Become New with John Ortberg

This reflection dives deep into the life of Jesus, an uneducated carpenter whose influence reshaped compassion, education, and human rights. Discover how Jesus' teachings catalyzed the founding of hospitals and universities, and how art, music, and literature were inspired by his story. The talk also explores the radical notion of loving enemies and offers insights into why Jesus remains relevant today. John Ortberg invites listeners to consider the profound and lasting impact of one extraordinary life.

This Christmas episode dives into the haunting beauty of 'I Wonder as I Wander,' a carol born from hardship. John Ortberg explores how suffering can draw people closer to God. He shares the poignant story behind the song, emphasizing its connection to ordinary lives. Insights into gender differences in sharing struggles offer a unique perspective. Listeners are encouraged to bring their burdens to God, fostering a sense of community through shared pain and finding wonder amid life's challenges.

Discover the fascinating tale of how a broken organ led to the creation of the timeless carol, Silent Night. Delve into the profound intimacy and stillness it inspires, as John reflects on the nature of connection with God and others. Learn about the importance of vulnerability in relationships and the concept of bids for intimacy. Explore God's everyday invitations and how recognizing these moments can deepen your spiritual journey. This heartwarming conversation invites you to embrace silence as a pathway to closeness.

Discover the deeper meaning behind a classic Christmas carol that emphasizes the importance of being held rather than just feeling happy. John Ortberg explores the song's historical roots and unveils how 'merry' once meant 'mighty,' linking joy to inner strength. He contrasts the desire for control with the true power of belonging, urging listeners to embrace a sense of community. Unpack themes of hope, comfort, and resilience as the carol's message reassures against despair, encouraging love and brotherhood during the holiday season.

Join a heartfelt discussion as holiday expectations collide with reality. A classic Christmas tune sets the stage for reflections on joy found in ordinary moments. Nostalgia can cloud our view, but true treasure lies in embracing life's chaos. Discover three essentials for a merry Christmas and the profound impact of Christ's presence today. Learn to accept life's messiness while sharing love and hope with others, reminding us all of the joy that can be found even in imperfect celebrations.

In this heartfelt discussion, Rolf Geyling, President of the Santa Barbara Rescue Mission, shares his remarkable journey through loss and transformation. He emphasizes the importance of being present for those suffering rather than attempting to fix their pain. Rolf recounts powerful stories of individuals overcoming addiction and homelessness, underscoring the significance of community support during difficult times. His poignant reflections on personal grief reveal how shared presence can provide the strength to endure life's deepest hurts.

Discover the fascinating tale behind Handel’s Hallelujah Chorus, where the word 'hallelujah' appears 48 times, infused with profound meaning. Hear about Handel’s struggles with health and debt as he crafted a 260-page masterpiece in just 24 days. Explore the deeper significance of hallelujah rooted in its Hebrew origins and how it calls us to joyful praise. John shares inspiring anecdotes that highlight the beauty of imperfect praise and invites listeners to embrace a life filled with exuberance and gratitude.

Discover the fascinating story behind the carol "Angels From the Realms of Glory" and its author, James Montgomery. Explore the contrasting power dynamics in the Christmas narrative, where Jesus' humble beginnings defy worldly expectations. Uncover how true power is rooted in love and self-sacrifice. The podcast encourages listeners to engage in acts of altruism, inviting a deeper understanding of Jesus' message. Each segment highlights the unexpected ways that ancient tales continue to resonate today.

Explore the rich meanings behind the carol 'Hark! The Herald Angels Sing.' Discover the significance of attentive listening during Advent and the intriguing concept of 'welkin.' Dive into ideas of peace as reconciliation with God and the importance of Christ's humble incarnation. Learn about the contrast between chronos and kairos, and how it relates to God's perfect timing. Plus, reflect on healing and the implications of the virgin birth—inviting a deeper understanding of faith and hope this Christmas season.

In a thought-provoking discussion, Dr. John Witvliet, a worship scholar and director at the Calvin Institute, reveals the often-overlooked role of the Holy Spirit in the Christmas narrative. He emphasizes the significance of ancient prayers and global traditions that can enrich our Advent experience. Witvliet explores the historical context of Advent, its connections to penitential practices, and how balancing joy with longing in music can deepen spiritual reflection. He also shares personal practices that bring life to seasonal worship.