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In Mark 12:1-17 Jesus continues to hit the beehive with a stick, openly confronting the religious leaders through a parable that calls out their rejection of God’s representatives (the law and the prophets and now Jesus) to protect their own self interests. The religious leaders try to trap Jesus into either taking side with the Romans or committing treason, but He calls out their hypocrisy and reiterates his teaching that we should keep our focus on the kingdom of God not earthy kingdoms (nor our own personal kingdoms).

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This week, we're joined by Bishop Mike Stewart who takes us through Mark 11:12-33 and the story of the cursed fig tree. While it may seem like an unusual event, it actually represents the fruitlessness of God's people. There was only the outward appearance of faith and no evidence of true worship and the righteousness God wants to see in His people.

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In this episode we look at Mark 10:17-31. This passage reflects on Jesus' interaction with a wealthy man who seeks guidance on what he must/can do to inherit eternal life. Jesus teaches that no one is truly good except God and that our worldly reliance on ourselves (that can lead to wealth or possessions) can be a barrier to entering the Kingdom of Heaven. Jesus teaches that salvation is not achieved through human effort but is only possible through God's grace and Jesus' sacrifice. Therefore we need to surrender what holds us back, (again) embrace humility in service, and trust in God's power, not our own.

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As we continue in the season of Epiphany, we reflect on Jesus further revealing his true identity and purpose as the suffering servant. Jesus’ teachings in Mark 9:30-50, emphasizes humility, servanthood, and caring for the disadvantaged as central to the Kingdom of God. It encourages us to embrace spiritual maturity, prioritize serving others over personal status, and support the church's mission to nurture new believers and future leaders.

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As we continue in the season of Epiphany, we reflect on Jesus further revealing himself through the Transfiguration. The Transfiguration in Mark’s Gospel reveals a glimpse of Jesus' divine identity and mission from the Kingdom of God's perspective, as the voice of God declares, "This is my beloved Son; listen to him." This passage challenges us to trust God’s greater perspective, follow Jesus in faith, and rely on prayer during struggles, even when doubt arises.

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It's Christmas Eve and we reflect on if Christmas is really worth it.

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In this episode we reflect on the 3rd Sunday in Advent focused around joy. John the Baptist “denied his own comforts and was prepared to die for what he believed because He wanted to share this joyful news with others.”

Jesus has been sharing his message with all who have ears to hear (and eyes to see). Though many have rejected the message, many have accepted and received Jesus. However, they still do not fully see who Jesus is (illustrated literally when Jesus heals the blind man).

Peter is the first to confess Jesus is the Christ, but even He doesn't fully understand as Jesus follows this by explaining that he must die and that the trust cost of discipleship that that we pick up our cross and follow him – making ourselves a living sacrifice, being willing to give up our individual ambitions (and more), and willing to go where Jesus leads us.

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