Deep and Wide Sat, 08 Aug 2026 03:29:06 -0400 https://www.buzzsprout.com/1862167 en-us © 2026 Deep and Wide yes 885953d7-77b2-5124-aa42-8ef3cf439ad1 joymarmee@gmail.com Joy Thomas episodic false 5 Minute Bible stories for children.  Intended to encourage faith and a personal relationship with God 

]]> Buzzsprout (https://www.buzzsprout.com) Joy Thomas joymarmee@gmail.com https://storage.buzzsprout.com/ifhrjhc80bxwxq3edhsnf8hzvmlr?.jpg Deep and Wide https://www.buzzsprout.com/1862167 Jesus Appears to Thomas, too Jesus Appears to Thomas, too After his resurrection, when Jesus appeared to his disciples, Thomas wasn't there. When Thomas heard about it, he couldn't believe it.  He told the others that unless Jesus met certain conditions, he would not believe. Jesus came again, a week later. Did Thomas believe this time?

]]> After his resurrection, when Jesus appeared to his disciples, Thomas wasn't there. When Thomas heard about it, he couldn't believe it.  He told the others that unless Jesus met certain conditions, he would not believe. Jesus came again, a week later. Did Thomas believe this time?

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-19617422 Sat, 08 Aug 2026 03:00:00 -0400 181 2 74 full false Jesus Appears to his Disciples Jesus Appears to his Disciples On the third day after Jesus had died, his disciples were hiding in a locked room. They were afraid of being arrested, too! But suddenly, Jesus is with them in the room. Is it really him, or a ghost? 

]]> On the third day after Jesus had died, his disciples were hiding in a locked room. They were afraid of being arrested, too! But suddenly, Jesus is with them in the room. Is it really him, or a ghost? 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-19574949 Thu, 30 Jul 2026 08:00:00 -0400 193 2 73 full false Walking Away from Jerusalem Walking Away from Jerusalem Two men were walking to Emmaus after Jesus died. They were so sad. A stranger came up behind them and asked them what they were talking about. Then the stranger explained that what happened to Jesus was actually God's plan. Don't be sad! Jesus is alive! 

]]> Two men were walking to Emmaus after Jesus died. They were so sad. A stranger came up behind them and asked them what they were talking about. Then the stranger explained that what happened to Jesus was actually God's plan. Don't be sad! Jesus is alive! 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-19445817 Thu, 30 Jul 2026 07:00:00 -0400 237 2 72 full false Jesus Makes Breakfast Jesus Makes Breakfast After Jesus is resurrected, he tells his friends he will meet them at the lake.  When they get there, they go fishing but don't catch anything. Then a man tells them to put their net on the right side of the boat. They catch a lot! Now they know it's Jesus on the shore.  He's there to show them what he wants them to do. Let's see what Jesus does now. 

]]> After Jesus is resurrected, he tells his friends he will meet them at the lake.  When they get there, they go fishing but don't catch anything. Then a man tells them to put their net on the right side of the boat. They catch a lot! Now they know it's Jesus on the shore.  He's there to show them what he wants them to do. Let's see what Jesus does now. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-17917364 Sun, 28 Sep 2025 07:00:00 -0400 218 2 71 full false Easter Sunday Easter Sunday Jesus took our punishment on the cross. When he had finished taking all our punishment, he said, "It is finished," and his spirit left his body. He was dead. His friends laid him in a tomb. They rolled a big stone in front of the entrance and posted guards to make sure nobody stole his body. But three days later, his body was gone! What happened?

]]> Jesus took our punishment on the cross. When he had finished taking all our punishment, he said, "It is finished," and his spirit left his body. He was dead. His friends laid him in a tomb. They rolled a big stone in front of the entrance and posted guards to make sure nobody stole his body. But three days later, his body was gone! What happened?

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-17540261 Fri, 18 Apr 2025 13:00:00 -0400 296 2 70 full false Jesus Dies for Us Jesus Dies for Us Some of the Jewish leaders were jealous of Jesus. They didn't want people to follow him. If all the people followed Jesus, who would follow them? They wouldn't be important anymore. So they called the guards and had Jesus arrested, even though he didn't do anything wrong. Jesus didn't defend himself. He didn't argue. It was God's plan for Jesus to be the Passover lamb. If Jesus died for us, then we wouldn't have die. 

]]> Some of the Jewish leaders were jealous of Jesus. They didn't want people to follow him. If all the people followed Jesus, who would follow them? They wouldn't be important anymore. So they called the guards and had Jesus arrested, even though he didn't do anything wrong. Jesus didn't defend himself. He didn't argue. It was God's plan for Jesus to be the Passover lamb. If Jesus died for us, then we wouldn't have die. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-17532233 Thu, 17 Apr 2025 14:00:00 -0400 349 2 69 full false Jesus Before Pilate Jesus Before Pilate Jesus was taken to the Roman governor Pontius Pilate, because the Jewish leaders wanted Jesus to die. Pilate was the one who could have Jesus crucified for them. Pilate questioned Jesus - was Jesus a king? What had Jesus done to deserve death? Was Jesus telling the truth?

]]> Jesus was taken to the Roman governor Pontius Pilate, because the Jewish leaders wanted Jesus to die. Pilate was the one who could have Jesus crucified for them. Pilate questioned Jesus - was Jesus a king? What had Jesus done to deserve death? Was Jesus telling the truth?

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-17525198 Wed, 16 Apr 2025 14:00:00 -0400 251 2 68 full false Peter Denies Jesus Peter Denies Jesus Jesus had one last meal with his friends before he got arrested. He told his friends that when the guards came for him, they would all run away. But Peter couldn't believe it! He told Jesus he would stay with him, and even die with him. But Jesus knew that Peter would be too scared. Who is right? How much does Peter love Jesus, really?

]]> Jesus had one last meal with his friends before he got arrested. He told his friends that when the guards came for him, they would all run away. But Peter couldn't believe it! He told Jesus he would stay with him, and even die with him. But Jesus knew that Peter would be too scared. Who is right? How much does Peter love Jesus, really?

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-17409290 Tue, 15 Apr 2025 16:00:00 -0400 206 2 67 full false Jesus in the Garden Jesus in the Garden After the last supper, Jesus took his disciples to the Garden of Gethsemane to pray. Jesus didn't want to die. He asked his Father for some other way. But soon, Judas came with the officers to arrest Jesus. It was dark, and the power of darkness was at work to kill Jesus. 

]]> After the last supper, Jesus took his disciples to the Garden of Gethsemane to pray. Jesus didn't want to die. He asked his Father for some other way. But soon, Judas came with the officers to arrest Jesus. It was dark, and the power of darkness was at work to kill Jesus. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-17117981 Mon, 14 Apr 2025 16:00:00 -0400 203 2 66 full false The Last Supper The Last Supper Jesus ate the Passover dinner with his disciples. During the dinner, Jesus told his friends that he was going to make a new way for God and people to be friends. His body was going to break, and his blood was going to be poured out as a sacrifice for our sin. 

]]> Jesus ate the Passover dinner with his disciples. During the dinner, Jesus told his friends that he was going to make a new way for God and people to be friends. His body was going to break, and his blood was going to be poured out as a sacrifice for our sin. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-17008709 Fri, 11 Apr 2025 16:00:00 -0400 268 2 65 full false Jesus Washes Feet Jesus Washes Feet When Jesus and his disciples gathered for their last supper, there was no one there to wash their feet. Jesus showed his love by being the servant, and washing their feet. Peter didn't want Jesus to do it, but Jesus told him to accept it. It wasn't that Peter was so dirty, but we all need Jesus to forgive us, and love us, every day. 

]]> When Jesus and his disciples gathered for their last supper, there was no one there to wash their feet. Jesus showed his love by being the servant, and washing their feet. Peter didn't want Jesus to do it, but Jesus told him to accept it. It wasn't that Peter was so dirty, but we all need Jesus to forgive us, and love us, every day. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16995584 Thu, 10 Apr 2025 16:00:00 -0400 152 2 64 full false The Widow's Mite The Widow's Mite When Jesus was watching people put their offerings into the temple treasury, he saw one woman put in more than anybody else. He told his disciples about it. She had only put in two cents, but that was all she had. 

]]> When Jesus was watching people put their offerings into the temple treasury, he saw one woman put in more than anybody else. He told his disciples about it. She had only put in two cents, but that was all she had. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16994600 Wed, 09 Apr 2025 16:00:00 -0400 173 2 63 full false Jesus in the Temple Jesus in the Temple When Jesus arrived at the temple in Jerusalem, he was angry about what he saw. Instead of praying, people were using the temple to make money! They were buying and selling animals, and changing peoples' money. He made a whip and scared all the animals away, and tipped over the tables of money. 

]]> When Jesus arrived at the temple in Jerusalem, he was angry about what he saw. Instead of praying, people were using the temple to make money! They were buying and selling animals, and changing peoples' money. He made a whip and scared all the animals away, and tipped over the tables of money. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16994503 Tue, 08 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0400 179 2 62 full false Palm Sunday Palm Sunday Long ago, God picked Jesus to be the king. Jesus would be a good king. He was kind and gentle and never did anything wrong. When it was time to enter Jerusalem, he rode a donkey. The people waved palm branches, and the little children shouted out their praises. His enemies told Jesus to tell the children to be quiet. 

]]> Long ago, God picked Jesus to be the king. Jesus would be a good king. He was kind and gentle and never did anything wrong. When it was time to enter Jerusalem, he rode a donkey. The people waved palm branches, and the little children shouted out their praises. His enemies told Jesus to tell the children to be quiet. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16993991 Mon, 07 Apr 2025 02:00:00 -0400 281 2 61 full false Nicodemus Talks to Jesus Nicodemus Talks to Jesus Nicodemus had questions. He wondered if Jesus could really be the Messiah! If Jesus wasn't from God, there is no way he could do the miracles he did. If Jesus was the king, would Jesus let Nicodemus be a part of the kingdom, too? Nicodemus thought that the way to get into God's kingdom was by keeping all the rules. But Jesus explained that there is another way. 

]]> Nicodemus had questions. He wondered if Jesus could really be the Messiah! If Jesus wasn't from God, there is no way he could do the miracles he did. If Jesus was the king, would Jesus let Nicodemus be a part of the kingdom, too? Nicodemus thought that the way to get into God's kingdom was by keeping all the rules. But Jesus explained that there is another way. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16984194 Fri, 04 Apr 2025 14:00:00 -0400 300 2 60 full false Jesus Anointed with Perfume Jesus Anointed with Perfume When Jesus had dinner with his friends, Mary took some expensive perfume and poured it out on his head and his feet. Judas was angry. He said they should have sold the perfume and given the money to the poor.  But Jesus defended her. He knew he would die soon, and the perfume was to help prepare his body for burial. 

]]> When Jesus had dinner with his friends, Mary took some expensive perfume and poured it out on his head and his feet. Judas was angry. He said they should have sold the perfume and given the money to the poor.  But Jesus defended her. He knew he would die soon, and the perfume was to help prepare his body for burial. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16991095 Thu, 03 Apr 2025 14:00:00 -0400 229 2 59 full false Lazarus is Raised from the Dead Lazarus is Raised from the Dead When Mary and Martha's brother got sick, they sent Jesus a message. They expected that he would come and heal him. Instead, Jesus stayed where he was. A few days later, Lazarus was dead. Jesus said Lazarus was sleeping, and he would go now, and wake Lazarus up. 

]]> When Mary and Martha's brother got sick, they sent Jesus a message. They expected that he would come and heal him. Instead, Jesus stayed where he was. A few days later, Lazarus was dead. Jesus said Lazarus was sleeping, and he would go now, and wake Lazarus up. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16984142 Wed, 02 Apr 2025 13:00:00 -0400 275 2 58 full false The Transfiguration The Transfiguration Jesus took three of his disciples up on a high mountain. When they reached the top, Jesus was transfigured. His face was shining like the sun, and even his clothes were bright like lightning. Two men appeared, Moses, and Elijah, and talked to him about what would happen when his spirit left his body, his physical death that was going to happen in Jerusalem.  The disciples were very frightened. Then a cloud came and covered them. What was in that cloud?

]]> Jesus took three of his disciples up on a high mountain. When they reached the top, Jesus was transfigured. His face was shining like the sun, and even his clothes were bright like lightning. Two men appeared, Moses, and Elijah, and talked to him about what would happen when his spirit left his body, his physical death that was going to happen in Jerusalem.  The disciples were very frightened. Then a cloud came and covered them. What was in that cloud?

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16983997 Tue, 01 Apr 2025 16:00:00 -0400 194 2 57 full false Who Is Jesus Who Is Jesus Jesus asked his disciples, "Who do people say that I am?" Some people thought that he was John the Baptist. Some people thought he was Elijah. Some people thought that he was one of the ancient prophets. But Peter said, "You are the Messiah." Jesus told Peter that he was right. But he also told his disciples not to tell anyone about it. God had a secret plan. 

]]> Jesus asked his disciples, "Who do people say that I am?" Some people thought that he was John the Baptist. Some people thought he was Elijah. Some people thought that he was one of the ancient prophets. But Peter said, "You are the Messiah." Jesus told Peter that he was right. But he also told his disciples not to tell anyone about it. God had a secret plan. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16958242 Mon, 31 Mar 2025 16:00:00 -0400 267 2 56 full false Zacchaeus was Short Zacchaeus was Short Jesus knew all about Zacchaeus. He knew that Zacchaeus was stealing from people, but Jesus let Zacchaeus know that he was forgiven. What will Zacchaeus do now?



]]> Jesus knew all about Zacchaeus. He knew that Zacchaeus was stealing from people, but Jesus let Zacchaeus know that he was forgiven. What will Zacchaeus do now?



]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16958041 Fri, 28 Mar 2025 16:00:00 -0400 264 2 55 full false The Rich Young Ruler The Rich Young Ruler A young ruler asked Jesus what he should do to make sure that God would accept him as good enough to live forever. Jesus told him to keep all the commandments. And then there was just one more thing he had to do...

]]> A young ruler asked Jesus what he should do to make sure that God would accept him as good enough to live forever. Jesus told him to keep all the commandments. And then there was just one more thing he had to do...

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16919639 Thu, 27 Mar 2025 19:00:00 -0400 224 2 54 full false An Unforgiving Servant An Unforgiving Servant Jesus told a story about a rich and generous king. One of his servants owed him millions of dollars, and the king forgave him. He didn't have to pay him back. But when that servant went out, he found someone who owed him about a hundred dollars. He took hold of him and started choking him!  He was an unforgiving servant. He did not forgive. He put the man who owed him money in jail. Uh-oh. When the king hears what he did, he is angry! 

]]> Jesus told a story about a rich and generous king. One of his servants owed him millions of dollars, and the king forgave him. He didn't have to pay him back. But when that servant went out, he found someone who owed him about a hundred dollars. He took hold of him and started choking him!  He was an unforgiving servant. He did not forgive. He put the man who owed him money in jail. Uh-oh. When the king hears what he did, he is angry! 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16918760 Wed, 26 Mar 2025 16:00:00 -0400 200 2 53 full false They Look Like Trees They Look Like Trees In Mark chapter 8, Jesus heals a blind man.  At first, when the man looks up he says the people look like trees. Jesus laid his hands on the man's eyes again, and this time when he opened his eyes he could see clearly! 

]]> In Mark chapter 8, Jesus heals a blind man.  At first, when the man looks up he says the people look like trees. Jesus laid his hands on the man's eyes again, and this time when he opened his eyes he could see clearly! 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16914169 Tue, 25 Mar 2025 16:00:00 -0400 127 2 52 full false Feeding 4000 Feeding 4000 Near the Sea of Galilee crowds of people followed Jesus up on the mountainside. They brought people who were sick, who were blind, and people who couldn't talk, and laid them at Jesus' feet. He healed them. Then, instead of sending them away hungry, he distributed seven loaves of bread and a few fish to the whole crowd. They all ate as much as they wanted, and afterward the disciples picked up seven basketfuls of leftovers. When Jesus did something, he did it because of his faith in the Father. He knew God wanted to heal people and feed people. But he told his disciples to watch out for people who were just pretending. 

]]> Near the Sea of Galilee crowds of people followed Jesus up on the mountainside. They brought people who were sick, who were blind, and people who couldn't talk, and laid them at Jesus' feet. He healed them. Then, instead of sending them away hungry, he distributed seven loaves of bread and a few fish to the whole crowd. They all ate as much as they wanted, and afterward the disciples picked up seven basketfuls of leftovers. When Jesus did something, he did it because of his faith in the Father. He knew God wanted to heal people and feed people. But he told his disciples to watch out for people who were just pretending. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16914071 Mon, 24 Mar 2025 16:00:00 -0400 208 2 51 full false What is the Kingdom of God Like? What is the Kingdom of God Like? In Luke 13, Jesus describes the kingdom of God to a tree that grows from a very small mustard seed. When it grows, it's big enough for birds to perch in the branches! It's also like a tiny grain of yeast. Although it's small, when it gets put into warm water it multiplies. It grows so fast that it can puff up sixty pounds of flour. The kingdom of God may start small, but it spreads and gradually changes into something that has the power to change things. 

]]> In Luke 13, Jesus describes the kingdom of God to a tree that grows from a very small mustard seed. When it grows, it's big enough for birds to perch in the branches! It's also like a tiny grain of yeast. Although it's small, when it gets put into warm water it multiplies. It grows so fast that it can puff up sixty pounds of flour. The kingdom of God may start small, but it spreads and gradually changes into something that has the power to change things. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16901404 Fri, 21 Mar 2025 16:00:00 -0400 218 2 50 full false Jesus Heals a Deaf Man Jesus Heals a Deaf Man In Mark 7, a man is brought to Jesus who was deaf and could hardly talk. The crowd begged Jesus to heal him. Jesus takes him away from the crowd. He puts his fingers in the man's ears. Then he spits, and touches his tongue. He spoke to the man and said, "Be opened." Did it work? How did Jesus do that?

]]> In Mark 7, a man is brought to Jesus who was deaf and could hardly talk. The crowd begged Jesus to heal him. Jesus takes him away from the crowd. He puts his fingers in the man's ears. Then he spits, and touches his tongue. He spoke to the man and said, "Be opened." Did it work? How did Jesus do that?

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16901346 Thu, 20 Mar 2025 16:00:00 -0400 192 2 49 full false The Lord's Prayer Part 2 The Lord's Prayer Part 2 Jesus taught his disciples what to pray about. We pray for God to provide our food. We ask him to forgive us, and remember that we forgive other people, too. We ask him to lead us to make good decisions.  He's the boss of us.  And that's a good thing!

]]> Jesus taught his disciples what to pray about. We pray for God to provide our food. We ask him to forgive us, and remember that we forgive other people, too. We ask him to lead us to make good decisions.  He's the boss of us.  And that's a good thing!

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16867350 Wed, 19 Mar 2025 16:00:00 -0400 285 2 48 full false Our Father Our Father Jesus taught his disciples a way to pray. We get to call God our Father, because he is our Father in heaven. We pray that he is respected and honored. We pray for his kingdom to come - that what he wants happens on earth as it does in heaven. 

]]> Jesus taught his disciples a way to pray. We get to call God our Father, because he is our Father in heaven. We pray that he is respected and honored. We pray for his kingdom to come - that what he wants happens on earth as it does in heaven. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16847246 Tue, 18 Mar 2025 16:00:00 -0400 253 2 47 full false The Prodigal Son The Prodigal Son Jesus told the story about the prodigal son to tell us how much our heavenly father loves us, even when we don't deserve it. The son took his inheritance early and wasted it on parties and wild living. When he came back home, what was his father's reaction?

]]> Jesus told the story about the prodigal son to tell us how much our heavenly father loves us, even when we don't deserve it. The son took his inheritance early and wasted it on parties and wild living. When he came back home, what was his father's reaction?

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16846963 Mon, 17 Mar 2025 16:00:00 -0400 202 2 46 full false Woman Set Free Woman Set Free When Jesus saw a crippled woman in the synagogue he couldn't wait for her to be healed. He told her she was set free, and when he laid his hands on her she was able to straighten up. But it made the leader mad - for someone to be healed on the sabbath day. But what did Jesus say?

]]> When Jesus saw a crippled woman in the synagogue he couldn't wait for her to be healed. He told her she was set free, and when he laid his hands on her she was able to straighten up. But it made the leader mad - for someone to be healed on the sabbath day. But what did Jesus say?

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16839228 Fri, 14 Mar 2025 16:00:00 -0400 187 2 45 full false The Bread of Life The Bread of Life In John chapter 6, Jesus calls himself the Bread of Life. When we were dead on the inside, and couldn't get back to God by ourselves, God sent Jesus to make us alive and connected to God again. 

]]> In John chapter 6, Jesus calls himself the Bread of Life. When we were dead on the inside, and couldn't get back to God by ourselves, God sent Jesus to make us alive and connected to God again. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16837762 Thu, 13 Mar 2025 18:00:00 -0400 230 2 44 full false Mary and Martha Mary and Martha Mary is sitting at Jesus' feet with the other people, listening to every word Jesus is saying. Martha is in the kitchen, making a meal for their guests. Martha wants Mary to help her. But when she asks Jesus to tell Mary to help, he surprises her. Doesn't Jesus care about Martha?

]]> Mary is sitting at Jesus' feet with the other people, listening to every word Jesus is saying. Martha is in the kitchen, making a meal for their guests. Martha wants Mary to help her. But when she asks Jesus to tell Mary to help, he surprises her. Doesn't Jesus care about Martha?

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16837688 Wed, 12 Mar 2025 17:00:00 -0400 230 2 43 full false The Good Samaritan The Good Samaritan Jesus tells a story about a man who was hurt. He got jumped on by robbers who took his money and even his clothes. They left him by the side of the road. Who will hellp him? 

]]> Jesus tells a story about a man who was hurt. He got jumped on by robbers who took his money and even his clothes. They left him by the side of the road. Who will hellp him? 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16829394 Tue, 11 Mar 2025 16:00:00 -0400 253 2 42 full false Have Mercy on My Son Have Mercy on My Son A man in the crowd approached Jesus and begged him to help. His son had lost control of his body! He sometimes fell into fires, or into water. The man had asked the disciples to expel the demon that was causing this, but they couldn't do it. When Jesus spoke to the demon, it left right away. But why couldn't his disciples do it?

]]> A man in the crowd approached Jesus and begged him to help. His son had lost control of his body! He sometimes fell into fires, or into water. The man had asked the disciples to expel the demon that was causing this, but they couldn't do it. When Jesus spoke to the demon, it left right away. But why couldn't his disciples do it?

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16829171 Mon, 10 Mar 2025 16:00:00 -0400 185 2 41 full false Jesus Walks on the Water Jesus Walks on the Water Jesus sent his disciples away in a boat. It was time to cross the lake. But Jesus didn't have a boat, so he started walking toward the boat. How did he do that? He believed that when God told him to do something he would have the power to do it. He walked by faith. When Peter saw Jesus, he wanted to walk on the water too. Can he do it?

]]> Jesus sent his disciples away in a boat. It was time to cross the lake. But Jesus didn't have a boat, so he started walking toward the boat. How did he do that? He believed that when God told him to do something he would have the power to do it. He walked by faith. When Peter saw Jesus, he wanted to walk on the water too. Can he do it?

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16820346 Fri, 07 Mar 2025 16:00:00 -0500 210 2 40 full false Jesus Gave His Disciples Power Jesus Gave His Disciples Power Jesus gave his disciples power over demons and over disease. He sent them out to different villages to tell people about the kingdom of God. Their words were like seeds that found a place in people's hearts. Where their words were received, the kingdom of God came. If people didn't want to hear it, then the disciples were free to leave. 

]]> Jesus gave his disciples power over demons and over disease. He sent them out to different villages to tell people about the kingdom of God. Their words were like seeds that found a place in people's hearts. Where their words were received, the kingdom of God came. If people didn't want to hear it, then the disciples were free to leave. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16827030 Thu, 06 Mar 2025 16:00:00 -0500 204 2 39 full false The Sinful Woman The Sinful Woman When Jesus was invited to Simon the Pharisee's house, he wasn't greeted with a kiss, he wasn't offered water for his feet, and he didn't get any perfumed ointment for his head. But when the sinful woman came, she kissed Jesus' feet, and washed them with her hair. Jesus explained her behavior. He told Simon that whoever has a lot of sins forgiven will have a lot more love than someon who is only forgiven for a few sins. 

]]> When Jesus was invited to Simon the Pharisee's house, he wasn't greeted with a kiss, he wasn't offered water for his feet, and he didn't get any perfumed ointment for his head. But when the sinful woman came, she kissed Jesus' feet, and washed them with her hair. Jesus explained her behavior. He told Simon that whoever has a lot of sins forgiven will have a lot more love than someon who is only forgiven for a few sins. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16826931 Wed, 05 Mar 2025 16:00:00 -0500 314 2 38 full false Not for the Intelligent Not for the Intelligent Have you ever felt like you were too young or too foolish to be important to God? Jesus wants to tell you something in this story. John the Baptist sent messengers to see how Jesus was doing. Jesus was doing everything that God wanted him to do. He was healing the sick, making blind people see, making lame people walk, and even making dead people come back to life. When you recognize Jesus, and agree with God about him, you become born into God's kingdom. God invites people who are like children, and who are foolish to come close to him. 

]]> Have you ever felt like you were too young or too foolish to be important to God? Jesus wants to tell you something in this story. John the Baptist sent messengers to see how Jesus was doing. Jesus was doing everything that God wanted him to do. He was healing the sick, making blind people see, making lame people walk, and even making dead people come back to life. When you recognize Jesus, and agree with God about him, you become born into God's kingdom. God invites people who are like children, and who are foolish to come close to him. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16820247 Tue, 04 Mar 2025 16:00:00 -0500 249 2 37 full false The Lost Sheep The Lost Sheep When Jesus ate with sinners, people who were doing wrong things, it was confusing to people who were being good. They thought he was making a mistake. Jesus told them about finding a lost sheep to explain why he wanted to be with sinners. 

]]> When Jesus ate with sinners, people who were doing wrong things, it was confusing to people who were being good. They thought he was making a mistake. Jesus told them about finding a lost sheep to explain why he wanted to be with sinners. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16740892 Mon, 03 Mar 2025 16:00:00 -0500 242 2 36 full false The Man with a Legion The Man with a Legion When Jesus crossed the lake, a man came running toward him and fell at his feet. He was full of demons! The demons talked to Jesus and asked him not to send them into the dark pit. They wanted to go into a big herd of pigs that was nearby. Jesus gave them permission, and they all came out of the man.  But what happened to those pigs?

]]> When Jesus crossed the lake, a man came running toward him and fell at his feet. He was full of demons! The demons talked to Jesus and asked him not to send them into the dark pit. They wanted to go into a big herd of pigs that was nearby. Jesus gave them permission, and they all came out of the man.  But what happened to those pigs?

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16728877 Fri, 28 Feb 2025 19:00:00 -0500 245 2 35 full false Ten Lepers Ten Lepers The ten sick men stayed away from Jesus and his friends. They didn't want Jesus to get leprosy. It was an incurable skin disease. But they knew Jesus could heal people, so they yelled, "Jesus, Master, have pity on us!" Jesus didn't touch them, but he yelled back. "Go show yourselves to the priest!" As they were going, they noticed something happening to their skin. What was happening? Can Jesus heal people by yelling at them?

]]> The ten sick men stayed away from Jesus and his friends. They didn't want Jesus to get leprosy. It was an incurable skin disease. But they knew Jesus could heal people, so they yelled, "Jesus, Master, have pity on us!" Jesus didn't touch them, but he yelled back. "Go show yourselves to the priest!" As they were going, they noticed something happening to their skin. What was happening? Can Jesus heal people by yelling at them?

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16499277 Thu, 27 Feb 2025 16:00:00 -0500 295 2 27 full false Nicodemus Talks to Jesus Nicodemus Talks to Jesus Nicodemus knows that Jesus must be sent by God. He can heal people, feed them, raise people from the dead! 

]]> Nicodemus knows that Jesus must be sent by God. He can heal people, feed them, raise people from the dead! 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16471094 Wed, 26 Feb 2025 16:00:00 -0500 300 2 27 full false Feeding the Five Thousand Feeding the Five Thousand Jesus took good care of people, like a shepherd takes care of his sheep. When they were out in the field away from home, they didn't have any food. One little boy had brought his lunch. He had five loaves and two fish. Will that be enough for five thousand people?

]]> Jesus took good care of people, like a shepherd takes care of his sheep. When they were out in the field away from home, they didn't have any food. One little boy had brought his lunch. He had five loaves and two fish. Will that be enough for five thousand people?

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16693551 Tue, 25 Feb 2025 18:00:00 -0500 256 2 32 full false Blind Bartimaeus Blind Bartimaeus A blind man was sitting near the road when Jesus was going by. He heard that Jesus could heal people, so he shouted out! Jesus heard him, and called for him to come closer. Jesus asked him what he wanted. He wanted to see. Can Jesus make his eyes get well? 

]]> A blind man was sitting near the road when Jesus was going by. He heard that Jesus could heal people, so he shouted out! Jesus heard him, and called for him to come closer. Jesus asked him what he wanted. He wanted to see. Can Jesus make his eyes get well? 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16687357 Mon, 24 Feb 2025 16:00:00 -0500 277 2 31 full false The Woman by the Well The Woman by the Well When Jesus and his friends traveled through Samaria, Jesus stopped by a well. A woman came to draw water, and Jesus asked her for a drink. Normally, Jews and Samaritans don't even talk to each other. Why did he ask her for a drink? Actually, he wanted to give her a very special drink. But how does Jesus get her to trust him?

]]> When Jesus and his friends traveled through Samaria, Jesus stopped by a well. A woman came to draw water, and Jesus asked her for a drink. Normally, Jews and Samaritans don't even talk to each other. Why did he ask her for a drink? Actually, he wanted to give her a very special drink. But how does Jesus get her to trust him?

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16679519 Fri, 24 Jan 2025 19:00:00 -0500 295 2 30 full false Jesus Calls the Little Girl Back to Life Jesus Calls the Little Girl Back to Life In Mark chapter 5, the synagogue leader falls at Jesus' feet to beg for his help. If Jesus would come and lay hands on his dying little girl, she would live! Jesus made his way through the crowd to Jairus' house. But before they arrived, messengers came to tell them it was too late. The mourners had already started singing their dirge. But Jesus said to the father, "Don't be afraid. Only believe." Jesus and a few of his disciples entered the house and made the mourners leave. Was the little girl really dead? What can Jesus do?


Sound effects from Uppbeat. 

]]> In Mark chapter 5, the synagogue leader falls at Jesus' feet to beg for his help. If Jesus would come and lay hands on his dying little girl, she would live! Jesus made his way through the crowd to Jairus' house. But before they arrived, messengers came to tell them it was too late. The mourners had already started singing their dirge. But Jesus said to the father, "Don't be afraid. Only believe." Jesus and a few of his disciples entered the house and made the mourners leave. Was the little girl really dead? What can Jesus do?


Sound effects from Uppbeat. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16629752 Thu, 23 Jan 2025 16:00:00 -0500 201 2 29 full false Bleeding Woman Bleeding Woman A crowd was following Jesus so closely that they were pressing against him. One woman, Marian, was desperate to get close to Jesus. She thought, "If I can just touch the hem of his robe, I will be healed." She had been bleeding for 12 years, and had spent all her money on doctors. They were not able to help her. In fact she was worse. She threw herself forward and managed to touch his robe. What happened? Did Jesus notice?




 crowd sounds from bbc.co.uk – © copyright 2025 BBC

]]> A crowd was following Jesus so closely that they were pressing against him. One woman, Marian, was desperate to get close to Jesus. She thought, "If I can just touch the hem of his robe, I will be healed." She had been bleeding for 12 years, and had spent all her money on doctors. They were not able to help her. In fact she was worse. She threw herself forward and managed to touch his robe. What happened? Did Jesus notice?




 crowd sounds from bbc.co.uk – © copyright 2025 BBC

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16571090 Wed, 22 Jan 2025 16:00:00 -0500 214 2 28 full false Jesus Calms the Storm Jesus Calms the Storm Jesus and his disciples had had a long day. Jesus healed so many people! Now, he needed to rest. He told his disciples they were going to the other side of the lake. When he got into the boat, he fell asleep. His disciples were wide awake! A violent storm came up, with wind and waves. They were afraid the boat would sink, so they woke Jesus up. What did Jesus do?

]]> Jesus and his disciples had had a long day. Jesus healed so many people! Now, he needed to rest. He told his disciples they were going to the other side of the lake. When he got into the boat, he fell asleep. His disciples were wide awake! A violent storm came up, with wind and waves. They were afraid the boat would sink, so they woke Jesus up. What did Jesus do?

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16550358 Tue, 21 Jan 2025 16:00:00 -0500 274 2 27 full false The Farmer The Farmer Jesus explained things to people by comparing it to something they already knew. They already knew what happens when a farmer goes out and sows the seed. Some falls on paths, some on rocks, some among weeds, and some on good ground. But what kind of seed is Jesus talking about. The seed is the word that comes from God. If the word grows, it makes God's kingdom come to life!  Can you be a place where God's word grows? 

]]> Jesus explained things to people by comparing it to something they already knew. They already knew what happens when a farmer goes out and sows the seed. Some falls on paths, some on rocks, some among weeds, and some on good ground. But what kind of seed is Jesus talking about. The seed is the word that comes from God. If the word grows, it makes God's kingdom come to life!  Can you be a place where God's word grows? 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16534512 Mon, 20 Jan 2025 14:00:00 -0500 278 2 26 full false The Centurion's Servant The Centurion's Servant The Roman army was occupying the land of Israel during the time of Jesus. One of the commanders believed that Jesus could heal his servant. His servant was very sick, paralyzed and close to death. He sent messengers asking Jesus to come to his house. But when Jesus got closer, the centurion sent another message, telling Jesus that he wasn't worthy for Jesus to come. But if Jesus would just say the word, his servant would be healed. How did the centurion know that all Jesus had to do was say it?

]]> The Roman army was occupying the land of Israel during the time of Jesus. One of the commanders believed that Jesus could heal his servant. His servant was very sick, paralyzed and close to death. He sent messengers asking Jesus to come to his house. But when Jesus got closer, the centurion sent another message, telling Jesus that he wasn't worthy for Jesus to come. But if Jesus would just say the word, his servant would be healed. How did the centurion know that all Jesus had to do was say it?

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16529395 Fri, 17 Jan 2025 17:00:00 -0500 222 2 25 full false Healing the Withered Hand Healing the Withered Hand According to the Jewish rules, nobody was allowed to do work on the Sabbath. There was no buying and selling.  The Sabbath was the day of the week that was holy. You could go to the synagogue and read the Bible. You could teach, but no working! Jesus taught at the synagogue and noticed a man there with a withered hand. What would the Pharisees say if Jesus asked them, "Is it okay to heal this man's hand?"  

]]> According to the Jewish rules, nobody was allowed to do work on the Sabbath. There was no buying and selling.  The Sabbath was the day of the week that was holy. You could go to the synagogue and read the Bible. You could teach, but no working! Jesus taught at the synagogue and noticed a man there with a withered hand. What would the Pharisees say if Jesus asked them, "Is it okay to heal this man's hand?"  

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16528986 Thu, 16 Jan 2025 16:00:00 -0500 277 2 24 full false Pharisee and the Tax Collector Pharisee and the Tax Collector Jesus told the story about two men who prayed to God. One of them thought he was a really good man. He was good at keeping the rules. He was a Pharisee. The other man was a cheater. He had a lot of sins. He was a tax collector. The way they prayed was very different. Which one would be forgiven? You might be surprised!

]]> Jesus told the story about two men who prayed to God. One of them thought he was a really good man. He was good at keeping the rules. He was a Pharisee. The other man was a cheater. He had a lot of sins. He was a tax collector. The way they prayed was very different. Which one would be forgiven? You might be surprised!

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16528726 Wed, 15 Jan 2025 15:00:00 -0500 186 2 23 full false Heals the Paralytic Heals the Paralytic The story of the paralyzed man getting healed is recorded in Matthew, Mark and Luke. His friends make a hole in the roof, and lower him down so he is right in front of Jesus. Jesus tells him to cheer up - his sins are forgiven. Then he shows it's really true, by giving him the command to stand up. Are his sins forgiven? Can he stand up and walk?

]]> The story of the paralyzed man getting healed is recorded in Matthew, Mark and Luke. His friends make a hole in the roof, and lower him down so he is right in front of Jesus. Jesus tells him to cheer up - his sins are forgiven. Then he shows it's really true, by giving him the command to stand up. Are his sins forgiven? Can he stand up and walk?

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16498803 Tue, 14 Jan 2025 16:00:00 -0500 275 2 22 full false Healing the Leper Healing the Leper In Mark chapter 1, a leper approaches Jesus. He believes that Jesus has the power to heal him, but will he? He gets down on his knees and begs. No one is allowed to touch people with leprosy. What will Jesus do?

]]> In Mark chapter 1, a leper approaches Jesus. He believes that Jesus has the power to heal him, but will he? He gets down on his knees and begs. No one is allowed to touch people with leprosy. What will Jesus do?

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16523421 Mon, 13 Jan 2025 16:00:00 -0500 244 2 21 full false The Kingdom Comes Near The Kingdom Comes Near When Jesus went to Simon's house, he found his mother-in-law sick in bed. She had a fever! When Jesus took her hand, the fever left her and she got right up! That evening people brought the sick and those oppressed by unclean spirits up to Simon's door. Jesus healed a lot of people from their diseases and told the unclean spirits to get out. When God's kingdom comes near, people get well. 

]]> When Jesus went to Simon's house, he found his mother-in-law sick in bed. She had a fever! When Jesus took her hand, the fever left her and she got right up! That evening people brought the sick and those oppressed by unclean spirits up to Simon's door. Jesus healed a lot of people from their diseases and told the unclean spirits to get out. When God's kingdom comes near, people get well. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16471004 Fri, 10 Jan 2025 16:00:00 -0500 218 2 20 full false The Unclean Spirit The Unclean Spirit When Jesus taught in a synagogue, one of the men shouted out to him, asking him "Are you going to destroy the evil spirits?" Jesus didn't want the evil spirit to talk! He told the unclean spirit to be quiet and get out of that man.  Everyone was amazed when the man was violently shaken, and the spirit came out of him screaming! Nobody they knew could command unclean spirits. This was something new. Jesus had authority. 

]]> When Jesus taught in a synagogue, one of the men shouted out to him, asking him "Are you going to destroy the evil spirits?" Jesus didn't want the evil spirit to talk! He told the unclean spirit to be quiet and get out of that man.  Everyone was amazed when the man was violently shaken, and the spirit came out of him screaming! Nobody they knew could command unclean spirits. This was something new. Jesus had authority. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16470958 Thu, 09 Jan 2025 16:00:00 -0500 250 2 19 full false Fishing for People Fishing for People Jesus taught people by the shore of the lake. It was so crowded, he got into Simon's boat. After he taught, Simon and his friends went fishing because Jesus told them to. What a surprise! It wasn't the right time of day to fish, but the fish were practically throwing themselves into the boat! Simon was afraid. He knew he was not a good man. But Jesus reassured him. He was going to help Jesus go fishing for people! 

]]> Jesus taught people by the shore of the lake. It was so crowded, he got into Simon's boat. After he taught, Simon and his friends went fishing because Jesus told them to. What a surprise! It wasn't the right time of day to fish, but the fish were practically throwing themselves into the boat! Simon was afraid. He knew he was not a good man. But Jesus reassured him. He was going to help Jesus go fishing for people! 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16470912 Wed, 08 Jan 2025 17:00:00 -0500 298 2 18 full false Water into Wine Water into Wine In John chapter 2, Jesus and his disciples are invited to a wedding. They are celebrating by feasting and drinking wine. Then, Mary gets the message - they are out of wine. She tells Jesus. Jesus tells some helpers to fill up the ceremonial jars with water. When they are full, he tells them to take a little bit to the man in charge of the drinks. The man is excited! This wine is even better than the wine they started with. Usually they serve the good wine first, and then serve something that doesn't taste as good. But this wine is the best! 

]]> In John chapter 2, Jesus and his disciples are invited to a wedding. They are celebrating by feasting and drinking wine. Then, Mary gets the message - they are out of wine. She tells Jesus. Jesus tells some helpers to fill up the ceremonial jars with water. When they are full, he tells them to take a little bit to the man in charge of the drinks. The man is excited! This wine is even better than the wine they started with. Usually they serve the good wine first, and then serve something that doesn't taste as good. But this wine is the best! 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16458417 Tue, 07 Jan 2025 16:00:00 -0500 227 2 17 full false The Disciples Find Jesus The Disciples Find Jesus John the Baptist saw Jesus walking by, and told a few of his followers - there goes the One God has chosen to be the Savior, the Lamb of God! How can Jesus save us? He has something that we need - he has perfect blood - it has no sin! And he doesn't keep it for himself, he is willing to share it! In this story, four men start to follow him, and he becomes their teacher. 

]]> John the Baptist saw Jesus walking by, and told a few of his followers - there goes the One God has chosen to be the Savior, the Lamb of God! How can Jesus save us? He has something that we need - he has perfect blood - it has no sin! And he doesn't keep it for himself, he is willing to share it! In this story, four men start to follow him, and he becomes their teacher. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16458376 Mon, 06 Jan 2025 16:00:00 -0500 303 2 16 full false Jesus Reads Isaiah 61 Jesus Reads Isaiah 61 From Mark chapter 6. Full of the Holy Spirit, Jesus knew it was time to do what his father asked. He went to the synagogue in Nazareth and read Isaiah 61, where the Messiah announces what his mission is. But this was his hometown, and the people didn't believe Jesus was the Messiah! They were furious and wanted to throw him over a cliff. 

]]> From Mark chapter 6. Full of the Holy Spirit, Jesus knew it was time to do what his father asked. He went to the synagogue in Nazareth and read Isaiah 61, where the Messiah announces what his mission is. But this was his hometown, and the people didn't believe Jesus was the Messiah! They were furious and wanted to throw him over a cliff. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16410621 Fri, 03 Jan 2025 16:00:00 -0500 227 2 15 full false Satan Tempts Jesus Satan Tempts Jesus John said that Jesus is the Lamb of God. If Jesus was a perfect lamb, he could take away the sin of the world! But if Satan could get Jesus to sin, he wouldn't be perfect anymore. Satan tried three times to get Jesus to disobey God. Is Jesus willing to do what Satan says?

]]> John said that Jesus is the Lamb of God. If Jesus was a perfect lamb, he could take away the sin of the world! But if Satan could get Jesus to sin, he wouldn't be perfect anymore. Satan tried three times to get Jesus to disobey God. Is Jesus willing to do what Satan says?

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16398549 Thu, 02 Jan 2025 16:00:00 -0500 233 2 14 full false Jesus is Baptized Jesus is Baptized When he was about thirty years old, Jesus went to John to be baptized. When Jesus came up out of the water, John saw something special happen. The Holy Spirit came down from heaven like a dove, and stayed on Jesus. That's how John knew that Jesus was the chosen king. Jesus had arrived to begin God's kingdom, and take away the sin of the world.

]]> When he was about thirty years old, Jesus went to John to be baptized. When Jesus came up out of the water, John saw something special happen. The Holy Spirit came down from heaven like a dove, and stayed on Jesus. That's how John knew that Jesus was the chosen king. Jesus had arrived to begin God's kingdom, and take away the sin of the world.

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16398361 Wed, 01 Jan 2025 16:00:00 -0500 283 2 13 full false Jesus Stays Behind Jesus Stays Behind When he is about twelve, Jesus travels with his relatives to Jerusalem for the Passover celebration. After the feast, the family begins the journey back to Nazareth.  After a day's travel, Mary and Joseph realize that Jesus is not with the other children! They turn back to look for him. After three days, they find him in the temple, studying with the teachers there. What was Jesus thinking? Didn't he know that his parents would be looking all over for him?

]]> When he is about twelve, Jesus travels with his relatives to Jerusalem for the Passover celebration. After the feast, the family begins the journey back to Nazareth.  After a day's travel, Mary and Joseph realize that Jesus is not with the other children! They turn back to look for him. After three days, they find him in the temple, studying with the teachers there. What was Jesus thinking? Didn't he know that his parents would be looking all over for him?

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16386703 Tue, 31 Dec 2024 16:00:00 -0500 256 2 12 full false Jesus is Dedicated Jesus is Dedicated When Jesus was eight days old, his parents brought him to the temple to dedicate him to the Lord and to offer the sacrifice, because he was the firstborn son.  While they were there, Simeon took Jesus into his arms. Simeon had been told that he would not die until he had seen the Lord's Christ. Now, the Holy Spirit showed Simeon that this was the one. Simeon told Mary and Joseph that Jesus would make history. Also, Anna, a woman who had been praying and fasting in the temple night and day for many years, told Mary and Joseph that their baby would be the Savior. Mary had a lot to think about! 

]]> When Jesus was eight days old, his parents brought him to the temple to dedicate him to the Lord and to offer the sacrifice, because he was the firstborn son.  While they were there, Simeon took Jesus into his arms. Simeon had been told that he would not die until he had seen the Lord's Christ. Now, the Holy Spirit showed Simeon that this was the one. Simeon told Mary and Joseph that Jesus would make history. Also, Anna, a woman who had been praying and fasting in the temple night and day for many years, told Mary and Joseph that their baby would be the Savior. Mary had a lot to think about! 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16386507 Mon, 30 Dec 2024 16:00:00 -0500 233 2 11 full false Herod Sends Soldiers Herod Sends Soldiers When King Herod realized the wise men were not coming back, he sent soldiers to Bethlehem to kill all the male children two years old and younger. Thank God, Joseph was warned in a dream, and he escaped with Mary and Jesus to Egypt. When Herol was dead, Joseph got a message that it was safe to return. 

]]> When King Herod realized the wise men were not coming back, he sent soldiers to Bethlehem to kill all the male children two years old and younger. Thank God, Joseph was warned in a dream, and he escaped with Mary and Jesus to Egypt. When Herol was dead, Joseph got a message that it was safe to return. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16382267 Fri, 27 Dec 2024 16:00:00 -0500 215 2 10 full false The Wise Men The Wise Men In the book of Matthew chapter 2, we hear about the wise men who came looking for the baby Jesus. They had been studying the stars and the stars had led them to Jerusalem. They asked, "Where is he? Where is he who is born King of the Jews?" The Bible scholars told King Herod that the birthplace was Bethlehem, so he sent the wise men to look for him there. When they found him, they gave him precious treasures. But they were warned in a dream not to go back to Herod. 

]]> In the book of Matthew chapter 2, we hear about the wise men who came looking for the baby Jesus. They had been studying the stars and the stars had led them to Jerusalem. They asked, "Where is he? Where is he who is born King of the Jews?" The Bible scholars told King Herod that the birthplace was Bethlehem, so he sent the wise men to look for him there. When they found him, they gave him precious treasures. But they were warned in a dream not to go back to Herod. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16382215 Thu, 26 Dec 2024 16:00:00 -0500 261 2 9 full false Shepherds in the Field Shepherds in the Field In Luke 2, we read how the angel came and announced the birth of Jesus to the shepherds who were near Bethlehem. They hurried to find the baby. When they found him, they told Mary and Joseph what the angels had said about Jesus. The shepherds were amazed. What the angels said happened! 

]]> In Luke 2, we read how the angel came and announced the birth of Jesus to the shepherds who were near Bethlehem. They hurried to find the baby. When they found him, they told Mary and Joseph what the angels had said about Jesus. The shepherds were amazed. What the angels said happened! 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16366116 Wed, 25 Dec 2024 16:00:00 -0500 216 2 8 full false Twas the Very First Christmas Twas the Very First Christmas A poem for Christmas Eve written by Deep and Wide podcaster, Joy Thomas

]]> A poem for Christmas Eve written by Deep and Wide podcaster, Joy Thomas

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16344929 Tue, 24 Dec 2024 16:00:00 -0500 92 2 7 full false Jesus is Born Jesus is Born In Luke chapter 2, we hear the story of how Mary and Joseph traveled to Bethlehem. There was no room available, but they found shelter in a stable. Mary gave birth to Jesus there. She swaddled him up, and laid him in a manger. 

]]> In Luke chapter 2, we hear the story of how Mary and Joseph traveled to Bethlehem. There was no room available, but they found shelter in a stable. Mary gave birth to Jesus there. She swaddled him up, and laid him in a manger. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16348235 Mon, 23 Dec 2024 16:00:00 -0500 254 2 6 full false The New Promise The New Promise People aren't very good at keeping rules. If they think they have to keep rules to be close to God, they might even give up trying. God made new promises to his people. He promised he would give them a new heart, a new spirit. And he would forgive all their sins. He promised a king, one born in Bethlehem that would lead his people like a good shepherd into a new kingdom. 

]]> People aren't very good at keeping rules. If they think they have to keep rules to be close to God, they might even give up trying. God made new promises to his people. He promised he would give them a new heart, a new spirit. And he would forgive all their sins. He promised a king, one born in Bethlehem that would lead his people like a good shepherd into a new kingdom. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16323535 Fri, 20 Dec 2024 16:00:00 -0500 210 2 5 full false Baby John is Born Baby John is Born When Elizabeth had her baby, people asked her what his name would be. She answered that his name would be John, even though no one else in her family had that name. So, they asked Zechariah, because he might want the baby named after him. He wrote on a tablet that the baby's name was John! And that's when he was able to talk again. He knew this was no ordinary baby. He spoke through the power of the Holy Spirit, and said that John was going to prepare the way for the Savior to come. 

]]> When Elizabeth had her baby, people asked her what his name would be. She answered that his name would be John, even though no one else in her family had that name. So, they asked Zechariah, because he might want the baby named after him. He wrote on a tablet that the baby's name was John! And that's when he was able to talk again. He knew this was no ordinary baby. He spoke through the power of the Holy Spirit, and said that John was going to prepare the way for the Savior to come. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16321000 Thu, 19 Dec 2024 17:00:00 -0500 281 2 4 full false Mary Visits Elizabeth Mary Visits Elizabeth When Mary heard that Elizabeth was going to have a baby, she hurried to their little village for a visit. Elizabeth's baby was growing inside her. He was already full of the Holy Spirit! When he heard Mary's voice, he jumped for joy. Mary was so inspired, she spoke what sounded like a song, saying how wonderful God is. She knew that she was going to be famous. Even today, we remember who she is. 

]]> When Mary heard that Elizabeth was going to have a baby, she hurried to their little village for a visit. Elizabeth's baby was growing inside her. He was already full of the Holy Spirit! When he heard Mary's voice, he jumped for joy. Mary was so inspired, she spoke what sounded like a song, saying how wonderful God is. She knew that she was going to be famous. Even today, we remember who she is. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16317082 Wed, 18 Dec 2024 16:00:00 -0500 271 2 3 full false An Angel Visits Mary An Angel Visits Mary In Luke chapter 1, an angel goes to visit Mary. He tells her she will be a mother, and the baby will be named Jesus. Mary asks how that will happen, because there is no father. The angel tells her, that the Holy Spirit will plant the baby inside her, so that Jesus will be called the Son of God. Mary is happy to do what God wants. But what will Joseph say? She is going to marry Joseph soon. Will Joseph want the baby if he is not the father?

]]> In Luke chapter 1, an angel goes to visit Mary. He tells her she will be a mother, and the baby will be named Jesus. Mary asks how that will happen, because there is no father. The angel tells her, that the Holy Spirit will plant the baby inside her, so that Jesus will be called the Son of God. Mary is happy to do what God wants. But what will Joseph say? She is going to marry Joseph soon. Will Joseph want the baby if he is not the father?

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16301561 Tue, 17 Dec 2024 16:00:00 -0500 271 2 2 full false Zachariah Sees an Angel Zachariah Sees an Angel In the days before Jesus was born, a priest named Zachariah was serving in the temple. An angel of the Lord appeared to him! He told him that Zachariah and Elizabeth were going to have a baby boy. God had special plans for this child. When Zachariah couldn't believe it, the angel, Gabriel, made it so Zachariah wouldn't be able to speak. But Elizabeth could speak, and she knew that God had done a miracle for her. 

]]> In the days before Jesus was born, a priest named Zachariah was serving in the temple. An angel of the Lord appeared to him! He told him that Zachariah and Elizabeth were going to have a baby boy. God had special plans for this child. When Zachariah couldn't believe it, the angel, Gabriel, made it so Zachariah wouldn't be able to speak. But Elizabeth could speak, and she knew that God had done a miracle for her. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16316817 Mon, 16 Dec 2024 16:00:00 -0500 239 2 1 full false Esther's Request is Granted Esther's Request is Granted King Xerxes wanted to honor Mordecai for saving his life. Haman had to put a royal robe on him, put him on the king's horse and lead him around Suza, calling out that Mordecai was being celebrated! Now Haman is worried. What if the king finds out Haman's evil plan? His friends and his wife tell him he is doomed. At the banquet, Queen Esther asks the king to save her life, and the life of her people! Her enemy is right here - Haman! The king is angry and goes outside to calm down. But when he comes back, things look even worse! The king tells Esther that he will save her. But Haman is going to have to pay. 

]]> King Xerxes wanted to honor Mordecai for saving his life. Haman had to put a royal robe on him, put him on the king's horse and lead him around Suza, calling out that Mordecai was being celebrated! Now Haman is worried. What if the king finds out Haman's evil plan? His friends and his wife tell him he is doomed. At the banquet, Queen Esther asks the king to save her life, and the life of her people! Her enemy is right here - Haman! The king is angry and goes outside to calm down. But when he comes back, things look even worse! The king tells Esther that he will save her. But Haman is going to have to pay. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16291261 Fri, 13 Dec 2024 16:00:00 -0500 276 1 100 full false The King Remembers Mordecai The King Remembers Mordecai Haman was pretty happy. He felt special because the Queen invited only him and the king to a private banquet. He bragged about how great he was, and how much money he had and how many children he had. But Mordecai was still bothering him. His wife and friends suggested that he hang Mordecai up on a high pole. The next day Haman entered the court. He was about to ask the king permission to hang Mordecai. But the king had a different plan. Oh no! Is Haman in trouble?

]]> Haman was pretty happy. He felt special because the Queen invited only him and the king to a private banquet. He bragged about how great he was, and how much money he had and how many children he had. But Mordecai was still bothering him. His wife and friends suggested that he hang Mordecai up on a high pole. The next day Haman entered the court. He was about to ask the king permission to hang Mordecai. But the king had a different plan. Oh no! Is Haman in trouble?

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16279974 Thu, 12 Dec 2024 16:00:00 -0500 250 1 99 full false Esther Risks Her Life Esther Risks Her Life Mordecai is devastated when he hears about the king's edict ordering a date of execution for all the Jews in Babylon. He gets a message to Queen Esther to beg the king to change his mind. The problem is, if Esther goes to see the king uninvited, she may be put to death. Will the king be glad to see her? Will he listen to her request?

]]> Mordecai is devastated when he hears about the king's edict ordering a date of execution for all the Jews in Babylon. He gets a message to Queen Esther to beg the king to change his mind. The problem is, if Esther goes to see the king uninvited, she may be put to death. Will the king be glad to see her? Will he listen to her request?

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16274930 Wed, 11 Dec 2024 16:00:00 -0500 293 1 98 full false Haman Wants to Kill the Jews Haman Wants to Kill the Jews Haman was furious when Mordecai, a Jew, refused to bow down to him. Haman's family hated Jews. He told the king that all the Jews should be annihilated from King Xerxes kingdom because they didn't obey all the king's laws. The king told him to go ahead and issue the decree. What will happen to Mordecai, and Queen Esther?

]]> Haman was furious when Mordecai, a Jew, refused to bow down to him. Haman's family hated Jews. He told the king that all the Jews should be annihilated from King Xerxes kingdom because they didn't obey all the king's laws. The king told him to go ahead and issue the decree. What will happen to Mordecai, and Queen Esther?

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16268061 Tue, 10 Dec 2024 16:00:00 -0500 299 1 97 full false Esther Meets the King Esther Meets the King In the book of Esther, King Xerxes needs to find a new queen. From all over the kingdom, young women are chosen to meet him. They undergo beauty treatments for a year, and then have one night with the king. Who will he pick for his next queen?

]]> In the book of Esther, King Xerxes needs to find a new queen. From all over the kingdom, young women are chosen to meet him. They undergo beauty treatments for a year, and then have one night with the king. Who will he pick for his next queen?

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16264258 Mon, 09 Dec 2024 18:00:00 -0500 298 1 96 full false Queen Vashti Says No Queen Vashti Says No The king of Persia, King Xerxes, gave a long-running party for his friends and officials. At the end of the party, when everyone had drunk lots of wine, he requested Queen Vashti to come. He wanted his guests to see her in her royal crown, and admire how beautiful she was. But she said no to the king. What will the king do now? What if all the women decided it was okay to say no to their husbands?

]]> The king of Persia, King Xerxes, gave a long-running party for his friends and officials. At the end of the party, when everyone had drunk lots of wine, he requested Queen Vashti to come. He wanted his guests to see her in her royal crown, and admire how beautiful she was. But she said no to the king. What will the king do now? What if all the women decided it was okay to say no to their husbands?

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16234960 Fri, 06 Dec 2024 16:00:00 -0500 248 1 95 full false Elijah on Mt Carmel Elijah on Mt Carmel Elijah invites the prophets of Baal to have a contest on Mt. Carmel. He challenges their god to accept their offering by fire! If Baal accepts the offering, fine. Then the people of Israel will continue to serve Baal. But if the god of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob answers by fire, then their hearts will turn back to him. Who will win?

]]> Elijah invites the prophets of Baal to have a contest on Mt. Carmel. He challenges their god to accept their offering by fire! If Baal accepts the offering, fine. Then the people of Israel will continue to serve Baal. But if the god of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob answers by fire, then their hearts will turn back to him. Who will win?

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16207306 Tue, 19 Nov 2024 16:00:00 -0500 275 1 82 full false Elijah and the Widow Elijah and the Widow Many years after Solomon, King Ahab was king of Israel. He was a bad king. He started worshiping a different god. The prophet Elijah told King Ahab that there would not be any rain until God said so. Then Elijah went far away! God planned for a widow who was running out of food to feed Elijah. Will there be enough for Elijah?

]]> Many years after Solomon, King Ahab was king of Israel. He was a bad king. He started worshiping a different god. The prophet Elijah told King Ahab that there would not be any rain until God said so. Then Elijah went far away! God planned for a widow who was running out of food to feed Elijah. Will there be enough for Elijah?

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16207299 Mon, 18 Nov 2024 16:00:00 -0500 231 1 81 full false Kingdom Split Kingdom Split Solomon's son Rehoboam was faced with a problem. The 10 tribes in the north, led by Jeroboam, wanted to give the king less money, fewer goods and fewer people. Should King Rehoboam (Ray) accept less from them? He asked his advisors what he should answer, and got two different opinions. But what does God want?

]]> Solomon's son Rehoboam was faced with a problem. The 10 tribes in the north, led by Jeroboam, wanted to give the king less money, fewer goods and fewer people. Should King Rehoboam (Ray) accept less from them? He asked his advisors what he should answer, and got two different opinions. But what does God want?

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16207199 Fri, 15 Nov 2024 16:00:00 -0500 259 1 80 full false Solomon's Temple Solomon's Temple King Solomon, David's son, had the job of building a temple for God. It was a place where animal sacrifices were made. In the back of the temple was The Most Holy Place where the ark of the covenant was installed. When the temple was finished, the singers raised their voices along with the worship insruments. The glory of the Lord filled the temple like a cloud, and the cloud was so heavy, the priests could not even stand up. 

]]> King Solomon, David's son, had the job of building a temple for God. It was a place where animal sacrifices were made. In the back of the temple was The Most Holy Place where the ark of the covenant was installed. When the temple was finished, the singers raised their voices along with the worship insruments. The glory of the Lord filled the temple like a cloud, and the cloud was so heavy, the priests could not even stand up. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16207135 Thu, 14 Nov 2024 16:00:00 -0500 273 1 79 full false Wisdom of Solomon Wisdom of Solomon Solomon sits on his throne to judge who is telling the truth. Here are two women who are claiming that they are both the mother of this baby.  One of them is lying. How will Solomon know? Did God really give him wisdom? What Solomon says shocks everyone! 

]]> Solomon sits on his throne to judge who is telling the truth. Here are two women who are claiming that they are both the mother of this baby.  One of them is lying. How will Solomon know? Did God really give him wisdom? What Solomon says shocks everyone! 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16193934 Wed, 13 Nov 2024 16:00:00 -0500 197 1 78 full false God Answers Solomon God Answers Solomon David's heart was full of songs. He sang to God! God saw David's heart. He promised David that one of his sons would always be a king. After David, his son Solomon became king. He prayed, and asked God to give him wisdom. God gave him more than what he asked for. 

]]> David's heart was full of songs. He sang to God! God saw David's heart. He promised David that one of his sons would always be a king. After David, his son Solomon became king. He prayed, and asked God to give him wisdom. God gave him more than what he asked for. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16193930 Tue, 12 Nov 2024 16:00:00 -0500 262 1 77 full false David and Bethsheba David and Bethsheba David was the king now in Israel, and was enjoying the view from his palace. He looked down and saw a woman on her roof, taking a bath! He wanted this woman to be his girlfriend, and invited her to come to the palace for a date. She was already married! But she and David had a date anyway. Some time later, she realized she was pregnant, and the baby was David's baby, not her husband. Oh no! What will David do to keep his mistake a secret? 

]]> David was the king now in Israel, and was enjoying the view from his palace. He looked down and saw a woman on her roof, taking a bath! He wanted this woman to be his girlfriend, and invited her to come to the palace for a date. She was already married! But she and David had a date anyway. Some time later, she realized she was pregnant, and the baby was David's baby, not her husband. Oh no! What will David do to keep his mistake a secret? 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16193921 Mon, 11 Nov 2024 17:00:00 -0500 291 1 76 full false David Danced David Danced David wanted to bring the ark of the covenant to Jerusalem. On the way, the oxen stumbled, and one of the helpers was killed. But David took courage and after three months, he tried again. What a celebration! David danced with all his might! Michal thought that David looked silly. But what did God see?

]]> David wanted to bring the ark of the covenant to Jerusalem. On the way, the oxen stumbled, and one of the helpers was killed. But David took courage and after three months, he tried again. What a celebration! David danced with all his might! Michal thought that David looked silly. But what did God see?

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16198528 Fri, 08 Nov 2024 16:00:00 -0500 267 1 75 full false David is Not Saul's Enemy David is Not Saul's Enemy David is hiding from Saul in a rocky place, full of caves. When Saul and his men come after David, David is hiding in the back of a cave. What are the chances that Saul would choose that cave to use for a bathroom? David creeps up quietly and cuts off a piece of Saul's robe. Even though his men have urged him to kill Saul, he can't do it. When Saul leaves the cave, David goes out too, and calls out to Saul. He shows Saul the piece of his robe. Would an enemy have let such an opportunity go by? 

]]> David is hiding from Saul in a rocky place, full of caves. When Saul and his men come after David, David is hiding in the back of a cave. What are the chances that Saul would choose that cave to use for a bathroom? David creeps up quietly and cuts off a piece of Saul's robe. Even though his men have urged him to kill Saul, he can't do it. When Saul leaves the cave, David goes out too, and calls out to Saul. He shows Saul the piece of his robe. Would an enemy have let such an opportunity go by? 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16074984 Thu, 07 Nov 2024 17:00:00 -0500 293 1 74 full false Saul Tries to Kill David Saul Tries to Kill David Saul was jealous of how much other people loved David.  Even his own son Jonathan made a promise to be David's forever friend. Saul secretly wanted David to die. He sent him out to kill 100 Philistines, and promised David he could marry his daughter Michal if he did it. Instead of getting killed, David fulfilled the quest, and married Michal. Saul sent his men to watch David's house and kill him when he came out. How will David escape?

]]> Saul was jealous of how much other people loved David.  Even his own son Jonathan made a promise to be David's forever friend. Saul secretly wanted David to die. He sent him out to kill 100 Philistines, and promised David he could marry his daughter Michal if he did it. Instead of getting killed, David fulfilled the quest, and married Michal. Saul sent his men to watch David's house and kill him when he came out. How will David escape?

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16074939 Wed, 06 Nov 2024 16:00:00 -0500 285 1 73 full false David and Goliath David and Goliath When the Philistines come to attack King Saul's army, they send a representative from their side to offer the Israelites a deal. Not everyone has to fight! If someone defeats Goliath, their giant soldier, then the Philistines will become their servants. If Goliath wins, then Israel will serve them.  David arrives on the scene with food for his brothers. Although he is not yet an adult, he offers to fight Goliath. Isn't there somebody else who can do it?

]]> When the Philistines come to attack King Saul's army, they send a representative from their side to offer the Israelites a deal. Not everyone has to fight! If someone defeats Goliath, their giant soldier, then the Philistines will become their servants. If Goliath wins, then Israel will serve them.  David arrives on the scene with food for his brothers. Although he is not yet an adult, he offers to fight Goliath. Isn't there somebody else who can do it?

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16074850 Tue, 05 Nov 2024 17:00:00 -0500 290 1 72 full false Samuel Anoints David Samuel Anoints David Samuel was sad that King Saul had disobeyed God so flagrantly. King Saul was on his way out. But God told Samuel to go to Bethlehem where he could anoint the new king. Samuel met seven of Jesse's sons, and the Lord told him each time - "No - not this one." God doesn't look at the outer appearance, but he looks at the heart. Samuel said to Jesse, "Do you have any more sons?" The youngest one was out in the field with the sheep!

]]> Samuel was sad that King Saul had disobeyed God so flagrantly. King Saul was on his way out. But God told Samuel to go to Bethlehem where he could anoint the new king. Samuel met seven of Jesse's sons, and the Lord told him each time - "No - not this one." God doesn't look at the outer appearance, but he looks at the heart. Samuel said to Jesse, "Do you have any more sons?" The youngest one was out in the field with the sheep!

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16074824 Mon, 04 Nov 2024 16:00:00 -0500 265 1 71 full false Jonathan is a Hero Jonathan is a Hero King Saul's son was excited about fighting the Philistines. He and his armor bearer went up the side of a hill to challenge their fort. Jonathan had a plan. If the Philistines said, "Come on up!" then that would be a sign from God that God would deliver the Philistines into Israel's hand. Sure enough Jonathan and his helper were invited to approach, and they killed 20 enemy soldiers. God's power helped shake things up, and Israel won the battle. But Saul had issued a command not to eat anything, and Jonathan had eaten a little bit of honey. Would Jonathan have to die for his disobedience? 

]]> King Saul's son was excited about fighting the Philistines. He and his armor bearer went up the side of a hill to challenge their fort. Jonathan had a plan. If the Philistines said, "Come on up!" then that would be a sign from God that God would deliver the Philistines into Israel's hand. Sure enough Jonathan and his helper were invited to approach, and they killed 20 enemy soldiers. God's power helped shake things up, and Israel won the battle. But Saul had issued a command not to eat anything, and Jonathan had eaten a little bit of honey. Would Jonathan have to die for his disobedience? 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-16010910 Fri, 25 Oct 2024 10:00:00 -0400 302 1 70 full false Saul Makes a Mistake Saul Makes a Mistake Samuel warns the people that asking for a human king is a mistake. God sends rain and thunder to show them they should listen to Samuel. Everyone needs to respect what God says, even King Saul. If they don't do what God says there will be trouble. Saul has an army of 2,000 men. His son Jonathan battles the Philistines with 1,000 men. When the Philistines hear about it, they get ready to fight with over 26,000 warriors! Saul is waiting in Gilgal for Samuel to come and offer the burnt offering, but the people are getting scared and leaving Saul! Saul makes excuses to himself, and goes ahead with the burnt offering without Samuel. What will Samuel say when he comes?

]]> Samuel warns the people that asking for a human king is a mistake. God sends rain and thunder to show them they should listen to Samuel. Everyone needs to respect what God says, even King Saul. If they don't do what God says there will be trouble. Saul has an army of 2,000 men. His son Jonathan battles the Philistines with 1,000 men. When the Philistines hear about it, they get ready to fight with over 26,000 warriors! Saul is waiting in Gilgal for Samuel to come and offer the burnt offering, but the people are getting scared and leaving Saul! Saul makes excuses to himself, and goes ahead with the burnt offering without Samuel. What will Samuel say when he comes?

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15986363 Thu, 24 Oct 2024 15:00:00 -0400 295 1 69 full false Saul is Made King Saul is Made King The people of Israel told Samuel they wanted to have a king like the nations that lived around them. Samuel warned them what it would be like to have a king, but they wanted one anyway. The Lord sent Saul to meet Samuel, and Samuel annointed him with oil. Then Saul ran into a group of worshipers, Saul, too, fell under the power of the Holy Spirit. God gave him a new heart.  There was no one like him, the handsomest man in Israel and the tallest. The people shouted, "Long live the king!"  

]]> The people of Israel told Samuel they wanted to have a king like the nations that lived around them. Samuel warned them what it would be like to have a king, but they wanted one anyway. The Lord sent Saul to meet Samuel, and Samuel annointed him with oil. Then Saul ran into a group of worshipers, Saul, too, fell under the power of the Holy Spirit. God gave him a new heart.  There was no one like him, the handsomest man in Israel and the tallest. The people shouted, "Long live the king!"  

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15979754 Wed, 23 Oct 2024 14:00:00 -0400 297 1 68 full false Samuel Hears a Message Samuel Hears a Message Hannah brings Samuel to the temple to help Eli, the priest. When he grows older, he hears a voice calling his name. He thinks it's Eli, but Eli sends him back to bed. After the third time of asking Eli if it was him, Eli realizes that it's the Lord calling Samuel. Eli tells him to stay in bed and tell the Lord he is listening. The Lord gives Samuel a message about Eli. God tells Samuel what he's going to do. When Eli hears it, he realizes that God is right.  

]]> Hannah brings Samuel to the temple to help Eli, the priest. When he grows older, he hears a voice calling his name. He thinks it's Eli, but Eli sends him back to bed. After the third time of asking Eli if it was him, Eli realizes that it's the Lord calling Samuel. Eli tells him to stay in bed and tell the Lord he is listening. The Lord gives Samuel a message about Eli. God tells Samuel what he's going to do. When Eli hears it, he realizes that God is right.  

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15971800 Tue, 22 Oct 2024 15:00:00 -0400 269 1 67 full false God Hears Hannah's Prayer God Hears Hannah's Prayer In 1 Samuel chapeter 1, Elkanah offers a sacrifice to the Lord. He passes the meat from the sacrifice to his wife, Peninnah and her children, and to his beloved wife Hannah, who has no chidren. Hannah felt bad that she had no children, and Peninnah made her feel even worse, year after year. Elkanah tried to cheer her up and told her he loved her more than 10 sons would. Hannah ate then, and pulled herself together to go pray. She promised God that if he would give her a son, she would dedicate him to the Lord. Eli, the priest, saw her praying and thought she had been drinking. But when she explained that she had been praying, Eli put his prayer in agreement with hers. Hannah believed God had heard her. Would he answer her prayer? 

]]> In 1 Samuel chapeter 1, Elkanah offers a sacrifice to the Lord. He passes the meat from the sacrifice to his wife, Peninnah and her children, and to his beloved wife Hannah, who has no chidren. Hannah felt bad that she had no children, and Peninnah made her feel even worse, year after year. Elkanah tried to cheer her up and told her he loved her more than 10 sons would. Hannah ate then, and pulled herself together to go pray. She promised God that if he would give her a son, she would dedicate him to the Lord. Eli, the priest, saw her praying and thought she had been drinking. But when she explained that she had been praying, Eli put his prayer in agreement with hers. Hannah believed God had heard her. Would he answer her prayer? 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15964189 Mon, 21 Oct 2024 14:00:00 -0400 257 1 66 full false Boaz Marries Ruth Boaz Marries Ruth Naomi thinks of a way that Ruth can have a better life than just picking up leftover grain. If Boaz agrees to buy her land, then he will get Ruth as a wife, too.  Ruth washes up, puts on perfume, and wears her best clothes. Naomi sends Ruth to surprise Boaz in the middle of the night. He is surprised! 

]]> Naomi thinks of a way that Ruth can have a better life than just picking up leftover grain. If Boaz agrees to buy her land, then he will get Ruth as a wife, too.  Ruth washes up, puts on perfume, and wears her best clothes. Naomi sends Ruth to surprise Boaz in the middle of the night. He is surprised! 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15949036 Fri, 18 Oct 2024 11:00:00 -0400 268 1 65 full false Ruth Meets Boaz Ruth Meets Boaz When Naomi and Ruth get back to Bethlehem, the barley harvest has just begun. Ruth offers to pick up the leftover barley in the field, so she and Naomi will have something to eat. The field belongs to Boaz. When he sees Ruth, he is kind to her. He gives her some lunch, and tells her to stay in his field, so she can be safe and comfortable.  She shares the good news with Naomi, who is glad to know Ruth has met a man who is a close relative. Naomi wants a happy ending for Ruth. What is Naomi's secret plan? 

]]> When Naomi and Ruth get back to Bethlehem, the barley harvest has just begun. Ruth offers to pick up the leftover barley in the field, so she and Naomi will have something to eat. The field belongs to Boaz. When he sees Ruth, he is kind to her. He gives her some lunch, and tells her to stay in his field, so she can be safe and comfortable.  She shares the good news with Naomi, who is glad to know Ruth has met a man who is a close relative. Naomi wants a happy ending for Ruth. What is Naomi's secret plan? 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15944397 Thu, 17 Oct 2024 14:00:00 -0400 249 1 64 full false Ruth Stays with Naomi Ruth Stays with Naomi Naomi's family moves to Moab when there is a food shortage. Sadly, her husband dies. Her two sons get married in Moab, but then they die, too, leaving Naomi, and her two daughters-in-law, Orpah and Ruth. When the news comes that there's food again in Israel, Naomi and the women set off for Bethlehem. But Naomi tells Orpah and Ruth to go back to their families so they can get married again. Ruth, however, refuses to leave her. Naomi and Ruth return to Bethlehem, with Naomi feeling very bitter about what has happened.  But God sees things differently. Wait until next time to find out what God is up to!

]]> Naomi's family moves to Moab when there is a food shortage. Sadly, her husband dies. Her two sons get married in Moab, but then they die, too, leaving Naomi, and her two daughters-in-law, Orpah and Ruth. When the news comes that there's food again in Israel, Naomi and the women set off for Bethlehem. But Naomi tells Orpah and Ruth to go back to their families so they can get married again. Ruth, however, refuses to leave her. Naomi and Ruth return to Bethlehem, with Naomi feeling very bitter about what has happened.  But God sees things differently. Wait until next time to find out what God is up to!

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15938714 Wed, 16 Oct 2024 15:00:00 -0400 244 1 63 full false Samson's Death Samson's Death Finally Samson told Delilah his secret. She knew that if his hair was cut he would lose his strength. After he fell asleep, someone cut off his seven braids. He woke up, thinking he would be able to get free, but the Lord had left him. The Philistines took him prisoner. Then they had a big party in the temple of their god who they called Dagon. Samson was called out of prison, so they could laugh at him. But Samson leaned on the two central pillars of the temple. Samson asked God if he could die with the Philistines, and God granted him strength one more time. He pushed, and the whole temple came falling down, killing him, and the thousands of Philistines that were there. 

]]> Finally Samson told Delilah his secret. She knew that if his hair was cut he would lose his strength. After he fell asleep, someone cut off his seven braids. He woke up, thinking he would be able to get free, but the Lord had left him. The Philistines took him prisoner. Then they had a big party in the temple of their god who they called Dagon. Samson was called out of prison, so they could laugh at him. But Samson leaned on the two central pillars of the temple. Samson asked God if he could die with the Philistines, and God granted him strength one more time. He pushed, and the whole temple came falling down, killing him, and the thousands of Philistines that were there. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15931539 Tue, 15 Oct 2024 13:00:00 -0400 242 1 62 full false Samson and Delilah Samson and Delilah Samson gives the Philistines a lot of trouble. They want to take him prisoner! But how can they overcome his incredible strength? What is his secret? In Judges chapter 16 Samson gets a new girlfriend Delilah. She tries to get him to tell her the secret of his strength.  He resists her three times, but she is wearing him out.  Will he give in and tell her how he can be caught?

]]> Samson gives the Philistines a lot of trouble. They want to take him prisoner! But how can they overcome his incredible strength? What is his secret? In Judges chapter 16 Samson gets a new girlfriend Delilah. She tries to get him to tell her the secret of his strength.  He resists her three times, but she is wearing him out.  Will he give in and tell her how he can be caught?

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15925227 Mon, 14 Oct 2024 15:00:00 -0400 256 1 61 full false Honey from a Lion Honey from a Lion When Samson grows up, he finds a Philistine woman he wants to marry. He and his parents go to the city to make arrangements. On the way, Samson is sidetracked by a lion attack. The Spirit of God rises up within him and he kills the lion. A few weeks later, when he is on the way to the wedding celebration, Samson checks up on the dead lion and finds there is a beehive in it now! He makes up a weird  riddle about it and makes a bet with his guests that they won't be able to figure it out. They cheat, and find out the answer! What does Samson do when he gets angry?

]]> When Samson grows up, he finds a Philistine woman he wants to marry. He and his parents go to the city to make arrangements. On the way, Samson is sidetracked by a lion attack. The Spirit of God rises up within him and he kills the lion. A few weeks later, when he is on the way to the wedding celebration, Samson checks up on the dead lion and finds there is a beehive in it now! He makes up a weird  riddle about it and makes a bet with his guests that they won't be able to figure it out. They cheat, and find out the answer! What does Samson do when he gets angry?

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15918263 Fri, 11 Oct 2024 16:00:00 -0400 303 1 60 full false Samson will be Special Samson will be Special Manoah and his wife are amazed when a messenger tells them they will have a baby boy. The man tells Manoah's wife not to drink wine or strong drink and to only eat meat according to the rules. He tells her not to cut the boy's hair because he will be separated to God from his birth until his death. He will start to deliver Israel from the Philistines. The man goes up into the flame of the offering. He was an angel of the Lord! 

]]> Manoah and his wife are amazed when a messenger tells them they will have a baby boy. The man tells Manoah's wife not to drink wine or strong drink and to only eat meat according to the rules. He tells her not to cut the boy's hair because he will be separated to God from his birth until his death. He will start to deliver Israel from the Philistines. The man goes up into the flame of the offering. He was an angel of the Lord! 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15905527 Thu, 10 Oct 2024 16:00:00 -0400 269 1 59 full false With Trumpets and Jars With Trumpets and Jars God is so kind to Gideon. In Judges chapter 7, he tells Gideon that if he is still afraid to fight, he can sneak down to the enemy camp and hear what they are saying. Gideon hears the dream of the Midianite soldier - he dreamed that round loaf of barley bread came down to the camp and destroyed the whole tent. His friend told him that the dream meant Gideon was going to win! Gideon returns to the 300 Israelites with the plan of attack. They are going to sound the trumpets and break the jars. Then they will hold up torches and give a great shout! Will it be enough to win against the army of the Midianites?

]]> God is so kind to Gideon. In Judges chapter 7, he tells Gideon that if he is still afraid to fight, he can sneak down to the enemy camp and hear what they are saying. Gideon hears the dream of the Midianite soldier - he dreamed that round loaf of barley bread came down to the camp and destroyed the whole tent. His friend told him that the dream meant Gideon was going to win! Gideon returns to the 300 Israelites with the plan of attack. They are going to sound the trumpets and break the jars. Then they will hold up torches and give a great shout! Will it be enough to win against the army of the Midianites?

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15898550 Wed, 09 Oct 2024 14:00:00 -0400 219 1 58 full false Too Many Men Too Many Men Gideon is sure that God is telling him to fight. He asked God to show him a sign with the fleece, and God did just what he wanted. Both times. Now Gideon has an army of 32,000 men. But God speaks to Gideon and tells him his army is too big. God tells Gideon to send 22,000 of them home. But 10,000 men is still too many. He wants the Israelites to know that it's God's power, not their own, that saves them. He takes them down to the water and separates them into two groups. Three hundred of them lap the water out of their hands. The rest of them kneel down to drink. How can three hundred men win? The enemy has 135,000 men! 

]]> Gideon is sure that God is telling him to fight. He asked God to show him a sign with the fleece, and God did just what he wanted. Both times. Now Gideon has an army of 32,000 men. But God speaks to Gideon and tells him his army is too big. God tells Gideon to send 22,000 of them home. But 10,000 men is still too many. He wants the Israelites to know that it's God's power, not their own, that saves them. He takes them down to the water and separates them into two groups. Three hundred of them lap the water out of their hands. The rest of them kneel down to drink. How can three hundred men win? The enemy has 135,000 men! 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15891638 Tue, 08 Oct 2024 14:00:00 -0400 247 1 57 full false Gideon and the Fleece Gideon and the Fleece In Joshua chapter 6, Gideon takes action. He calls for his family to come help him fight. And he sends messengers to the tribes of Asher, Naphtali and Zebulun. Then, just to make sure he got the right message, he sets out a fleece. He asks God to make it wet with dew, and leave the ground dry. God does it. Then he makes one more request with the fleece. Is God good to Gideon? What will happen next?

]]> In Joshua chapter 6, Gideon takes action. He calls for his family to come help him fight. And he sends messengers to the tribes of Asher, Naphtali and Zebulun. Then, just to make sure he got the right message, he sets out a fleece. He asks God to make it wet with dew, and leave the ground dry. God does it. Then he makes one more request with the fleece. Is God good to Gideon? What will happen next?

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15881929 Mon, 07 Oct 2024 08:00:00 -0400 259 1 56 full false Gideon Gets an Assignment Gideon Gets an Assignment The Israelites have started worshiping the Midianite God. The God of Israel sends them a prophet to remind them who he is, but are they listening? At last, Gideon not only hears the voice of God, but he sees an angel of God. The angel of God tells him to fight the Midianites and God will be with him to do it. But it's hard for Gideon to believe. He asks the angel to wait while he prepares an offering. Then the angel proves that it really is God! 

]]> The Israelites have started worshiping the Midianite God. The God of Israel sends them a prophet to remind them who he is, but are they listening? At last, Gideon not only hears the voice of God, but he sees an angel of God. The angel of God tells him to fight the Midianites and God will be with him to do it. But it's hard for Gideon to believe. He asks the angel to wait while he prepares an offering. Then the angel proves that it really is God! 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15870082 Fri, 04 Oct 2024 14:00:00 -0400 267 1 55 full false Deborah Helps Barak Deborah Helps Barak After Joshua died, the Israelites did not love God. They disobeyed his commands and got themselves in trouble. When they cried out to the Lord, he rescued them. In Judges chapter 4, Deborah is a prophet in Israel. She tells Barak that God will free them from the oppression of Sisera, the commander of the Canaanite army. He said he will gather 10,000 men to fight, but he wants Deborah to go with him. She agrees to help, but tells him that a woman will kill Sisera, not him! How could a woman kill this great commander? 

]]> After Joshua died, the Israelites did not love God. They disobeyed his commands and got themselves in trouble. When they cried out to the Lord, he rescued them. In Judges chapter 4, Deborah is a prophet in Israel. She tells Barak that God will free them from the oppression of Sisera, the commander of the Canaanite army. He said he will gather 10,000 men to fight, but he wants Deborah to go with him. She agrees to help, but tells him that a woman will kill Sisera, not him! How could a woman kill this great commander? 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15862158 Thu, 03 Oct 2024 08:00:00 -0400 256 1 54 full false The Sun Stands Still The Sun Stands Still The Gibeonites called for help when the five neighboring kings came to attack. Joshua and his best fighting men came to fight off their enemies. Because God had given the Israelites the power, they were able to defeat the five kings. When Joshua needed more time to fight, God even  answered his prayer to make the day longer! 

]]> The Gibeonites called for help when the five neighboring kings came to attack. Joshua and his best fighting men came to fight off their enemies. Because God had given the Israelites the power, they were able to defeat the five kings. When Joshua needed more time to fight, God even  answered his prayer to make the day longer! 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15858075 Wed, 02 Oct 2024 15:00:00 -0400 227 1 53 full false The Gibeonite Deception The Gibeonite Deception In Joshua chapter 9, the Gibeonites are afraid that the Israelites are going to kill them next.  They pretend to come from far away so that the Israelites won't kill them. They told Joshua that they wanted to be friends. Joshua asked them where they were from. The Gibeonites showed them their old moldy bread, their worn out shoes, and their old clothes, hoping he would believe they had come a long way. The Israelites did believe them, and made a promise not to kill them. Three days later, they found out the truth! Now what will happen?

]]> In Joshua chapter 9, the Gibeonites are afraid that the Israelites are going to kill them next.  They pretend to come from far away so that the Israelites won't kill them. They told Joshua that they wanted to be friends. Joshua asked them where they were from. The Gibeonites showed them their old moldy bread, their worn out shoes, and their old clothes, hoping he would believe they had come a long way. The Israelites did believe them, and made a promise not to kill them. Three days later, they found out the truth! Now what will happen?

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15851401 Tue, 01 Oct 2024 14:00:00 -0400 286 1 52 full false The Battle Over Ai The Battle Over Ai In the book of Joshua, chapter 8, God gives instructions on how to win the battle for Ai. Joshua sends soldiers to hide behind the city. Then he and his army attack from the front. When the men of Ai come out to fight, Joshua pretends to be losing the battle, and leads them away from their city. The soldiers who are hiding come out and set the city on fire. Now the army of Ai is stuck! There is an army behind them, and Joshua's army in front of them turns around to fight after all! There is nowhere for them to go. 

]]> In the book of Joshua, chapter 8, God gives instructions on how to win the battle for Ai. Joshua sends soldiers to hide behind the city. Then he and his army attack from the front. When the men of Ai come out to fight, Joshua pretends to be losing the battle, and leads them away from their city. The soldiers who are hiding come out and set the city on fire. Now the army of Ai is stuck! There is an army behind them, and Joshua's army in front of them turns around to fight after all! There is nowhere for them to go. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15842653 Mon, 30 Sep 2024 13:00:00 -0400 258 1 51 full false Achan Causes Trouble Achan Causes Trouble Because the town of Ai was so small, Joshua sent only about 2500 soldiers to fight. But what a surprise! The men of Ai fought back and chased the Israelites away! Thirty-six men were killed in the battle. Joshua got down on his face and asked the LORD what happened. God explained that someone in the Israelite camp had broken the agreement to keep the 10 commandments. The next day God showed Joshua who was guilty. The guilty one had caused a lot of trouble! 

]]> Because the town of Ai was so small, Joshua sent only about 2500 soldiers to fight. But what a surprise! The men of Ai fought back and chased the Israelites away! Thirty-six men were killed in the battle. Joshua got down on his face and asked the LORD what happened. God explained that someone in the Israelite camp had broken the agreement to keep the 10 commandments. The next day God showed Joshua who was guilty. The guilty one had caused a lot of trouble! 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15832647 Sat, 28 Sep 2024 15:00:00 -0400 275 1 50 full false The Walls Fall Down The Walls Fall Down When the Israelites come into their new land, there are enemies living there. The enemies close the gates of the city of Jericho so that Joshua and his army can't get in! Joshua has a surprise visitor that tells him how to get the walls to fall down. Will the plan work?

]]> When the Israelites come into their new land, there are enemies living there. The enemies close the gates of the city of Jericho so that Joshua and his army can't get in! Joshua has a surprise visitor that tells him how to get the walls to fall down. Will the plan work?

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15827139 Fri, 27 Sep 2024 10:00:00 -0400 227 1 49 full false Crossing the Jordan Crossing the Jordan In Joshua chapter 3, the families of the Israelites are packed up and ready to cross the Jordan River into the land promised to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. The priests carried the ark of the covenant first. They stayed about a mile ahead of the tribes. When the priests set foot into the water, the water stopped flowing! They stood in the middle, while the Israelites passed through on dry land. Twelve men, one from each tribe, took a stone and made a memorial where the priests had stood. When Joshua commanded the priests to get out of the river bed, the water started flowing again. 

]]> In Joshua chapter 3, the families of the Israelites are packed up and ready to cross the Jordan River into the land promised to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. The priests carried the ark of the covenant first. They stayed about a mile ahead of the tribes. When the priests set foot into the water, the water stopped flowing! They stood in the middle, while the Israelites passed through on dry land. Twelve men, one from each tribe, took a stone and made a memorial where the priests had stood. When Joshua commanded the priests to get out of the river bed, the water started flowing again. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15822730 Thu, 26 Sep 2024 14:00:00 -0400 277 1 48 full false Rahab Hides the Spies Rahab Hides the Spies Joshua sends two spies into the land to find out what Jericho is like. The spies stop at Rahab's house. When the king sends soldiers to capture them, Rahab hides them on her roof. Then she asks them to protect her family when they come to battle for the city of Jericho. The spies are safe, and they will keep Rahab safe, too. 

]]> Joshua sends two spies into the land to find out what Jericho is like. The spies stop at Rahab's house. When the king sends soldiers to capture them, Rahab hides them on her roof. Then she asks them to protect her family when they come to battle for the city of Jericho. The spies are safe, and they will keep Rahab safe, too. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15816831 Wed, 25 Sep 2024 15:00:00 -0400 233 1 47 full false Keeping Safe with God Keeping Safe with God When the Israelites traveled in the wilderness they passed through the land of other nations.  God told them not to fight in Seir, or in Ar. But there were two kings that God did want them to fight.  God caused those other nations to lose! But they lost because they were wicked. And the Israelites didn't win because they were good, but because God was on their side.  God was keeping his promise to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. Now, Joshua was going to lead the people into the promised land. Moses cautioned them to trust God and not try to do things their own way. 

]]> When the Israelites traveled in the wilderness they passed through the land of other nations.  God told them not to fight in Seir, or in Ar. But there were two kings that God did want them to fight.  God caused those other nations to lose! But they lost because they were wicked. And the Israelites didn't win because they were good, but because God was on their side.  God was keeping his promise to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. Now, Joshua was going to lead the people into the promised land. Moses cautioned them to trust God and not try to do things their own way. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15809351 Tue, 24 Sep 2024 15:00:00 -0400 279 1 46 full false The Bronze Snake The Bronze Snake In Numbers 22 we hear the story about what happened when the Israelites complained against Moses and against God. Instead of trusting God, they said negative words! God sent poisonous snakes into the camp as a punishment for their sin. When they realized they were wrong, they asked Moses to pray for them. God gave them a way to be healed. He put the punishment for their sin up on a pole. When they looked at it, they didn't die. 

]]> In Numbers 22 we hear the story about what happened when the Israelites complained against Moses and against God. Instead of trusting God, they said negative words! God sent poisonous snakes into the camp as a punishment for their sin. When they realized they were wrong, they asked Moses to pray for them. God gave them a way to be healed. He put the punishment for their sin up on a pole. When they looked at it, they didn't die. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15800744 Fri, 20 Sep 2024 11:00:00 -0400 286 1 45 full false Water from the Rock Water from the Rock When the Israelites couldn't find water, they complained to Moses. They asked him why he had brought them out of Egypt. They said they wished they had died. They griped about not having nice food and water.  Moses and Aaron went right away to ask God what to do.  God told them that Moses could speak to the rock and the water would come out. But something was wrong with Moses that day. Instead of speaking to the rock, he yelled at the Israelites and he hit the rock! Moses disobeyed God. What will the consequences be?

]]> When the Israelites couldn't find water, they complained to Moses. They asked him why he had brought them out of Egypt. They said they wished they had died. They griped about not having nice food and water.  Moses and Aaron went right away to ask God what to do.  God told them that Moses could speak to the rock and the water would come out. But something was wrong with Moses that day. Instead of speaking to the rock, he yelled at the Israelites and he hit the rock! Moses disobeyed God. What will the consequences be?

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15784224 Thu, 19 Sep 2024 20:00:00 -0400 317 1 44 full false Balaam Blesses Balaam Blesses Balaam's donkey talks to him. Balaam realizes he is making a mistake, thinking he can curse the Israelites. But he continues on to meet with King Balak. King Balak is expecting Balaam to curse the Israelites. Balaam builds seven altars, and sacrifices seven bulls and seven rams to God. Then God gives him the message. It's not a curse. A second time, Balaam builds seven altars and kills seven bulls and seven rams. This time, God gives Balaam another beautiful blessing. One more time, Balak gives Balaam a chance to curse the Israelites. What will he say?

]]> Balaam's donkey talks to him. Balaam realizes he is making a mistake, thinking he can curse the Israelites. But he continues on to meet with King Balak. King Balak is expecting Balaam to curse the Israelites. Balaam builds seven altars, and sacrifices seven bulls and seven rams to God. Then God gives him the message. It's not a curse. A second time, Balaam builds seven altars and kills seven bulls and seven rams. This time, God gives Balaam another beautiful blessing. One more time, Balak gives Balaam a chance to curse the Israelites. What will he say?

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15776421 Wed, 18 Sep 2024 15:00:00 -0400 275 1 43 full false Balaam in Danger Balaam in Danger King Balak is afraid of the Israelites that are traveling near his country. He wants them to go away. He wants Balaam to speak a curse over them. Balaam talks to God about it, and God says not to go. He doesn't want Balaam to curse the Israelites, because they are blessed by God. So Balaam refuses to go with Balak's messengers. They come again, this time bringing even more money with them. Balaam goes with them this time, but God is angry. God sends an angel to stand in Balaam's way! Balaam is heading into danger! 

]]> King Balak is afraid of the Israelites that are traveling near his country. He wants them to go away. He wants Balaam to speak a curse over them. Balaam talks to God about it, and God says not to go. He doesn't want Balaam to curse the Israelites, because they are blessed by God. So Balaam refuses to go with Balak's messengers. They come again, this time bringing even more money with them. Balaam goes with them this time, but God is angry. God sends an angel to stand in Balaam's way! Balaam is heading into danger! 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15776402 Wed, 18 Sep 2024 15:00:00 -0400 308 1 42 full false Jonah Jonah When God told Jonah to go to Ninevah and warn them to stop being bad, Jonah didn't want to go. He went down to the sea and bought a boat ticket. He tried to go as far away as he could get. A big storm came up and the boat was going to sink. Jonah told the sailors that if they threw him overboard, the storm would stop. He was right  But God wants to save Jonah! What will happen to him when he sinks down into the water?

]]> When God told Jonah to go to Ninevah and warn them to stop being bad, Jonah didn't want to go. He went down to the sea and bought a boat ticket. He tried to go as far away as he could get. A big storm came up and the boat was going to sink. Jonah told the sailors that if they threw him overboard, the storm would stop. He was right  But God wants to save Jonah! What will happen to him when he sinks down into the water?

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15764590 Mon, 16 Sep 2024 20:00:00 -0400 286 1 41 full false Aaron's Rod Aaron's Rod God gave a special job to the Levites. The Levites got to work in the tent of meeting. They kept track of the incense, the bread, and the candles. They served as helpers to the priests. As payment for their work, the Levites received ten percent, or a tithe from each tribe. The priests, Aaron's family, served the Lord by actually offering the sacrifices. The Levites gave the priests ten percent and also the best part of the sacrifices to eat. Some people wished that God had chosen them to be priests, but God had them set up a test. Each tribe provided a staff with the leader's name on it. Whose staff would sprout? Which staff did God pick?

]]> God gave a special job to the Levites. The Levites got to work in the tent of meeting. They kept track of the incense, the bread, and the candles. They served as helpers to the priests. As payment for their work, the Levites received ten percent, or a tithe from each tribe. The priests, Aaron's family, served the Lord by actually offering the sacrifices. The Levites gave the priests ten percent and also the best part of the sacrifices to eat. Some people wished that God had chosen them to be priests, but God had them set up a test. Each tribe provided a staff with the leader's name on it. Whose staff would sprout? Which staff did God pick?

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15756680 Sun, 15 Sep 2024 17:00:00 -0400 302 1 40 full false Punishment Punishment From Numbers 14. When the Israelites turned away from entering the land that God had promised, they brought a punishment on themselves.  God told them that everyone who had grumbled against God and had rejected his promise would not be able to enter the land, but would die in the wilderness. Their children would have to live as shepherds for forty years in the wilderness until the older generation had all died. Now, the Israelites wanted to change their minds and go into the land, but would they succeed without Moses, and without the Lord?

]]> From Numbers 14. When the Israelites turned away from entering the land that God had promised, they brought a punishment on themselves.  God told them that everyone who had grumbled against God and had rejected his promise would not be able to enter the land, but would die in the wilderness. Their children would have to live as shepherds for forty years in the wilderness until the older generation had all died. Now, the Israelites wanted to change their minds and go into the land, but would they succeed without Moses, and without the Lord?

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15744391 Thu, 12 Sep 2024 18:00:00 -0400 261 1 39 full false Exploring the Land Exploring the Land When the Israelites reached the border of the promised land, Moses sent in twelve men to see what it was like and report back. After forty days, they returned with good news and bad news. Yes, the land was good. No, they didn't think they were strong enough to go in and take it.  Only two of the men, Caleb and Joshua, voted for going into the land. God was so disappointed that the people didn't trust him. He told Moses that although he forgave them, none of the people who didn't believe him would get to enter the land.  Just Caleb and Joshua. What is going to happen to everyone else?

]]> When the Israelites reached the border of the promised land, Moses sent in twelve men to see what it was like and report back. After forty days, they returned with good news and bad news. Yes, the land was good. No, they didn't think they were strong enough to go in and take it.  Only two of the men, Caleb and Joshua, voted for going into the land. God was so disappointed that the people didn't trust him. He told Moses that although he forgave them, none of the people who didn't believe him would get to enter the land.  Just Caleb and Joshua. What is going to happen to everyone else?

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15738306 Wed, 11 Sep 2024 20:00:00 -0400 283 1 38 full false An Offering for Sin An Offering for Sin At the tabernacle, the priests offered animals as sacrifices to God. You could bring an animal, and let the animal's death be a substitute for the death that you deserved. 

]]> At the tabernacle, the priests offered animals as sacrifices to God. You could bring an animal, and let the animal's death be a substitute for the death that you deserved. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15730753 Tue, 10 Sep 2024 17:00:00 -0400 287 1 37 full false The Tabernacle The Tabernacle The Israelites made a tent to contain sacred furniture and the ark of the covenant.  When the tabernacle was completed, the presence of God came and rested on the tabernacle, and the glory of the Lord filled the temple. 

]]> The Israelites made a tent to contain sacred furniture and the ark of the covenant.  When the tabernacle was completed, the presence of God came and rested on the tabernacle, and the glory of the Lord filled the temple. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15723807 Mon, 09 Sep 2024 18:00:00 -0400 291 1 36 full false Face to Face Face to Face In Exodus 34, Moses returns to Mt Sinai to get another copy of the Ten Commandments on stone tablets. He had broken the previous tablets when he saw the golden calf. This time, God reveals himself further to Moses, repeating his name and sharing more about his character. Moses' face was radiant when he came down the mountain after talking to God. We might experience the presence of God, too, when we worship him. 

]]> In Exodus 34, Moses returns to Mt Sinai to get another copy of the Ten Commandments on stone tablets. He had broken the previous tablets when he saw the golden calf. This time, God reveals himself further to Moses, repeating his name and sharing more about his character. Moses' face was radiant when he came down the mountain after talking to God. We might experience the presence of God, too, when we worship him. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15708386 Fri, 06 Sep 2024 15:00:00 -0400 253 1 35 full false God Goes with Us God Goes with Us After the golden calf, God tells Moses that he isn't going to go with them to the promised land.  Moses pleads with God to reconsider.  If God doesn't go with them, how will they be any different from any other people group? Moses wants to know God, and to please him. God sees Moses' heart, and tells him he will do what Moses asked. 

]]> After the golden calf, God tells Moses that he isn't going to go with them to the promised land.  Moses pleads with God to reconsider.  If God doesn't go with them, how will they be any different from any other people group? Moses wants to know God, and to please him. God sees Moses' heart, and tells him he will do what Moses asked. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15703813 Thu, 05 Sep 2024 18:00:00 -0400 295 1 34 full false The Golden Calf The Golden Calf Moses was gone for forty days. The children of Israel said they didn't know what had happened to Moses.  They forgot about the 10 commandments. They gathered around Aaron and asked him to make a god that would lead them. Aaron made a golden calf.  They sacrificed to the golden calf and had a festival. When God saw it, he wanted to destroy them, but Moses talked him out of it. But they had disobeyed the commandment. What will their punishment be?

]]> Moses was gone for forty days. The children of Israel said they didn't know what had happened to Moses.  They forgot about the 10 commandments. They gathered around Aaron and asked him to make a god that would lead them. Aaron made a golden calf.  They sacrificed to the golden calf and had a festival. When God saw it, he wanted to destroy them, but Moses talked him out of it. But they had disobeyed the commandment. What will their punishment be?

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15698172 Wed, 04 Sep 2024 18:00:00 -0400 355 1 33 full false Keeping the Commandments Keeping the Commandments When we trust someone, it is easier to do what they say. When God gave Moses the 10 commandments on Mt Sinai, he wanted to make sure that the people would trust Moses. So he actually came down on top of the mountain in a thick cloud, to show that he was real. The mountain smoked and trembled with the power of God so near. Moses spoke to him, and God answered.

]]> When we trust someone, it is easier to do what they say. When God gave Moses the 10 commandments on Mt Sinai, he wanted to make sure that the people would trust Moses. So he actually came down on top of the mountain in a thick cloud, to show that he was real. The mountain smoked and trembled with the power of God so near. Moses spoke to him, and God answered.

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15692239 Tue, 03 Sep 2024 16:00:00 -0400 265 1 32 full false The Ten Commandments The Ten Commandments In Exodus 20, God tells the Israelites 10 commandments. If they followed these 10 rules, life would go well for them. You can remember the 10 commandments, by using this finger play. The first one is the thumb on your right hand. Listen and learn them! 

]]> In Exodus 20, God tells the Israelites 10 commandments. If they followed these 10 rules, life would go well for them. You can remember the 10 commandments, by using this finger play. The first one is the thumb on your right hand. Listen and learn them! 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15683801 Mon, 02 Sep 2024 17:00:00 -0400 278 1 31 full false Rules about the Manna Rules about the Manna God gave manna from heaven for his people, the Israelites. Every day they had just what they needed. They didn't have to keep any leftovers for the next day. But some people didn't trust God. They kept some overnight, and it went bad. God also told them on the sixth day, to gather twice as much. On the sixth day, they cooked enough for two days. That way, on the seventh day, they could rest. Some people didn't trust what God said! They went out to gather manna on the seventh day, too. But there wasn't any.   

]]> God gave manna from heaven for his people, the Israelites. Every day they had just what they needed. They didn't have to keep any leftovers for the next day. But some people didn't trust God. They kept some overnight, and it went bad. God also told them on the sixth day, to gather twice as much. On the sixth day, they cooked enough for two days. That way, on the seventh day, they could rest. Some people didn't trust what God said! They went out to gather manna on the seventh day, too. But there wasn't any.   

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15674965 Sat, 31 Aug 2024 18:00:00 -0400 303 1 30 full false God Gives Manna God Gives Manna In Exodus 16, the people of Israel grumbled about the lack of food. Moses talked to God about it, and God said he would rain down bread from heaven for the people to eat. Also he sent quails in the evening so they could have some meat. 

]]> In Exodus 16, the people of Israel grumbled about the lack of food. Moses talked to God about it, and God said he would rain down bread from heaven for the people to eat. Also he sent quails in the evening so they could have some meat. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15665541 Thu, 29 Aug 2024 17:00:00 -0400 173 1 29 full false Bitter Water Becomes Sweet Bitter Water Becomes Sweet In Exodus 15, we hear the song of praise the Isaelites offered to God when he delivered them from the Egyptian army. God is our strength! God fights for us. Even when the water is too bitter to drink, if we ask God. he will show us how to fix it. God told the Israelites that if they listen to him, and obey him, he will be the God who heals them. 

]]> In Exodus 15, we hear the song of praise the Isaelites offered to God when he delivered them from the Egyptian army. God is our strength! God fights for us. Even when the water is too bitter to drink, if we ask God. he will show us how to fix it. God told the Israelites that if they listen to him, and obey him, he will be the God who heals them. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15657989 Wed, 28 Aug 2024 13:00:00 -0400 234 1 28 full false Crossing the Red Sea Crossing the Red Sea Pharaoh's army caught up with the Israelites at the Red Sea. How will they escape? God moved between the Egyptians and the Israelites so that the Egyptians couldn't see them. Then, he had Moses stretch out his staff over the water so that the water divided right down the middle. The Israelites walked through on dry land. But what happened when the Egyptians tried to go through. It was a big mistake! 

]]> Pharaoh's army caught up with the Israelites at the Red Sea. How will they escape? God moved between the Egyptians and the Israelites so that the Egyptians couldn't see them. Then, he had Moses stretch out his staff over the water so that the water divided right down the middle. The Israelites walked through on dry land. But what happened when the Egyptians tried to go through. It was a big mistake! 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15652483 Tue, 27 Aug 2024 15:00:00 -0400 292 1 27 full false Leaving Egypt Leaving Egypt God led the Hebrew slaves away from Egypt. He appeared as a pillar of fire at night, and a column of cloud by day, so they wouldn't get lost. But God had a sneaky plan to have one last battle with the Egyptians. When the Israelites turned back, Pharaoh thought they must be lost of confused. He gathered his army and went out to capture them. How will they escape?

]]> God led the Hebrew slaves away from Egypt. He appeared as a pillar of fire at night, and a column of cloud by day, so they wouldn't get lost. But God had a sneaky plan to have one last battle with the Egyptians. When the Israelites turned back, Pharaoh thought they must be lost of confused. He gathered his army and went out to capture them. How will they escape?

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15646557 Mon, 26 Aug 2024 18:00:00 -0400 254 1 26 full false The Passover The Passover God performed wonders in the land of Egypt, to demonstrate he was the one true God. The last wonder that he did was the miracle of the Passover. As God moved across Egypt, the first born son in every house died. But because the Hebrews put the blood of the lamb over their doors, no one died. God passed over their houses. At last Pharaoh wanted the Hebrews to leave. 

]]> God performed wonders in the land of Egypt, to demonstrate he was the one true God. The last wonder that he did was the miracle of the Passover. As God moved across Egypt, the first born son in every house died. But because the Hebrews put the blood of the lamb over their doors, no one died. God passed over their houses. At last Pharaoh wanted the Hebrews to leave. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15634086 Sat, 24 Aug 2024 09:00:00 -0400 314 1 25 full false The Plagues of Egypt The Plagues of Egypt Pharaoh refused to let the Hebrew slaves go. So God showed Pharaoh his power. Plague followed plague.  The river turned to blood.  Then frogs invaded. The animals got sick and died. There was a tremendous hailstorm. Unimaginable destruction occurred. But Pharaoh kept resisting God. Will Pharaoh ever change his mind? 

]]> Pharaoh refused to let the Hebrew slaves go. So God showed Pharaoh his power. Plague followed plague.  The river turned to blood.  Then frogs invaded. The animals got sick and died. There was a tremendous hailstorm. Unimaginable destruction occurred. But Pharaoh kept resisting God. Will Pharaoh ever change his mind? 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15624467 Thu, 22 Aug 2024 11:00:00 -0400 323 1 24 full false Let My People Go Let My People Go God tells Moses what to do when he gets to Egypt.  Moses goes with his brother Aaron to speak to Pharaoh.  He tells Pharaoh they have to go for three days into the wilderness to offer sacrifices to God.  Pharaoh says, "No." Pharaoh's heart is hard. But God is ready to show Pharaoh who is the boss. 

]]> God tells Moses what to do when he gets to Egypt.  Moses goes with his brother Aaron to speak to Pharaoh.  He tells Pharaoh they have to go for three days into the wilderness to offer sacrifices to God.  Pharaoh says, "No." Pharaoh's heart is hard. But God is ready to show Pharaoh who is the boss. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15618076 Wed, 21 Aug 2024 09:00:00 -0400 286 1 23 full false Moses and the Burning Bush Moses and the Burning Bush Moses grows up in the Egyptian palace. When he goes outside and sees how his Hebrew brothers and sisters are treated, he gets angry! He kills an Egyptian, and has to run to get away from Pharaoh's punishment. Many years later, he sees a burning bush in the wilderness. God speaks to him from the bush. God will go with him to rescue the Hebrews, and bring them to their own land. 

]]> Moses grows up in the Egyptian palace. When he goes outside and sees how his Hebrew brothers and sisters are treated, he gets angry! He kills an Egyptian, and has to run to get away from Pharaoh's punishment. Many years later, he sees a burning bush in the wilderness. God speaks to him from the bush. God will go with him to rescue the Hebrews, and bring them to their own land. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15611617 Tue, 20 Aug 2024 08:00:00 -0400 325 1 22 full false Baby Moses is Born Baby Moses is Born The family of Israel moves to Egypt and becomes a multitude. Pharaoh is afraid of them, because there are so many. What if they decide to fight? So he turns them into slaves. There are still too many, so Pharaoh has a plan to get rid of all the baby boys. However, one mother finds a way to save her child. Pharaoh's daughter finds him, loves him, and decides to adopt him. 

]]> The family of Israel moves to Egypt and becomes a multitude. Pharaoh is afraid of them, because there are so many. What if they decide to fight? So he turns them into slaves. There are still too many, so Pharaoh has a plan to get rid of all the baby boys. However, one mother finds a way to save her child. Pharaoh's daughter finds him, loves him, and decides to adopt him. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15605339 Mon, 19 Aug 2024 09:00:00 -0400 318 1 21 full false The Family Moves to Egypt The Family Moves to Egypt In Genesis 45, Joseph reveals his love for his brothers and his father. He cries over them, hugs them, encourages them to move to Egypt, gives them presents, and tells them to hurry. Pharaoh is happy, too. He tells them to take carts and provisions so they can bring the whole family to live in the best land of Egypt. 

]]> In Genesis 45, Joseph reveals his love for his brothers and his father. He cries over them, hugs them, encourages them to move to Egypt, gives them presents, and tells them to hurry. Pharaoh is happy, too. He tells them to take carts and provisions so they can bring the whole family to live in the best land of Egypt. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15600125 Sun, 18 Aug 2024 10:00:00 -0400 290 1 20 full false Joseph Forgives Joseph Forgives When Joseph's brothers need food, they make a trip to Egypt. There, they bow down to Joseph, just like it was in his dreams. Joseph is not sure if he should tell them who he is! So, he plays a trick on them to see how they feel about him. Do they still hate him?  Listen to how big forgiveness can be. 

]]> When Joseph's brothers need food, they make a trip to Egypt. There, they bow down to Joseph, just like it was in his dreams. Joseph is not sure if he should tell them who he is! So, he plays a trick on them to see how they feel about him. Do they still hate him?  Listen to how big forgiveness can be. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15589751 Thu, 15 Aug 2024 14:00:00 -0400 295 1 19 full false Joseph Gets Out of Jail Joseph Gets Out of Jail The situation is bleak for Joseph, stuck in jail for something he didn't do. But one day two other men are made prisoners. When Joseph hears their dreams, he tells them what God is saying about the future. When Pharaoh has a dream, they call for Joseph's help. Pharaoh makes Joseph his right-hand man. 

]]> The situation is bleak for Joseph, stuck in jail for something he didn't do. But one day two other men are made prisoners. When Joseph hears their dreams, he tells them what God is saying about the future. When Pharaoh has a dream, they call for Joseph's help. Pharaoh makes Joseph his right-hand man. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15583892 Wed, 14 Aug 2024 14:00:00 -0400 310 1 18 full false Joseph is a Slave Joseph is a Slave When Joseph is sold to Potiphar in Egypt, God helps him become the best slave Potiphar ever had! All was well, until Potiphar's wife gets mad and tells a lie about Joseph. Now he has to go to jail.  He is stuck there for a long time. 

]]> When Joseph is sold to Potiphar in Egypt, God helps him become the best slave Potiphar ever had! All was well, until Potiphar's wife gets mad and tells a lie about Joseph. Now he has to go to jail.  He is stuck there for a long time. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15578724 Tue, 13 Aug 2024 16:00:00 -0400 293 1 17 full false Joseph and His Dreams Joseph and His Dreams From Genesis 37, Joseph has two dreams that make his brothers very jealous. When they get a chance, they sell him to traders who are traveling to Egypt. When they tell their father, Jacob (who God calls Israel), that Joseph was killed, he will never be happy again. But God has a plan for Joseph. God goes with him to Egypt. 

]]> From Genesis 37, Joseph has two dreams that make his brothers very jealous. When they get a chance, they sell him to traders who are traveling to Egypt. When they tell their father, Jacob (who God calls Israel), that Joseph was killed, he will never be happy again. But God has a plan for Joseph. God goes with him to Egypt. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15569822 Mon, 12 Aug 2024 10:00:00 -0400 300 1 16 full false Jacob Gets Married Jacob Gets Married  Jacob goes to Haran to escape Esau's murderous wrath. There he finds his mother's family. His uncle Laban has two daughters, Leah and Rachel. He works seven years so that he can marry Rachel, but his uncle gives him Leah instead. He gets to marry Rachel, too, but he has to work seven more years. Leah and Rachel, with the help of their maids, have twelve children. 

]]>  Jacob goes to Haran to escape Esau's murderous wrath. There he finds his mother's family. His uncle Laban has two daughters, Leah and Rachel. He works seven years so that he can marry Rachel, but his uncle gives him Leah instead. He gets to marry Rachel, too, but he has to work seven more years. Leah and Rachel, with the help of their maids, have twelve children. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15558010 Fri, 09 Aug 2024 14:00:00 -0400 352 1 15 full false Jacob Dreams about a Ladder Jacob Dreams about a Ladder Esau is so mad that he wants to kill Jacob. Rebekah and Isaac want Jacob to go back to Haran. It will give Esau time to cool off, and Jacob could find a good wife there, too. Jacob heads off in the direction of Haran, and has a dream about a ladder going up to heaven. God speaks to Jacob in the dream, and Jacob realizes that he wants to be God's friend, too. 

]]> Esau is so mad that he wants to kill Jacob. Rebekah and Isaac want Jacob to go back to Haran. It will give Esau time to cool off, and Jacob could find a good wife there, too. Jacob heads off in the direction of Haran, and has a dream about a ladder going up to heaven. God speaks to Jacob in the dream, and Jacob realizes that he wants to be God's friend, too. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15551640 Thu, 08 Aug 2024 11:00:00 -0400 320 1 14 full false Jacob Takes the Blessing Jacob Takes the Blessing Isaac is ready to pass the blessing of God to his son, Esau. But Rebekah helps Jacob to get in first. Jacob tricks Isaac into thinking he is Esau. He takes the blessing! 

]]> Isaac is ready to pass the blessing of God to his son, Esau. But Rebekah helps Jacob to get in first. Jacob tricks Isaac into thinking he is Esau. He takes the blessing! 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15550133 Thu, 08 Aug 2024 03:00:00 -0400 475 1 13 full false Jacob and Esau Jacob and Esau Isaac and Rebekah have two babies! The older one is named Esau, and the younger one is Jacob. When they grow up, Jacob makes a good deal with Esau. Esau sells him his birthright for a bowl of soup! Now Jacob gets to be the next leader of the family. 

]]> Isaac and Rebekah have two babies! The older one is named Esau, and the younger one is Jacob. When they grow up, Jacob makes a good deal with Esau. Esau sells him his birthright for a bowl of soup! Now Jacob gets to be the next leader of the family. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15540785 Tue, 06 Aug 2024 14:00:00 -0400 237 1 12 full false A Wife for Isaac A Wife for Isaac When it's time for Isaac to get married, Abraham sends his servant to find the right girl.  The servant goes back to where Abraham used to live and asks God for help!  God answers his prayer right away. Beautiful Rebekah comes along. She offers to water all the camels!

]]> When it's time for Isaac to get married, Abraham sends his servant to find the right girl.  The servant goes back to where Abraham used to live and asks God for help!  God answers his prayer right away. Beautiful Rebekah comes along. She offers to water all the camels!

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15531224 Mon, 05 Aug 2024 05:00:00 -0400 268 1 11 full false Abraham Makes a Sacrifice Abraham Makes a Sacrifice God tells Abraham to take Isaac up to a mountain and sacrifice him. Abraham gets a few servants, and packs a donkey for the trip. He brings wood, a fire, and a knife. Then he takes Isaac with him and the supplies on a three day journey. When they arrive at the place, Abraham and Isaac walk on ahead, with Isaac wondering where the lamb is. God himself provides the sacrifice! 

]]> God tells Abraham to take Isaac up to a mountain and sacrifice him. Abraham gets a few servants, and packs a donkey for the trip. He brings wood, a fire, and a knife. Then he takes Isaac with him and the supplies on a three day journey. When they arrive at the place, Abraham and Isaac walk on ahead, with Isaac wondering where the lamb is. God himself provides the sacrifice! 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15520312 Fri, 02 Aug 2024 11:00:00 -0400 287 1 10 full false Sarah has a Baby Sarah has a Baby Abram was 99, when God talked to him again about the promised child. He changed Abram's name to Abraham, which means the Father of Nations. He changed Sarai's name to Sarah, because she would be the Mother of Nations. God gave Abraham the sign of the covenant, circumcision, to show that Abraham's family belonged to God and not to themselves.  When three visitors came to Abraham's tent, one of them gave Sarah the word of God. God said it, and the next year, Sarah gave birth to Isaac. 

]]> Abram was 99, when God talked to him again about the promised child. He changed Abram's name to Abraham, which means the Father of Nations. He changed Sarai's name to Sarah, because she would be the Mother of Nations. God gave Abraham the sign of the covenant, circumcision, to show that Abraham's family belonged to God and not to themselves.  When three visitors came to Abraham's tent, one of them gave Sarah the word of God. God said it, and the next year, Sarah gave birth to Isaac. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15513682 Thu, 01 Aug 2024 08:00:00 -0400 304 1 9 full false God Makes a Promise to Abram God Makes a Promise to Abram God calls Abram to a new land. He promises to give the land to Abram and his descendents. But Abraham doesn't have any children. If God said it, will it happen?

]]> God calls Abram to a new land. He promises to give the land to Abram and his descendents. But Abraham doesn't have any children. If God said it, will it happen?

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15507962 Wed, 31 Jul 2024 08:00:00 -0400 318 1 8 full false The Tower of Babel The Tower of Babel In Genesis chapter 11, people all spoke the same language. They start building a city and a tower that will reach into the sky. God changed that plan. Now we know why people speak different languages. 

]]> In Genesis chapter 11, people all spoke the same language. They start building a city and a tower that will reach into the sky. God changed that plan. Now we know why people speak different languages. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15500650 Tue, 30 Jul 2024 10:00:00 -0400 306 1 7 full false Noah's Ark Noah's Ark From Genesis 6, 7 and 8, comes the story of Noah's ark. The earth was filled with violence and God's heart was aching. He decided to destroy the evil on the earth with a big flood. He told Noah and his family to build an ark so they would be safe. Noah made the ark big enough for lots of animals. When the flood was over, God promised to never flood the earth again. The rainbow in the sky reminds us of God's promise. 

]]> From Genesis 6, 7 and 8, comes the story of Noah's ark. The earth was filled with violence and God's heart was aching. He decided to destroy the evil on the earth with a big flood. He told Noah and his family to build an ark so they would be safe. Noah made the ark big enough for lots of animals. When the flood was over, God promised to never flood the earth again. The rainbow in the sky reminds us of God's promise. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15493613 Mon, 29 Jul 2024 10:00:00 -0400 294 1 6 full false Cain and Abel Cain and Abel From Genesis chapter 4, we hear the story of Cain and Abel, Adam and Eve's children. When they grew up, they give offerings to God.  God respected Abel and his offering, but God didn't respect Cain's. Cain got so angry, he let sin get control of him. He killed his brother.  God had to punish Cain. Cain had to leave his home and go away from the Presence of God. 

]]> From Genesis chapter 4, we hear the story of Cain and Abel, Adam and Eve's children. When they grew up, they give offerings to God.  God respected Abel and his offering, but God didn't respect Cain's. Cain got so angry, he let sin get control of him. He killed his brother.  God had to punish Cain. Cain had to leave his home and go away from the Presence of God. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15480218 Fri, 26 Jul 2024 10:00:00 -0400 289 1 5 full false In the Garden of Eden Part 2 In the Garden of Eden Part 2 Eve eats the fruit from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. She gives some to Adam. Now their eyes are opened. They see that they are naked, and they hide from God. God finds them, and tells them bad news. They have to leave the garden and experience the consequences of their disobedience. 

]]> Eve eats the fruit from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. She gives some to Adam. Now their eyes are opened. They see that they are naked, and they hide from God. God finds them, and tells them bad news. They have to leave the garden and experience the consequences of their disobedience. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15473480 Thu, 25 Jul 2024 10:00:00 -0400 287 1 4 full false In the Garden of Eden Part 1 In the Garden of Eden Part 1 Adam and Eve are placed in the Garden of Eden. There is so much to enjoy! There is only one tree that is off-limits, the tree of the knowlege of good and evil. God tells Adam if they eat from it, they will die. There are plenty of other trees to eat from, so it looks like they will be safe.  But along comes a clever snake. He tries to trick Eve into eating the forbidden fruit. Will she fall for it?

]]> Adam and Eve are placed in the Garden of Eden. There is so much to enjoy! There is only one tree that is off-limits, the tree of the knowlege of good and evil. God tells Adam if they eat from it, they will die. There are plenty of other trees to eat from, so it looks like they will be safe.  But along comes a clever snake. He tries to trick Eve into eating the forbidden fruit. Will she fall for it?

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15468414 Wed, 24 Jul 2024 11:00:00 -0400 319 1 3 full false God Creates Adam God Creates Adam In Genesis chapter two, we hear the story of God forming man from the dust of the ground.  God breathed into him, to give him life. Adam gets to name all the animals. Then God makes Eve and brings her to Adam. 

]]> In Genesis chapter two, we hear the story of God forming man from the dust of the ground.  God breathed into him, to give him life. Adam gets to name all the animals. Then God makes Eve and brings her to Adam. 

]]> Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15460423 Tue, 23 Jul 2024 07:00:00 -0400 293 1 2 full false The Creation Story The Creation Story Joy Thomas Buzzsprout-15451731 Mon, 22 Jul 2024 06:00:00 -0400 348 1 1 full false