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.

The Advent season... a time of preparation and anticipation, distinct from the celebrations of Christmas. While Christmas focuses on the birth of Jesus, Advent invites us to reflect on why Jesus came into the world and what his mission means for us. It’s a season of looking ahead, much like Lent before Easter, to consider the profound significance of God becoming flesh to dwell among us. During Advent, we remember that Jesus’ life was not only about his birth but also about his ultimate purpose: to bring justice, righteousness, and salvation through his death and resurrection.

Central to this reflection is the concept of God’s name, which represents not merely a title but his character, reputation, and revelation to humanity. Jesus came "in the name of the Lord," fully embodying God’s mercy, justice, and love. Tim explains how believers are called to carry God’s name in their words and actions, living as witnesses to his grace and truth. While humans often fall short in representing God’s character, Jesus’ sacrifice secures our reconciliation with him, making it possible to reflect his love even in our imperfection.

As we begin Advent, the story of Palm Sunday reminds us of Jesus as the King who came to fulfill God’s promises and bring salvation. His triumphal entry into Jerusalem foreshadowed the peace and glory he would achieve through his sacrifice. This Advent season challenges us to consider how we share God’s name and reputation with others through our lives, as we prepare to celebrate the birth of the Savior who came to give us eternal life and peace.

This Sunday sermon, based on Luke 19:28-40, was preached at Grace of God Lutheran Church on December 1, 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.