Deborah: The Judge Witness

Elizabeth – The Righteous WitnessWelcome back, truth-seekers, to another spirit-filledepisode of the “Witness Series.” I’m your host, Fr. Veigas Dominic SVD, andtoday, we open the pages of the New Testament to meet a woman whoserighteousness and prophetic insight played a crucial role in the unfolding ofGod’s most extraordinary plan. In this eighth episode of Season 7, we turn ourattention to Elizabeth, “The Righteous Witness.” In her elderly years, when allhope of bearing children seemed lost, God chose Elizabeth and her husbandZechariah to prepare the way for the Messiah. Her story is a powerful reminderthat God’s timing is perfect, and He often uses humble and faithful individualsto usher in His most significant works. Elizabeth’s life resonates with us today because itspeaks to the challenges of long-held dreams and the profound joy of seeingGod’s promises fulfilled, often in unexpected ways. Her witness reminds us thattrue righteousness is lived in quiet faithfulness and that God can bestowprophetic revelation even in the most intimate moments. Today, we’ll unpack Elizabeth’s life, her powerfulmessage as a righteous witness, and how her example can inspire our ownpatience, faith, and spiritual discernment. Let’s get started. Who was Elizabeth?Imagine an elderly couple, Zechariah and Elizabeth,living a devout life. They were both from priestly families, righteous in God’seyes, blameless in their observance of His commands. Luke 1:6 tells usclearly, “Both of them were righteous in the sight of God, observing all theLord’s commands and decrees blamelessly.” Yet, they carried a deep sorrow:Elizabeth was barren, and they were well advanced in years. In their culture,this was a source of profound grief and often perceived shame. One day, while Zechariah was serving as a priest inthe temple, an angel of the Lord, Gabriel, appeared to him. Gabriel announcedthat Elizabeth would bear a son, who would “go on before the Lord, in thespirit and power of Elijah, to make ready a people prepared for the Lord” (Luke1:17). This son would be John the Baptist, the forerunner of the Messiah.Zechariah, doubting due to their old age, was temporarily struck mute. Elizabeth conceived, and for five months, she kept herpregnancy hidden, praising God for His goodness. Luke 1:25 records herhumble gratitude: “The Lord has done this for me,” she said. “In these days, hehas shown his favor and taken away my disgrace among the people.” Then, in the sixth month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy, thesame angel Gabriel visited her young cousin, Mary, to announce that Mary, avirgin, would conceive by the Holy Spirit and give birth to the Son of God. Asa sign, Gabriel told Mary, “Even Elizabeth, your relative, is going to have achild in her old age, and she who was said to be unable to conceive is in hersixth month.” (Luke 1:36). Mary immediately set out to visit Elizabeth. Whathappened next is a profound moment of prophetic recognition. Luke 1:41-42describes it vividly: “When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped inher womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. In a loud voice, sheexclaimed: ‘Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you willbear!’ Elizabeth, filled with the Holy Spirit, was the firstto recognize and affirm Mary’s unique calling, confirming the miraculous workof God within her. She prophesied about the identity of Mary’s unborn child andthe blessedness of Mary’s faith: “Blessed is she who has believed that theLord would fulfill his promises to her!” (Luke 1:45)

2 Nov 8min

Abigail– The Discerning WitnessWelcomeback, truth-seekers, to another insightful episode of the “Witness Series.” I’myour host, Fr. Veigas Dominic SVD, and today, we’re delving into a captivatingstory from the Old Testament, featuring a woman whose wisdom, discernment, andquick action averted disaster and bloodshed.  Inthis seventh episode of Season 7, we talk about Abigail, “The DiscerningWitness.” In a volatile situation fueled by pride and anger, God used Abigail’sspiritual insight and diplomatic courage to bring about peace and prevent aterrible sin. Her story is a powerful reminder that true wisdom involvesunderstanding not just people, but also God’s will, and acting decisively uponit.  Abigail’slife resonates with us today because we often find ourselves in situations thatrequire careful thought, calm action, and the ability to see beyond immediateemotions. Her witness reminds us that God grants wisdom to those who seek it,enabling them to be peacemakers and agents of reconciliation in a world markedby contention.  Today,we’ll unpack Abigail’s life, her powerful message as a discerning witness, andhow her example can inspire us to cultivate wisdom and act with grace inchallenging circumstances. Let’s get started.  Whowas Abigail?David,still fleeing from King Saul, is leading a band of loyal men. They hadprotected the sheep of a very wealthy but notoriously ill-tempered man namedNabal, whose name means “fool.” When David’s men politely requested provisionsfrom Nabal during sheep-shearing season – a time of feasting and generosity –Nabal rudely insulted them and sent them away empty-handed.  David,enraged by this blatant disrespect and ingratitude, vowed vengeance. Hegathered 400 armed men, determined to destroy Nabal and his entire householdutterly. It was a moment of grave danger, fueled by pride and a desire forretribution. 1 Samuel chapter 25 vividly describes David’s fury and his oathof destruction, saying in verse 22, “May God deal with David, be it ever soseverely, if by morning I leave alive one male of all who belong to him!”Now,enter Abigail. She was Nabal’s wife, a woman described in 1 Samuel 25:3 as“an intelligent and beautiful woman.”

26 Okt 9min

Ruth – The Loyal WitnessWelcome back, truth-seekers, to another heartwarmingepisode of the “Witness Series.” I’m your host, Fr. Veigas Dominic SVD, andtoday, we’re exploring a beautiful and profound story from the Old Testament,featuring a woman whose steadfast devotion and remarkable faithfulness shonebrightly in challenging times. In this sixth episode of Season 7, we turn ourattention to Ruth, “The Loyal Witness.” Amidst loss and uncertainty, God usedRuth’s unwavering commitment to her family and the God of Israel to demonstratesteadfast covenant faithfulness, ultimately placing her in the lineage of theMessiah. Her story is a timeless testament to the power of loyalty, love, andtrusting in God’s providence even as an outsider. Ruth’s life resonates with us today because it speaksto the transformative power of choosing faithfulness, even when it meansleaving behind the familiar and stepping into the unknown. Her witness remindsus that God honors sincere devotion and can weave even the most unlikely livesinto His grand redemptive plan. Today, we’ll unpack Ruth’s life, her powerful messageas a loyal witness, and how her example can inspire our commitment to God andto one another. Let’s get started. Who was Ruth? Imagine a family from Bethlehem – Elimelech, his wifeNaomi, and their two sons – who leave their homeland due to a famine and settlein Moab, a foreign land. There, the sons marry Moabite women, Orpah and Ruth.Tragically, within ten years, Elimelech and both sons die, leaving Naomi,Orpah, and Ruth as widows, devoid of male protectors and providers. With nothing left in Moab, Naomi decides to return toher homeland, the land of Judah. She urged her two daughters-in-law to stay inMoab, to return to their own families. Orpah, though sad, eventually chose togo back to her people and her gods. But Ruth, a Moabite herself, made adifferent choice – a choice that would echo through history.

9 Okt 8min

Esther – The Courageous IntercessorWitnessWelcome back, truth-seekers, to another captivatingepisode of the “Witness Series,” part of “2 Minutes with the Lord” on Spotify!I’m your host, Fr. Veigas Dominic SVD, and today, we’re diving into anextraordinary story from the Old Testament, featuring a young woman who rosefrom obscurity to royalty, and then risked everything to save her people. In this fifth episode of Season 7, we focus on Esther,“The Courageous Intercessor Witness.” In a moment of existential crisis for herpeople, God strategically placed Esther in a position of influence, empoweringher to intercede and act with incredible bravery. Her story is a powerfulreminder that God orchestrates circumstances and equips ordinary people forextraordinary purposes. Esther’s life resonates with us today because itspeaks to the moments when we are called to step out in faith, even when fearis present. Her witness reminds us that God often uses our unique gifts andpositions for His divine plan, especially when it involves defending thevulnerable and speaking truth to power. Today, we’ll unpack Esther’s life, her powerfulmessage as a courageous intercessor, and how her example can inspire our actsof faith and advocacy. Let’s get started. Who was Esther? A young Jewish orphan girl named Hadassah, living inexile in Susa, the capital of the vast Persian Empire. She was raised by herolder cousin Mordecai. Through a remarkable turn of events – including QueenVashti’s dismissal and a kingdom-wide search for a new queen – Hadassah, nowknown by her Persian name, Esther, found herself chosen to be Queen to KingXerxes.  The book of Esther, chapter 2, describesher ascent to the throne, saying in verse 17: “The king loved Esther more thanall the other women, and she obtained grace and favor in his sight more thanall the virgins; so he set the royal crown upon her head and made her queeninstead of Vashti.” But her new royal position came with an unimaginablechallenge. A wicked and ambitious official named Haman concocted a plan toannihilate all the Jews throughout the Persian Empire, manipulating King Xerxesinto issuing an irreversible decree. Mordecai, upon learning of this decree,urged Esther to intercede with the King.

3 Okt 8min

Welcome back, truth-seekers, to another deeply movingepisode of the “Witness Series.” I’m your host, Fr. Veigas Dominic SVD, andtoday, we’re exploring a poignant story from the Old Testament, featuring awoman whose profound anguish led to fervent prayer, demonstrating theincredible power of a surrendered heart. In this fourth episode of Season 7, we turn ourattention to Hannah, “The Praying Witness.” In a time of personal heartache andsocietal challenges, God used Hannah’s persistent and heartfelt prayers tobring forth an influential leader for Israel, demonstrating that true spiritualstrength often begins on our knees. Her story is a timeless reminder that ourstruggles can become the fertile ground for God’s most significant work when weturn to Him in prayer. Hannah’s life resonates with us today because we allface moments of deep pain, disappointment, or longing. Her witness reminds usthat even in our most profound anguish, God hears our cries, and Histransformative power is unleashed through sincere, believing prayer. Today, we’ll unpack Hannah’s life, her powerfulmessage as a praying witness, and how her example can inspire our own prayerlives. Let’s get started. Who was Hannah?She was one of two wives to Elkanah, a man who lovedher deeply. But Hannah lived with a persistent and painful burden: she wasunable to have children, while Elkanah’s other wife, Peninnah, had many. Inthat culture, barrenness was not just a personal sorrow, but often a source ofshame and scorn. Peninnah, unfortunately, used Hannah’s vulnerability totorment her year after year, especially during their annual pilgrimage toShiloh to worship the Lord.

26 Sep 8min

Season 7 Episode 03 Welcome back, truth-seekers, to another illuminatingepisode of the “Witness Series.” I’m your host, Fr. Veigas Dominic SVD, andtoday, we’re uncovering a fascinating story from the Old Testament, featuring awoman whose profound wisdom and spiritual authority were crucial in a pivotalmoment of Israel’s history. In this third episode of Season 7, we turn ourattention to Huldah, “The Verifying Witness.” In a time of great spiritualawakening and discovery, God used Huldah to confirm His divine Word, bringingclarity and direction to a bewildered king and nation. Her story is a powerfulreminder that God can speak through anyone faithful, validating truth andguiding His people back to Him. Huldah’s life resonates with us today because ithighlights the importance of authentic spiritual discernment and thetransformative power of God’s Word. Her witness reminds us that when weencounter God’s truth, we must seek its verification and respond with humility. Today, we’ll unpack Huldah’s life, her crucial role asa verifying witness, and how her example can inspire our commitment to God’struth. Let’s get started. Who was Huldah?The year is approximately 622 BC. Young King Josiah, arighteous king, is reigning in Judah. During the temple’s renovations, amonumental discovery is made by Hilkiah the high priest – a book, almostcertainly a copy of the Law of Moses, possibly Deuteronomy. This book hadlikely been lost or hidden for generations, forgotten amidst the nation’sspiritual decline.When this “Book of the Law” was read to King Josiah,he was utterly distraught. 2 Kings 22:11 tells us, “When the king heard thewords of the Book of the Law, he tore his robes.” He recognized immediatelythat the nation had gravely sinned against God’s commands. In his distress, hesent his chief officials, including the high priest Hilkiah, to inquire of theLord. They sought confirmation, understanding, and direction from God.

18 Sep 8min

Season 7, Episode 1:Miriam – The Worshipping WitnessWelcome, truth seekers, to Season 7, known as the "WitnessSeries." Why is it called the Witness series, and is it special for areason? In this season, we bring you stories about women. These womenwho didn't just hear about God, but saw Him, met Him, feltHis power, and were utterly transformed. Their lives became living testimonies,vibrant proof of God's active presence in the world. From the desert plains to bustling cities, frommoments of profound joy to the depths of despair, these women stood as beaconsof faith. They didn't just believe; they witnessed. They didn'tjust learn; they lived and proclaimed what God had done. Join us as we uncover the powerful truths revealedthrough the lives of these incredible women, each a unique "Witness"to the living God. Prepare to be inspired, challenged, and empowered to liveout your testimony. I'm your host, Fr. Veigas Dominic SVD, and today,we're diving into a powerful story from the Old Testament, featuring a womanwhose praise and leadership resonated through the desert. In this first episode of Season 7, we focus on Miriam,the "Worshipping Witness." God used Miriam not only as a prophetessand leader but also as the very embodiment of joy and grateful praise after oneof the most astonishing miracles in biblical history. Her story reminds us thatour response to God's deliverance can be a powerful testimony. Miriam's actions resonate with us today because, in aworld often filled with lament, her life calls us to find moments of profoundpraise. Her message reminds us that celebration and worship are vital parts ofour faith, making God's glory known to all. Today, we'll unpack Miriam's life, her powerfulmessage as a worshipping witness, and how we can apply her wisdom in our ownlives. Let's get started. Who was Miriam?Miriam was a prophetess and the elder sister of Mosesand Aaron. Her first appearance in Scripture is subtle but significant. We seeher watching over her baby brother Moses in a basket on the Nile, bravelyapproaching Pharaoh's daughter to suggest a nurse, who, providentially, turnsout to be Moses's mother. This early glimpse reveals a woman of courage andquick thinking, already playing a pivotal role in God's plan for Israel'ssalvation. Her more prominent role, however, comes later, afterthe dramatic crossing of the Red Sea. You can read about this decisivemoment in Exodus chapter 15. The Israelites had just witnessed God'smiraculous intervention, parting the waters to save them from Pharaoh'spursuing army. Imagine the fear, the awe, and then the overwhelming relief!

4 Sep 9min