In this episode, we follow Jesus into the wilderness where hunger, silence, and temptation become the setting for one of the most important moments of His mission. Through historical insight, first‑century context, and the wisdom of saints and scholars—from Augustine and Chrysostom to Aquinas, Fulton Sheen, Benedict XVI, and Bishop Barron—we explore what this encounter truly meant.

Jesus shows us that the wilderness is not wasted. It is the place where faith is refined, identity is clarified, and trust in God’s Word becomes stronger than any temptation. in this episode, we discover how Jesus’ victory in the desert becomes a roadmap for our own seasons of testing.

Join me as we learn how to face our wilderness moments not with fear, but with the confidence that God is forming us for what comes next.

John the Baptist cries out in the wilderness, calling Israel — and us — to a fresh start. In this episode, Chris explores John’s bold message of repentance and the hope it carries for anyone longing for renewal. Then we move to the Jordan River, where Jesus steps into the water and reveals the depth of God’s love through His baptism.

A short, clear reflection on identity, renewal, and what it means to be God’s beloved — right in the midst of everyday life.

Epiphany isn’t just a feast day — it opens a short season in the Catholic Church called Epiphanytide. In this episode, Chris explores the meaning of Epiphany, the Greek roots of the word, and the three key moments when Jesus is revealed: the Magi, the Baptism of the Lord, and the Wedding at Cana. A brief, thoughtful reflection back to his childhood to help you notice how God may be revealing Himself in your own life today.

In this episode, we enter one of the most dramatic and tender moments of Jesus’ early life: the Holy Family’s flight into Egypt and their unexpected return to Nazareth (Matthew 2:13–23).

Through historical insight, sensory storytelling, and prayerful reflection, we explore how God guides Joseph, Mary, and Jesus through fear, exile, danger, and the quiet rebuilding that follows. We also confront the heartbreaking reality of the massacre of the Holy Innocents and the deep grief that shaped Bethlehem.

This episode reveals a God who is present not only in the places we choose, but in the unfamiliar places we never expected to go — the Egypts and Nazareths of our own lives.

Join me as we discover how God’s quiet, steady presence leads us through uncertainty and into unexpected peace.

I thought I knew Daniel… until I actually read the Book of Daniel for the first time this week. And what I found hit me harder than I expected.

With the Hallow App prayer challenge starting in just a few days, I realized I didn’t know much about Daniel beyond the lions’ den. So I sat down, opened the book, and really paid attention. And honestly… it changed me.

This episode takes listeners on a vivid journey through the Gospel of Matthew’s account of the Magi, uncovering the history, culture, and spiritual significance of their visit to Bethlehem.

Travel across desert nights with the Magi, ancient priests and scholars from the East, as they follow a mysterious star to worship the newborn King. Discover who the Magi really were, what their gifts meant, and how their journey fulfilled ancient prophecies. Step into the bustling streets of Bethlehem during the census, and witness the contrast between Herod’s fearful rule and the humble birth of Jesus.

In this Christmas Gospel Snack, I share a moment from Luke’s Gospel that has been resting on my heart: the angel’s message of “good news of great joy for all people.” Filmed in front of my Christmas tree, this reflection explores how God’s greatest gifts often arrive quietly — in ordinary moments, in simple acts of love, and in the people who walk with us. Christmas isn’t just about the presents we wrap. It’s about the presence we offer. The gift of hope. The gift of peace. The gift of compassion. These are the gifts that echo the heart of Christ. My prayer is that you notice the quiet gifts God is placing in your life this season — and that you become a gift to others.

Step into the world of first-century Nazareth . This episode unpacks the meaning of betrothal, the real dangers Mary faced, and the communal consequences of scandal. Against the backdrop of Roman occupation and messianic hope, Joseph’s choice becomes the hinge of prophecy and a redefinition of righteousness as mercy. You’ll be invited to enter Joseph’s inner turmoil, reflect on your own choices, and discover how “Emmanuel—God with us” transforms both ancient and modern lives.

Today we’ll explore a passage many skip — the genealogy of Jesus in Matthew 1:1-17. At first glance, it’s a list of names. But Matthew begins here for a reason. This genealogy is a theological statement, a proclamation of who Jesus is, and it shows how God has been at work across generations.

Why does Matthew begin his Gospel with a list of names?

So, leave your sandals outside the door and join me as we sit together with the first century Jewish Christians gathered in homes, listening to this Gospel read aloud. As the names roll out — Abraham, David, Solomon — they lean in. These aren’t random names. They’re the pillars of Israel’s story. And Matthew is saying: Jesus belongs here.

Today we'll explore the world of the four Gospels—Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. These texts are more than ancient writings; they are windows into the life of Jesus, shaped by the cultural, political, and historical realities of the first century. Together, they give us a multi-dimensional portrait of Christ, each with its own emphasis and audience.

We’ll explore who these authors were, what they focused on, the world they lived in, and how John the Baptist prepared the way. Then, we’ll pause for reflection and enter into a time of immersive prayer.”