep our focus on eternal things as we await the fulfillment of the remaining feasts.Stephanie invites us into Jesus' interactions with his people through feasts, fasts, and daily life, focusing on the 17 special days in the Jewish and Christian liturgical calendars. Scripture and the communal aspect of faith urge us to explore ancient Jewish and Christian celebrations together as the body of Christ. Understanding the significance of feasts is not just an individual pursuit, but an opportunity to grow together as a community of believers.Scripture points to Jesus as the fulfillment of the law of Moses and the covering provided in the Garden of Eden. Jesus perfectly fulfilled the requirements of the Mosaic Law, bringing a new covenant through his death and resurrection. The sacrifices in the Old Testament, as described in Leviticus and the Mosaic Law, were valid in the eyes of God because they pointed to the future death of Jesus Christ, first highlighted in Isaiah. The sacrifices in the Old Testament did not remove sin, but worked to restore covenantal relationships and forgive particular sins. This is a crucial aspect to understand, as it lays the foundation for Jesus' role as the ultimate sacrifice for the complete removal of sin.By understanding the significance of feasts in both traditions and how they point to the work of the Messiah, we are invited to deepen our worship and grow in likeness to Jesus, the King of Kings. As we come to the table of God’s goodness and presence through the series, may we embrace these feasts as a fresh way to connect with our Savior, to fall in love and worship of Him ever deeper. Amen.Don’t forget to check out our essential workbook to accompany this study. Stephanie personally created the content to invite you deeper into study. Don’t miss out! It’s at https://www.gospelspice.com/storeWe invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with.Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blogIdentity in the battle | Ephesianshttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/372022/link/Malachi: Messenger to Messiahhttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/356130/link/Wisdom from the Book of Proverbshttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/324347/link/Come to the Table | The Feasts Jesus celebratedhttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/309956/link/Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

Have you ever felt the need to belong to a particular group or tribe? Have you ever felt like you didn't belong somewhere? I believe we have this deep wired, this God-wired need to belong. And I believe all of us have at some point experienced the absence of that belonging. And that hurts deeply.The longing to belong is one of my greatest needs, personally. So, when my friend, Michelle Lee Barnewall, wrote a book literally called A Longing to Belong, I was very intrigued. What I love in her book, is that she uses her own personal story of being Asian and growing up in an extremely white neighborhood. She describes how that taught her that she did fit in because she was really American, but then she didn't really. Her book is part memoir, part eloquent theological treatise to challenge us to reconciliation in the name of belonging, in the name of unity in the body of Christ.It is about ethnic reconciliation. It's about belonging together to the family of God. Our conversation today is very honest. There's nothing Pollyanna or sugarcoated about this, and we're not drawing a black and white picture at all. Actually, I think her book is extremely subtle, balanced, challenging and beautiful at the same time. So, we discuss the deep longing to belong that we each carry, deep inside.Michelle doesn't mind the ambiguity of not having black and white answers. Her book, A Longing to Belong, really fits in the same category. She has a PhD from the University of Notre Dame. She is a professor of New Testament at Biola University. She brings a level of nuance and a comfort in ambiguity that I find much needed in our generation, in our culture today. So, join us today!We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with.Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blogIdentity in the battle | Ephesianshttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/372022/link/Malachi: Messenger to Messiahhttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/356130/link/Wisdom from the Book of Proverbshttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/324347/link/Come to the Table | The Feasts Jesus celebratedhttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/309956/link/Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!