Transcript Today’s Bible Translation Bible translation used in today’s episode: Ch. 30 NIRV, Ch. 31-32 CEV Podcast Introduction This Psalms Wednesday. Our chapters will be 30-32 I’m calling the episode, “The Grace of God.” I will of course have an introduction for you before reading each chapter. And it’s December 14th, so we’ll have Christmas Question number 14 today, sent in by —-Of course, our Christmas expert, James Cooper of whychristmas.com has an answer for him. And it’s Wednesday, so we will have a short time of prayer. Design: Steve Webb | Photo: Benjamin Voros on Unsplash Comments on Psalms 30-32 One thing we learn from the Psalms is that David didn’t hold back. When he was down, he wrote about it. When he was up, he wrote about that. Of course, we know that David was far from a perfect man, right? Sure, he was the kid who killed Goliath. He became the king of Israel. He wrote these wonderful songs, which became the book of Psalms. But he was also a failure as a father, judging by what happened to his fam

Episode Context: In this episode of Lifespring! One Year Bible Rewind, we read 1 Samuel 1-5 as part of our daily journey through the Bible. Today’s reading highlights Hannah’s faithful vow, Samuel’s call from God, and Israel’s sobering lesson that religious symbols cannot replace obedience. This episode includes Scripture readings, pastoral commentary, a Verse of the Day, and an On This Date in Church History reflection. 📖 Today’s Bible Reading 1 Samuel 1 – Hannah’s Vow 1 Samuel 2 – Hannah’s Prayer and God’s Reversal 1 Samuel 3 – The Lord Calls Samuel 1 Samuel 4 – The Ark Is Taken 1 Samuel 5 – The Ark Among the Philistines Read 1 Samuel 1–5 on BibleGateway 🧭 Commentary Hannah’s story is one of deep anguish, bold faith, and extraordinary follow-through. In a time when spiritual leadership was corrupt and careless, Hannah entrusted her pain to God and kept her vow even when it meant personal sacrifice. Samuel’s calling reminds us that God often speaks quietly and persistently, and that obedience begins with a willing heart. Together, these chapters warn us against treating God as a religious object rather than the living Lord who calls His people to faithfulness. 📖 Verse of the Day 1 Samuel 2:9 “He will guard the feet of his faithful ones, but the wicked shall be cut off in darkness, for not by might shall a man prevail.” 📜 On This Date in Church History On December 20, 1831, Philip Schaff was born in Switzerland. He became one of the most influential church historians of the 19th century, helping believers understand the breadth and continuity of Christian history. Schaff believed that knowing church history strengthens faith rather than weakens it. Philip Schaff – Brita

In today’s episode of Lifespring! One Year Bible Rewind, we continue the story of Joseph with readings from Genesis 40-43. These chapters move Joseph from forgotten prisoner to trusted ruler, while quietly laying down a powerful pattern that points us forward to Jesus. As the story unfolds, we see Joseph interpreting dreams in prison, being exalted to authority, providing bread during famine, and finally confronting the very brothers who betrayed him. In the commentary, we step back and look at Joseph as a biblical “type”, someone whose life foreshadows the life and mission of Christ. 📖 Today’s Bible Reading We read Genesis 40-43, following Joseph’s journey from prison to palace and the first tense reunion with his brothers. 👉 Read Genesis 40–43 on BibleGateway 🪔 Commentary: Joseph Points to Jesus Joseph’s life is filled with echoes of Christ. He is beloved by his father, rejected by his brothers, falsely accused, humbled, and later exalted to a place of authority where he becomes the source of life for the nations. This is an example of biblical typology, where God uses earlier people and events to point forward to greater fulfillment in Christ. 👉 What is typology or a “type” in the Bible? 📖 Verse of the Day Genesis 39:21 “But the Lord was with Joseph and showed him steadfast love and gave him favor in the sight of the keeper of the prison.” 💛 Value for Value God’s Word is always freely shared here. There’s no paywall and no obligation to give. But when Scripture brings value into our lives, it’s good to respond in whatever way God leads. Whether that means prayer, encouragement, sharing the show, or financial support, thank you for being part of the Lifespring

Lifespring! One Year Bible Rewind is a daily journey through the entire Bible in a year. In today’s episode, Steve reads 1 Corinthians 5–6 and reflects on why “judge not” is often misunderstood. Paul calls the church to take sin seriously without slipping into hypocrisy, and Jesus’ words in Matthew 7 help us keep our own hearts clear while we pursue restoration with love. Today’s Reading 1 Corinthians 5 1 Corinthians 6 Read today’s passages on BibleGateway: https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Corinthians%205-6&version=NASB Episode Title Nobody Likes a Hypocrite Segments & Timestamps Cold Open – 00:00:00.100 Intro – 00:00:03.200 1 Corinthians 5 – 00:01:16.560 1 Corinthians 6 – 00:03:08.906 Commentary – 00:06:03.060 Comments – 00:09:13.180 Lifespring! Family Hotline – 00:10:41.139 Support – 00:11:04.633 On This Date in Church History – 00:12:08.407 Praises and Prayer Requests – 00:14:52.360 Outro – 00:18:41.600 Song: “Oh Love That Will Not Let Me Go” (begins) – 00:19:15.469 Commentary Notes Paul’s instruction in 1 Corinthians 5 is direct: the church can’t shrug at sin and call it love. But when people hear “don’t judge,” they often assume we’re never allowed to confront evil or call wrongdoing what it is. Jesus’ point in Matthew 7 is not that discernment is forbidden. His target is hypocrisy: the log-in-your-own-eye problem. When we keep our account with God clear, we can address sin in a way that aims for repentance, restoration, and real health in th

God Keeps His Promises Today we reach the conclusion of the Gospel of Matthew by reading Matthew 26-28. These chapters cover the most pivotal events in human history, including the betrayal of Jesus, His trial, the crucifixion, and His glorious resurrection. We see the fulfillment of prophecy at every turn, from the thirty pieces of silver to the specific details of His suffering. Even in the darkest moments of the narrative, God’s sovereign plan is moving forward exactly as intended. The Weight of a Promise In our commentary today, we look closely at Peter’s bold claim that he would never fall away, even if everyone else did. Peter’s failure to keep that promise serves as a powerful reminder for us today. Often, we make commitments to God based on our emotions, which can ebb and flow like the tide. When we fail, as Peter did, it is easy to fall into despair. However, as we see in Peter’s life, Jesus was not surprised by the failure. God sees our remorse, offers forgiveness, and can still use us to accomplish His plans. If you have failed, do not beat yourself up. Turn back to the One who never breaks a promise. Resurrection Power and the Saints One of the most fascinating and often overlooked details in Matthew’s account is the resurrection of many saints following Jesus’ own resurrection. These individuals came out of their tombs and appeared to many in the holy city. While we are told very little about their identity or their final destination, their presence served as a physical testimony that Jesus had truly conquered the grave. This event gives us a glimpse into the life after death that awaits all who put their trust in Christ. On This Date in Church History On this day, we remember Huldryk Zwingli, a Swiss reformer who moved to Zurich to become the People’s Priest. Zwingli was a pioneer of the verse by verse Bible study method we use today. Instead of following the church calendar, he began at Matthew 1, verse 1, and preached through the entire New Testament. Also on this

The Meaning of True Healing In our reading today from Isaiah 51-55, we encounter some of the most profound messianic prophecies in all of Scripture. Isaiah 53, in particular, provides a startlingly accurate depiction of the suffering servant, describing one who was despised, rejected, and ultimately crushed for our iniquities. While many depictions of Jesus focus on physical attractiveness, the prophet reminds us that the Messiah had no special beauty or form to make us notice him. His draw was his message and his mission, not his outward appearance. The commentary for this episode focuses on the interpretation of Isaiah 53:5, which states that we are healed because of his wounds. Steve notes that while many interpret this to mean physical healing from illness or disease, the context of the entire chapter points toward spiritual healing from sin. Sin is the cause of spiritual death, and it is from this ultimate death that we are healed because Christ took the punishment we deserved. While God certainly can and does heal physical bodies today, this specific promise in Isaiah refers to the 100 percent successful healing of our spiritual relationship with the Father. Ultimately, God is more interested in our spiritual health than our physical health. Steve shares that sometimes physical illness is the very tool God uses to bring someone to a point of accepting His forgiveness. If a life on earth is cut short so that an individual may spend eternity in God’s presence, the spiritual healing far outweighs the physical loss. We are invited to seek the Lord while He is near and return to Him, for He will freely forgive. On This Date in Church History On November 5, 1841, American clergyman and hymn writer Daniel C. Roberts was born. He is best known for authoring the majestic hymn, God of Our Fathers, Whose Almighty Hand. Additionally, on this same date in 1935, a significant merger took place in Nashville as the Cooperative General Association of Free Will Baptists and the General Conference of Free Will Baptists joined to form the National Association of Free Will Baptists. Prayer Requests Today we lift up Kathi, who is undergoing ch

Merry Christmas! We have reached the final day of the Lifespring! WhyChristmas Advent Calendar. It has been an incredible journey through the history, traditions, and scriptural accounts of the holiday. Today, host Steve Webb and James Cooper from WhyChristmas.com open the final door to share the most important story of all: the birth of Jesus Christ. The Journey to Bethlehem The account in Luke 2 begins with a decree from Caesar Augustus for a census across the Roman world. This political requirement forced Joseph and a heavily pregnant Mary to travel approximately 70 miles from Nazareth to Bethlehem, the ancestral town of David. James Cooper highlights that this arduous three-day journey was likely timed by the Roman government to ensure proper tax collection—a reminder that the first Christmas took place in a very real, often difficult world. No Room in the Inn Upon their arrival, the couple found no room in the “inn.” Steve explains that in the context of the time, this often referred to the upper guest rooms of family homes, which were overflowing due to the census. Consequently, the King of Kings was born in the lowly lower level of a house or a stable, where animals were kept. The baby was wrapped in swaddling clothes and placed in a manger, which was simply a stone or wooden feeding trough for livestock. This humble beginning serves as a powerful testament to the nature of God’s love for humanity. A Global Celebration As this series concludes, Steve and James reflect on the joy of producing this calendar from opposite sides of the globe. This international collaboration is symbolic of the fact that Jesus came for the entire world. The episode concludes with special thanks to the many contributors who made this season possible, including Rosey Grier, Bryan Duncan, and the listeners who shared their holiday greetings. We invite you to stay subscribed to the feed for future updates and to carry the spirit of Christmas with you all year long. For a wealth of information on Christmas traditions, visit WhyChristmas.com. To

Context: Today is Christmas Day, and we are reading Job 19–20. It might not feel like a “typical” Christmas passage, but it delivers a Christmas-sized truth: hope is not a mood. Hope is a Person. Today’s Episode Job is worn down by loss, misunderstanding, and pain. The people who should have comforted him have become critics. And yet, in the middle of his darkness, Job speaks a line that shines through the centuries: “I know that my Redeemer lives.” Christmas answers that cry. We celebrate that God did not stay distant. He stepped into our world, into suffering, into the mess, and He came close. That matters because Christmas is sometimes treated like it should fix everything emotionally, as if grief should take the day off. But the Bible tells the truth about the world: brokenness is real, and God’s response is deeper than quick fixes. Christmas is God showing up because things are broken. Job’s confidence is not that circumstances will improve on his timetable. Job’s confidence is that his Redeemer is alive, and that God will have the final word. Then we hear from Zophar in Job 20. He speaks with certainty and formulas. He believes God is predictable, and that righteousness and suffering always line up neatly in the moment. But Christmas exposes the limits of that kind of thinking. God’s answer to suffering is not instant explanation. God’s answer is incarnation. Not a theory, not a lecture, not a spreadsheet. A Savior. If you are carrying sorrow today, you do not have to pretend. You do not have to understand everything to say, “I know my Redeemer lives.” That is Christmas hope: not fragile, not shallow, but hope that refuses to die. Today’s Reading Job 19 (BibleGateway): https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Job%2019&version=NASB Job 20 (BibleGateway): https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Job%2

2 Corinthians 9:15 — When Gratitude Is the Only Response Christmas is a season full of explanation. We explain traditions, meanings, and stories that have been handed down for generations. We describe why the lights matter, why the songs sound the way they do, and why this season still carries weight long after childhood has passed. But in 2 Corinthians 9:15, the Apostle Paul reminds us that some gifts are simply too big for language. After writing about generosity, grace, and God’s abundant provision, Paul stops explaining altogether and simply exclaims, “Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift.” That single sentence carries the full weight of Christmas. The gift Paul points to is not a thing, a moment, or a tradition. It is a person. Jesus Christ. God’s gift to the world. The incarnation of grace itself. Infinite love wrapped in human flesh. In this episode of Verses We Missed, we slow down and sit with this short but powerful verse. We explore why Paul chooses gratitude instead of explanation, and why Christmas ultimately calls us not to master its meaning, but to receive it with thankful hearts. This is a Christmas episode shaped by warmth, hope, and quiet celebration. It is for anyone who finds joy mixed with longing, gratitude mixed with weariness, or faith that feels simpler than it used to. Scripture reminds us that when words fall short, gratitude remains. In This Episode Why Christmas often invites explanation What Paul means by an “indescribable gift” How generosity flows from grace Why gratitude is sometimes the most faithful response How to receive Christmas when joy feels complicated Scripture Referenced 2 Corinthians 9:15 — Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift. Resources For a deeper explanation of this verse and its context, see this article from GotQuestions:

The Majesty and Power of His Voice On this Christmas Eve, we gather to celebrate the season and the incredible power of God as revealed through the Psalms. Today is also National Eggnog Day. Steve shares his love for the homemade version of this holiday classic while we prepare to dive into the word of God. It is a rainy day in Riverside, California, but the warmth of the scriptures provides the perfect environment for reflection and praise. A Study in Contrast Psalm 27, written by David, is a beautiful study in contrast. In the first half, David expresses absolute confidence in God as his light and salvation, declaring that he will fear no one. However, the tone shifts as David pleads with God not to hide His face or abandon him. This movement from bold confidence to humble pleading reflects the reality of the walk of faith. The chapter ends with a powerful encouragement to wait for the Lord and be strong, promising that we will see His goodness in our current lives. The Heart of the Believer In Psalm 28, David continues his cry for help. He asks the Lord not to be deaf to his prayers, for without God’s voice, he would be like those who go down to the grave. David distinguishes between the evil hearts of the wicked and the trusting heart of the believer. He praises God for being his strength and shield, concluding with a beautiful request for God to be the shepherd of His people and carry them forever. It is a reminder that our joy is rooted in God’s response to our cries. The Storm of Praise Psalm 29 is a majestic song of praise that focuses on the voice of the Lord. David uses the imagery of a powerful storm to describe God’s authority. He mentions the voice of the Lord seven times and the name of the Lord eighteen times. This voice thunders over the waters, shatters the cedars of Lebanon, and shakes the wilderness. While the world may tremble at such power, those in His temple shout, Glory! We are reminded that the King who sits over the floodwaters is the same King who blesses His people with peace. A Simple Silent Night On this date in church history, we look back to Chris

On this very special Christmas Eve edition of the Lifespring! WhyChristmas Advent Calendar, host Steve Webb is joined by a legendary guest: Reverend Rosey Grier. Known for his time with the Los Angeles Rams as part of the “Fearsome Foursome,” Grier lends his powerful voice to the scriptural account of another miraculous birth—that of John the Baptist. A Miracle for Zechariah and Elizabeth The story of John’s birth, found in the first chapter of Luke, begins with Zechariah and Elizabeth. Both were descendants of priestly families and lived upright lives, yet they were well along in years and childless. While Zechariah was serving in the temple, the angel Gabriel appeared to him with a startling message: Elizabeth would bear a son named John, who would be filled with the Holy Spirit from birth and prepare the people of Israel for the Lord. Silence and Faith Because Zechariah questioned the angel’s message, he was struck dumb and remained unable to speak until the prophecy was fulfilled. James Cooper explains the significance of this temple service; it was a rare and holy duty to be chosen to burn incense, and Gabriel’s appearance marked a pivotal moment in Jewish history. When John was finally born and Zechariah confirmed his name on a writing tablet, his tongue was loosed, and he broke into a prophetic song of praise now known as the Benedictus. The Connection to Jesus John the Baptist was the slightly older cousin of Jesus. When Mary visited Elizabeth during their pregnancies, the baby in Elizabeth’s womb leaped for joy, acknowledging the presence of the Savior. John’s mission was unique: he was called to be a prophet of the Most High, giving knowledge of salvation and guiding feet into the path of peace. His arrival signaled that the “rising sun” from heaven was about to shine on those living in darkness. For more beautiful stories behind Christmas traditions, visit WhyChristmas.com. You can catch up on previous days of the advent calendar at lifespringmedia.com.

Good and Honorable People: The Story of Ruth Today on the Lifespring! One Year Bible Rewind, we journey through the complete Book of Ruth. Set during the era when judges ruled Israel, this narrative offers a refreshing contrast to some of the darker chapters of history we have recently covered. We witness a family displaced by famine, the tragedy of loss in a foreign land, and the unwavering loyalty of Ruth toward her mother-in-law, Naomi. Their return to Bethlehem marks the beginning of a beautiful story of restoration, centered around the fields of a man named Boaz. Divine Direction and Integrity One of the most striking aspects of the Book of Ruth is how clearly the Lord directs the paths of those who trust Him, even before they fully recognize His hand. Ruth, a Moabite foreigner, “just happened” to find herself gleaning in the field of Boaz, a close relative of Naomi’s late husband. This was no coincidence; it was divine providence. Throughout the story, we see characters defined by their integrity. From Boaz’s gracious greeting to his workers—”The Lord be with you”—to the restrained and honorable way he and Ruth handled the legalities of their eventual marriage, these are truly good and honorable people. The Guardian Redeemer and the Messiah The concept of the “Guardian Redeemer” is central to this history. Boaz stood ready to redeem Naomi’s land and care for Ruth, but he did so with careful respect for Hebrew law, ensuring a closer relative had the first right of refusal. When that relative declined, Boaz stepped in, securing the family line. This leads to a remarkable conclusion: Ruth, a Moabite woman, is officially joined to the genealogy of Jesus Christ. Much like the story of Perez we read previously, Ruth’s inclusion shows that God’s plan of redemption is inclusive and far-reaching, weaving together the lives of faithful people from all backgrounds. Visionaries and Missionaries in Church History In our church history segment for December 23, we look at two significant figures. In 1732, James Oglethorpe was finalizing his vision for Geor

In this episode of the Lifespring! WhyChristmas Advent Calendar, host Steve Webb and James Cooper dive deep into the fascinating history and scriptural account of the Magi. While tradition often places them at the manger, the biblical narrative suggests a different timeline and a journey filled with astronomical wonder and political danger. The Scriptural Account and Misconceptions The story of the Wise Men, found in the Gospel of Matthew, is often depicted alongside the shepherds in nativity scenes. However, historical and scriptural evidence indicates that the Magi likely arrived when Jesus was between one and two years old, visiting him in a house rather than a stable. James Cooper explains that these men traveled from areas likely within modern-day Iraq, Iran, Saudi Arabia, or Yemen—regions then known as Persia, Arabia, and Sheba. Scientists of the Ancient World The term “Magi” comes from the Greek word magos, a title for priests or experts in astronomy and astrology. In the ancient world, these disciplines were viewed as sciences. These “wise men” were highly esteemed and wealthy enough to travel with a significant entourage. While we commonly refer to “Three Kings,” the Bible does not specify their number or royal status; the number three is traditionally derived from the three specific gifts they presented: gold, frankincense, and myrrh. The Mystery of the Star of Bethlehem What exactly was the star that led the Magi? Various astronomical theories exist, including supernovas, comets, or planetary conjunctions. James discusses the notable triple conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn in the constellation of Pisces during 7 BC, which would have carried immense symbolic weight for ancient astronomers. Whether it was a natural celestial alignment orchestrated by God or a supernatural phenomenon, the “star” served as a divine beacon for those seeking the new King. Symbolism of the Gifts The gifts brought by the Magi were not merely valuable; they were prophetic. Gold represented the kingship of Jesus. Frank

In this episode of the Lifespring WhyChristmas Advent Calendar, host Steve Webb and James Cooper explore the cultural history of the “White Christmas.” Despite snow and ice having no mention in the original biblical story, they have become central to our holiday imagery through literature and royal tradition. The Dickensian Influence The strong association between Christmas and snow is largely a Victorian invention, specifically tied to the writing of Charles Dickens. During his childhood, Britain experienced several heavy snowfalls at Christmastime. Dickens carried these memories into his work, filling classics like A Christmas Carol and The Pickwick Papers with snowy scenes that eventually became part of our collective cultural consciousness. This literary influence transformed a simple weather occurrence into a foundational element of the holiday spirit for generations to come. German Traditions and the Royal Family Prince Albert, the husband of Queen Victoria, also played a major role in shaping these traditions. Bringing customs from his native Germany, he was accustomed to snowy winters and helped popularize the Christmas tree in the United Kingdom. This era also saw the rise of the Christmas card, which frequently featured snowy landscapes as a nostalgic nod to the “hard Christmases” of the past. These cards helped distribute the image of a snowy Christmas across the globe, making it a universal symbol of the season. A Musical Milestone The episode also discusses the iconic song “White Christmas,” performed by Bing Crosby. Written by Irving Berlin in just 18 minutes, the song debuted in the film Holiday Inn, which was set in a snowy Vermont. It has since become a global phenomenon, with Crosby’s original recording selling over 30 million copies worldwide. Whether you are in sunny Southern California or a snowy Vermont, the dream of a white Christmas continues to define the spirit of the season and remains a centerpiece of holiday media. To learn more about holiday customs from around the world, visit

The Sordid Path to the Messiah: Genesis 36-39 Today on the Lifespring! One Year Bible Rewind, we explore a section of scripture that reads more like a dramatic television series than a dry historical record. Our reading covers Genesis 36 through 39, beginning with the extensive genealogy of Esau, the father of the Edomites. While many might be tempted to skim through the lists of chiefs and kings, these records establish the historical context of the nations surrounding Israel. We then shift our focus back to the family of Jacob, where we see the intense sibling rivalry that leads Joseph’s brothers to sell him into slavery in Egypt. This act of betrayal sets the stage for one of the most significant narratives of providence in the entire Bible. A Bloodline Defined by Grace In the midst of Joseph’s journey, the narrative takes an unexpected turn in Genesis 38 to focus on the life of Judah. This chapter is filled with difficult and even sordid events, including the wickedness of Judah’s sons and his own moral failures with his daughter-in-law, Tamar. However, the inclusion of this story is not accidental. The result of this messy union was Perez, who became a direct ancestor of Jesus Christ. This highlights a fundamental truth: God often uses the most flawed individuals to fulfill His divine purposes. He does not look for perfect people, but for those who can be part of His plan to bring redemption and grace to a broken world. Integrity in the Face of Trials As we return to Joseph’s story in Genesis 39, we see a stark contrast in character. Despite being sold as a slave and later falsely accused by Potiphar’s wife, Joseph maintains his integrity and his commitment to God. Even when thrown into a tower house prison, the Lord remains with him, extending mercy and granting him favor with the authorities. Joseph’s story proves that external circumstances do not dictate God’s ability to bless a faithful heart. Whether in a palace or a prison, Joseph’s life was a testament to the fact that God makes all that His servants do to prosper when they remain steadfast in their

What is Your Foundation Built On? Today is the winter solstice, the shortest day and longest night of the year. Steve Webb reminds us that this physical darkness serves as a powerful reminder of why the world needs Jesus, the Light of the World. As we dive into the scriptures for Epistle Sunday, we find the Apostle Paul addressing the church in Corinth with direct words regarding their spiritual maturity and the nature of servanthood. In 1 Corinthians 3, Paul explains that he has to speak to the believers as infants in Christ because they are still acting according to worldly desires. He points to their jealousy and arguing over whether they follow Paul or Apollos as proof that they are not yet ready for the solid food of deeper spiritual teaching. Paul emphasizes that while different leaders may plant or water seeds of faith, it is only God who makes things grow. He cautions everyone to be careful how they build upon the foundation of Jesus Christ, noting that our work will eventually be tested by fire. Moving into chapter 4, Paul defends his authority and describes the true nature of being an apostle. He identifies himself as a steward and a servant of Christ. Steve explains that the specific Greek word used, hyperedis, literally translates to under-rower. This refers to the men rowing in a large galley ship who acted without question under the direction of the one in charge. Paul challenges the arrogance of the Corinthians, reminding them that everything they have is a gift from God. He encourages them to be imitators of him as he follows Christ, showing that the kingdom of God consists of power rather than just words. On This Date in Church History On December 21, 1620, the Pilgrims landed at Plymouth Harbor, seeking the freedom to worship according to their conscience despite great personal risk. This date also marks the passing of Robert Boyle in 1703. Boyle, the scientist behind Boyle’s Law, saw no conflict between science and faith. He funded Bible translations and believed that studying the natural world was a way of honoring its Creator. Finally, we remember the birth of Charles Finney in 1804. He was a leading figure of the

In this episode of the Lifespring! WhyChristmas Advent Calendar, Steve Webb and James Cooper explore the history and heart behind one of the most recognizable Christian Christmas carols in the world, O Come All Ye Faithful. The History of a Masterpiece Today we open the door to find the story behind James Cooper’s favorite carol, “O Come All Ye Faithful.” While it was attributed to many authors over the years, historical research points to an English Catholic priest named John Wade as the true author. Wade wrote the carol in the 1700s during a time of great religious upheaval in the UK. Following the Protestant Jacobite Rebellion in 1745, life became difficult for Catholics in Britain. John Wade fled to Douay, France, where his skills as a calligrapher and musician were put to use preserving historic church music. It was here, around 1750, that he composed the beautiful tune known as Adeste Fideles. A decade later, he added six Latin verses to accompany the melody. Translation and Popularity The version we sing today in English did not appear until 1841. Frederick Oakley translated the first three verses and the sixth verse, while William Thomas Brooke translated verses four and five. Interestingly, for many years, Wade did not receive credit for his work. Some even attributed the piece to the 13th century saint, St. Bonaventure, or called it the “Portuguese Carol” after it was performed at the Portuguese Embassy in London in 1860 where the organist claimed it was written by a Mr. John Reading. The carol eventually found its way into the mainstream, even appearing on the US Top Ten charts three separate times. One unique tradition regarding this song is that the final verse, which begins with “Yea, Lord, we greet Thee, born this happy morning,” is traditionally reserved for Christmas Day or midnight mass services as it celebrates the specific morning of Christ’s birth. Musical Features This episode features a special audio experience, including a dramatization of a cold C

On this twentieth day of the Lifespring! WhyChristmas Advent Calendar, host Steve Webb and James Cooper dive into the delicious and surprising history of figgy pudding and mince pies. The Evolution of a Festive Favorite Today behind the door, Steve and James explore the culinary traditions that define a British Christmas dinner. While we often think of Christmas pudding as a sweet cake, James explains that it actually began as a medieval porridge called frumenty. This early version was a savory soup made from beef or mutton, raisins, and spices, often eaten as a fasting meal during the Advent season. By the late 16th century, the recipe shifted away from meat, incorporating eggs, breadcrumbs, and plenty of spirits to enhance the flavor. However, the tradition faced a major hurdle in 1664 when the Puritans banned it, along with many other Christmas celebrations, viewing it as a “bad custom.” Thankfully, King George I re-established the pudding as a staple of the holiday meal in 1714, leading to the version we recognize today. Stir-Up Sunday and Mince Pie Luck A particularly charming tradition discussed is Stir-Up Sunday, which occurs the Sunday before Advent. Families gather to stir the pudding mixture from east to west in honor of the Wise Men. Adding a silver sixpence to the bowl brings luck to whoever finds it in their portion, provided they don’t break a tooth! We also learn about the history of mince pies, which were originally oval-shaped to represent the manger of Jesus and were once filled with actual meat. Whether you like your mince pies hot with ice cream or enjoy the spectacular display of a brandy-soaked pudding set alight, these treats are central to the holiday spirit. You can find more fascinating details about these customs at WhyChristmas.com. For more episodes and advent inspiration, visit Lifespring Media. The theme music for our journey is provided by Bryan Duncan and the NehoSoul Band. Our background music to

Ready, Watchful, and Faithful is today’s episode of Lifespring! One Year Bible Rewind. It is December 20th, otherwise known as Last Minute Wrapping Day, and we are reading Matthew 23-25 together. As we navigate this Gospels Saturday, we encounter Jesus’ final public discourse and His detailed teachings on the end of the age. From warnings against religious hypocrisy to the parables of readiness, these chapters call us to a life of active service while we wait for His return. Today’s Scripture Reading Matthew 23–25 In Matthew 23, Jesus delivers a series of “woes” to the scribes and Pharisees, criticizing their focus on outward appearance while neglecting justice, mercy, and faith. Moving into chapter 24, Jesus departs from the temple and speaks to His disciples on the Mount of Olives about the signs of His coming and the end of the age. Finally, Matthew 25 presents three powerful parables—the ten virgins, the talents, and the sheep and the goats—each emphasizing the necessity of being prepared for the Son of Man. Commentary: Visible Like Lightning In today’s commentary, Steve focuses on Jesus’ first response to the disciples’ questions about the end times: “Take heed that no one deceives you.” Throughout history, many have claimed to be the returned Christ, but Jesus provided a clear standard for His true return. Using the imagery of a thunderstorm, Steve reflects on how lightning is instantly obvious to everyone in an area. Jesus’ return will not be a secret or a hidden event in a desert or an inner room. It will be visible to all, accompanied by a trumpet blast. While the church often debates the timing of these events, our primary job is to stay busy with the work He has called us to do, sharing the good news so that others will be ready too. Thanks: A Note of Appreciation Steve shares several encouraging messages from the Lifespring! family. Bill shares a praise report regarding divine intervention in his wo

Peace Like a River, Righteousness Like the Waves is today’s episode of Lifespring! One Year Bible Rewind, where we read Isaiah 45 through 50 and reflect on what it means to truly listen to the Lord and walk in His ways. Through prophecy, poetry, and promise, Isaiah reminds us that God alone brings salvation, peace, and righteousness. When His people listen, peace flows steadily like a river. When they trust Him, righteousness moves with the unstoppable force of ocean waves. Today’s Scripture Reading Isaiah 45–50 These chapters declare God’s sovereignty over nations and history, His power to save, and His patience with a stubborn people. Again and again, the Lord reminds Israel that there is no other God, no other Savior, and no other source of peace. Commentary: Peace That Cannot Be Stopped In today’s commentary, we focus on Isaiah 48:17–18, where God speaks tenderly yet honestly to His people. He tells them that if they had listened, their peace would have been like a river and their righteousness like the waves of the sea. Using the imagery of the ocean, Steve reflects on how waves cannot be resisted. They carry surfers, move divers, and humble sailors. In the same way, God’s love and righteousness are meant to carry us forward when we trust Him. His love is lavish, active, and meant to be lived out, not merely admired. A Personal Word Steve also shares briefly and honestly from the heart about the importance of community within the Lifespring family. This show has always been more than a broadcast. It is a family that prays, listens, and walks together. Even a short note of encouragement or prayer means more than listeners may realize. On This Date in Church History 1746 – Isaac Watts publishes Hymns and Spiritual Songs, transforming Christian worship with Christ-centered hymnody. 1864 – Henry Alford’s Greek New Testament gains wide use, strengthening biblical scholarship among