In this heartfelt episode, we gather to honor the life of Howard Johnson. A devoted husband to Paula, a beloved father to Barry and Marsha, and a cherished grandpa to Connor, Howard was a man whose warmth and outgoing nature touched everyone he met. He found joy in conversation, always ready to share a story or lend a helping hand.

Howard’s love for his family was evident in everything he did. He took pride in seeing his children graduate from the same high school he once attended and made sure his work schedule allowed him to be present for their milestones. A skilled handyman, he passed down his knowledge to those around him, leaving a lasting impact through both his wisdom and generosity.

One of his greatest passions was trains, a love he shared with Barry through train shows and photography adventures. In his retirement, he found peace at the beach and town dock, watching boats, observing birds, and capturing stunning sunsets with his camera. Music and the simple joys of life brought him happiness, and his presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Though Howard is no longer with us, we find comfort in knowing he is at peace in heaven, where Jesus calls us to be. His spirit lives on in the memories he created, the lessons he shared, and the love he gave so freely. Join us as we reflect on his life, celebrating the life of a man who touched so many hearts.

This sermon is preached by Pastor Timothy J. Walsh, a member of WELS (Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod). Scripture selections come from the New International Version.

Intro Music "On the Way" by Vlad Gluschenko https://soundcloud.com/vgl9
Creative Commons — Attribution 3.0 Unported — CC BY 3.0

Outro Music "Divenire" by Ludovico Einaudi
copyright (℗) by: Ludovico Einaudi (in 2006)

Support the show

Find out more about our church and support Grace of God's ministry at linktr.ee/graceofgodlongisland

Intro music is “On The Way” by Vlad Gluschenko, at soundcloud.com/vgl9.

In this podcast episode, Tim breaks down the profound meaning of the phrase, “The Lord is near,” from Philippians, which encapsulates four key Christian doctrines: divine omnipresence, eschatology (the end of the world), the incarnation, and the means of grace. These doctrines reveal God's presence everywhere, the imminence of His judgment, His incarnation as Jesus to save humanity, and His ongoing presence through baptism, communion, and the Word.

The omnipresence of God assures that He is always with us, observing and sustaining all creation. Eschatology reminds us of God’s coming judgment, urging readiness while offering comfort in Jesus’ sacrifice. The incarnation demonstrates God’s nearness in Jesus Christ, who became human to redeem us. The means of grace—God’s Word and sacraments—ensure His presence in our lives, bringing forgiveness and salvation.

These truths inspire three blessings: joy, arising from God’s love and nearness; confidence, knowing God hears and answers prayers; and peace, as Jesus’ sacrifice secures forgiveness, victory over death, and a hopeful future.

In conclusion, Christians are called to rejoice, trust, and live in peace, assured of God’s unchanging love and presence.

This Sunday sermon, based on Philipians 4 verses 4-7, was preached at Grace of God Lutheran Church on December 15, 2024. This sermon is preached by Pastor Timothy J. Walsh, a member of WELS (Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod). Scripture selections come from the New International Version.

Intro Music "On the Way" by Vlad Gluschenko https://soundcloud.com/vgl9
Creative Commons — Attribution 3.0 Unported — CC BY 3.0

Outro Music "Divenire" by Ludovico Einaudi
copyright (℗) by: Ludovico Einaudi (in 2006)

Support the show

Find out more about our church and support Grace of God's ministry at linktr.ee/graceofgodlongisland

Intro music is “On The Way” by Vlad Gluschenko, at soundcloud.com/vgl9.

In this sermon, Tim emphasizes the unchanging yet unpredictable nature of God, using the cycles of seasons as a metaphor for His immutability. While the seasons change predictably in broad strokes but not in specifics, God also remains consistent in His promises—such as forgiveness, sustaining the Church, and Christ’s return—though the details of how He fulfills them aren't fully known. This reflects God’s divine immutability.

Tim warns us against sin, highlighting issues like dishonesty, oppression, and idolatry, which anger God as much today as in biblical times. Despite human sinfulness, God’s love remains steadfast. He refines His people like a silversmith, using life experiences and His Word to purify them.

Ultimately, the message reassures believers that because God does not change, His forgiveness, provision, and promises are reliable. This certainty allows believers to trust in His Word and anticipate Christ’s return with confidence and hope.

This Sunday sermon, based on Malachi 3 verses 1-7, was preached at Grace of God Lutheran Church on December 8, 2024. This sermon is preached by Pastor Timothy J. Walsh, a member of WELS (Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod). Scripture selections come from the New International Version.

Intro Music "On the Way" by Vlad Gluschenko https://soundcloud.com/vgl9
Creative Commons — Attribution 3.0 Unported — CC BY 3.0

Outro Music "Divenire" by Ludovico Einaudi
copyright (℗) by: Ludovico Einaudi (in 2006)

Support the show

Find out more about our church and support Grace of God's ministry at linktr.ee/graceofgodlongisland

Intro music is “On The Way” by Vlad Gluschenko, at soundcloud.com/vgl9.