Understanding the Baptism of the Lord and New Year's Resolutions -
Light Reading Podcast

In this episode of Light Reading, we delve into the readings for January 11th, 2026, focusing on the baptism of the Lord.

Beginning with a reading from the book of Isaiah, followed by Psalm 29, a passage from the Acts of the Apostles, and the Gospel according to Matthew, we explore the significance of Jesus' baptism.

We also discuss the cultural phenomenon of New Year's resolutions and the importance of supportive systems for achieving personal goals.

The episode emphasizes the transformative power of baptism and the Holy Spirit, encouraging listeners to reflect on their divine kinship with God.

Happy New Year!

00:00 Introduction to Light Reading Podcast
00:24 First Reading: The Book of Isaiah
01:44 Psalm 29: The Lord Will Bless His People with Peace
02:44 Second Reading: Acts of the Apostles
03:56 Gospel Reading: The Baptism of Jesus
05:02 Reflection on New Year's Resolutions
08:11 The Significance of Baptism
13:21 Conclusion and New Year Wishes

Understanding the Epiphany: Reflections and Gift Giving

In this episode of Light Reading, we delve into the readings for the Feast of the Epiphany of the Lord from Lectionary 20 a.

Join us as we explore passages from the book of the prophet Isaiah, Psalm 72, the letter of St. Paul to the Ephesians, and the Gospel according to Matthew.

We'll discuss the significance of gift-giving traditions, linking them to the Magi's offerings of gold, frankincense, and myrrh to baby Jesus.

Reflect with us on how we can bring our own gifts to Jesus and honor Him in our daily lives.

 Many blessings to you this season.

00:00 Introduction to Light Reading Podcast
00:08 The Feast of the Epiphany: Isaiah's Prophecy
01:25 Psalm 72: A Song of Universal Adoration
02:41 St. Paul's Letter to the Ephesians
03:35 The Gospel According to Matthew: The Visit of the Magi
05:36 Reflections on Gift Giving and Traditions
07:36 The Significance of the Magi's Gifts
11:34 Concluding Thoughts and Meditations

Exploring the Importance of Parental Authority | Feast of the Holy Family

Join us on this week's episode of Light Reading, a Catholic podcast dedicated to delving deeper into the inspired word of God.

In celebration of the Feast of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, the readings emphasize the honor and authority of parents over their children as described in the book of Sirach.

Bradley discusses the relevance of these biblical teachings in modern parenting, reflecting on his own experiences and the challenges of maintaining parental authority.

Through scripture from Sirach, the Psalms, Colossians, and the Gospel of Matthew, discover the vital role of parents in shaping a loving and obedient family environment, guided by the wisdom and love of God.

Merry Christmas and many blessings!

00:00 Introduction to Light Reading Podcast
00:18 First Reading: The Book of Sirach
01:35 Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 128
02:34 Second Reading: Letter of St. Paul to the Colossians
04:29 Gospel Reading: According to Matthew
06:03 Reflection: Parental Authority and Obedience
15:42 Conclusion: Meditations on the Holy Family

Embracing the Holy Spirit: Reflections on the Fourth Sunday of Advent

In this episode of Light Reading, we delve into the Scripture readings for the fourth Sunday of Advent.

 The podcast features a reading from the Prophet Isaiah, Psalm 24, St. Paul's letter to the Romans, and the Holy Gospel according to Matthew.

The host shares a personal story about the birth of his daughter and parallels it with Joseph and Mary's journey, emphasizing faith, openness to God's plan, and the importance of family.

Join us as we reflect on the miraculous birth of Jesus Christ and its significance for our own lives.

00:00 Introduction to Light Reading Podcast
00:36 First Reading: The Prophet Isaiah
01:27 Psalm 24: Let the Lord Enter
02:34 Second Reading: Letter of St. Paul to the Romans
04:05 Gospel Reading: Birth of Jesus Christ
05:41 Personal Reflection: Birth of My Daughter
08:53 Connecting Personal Experience to the Nativity
10:25 Counseling on Family and Faith
12:42 Joseph's Righteousness and Obedience
13:42 Conclusion: Embracing the Holy Spirit

Joy and Patience: Reflections on the Third Sunday of Advent | Light Reading Podcast

In this episode of the Light Reading podcast, we delve into the readings for the third Sunday of Advent, also known as Gaudete Sunday.

Focusing on the themes of joy and patience, the episode includes readings from the book of Isaiah, the book of James, and the Gospel of Matthew.

Bradley connects these scriptures to the notion of recognizing Jesus's presence as illustrated through the 'Selective Attention Test' video. (Watch video here: https://youtu.be/vJG698U2Mvo?si=5iXpUvwAQHG2sqFo )

The episode encourages listeners to approach Advent with a spirit of joy and patience, highlighting the importance of our attitude towards life's challenges, echoing lessons from Viktor Frankl's 'Man's Search for Meaning.'

Don't miss this uplifting spiritual journey aimed at bringing you closer to the divine word.

00:00 Introduction to Light Reading Podcast
00:27 First Reading: The Book of Isaiah
01:53 Psalm 146: A Call for Salvation
02:47 Second Reading: The Book of James
04:00 Gospel Reading: According to Matthew
05:36 The Selective Attention Test
09:04 John the Baptist's Role in Advent
12:25 The Joy of Advent: GauDete Sunday
13:33 Choosing Joy in Life's Challenges 1
5:32 Conclusion and Blessings

Entering the Advent Season: Reflections on the Second Sunday

In this episode of the Light Reading podcast, we delve into the readings from the Second Sunday of Advent.
The episode explores a passage from the Book of Isaiah, a Psalm, a letter from St. Paul to the Romans, and the Holy Gospel according to Matthew.

Key themes include preparation, repentance, justice, and familial traditions around worship.

The host shares personal anecdotes about family traditions, drawing parallels with the scripture's call to prepare for the coming of the kingdom of heaven.

Join us as we reflect on how to change our hearts and interactions during this Advent season.


00:00 Introduction to Light Reading Podcast
00:27 First Reading: The Prophet Isaiah
02:19 Psalm 72: A Song of Justice and Peace
03:45 Second Reading: St. Paul's Letter to the Romans
05:07 Gospel Reading: John the Baptist's Call to Repentance
07:08 Personal Reflection: Family Traditions and Faith
08:43 Connecting the Readings: Preparation and Repentance
13:06 Conclusion: Advent Prayers and Blessings

Preparing for the Lord's Coming: A Spiritual Reflection

This episode explores a reading from the book of the prophet Isaiah, passages from Psalm 122, St. Paul's letter to the Romans, and the gospel according to Matthew.

Through these scriptures, it discusses the importance of spiritual preparedness and vigilance for the coming of the Lord. Using a personal anecdote about neighborhood break-ins and a comparison to the preparation required in football, the speaker underscores the need for daily prayer, love, and forgiveness as we prepare spiritually for our ultimate journey to heaven. Join us in reflecting on how to cultivate spiritual readiness and walk in the light of the Lord.

00:00 Introduction: A Reading from Isaiah
01:06 Psalm 122: Rejoicing in the House of the Lord
02:29 St. Paul's Letter to the Romans: A Call to Awaken
03:28 Gospel of Matthew: Be Prepared for the Son of Man
04:47 Personal Anecdote: Neighborhood Break-ins
06:57 Spiritual Preparation: Lessons from Jesus and St. Paul
10:38 Conclusion: The Importance of Being Prepared