In this episode of I Love to Tell the Story, the Narrative Lectionary Podcast from Working Preacher Profs. Kathryn Schifferdecker, Joy J. Moore, and Rolf Jacobson as they delve into the profound themes of the Christmas story, centered on the incarnation of Jesus in Luke chapter two. 🌟

✨ Topics we covered include:

- The roles of Simeon and Anna in witnessing God's promises. - Mary and Joseph's faithful observance of Jewish law. - The message of hope for both Jews and Gentiles through Christ's birth. - The work of the Holy Spirit throughout the story. - God's profound care for the lowly and marginalized. - This thoughtful conversation highlights the beauty and depth of the Christmas story, offering fresh insights into its timeless significance.

Watch this episode on YouTube at https://youtu.be/Qs80LGz6cSk.

In this episode of I Love to Tell the Story, the Narrative Lectionary Podcast from Working Preacher Profs. Kathryn Schifferdecker, Joy J. Moore, and Rolf Jacobson dive into the Christmas narrative in Luke 2, uncovering powerful themes of contrasting authorities, Mary’s deep reflections, and the significance of hospitality and praise. Explore how God’s promises—from David to the birth of Jesus—offer comfort and hope, reminding us of His sovereignty over earthly powers.

✨ Let this familiar story inspire new insights as we reflect on the rich layers of meaning within the birth of Christ.

Profs. Kathryn Schifferdecker, Joy J. Moore, and Rolf Jacobson dive into the biblical text for the Fourth Sunday of Advent, focusing on the Annunciation to Mary in Luke’s Gospel. Discover the profound significance of Mary’s faithful response to the angel Gabriel, the role of the Holy Spirit in this momentous event, and how this passage bridges the Old and New Testaments.

Join us as we explore themes of faith, divine promise, and God’s surprising ways of working in the world, culminating in a reflection on Mary’s courageous acceptance of her role in God’s plan. Perfect for pastors and preachers preparing their Advent sermons or anyone seeking a deeper understanding of this powerful narrative.

Commentary on Luke 1:26-45 [46-56] by Leah D. Shade: https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/narrative-lectionary/jesus-birth-announced-2/commentary-on-luke-126-45-46-56-3.

Overview to Year 3 of the Narrative Lectionary: https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/narrative-lectionary/introduction-to-year-3-2/47470.

Watch this episode on YouTube at https://youtu.be/MXA1IEMPqsw.

Discover the Promise of Advent: Isaiah 61 and the Spirit of Hope

In episode 602 of I Love to Tell the Story: A Podcast on the Narrative Lectionary, hosts Joy J. Moore, Kathryn Schifferdecker, and Rolf Jacobson dive into the readings for the third Sunday of Advent. Together, they unpack the rich themes in Isaiah 61, exploring its powerful message of healing, restoration, and the transformative promise of the Messiah.

Listen as the hosts illuminate the historical and spiritual context of this passage, revealing how it proclaims good news to the oppressed and joy to the weary. With its focus on the Spirit of the Lord and the enduring hope of Advent, this conversation invites listeners to embrace the season's promise of renewal and God's faithfulness.

Tune in, be inspired, and subscribe for weekly insights into the Bible’s story of redemption and grace.

Commentary on Isaiah 61:1-11 by Christopher B. Hays: https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/narrative-lectionary/spirit-of-the-lord-upon-me-2/commentary-on-isaiah-611-11-5.

Overview to Year 3 of the Narrative Lectionary: https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/narrative-lectionary/introduction-to-year-3-2/47470.

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Watch the Full Episode on https://youtu.be/Fcb7kTHdOX0.

In this episode of I Love to Tell the Story, the Narrative Lectionary Podcast from Working Preacher Profs. Kathryn Schifferdecker, Joy J. Moore, and Rolf Jacobson dive into the prophetic words of Joel. 

🌟 Themes Covered:

- Repentance and renewal - Worship as a heart posture - The Spirit's outpouring on all people   Learn how Joel’s message of mercy and grace ties into the broader biblical narrative and discover fresh insights to inspire your Advent preparations.

🎧 Tune in now for thoughtful reflections and practical connections to enrich your preaching and teaching!

👉 Subscribe for weekly episodes and share with fellow storytellers of God’s Word!

Commentary on Joel 2:12-13, 28-29 by Kristin A. Swanson: https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/narrative-lectionary/joel-gods-promised-spirit/commentary-on-joel-212-13-28-29-4.

Overview to Year 3 of the Narrative Lectionary: https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/narrative-lectionary/introduction-to-year-3-2/47470.

Watch the Full Episode on https://youtu.be/hlGfwu4oLjM.

In this 600th episode of the Narrative Lectionary podcast, Profs. Kathryn Schifferdecker, Joy J. Moore, and Rolf Jacobson Summary celebrate their milestone while diving into the story of Daniel and the Lion's Den. They explore themes of faithfulness, the challenges of living in exile, and the balance between assimilation and maintaining one's beliefs. The discussion highlights Daniel's unwavering commitment to God despite societal pressures and the implications of living a faithful life in a consumer-driven world.

Commentary on Daniel 6:6-27 by Kristin A. Swanson: https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/narrative-lectionary/daniels-hope-in-god-2/commentary-on-daniel-66-27-3.

Overview to Year 3 of the Narrative Lectionary: https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/narrative-lectionary/introduction-to-year-3-2/47470.

Watch the Full Episode on https://youtu.be/-QtsNmnMozw.

In this episode of 'I Love to Tell the Story', the Profs. Kathryn Schifferdecker, Joy J. Moore, and Rolf Jacobson explore the prophetic messages of Jeremiah, focusing on the dramatic narrative of the king's rebellion against God's word. They discuss the significance of God's new covenant and the enduring nature of His promises, emphasizing the theme of forgiveness and the nature of Christ as a king who does not abandon His people, even in their disobedience.

Commentary on Jeremiah 36:1-8, 21-23, 27-28; then 31:31-34 by Kristin A. Swanson: https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/narrative-lectionary/god-promises-a-new-covenant/commentary-on-jeremiah-361-8-21-23-27-28-then-3131-34-2.

Overview to Year 3 of the Narrative Lectionary: https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/narrative-lectionary/introduction-to-year-3-2/47470.

Watch the Full Episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/CC2SorJo6PY.

In this episode of the Narrative Lectionary Podcast, we dive into Isaiah 6:1-8 and explore the powerful moment when God calls the prophet Isaiah. Join us as we discuss Isaiah’s awe-inspiring vision in the temple, his feelings of unworthiness, and the transformative impact of God’s holiness and forgiveness. We unpack how Isaiah's experience resonates with the role of church leadership today, emphasizing the courage and humility required to respond to God’s call. Tune in to reflect on the essential role of forgiveness and the ways contemporary church leaders can answer God’s call to serve their communities.

Commentary on Isaiah 6:1-8 by Christopher B. Hays: https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/narrative-lectionary/god-calls-isaiah/commentary-on-isaiah-61-8-9.

Overview to Year 3 of the Narrative Lectionary: https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/narrative-lectionary/introduction-to-year-3-2/47470.

Watch the Full Episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/erGrvVzzFIY.

In this episode of "I Love to Tell the Story: A podcast on the Narrative Lectionary," Luther Seminary Profs. Kathryn Schifferdecker, Joy J. Moore, and Rolf Jacobson dive deep into the Book of Jonah, exploring its powerful themes of grace, mercy, and the challenge of accepting God's love for everyone—even our enemies. Join us as we unpack Jonah's rebellion against God's command, the humor woven into the narrative, and how this ancient story speaks to us today, especially in the context of recent elections. We'll discuss the importance of embracing God's grace and the call to love those we may consider adversaries.

Commentary on Jonah 1:1-17; 3:1-10; [4:1-11] by Christopher B. Hays: https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/narrative-lectionary/jonah-and-gods-mercy-2/commentary-on-jonah-11-17-31-10-41-11-3.

Overview to Year 3 of the Narrative Lectionary: https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/narrative-lectionary/introduction-to-year-3-2/47470.

Watch the Full Episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/q7m5rqdZBOE.

In this episode of "I Love to Tell the Story: A podcast on the Narrative Lectionary," Luther Seminary Profs. Kathryn Schifferdecker, Joy J. Moore, and Rolf Jacobson explore the significance of All Saints Sunday through the story of Elijah in 1 Kings. They dive deeper into themes of scarcity, God's provision, and the importance of strong leadership, especially with upcoming elections. The conversation ends with reflections on hope, life, and the legacy of saints.

Commentary on 1 Kings 17 :1-16 [17-24] by Kristin A. Swanson: https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/narrative-lectionary/gods-care-for-the-widow-2/commentary-on-1-kings-171-16-17-24-2.

Overview to Year 3 of the Narrative Lectionary: https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/narrative-lectionary/introduction-to-year-3-2/47470.

Watch the Full Episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/VixC23zO-gU.

In this episode of "I Love to Tell the Story: A podcast on the Narrative Lectionary," Luther Seminary Profs. Kathryn Schifferdecker, Joy J. Moore, and Rolf Jacobson discuss Reformation Sunday in connection with Solomon's dedication of the temple. They explore themes of God's presence in imperfect institutions, the inclusivity of God's house, and the call for believers to reflect God's glory to all nations. The conversation highlights the importance of recognizing God as the God of all people, not just a select few.

Commentary on 1 Kings 5:1-5; 8:27-30, 41-43 by Jacqueline E. Lapsley: https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/narrative-lectionary/solomon/commentary-on-1-kings-51-5-827-30-41-43-2.

Overview to Year 3 of the Narrative Lectionary: https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/narrative-lectionary/introduction-to-year-3-2/47470.

Watch the Full Episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ixKh3tLoy-I.