Bethenny Frankel (3:51)

is Bethany Frankel from Just Be with Bethany Frankel it's hard to be a person who loves ice cream. It truly is. Particularly if you're a lifelong ice cream lover. Okay, and the so called better for you ice cream options are lying. They say they're creamy. They're delicious. They're chalky, airy, gross. Here is the good news. Yaso is the real deal. They took everything people love about ice cream and upgraded it with creamy frozen Greek yogurt that actually tastes incredible. My freezer is always stocked with it and now they've launched something I'm genuinely obsessed with, Yaso spoonables. Now it comes in containers around 400 calories, 19 grams of protein. Comes in five amazing flavors chocolate chip cookie dough cookies and cream, fudge brownie, mint chocolate chip and coffee chocolate chip. You know I love their bars, sandwiches, poppables and chocolate Crunch bars, all made with the goodness of Greek yogurt. Here is the kicker. Now, through April 30, Yaso is giving away 40,001 spoonables to anyone who has been disappointed by so called better for you ice cream. Visit yaso.com iheart to enter and upgrade your freezer. That's yaso.com iheart to enter and find full giveaway details, rules and regulations Hi,

Cindy Crawford (5:07)

I'm Cindy Crawford and I'm the founder of Meaningful Beauty. Well, I don't know about you, but like, I never liked being told oh wow, you look so good for your age. Like, why even bother saying that? Why don't you just say you look great at any age? Every age. That's what Meaningful Beauty is all about. We create products that make you feel confident in your skin at the age you are now. Meaningful Beauty. Beautiful skin at every age. Learn more@meaningfulbeauty.com.

IBM Representative (5:42)

The thing about AI for business, it may not automatically fit the way your business works at IBM, we've seen this firsthand. But by embedding AI across hr, IT and procurement processes, we've reduced costs by millions, slashed repetitive tasks, and freed thousands of hours for strategic work. Now we're helping companies get smarter by putting AI where it actually pays off, deep in the work that moves the business. Let's create smarter business IBM hello, I'm

Pastor Jack Graham (6:13)

Pastor Jack Graham with today's episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast.

Narrator / Biblical Scholar (6:18)

This episode introduces us to the Magi Many movies and dramatizations have been made around these mysterious biblical figures. Who were they and how did they come to discover Jesus? While none of us can be certain, many historical and biblical arrows point us in the right direction. The term magi magoi in ancient Greek has been the source of misconceptions and myths. These travelers were not kings but wise men, astronomers, possibly part of a larger company and arriving likely months or even years after Jesus birth. In ancient times, the term encompassed a wide range of individuals and interested in dreams, astrology, alchemy, magic, and prophecies. The magi's connection with astronomy and their pursuit of knowledge transcending earthly wisdom uniquely positions them in the biblical narrative. Being from the east, the Magi may have been among Jews exiled centuries earlier or at least influenced by them. Their understanding of the Messiah's promise indicates an alignment with Jewish traditions and prophecies. Some have surmised that these wise men were part of a similar order to Daniel when he was captive in Babylon. The blend of worldly wisdom and spiritual expectation made them perfect seekers for the Christ child. Historical accounts tell us that the expectation of a Messiah or great ruler from Judea was widespread during this time. Roman historians Suetonius and Tacitus noted the prevailing belief that rulers from Judea were destined to rise up against Rome. This expectation set the stage for the Magi's journey. Though the magi were most likely not kings, the tradition that portrays them as such can be traced back to early Christian thinkers like Tertullian. Influenced by Old Testament passages predicting that kings would worship the Messiah, the myth evolved, even assigning them names Melchior, Caspar, and Balthasar. Today's episode will follow that tradition, focusing on three wise men instead of dozens. Today's story highlights the star hovering above Bethlehem, the star the wise men followed to find Jesus. Many theories about the star's nature exist, ranging from planetary conjunctions to supernovas or comets. Regardless of its origin, the star was a divine guide, meeting the astronomers in their medium. God has a beautiful way of meeting people where they are. Some even believe this star fulfilled an obscure prophecy. In Numbers, chapter 24, verse 17. A star shall come out of Jacob. Regardless, the star was Christ's star, a moving sign pointing others to him. Let's follow that star together. Afterward, we'll unpack deep truths from the story.

Narrator / Storyteller (9:21)

Past the vast deserts of the Far east, tucked between ancient kingdoms and new empires, was a place untouched by time. There, in a palace hewn from ivory and cedar, lived three noble scholars known as the Magi. They were ruled by rulers over a secret order, descendants of the exiled Jews who remained in the Babylonian empire. Their names were Caspar, Melchior and Belshazzar. Kaspar, the eldest, was an ancient astronomer whose wisdom was sought by kings and queens. Weathered by age, his eyes held a spark that transcended his years. Melchior was a philosopher and a mathematician. His mind, sharp and unerring, was always searching for the elusive truth behind all things. Belshazzar was an alchemist, a master of transformation, and a keeper of secrets that danced at the edge of the mystical. Together, they were masters of the stars, scholars, knowledgeable of ancient prophecies and men of science and intrigue. Their days were filled with steadying the skies, the unraveling mysteries and pursuing knowledge that had slipped through the fingers of time. The order of the Magi was mysterious, wealthy and independent of any ruling nation or cultural creed. They were diverse, and their only loyalty was to the relentless pursuit of wisdom, truth and knowledge. Nights were often a time of reflection and debate, for. For the three wise men in the heart of their observatory, surrounded by scrolls, maps and ancient texts, they would gather around a flickering fire to discuss life's most profound quandaries. Together, they cut the silence of the night with their rigorous debate and inspired rhetoric. On one such night, as the Magi debated the nature of existence and destiny, the universe unveiled its most profound secret. Melchior's voice, musical and resonant, filled the room. What is fate if not the tapestry woven by our choices? Are we not the authors of fate? Does not every decision we make add another thread to our destiny? Mmm, fate, Caspar mused.

Magi Character (possibly Caspar or Belshazzar) (11:51)

Fate is the path we walk, guided by the stars. It is a predestined path that we choose to walk in. Fate is like a mighty current that pulls us. We can swim against it or allow its pole to lead us towards our destiny.

Narrator / Storyteller (12:11)

Belshazzar's eyes twinkled.

Magi Character (possibly Caspar or Belshazzar) (12:14)

You say fate is a path that seems set for us by the stars themselves, and yet the stars themselves are guided by something greater. Is there not Something or someone greater than the stars. Perhaps it is God, their maker, and therefore the author of fate.

Narrator / Storyteller (12:35)

Their eyes turned skyward, where the stars held court, each a story in the grand saga of existence. Their philosophical meandering was a nightly occurrence. Together they searched the stars and scrolls, unraveling the secrets of the universe. Their gaze was always upward, not just at the stars, but at the one who created them. Although they were worldly men, indoctrinated by ancient mysticism and alchemy, they had always maintained ties to their lineage, the Hebrew excellence exiles taken from Babylon. In fact, the three men were believed to be direct descendants of Daniel himself. The three scholars gazed at the stars, recording anomalies and mapping constellations. It was then that it appeared. A mysterious star hovered in the distance. Its light was vibrant with a silvery blue hue. It was unlike anything they had seen before. The room fell into a hushed silence. The fires crackle now at distant murmur.

Magi Character (possibly Caspar or Belshazzar) (13:41)

Do you see it?

Narrator / Storyteller (13:42)

Casper whispered, his voice tinged with awe. Belshazzar nodded, his eyes wide. Yes. It seems to be fixed in one space. How strange it is hovering over the region of Judea. Belshazzar's heart pounded. Could it be his hands shook as he ran down the coiled staircase to the library? The library was vast and filled with members of the Order. His students were awake, steadying at their respective desks. Bring me the Law of Moses, belshazzar commanded.

Magi Character (possibly Caspar or Belshazzar) (14:13)

Bring me the scroll.

Narrator / Storyteller (14:14)

A student handed him the scroll of Moses, and he darted back up the stairs. Here we are, belshazzar said with laboured breath, spreading the scroll on the table.

Magi Character (possibly Caspar or Belshazzar) (14:23)

Look.

Narrator / Storyteller (14:24)

He traced his fingers to the Book of Numbers, where an obscure passage came to light. A star shall come out of Jacob. A scepter shall rise out of Israel, melchior read aloud. Many believed that the coming of the Messiah would be heralded by a star over Israel. The three of them looked towards the horizon. A profound understanding settled over them. They were being called upon to bear witness to something greater than themselves. We must go, melchior said with glee. The King of the Jews has come.

Magi Character (possibly Caspar or Belshazzar) (14:57)

What did I tell you?

Narrator / Storyteller (14:58)

Caspar exclaimed.

Magi Character (possibly Caspar or Belshazzar) (15:00)

Perhaps fate can be found in the stars after all.

Narrator / Storyteller (15:03)

The room fell into a deep and contemplative silence, each man lost in his thoughts, feeling the weight of destiny upon them. The following days were a flurry of activity. They informed their students, servants, and fellow magi, all equally captivated by by the significance of the star. The assembly of the caravan was a task that required meticulous planning and preparation. Treasures were gathered, gifts fit for a king packed with great care and purpose gold stored in chests of cypress and bronze, frankincense held in jars of glass blown by Egyptian craftsmen, and myrrh held in linen bags. Camels were laden with supplies, tents were rolled and scrolls were carefully stowed. The scholars, servants, and students worked in unison, their actions guided by a sense of higher purpose.

Narrator / Storyteller (15:59)

As the day of departure arrived, the

Narrator / Storyteller (16:01)

three Magi stood overlooking their assembled caravan, a procession that stretched and wound like a river through the desert. Caspar's voice was thick with emotion.

Magi Character (possibly Caspar or Belshazzar) (16:10)

We don't even know what we're looking for.

Narrator / Storyteller (16:13)

Melkir nodded. Yes, we are leaving with many questions. My aim is to return with answers. Belshazzar looked to the west, where the star beckoned.

Magi Character (possibly Caspar or Belshazzar) (16:25)

The road will be long, my brothers. We will have plenty of time to ask questions.

Narrator / Storyteller (16:31)

With a final look at their home,

Narrator / Storyteller (16:32)

they mounted their camels and signaled the caravan to move. As they ventured into the desert, the star their constant guide, they knew that their journey was about more than miles and landscapes. They were traveling into the heart of a mystery, guided by faith and bound by destiny.

Public Ad Host (16:51)

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Bethenny Frankel (17:52)

is Bethany Frankel from Just Be with Bethany Frankel. It's hard to be a person who loves ice cream. It truly is. Particularly if you're a lifelong ice cream lover. Okay, and the so called better for you ice cream options are lying. They say they're Creamy. They're delicious. They're chalky, airy, gross. Here is the good news. Yasso is the real deal. They took everything people love about ice cream and upgraded it with creamy frozen Greek yogurt that actually tastes incredible. My freezer is always stocked with it and now they've launched something I'm genuinely obsessed with, Yaso spoonables. Now it comes in containers around 400 calories, 19 grams of protein. Comes in five amazing flavors. Chocolate chip cookie dough cookies and cream, fudge brownie, mint chocolate chip and coffee chocolate chip. You know, I love their bars, sandwiches, poppables and chocolate crunch bars. All made with the goodness of Greek yogurt. Here is the kicker. Now, through April 30, Yaso's giving away 40,001 spoonables to anyone who has been disappointed by so called better for you ice cream. Visit yaso.com iheart to enter and upgrade your freezer. That's yaso.com iheart to enter and find full giveaway details, rules and regulations.

Cindy Crawford (19:07)

Hi, I'm Cindy Crawford and I'm the founder of Meaningful Beauty. Well, I don't know about you, but like, I never liked being told, oh, wow, you look so good for your age. Like, why even bother saying that? Why don't you just say you look great at any age, every age. That's what Meaningful Beauty is all about. We create products that make you feel confident in your skin at the age you are now. Meaningful beauty, beautiful skin at every age. Learn more@meaningfulbeauty.com.

IBM Representative (19:42)

The thing about AI for business, it may not automatically fit the way your business works. At IBM, we've seen this firsthand. But by embedding AI across hr, IT and procurement processes, we've reduced costs by millions, slashed repetitive tasks, and freed thousands of hours for strategic work. Now we're helping companies get smarter by putting AI where it actually pays off. Deep in the work that moves the business. Let's create smarter business. IBM

Narrator / Biblical Scholar (20:14)

the Magi's journey is a profound metaphor for our spiritual journeys. They were seekers, guided by the world's wisdom, but attuned to the whispers of the divine. Wisdom without faith can be empty, and faith without wisdom can be blind. The Magi's wisdom led them to the star, but their faith guided them to the Messiah. Like them, we are called to blend our knowledge and understanding with a deep faith in God. God has this wonderful way of using what's around us to draw us to himself. For Mary, it was a visitation from Gabriel. For Joseph, it was a dream. For the shepherds, it was an angelic choir for these Magi. It was an anomaly in the constellations. God is not confined to one method of divine intervention. Romans, chapter 1, verse 20 tells us that God's divine nature is revealed through creation. Although outside the Jewish bubble of Israel, these Magi were met by God and responded to his prompting. The Magi's response was immediate and decisive. When they discovered the star, they embarked on a difficult journey, guided by a star, not fully comprehending what awaited them. This teaches us the value of obedience and trust in God's calling, even when the path is uncertain. May the star that guided the Magi also light our way, leading us to the One who is wisdom incarnate, the Word made flesh, and love personified. May we with them proclaim, we have seen his star in the east and have come to worship you. Join us for our next episode as the Magi arrive in Judea to meet King Herod, the Tetrarch and ruler of the region. Unbeknownst to these Magi, their arrival will be the first event in a chain of unfortunate and evil acts.

Bethenny Frankel (22:18)

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Cindy Crawford (22:31)

Okay, we're coming here every day.

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Jacob Goldstein (24:04)

This is Jacob Goldstein from what's yous Problem? Business software is expensive, and when you buy software from lots of different companies, it's not only expensive, it gets confusing. Slow to use, hard to integrate. Odoo solves that, because all Odoo software is connected on a single, affordable platform. Save money without missing out on the features you need. Odoo has no hidden costs and no limit on features or data. Odoo has over 60 apps available for any needs your business might have, all at no additional charge. Everything from websites to sales to inventory to accounting. All linked and talking to each other. Check out Odoo at o d o o dot com. That's o d o o com.

Podcast Announcer (24:48)

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