We enjoy Christmas memories with Alex McFarland, and how current events in Washington should remind us to pray for our President and leaders. Then on Friday with Friends, Jane Leyden Cavanaugh joins us to talk Advent, and learning to walk with questions, while living by faith.

The more connected our world becomes, the more isolated many of us feel. How can we rediscover the vital art of making friends? Dr. Andy Schuttinga shares practical ways to connect with new friends, to be a good friend, and the confidence we can have when God Himself calls us His friend.

On this edition of "Deep Thinker Thursday," Jon and Pam Bloom highlight the surprise and amazement of Christ's birth, why our long-prophesied Savior came in such an unexpected way, and continues to upend and exceed our expectations, meeting us in our place of deepest need.

Our unofficial panel of menfolk is back! Dr. Peter Kapsner, Brad Johnson, and Justin Jeppesen join Bill to give their unique male perspectives on influencing and being influenced, breaking free from deception, the ministry of questions, control freaks vs. rule breakers, trusting the Good Shepherd to save, and more.

What is the Jewish celebration of Chanukah? What can we learn about the God of Israel through this festival of dedication? Thom and Marcia Berkowitz share how the light of Chanukah can highlight the hope we have in our mighty Messiah.

Our plans for a perfect Christmas often go somewhat sideways--from burned dinners and awkward moments to outright arguments. How can we have a merry Christmas, no matter what happens? Dr. Glenn Pickering equips us to prepare our hearts, our expectations, and our responses to have a peaceful holiday season.

We open up the phone lines and our Bibles for another edition of "Ask the Professor!" Professor Mark Muska from the University of Northwestern-St. Paul tackles your questions on what it means to be filled with the Holy Spirit, how Moses talked with God, lies in the Bible, God's election vs. man's free will, and more.

We review the latest news from the nation's capital, and 2019 news in review with Rob Bluey, executive editor of The Daily Signal. Then David Wheaton helps us understand how theology determines morality and how to develop a higher view of God in our churches, our homes, and our hearts.

Amid an increasingly hostile, chaotic, anxious society, Dr. Everett Piper says God's people have tremendous opportunity to shine the light. Then Jon Gauger shares surprisingly wise lessons we can learn from children from his book, Kids Say the Wisest Things.

We take a humorous look at news of the day with friend and colleague Patrick Albanese. Then Vaneetha Risner shares what suffering teaches us about God, and how He meets us (and works through us) in our pain.