The World and Everything In It
Episode Release Date: December 25, 2024
Host: WORLD Radio (Lindsay Mast and Nick Iker)
Introduction
On this special Christmas Day episode of The World and Everything In It, WORLD Radio delivers a heartfelt blend of breaking news, timeless storytelling, insightful commentary, and soul-stirring Advent music. Hosted by Lindsay Mast and Nick Iker, the episode seamlessly weaves contemporary events with the profound narrative of the Nativity story, offering listeners both information and inspiration.
News Highlights
Tragic Incident in New York City Subway
The episode opens with a somber report by Kent Covington covering a devastating incident that occurred on Christmas Eve in Brooklyn's Coney Island Rail Station. Sebastian Zepeta, a 33-year-old Guatemalan national, was charged with murder and arson after fatally setting a woman on fire inside a subway train. Covington highlights the broader implications of the crime, linking it to ongoing debates about illegal immigration.
Nick Iker (00:25): "This tragedy, the census tragedy that took place in New York on the subway that's a prime example of a gotaway."
Reactions and Political Ramifications
The discussion swiftly moves to political reactions, featuring Republican Congresswoman Claudia Tenney's criticism of New York Governor Kathy Hochul for her stance on sanctuary cities. Incoming President Donald Trump's border czar, Tom Homan, emphasizes the urgent need for stricter immigration enforcement and calls on Congress for substantial funding.
Tom Homan (02:10): "I want Hochul, I want the mayor of Chicago... to watch that video and know how this young lady suffered, what a heroic death she had."
Supreme Court and Political Dynamics
Covington also touches on the precarious position of House Speaker Mike Johnson as the 119th Congress prepares to convene. With a razor-thin Republican majority and several members contemplating their support, the episode delves into the internal struggles within the GOP.
Nick Iker (03:28): "The American people gave him a mandate."
Additional News: Aviation Issues and Legal Reforms
The news segment concludes with updates on American Airlines' temporary flight groundings due to technical issues and President Biden's controversial decision to commute federal death sentences, which has elicited strong responses from Republican figures.
A Classic Presentation of the Nativity Story
Narration by John Fasinda
Transitioning from the day's news, the podcast presents a timeless retelling of the Nativity story, narrated by the esteemed voice of John Fasinda. This segment, originally recorded in 1957, meticulously adheres to the biblical account while adding a touch of traditional dramatization.
Janie B. Cheney (06:31): "Here now John Fasinda's retelling of the Nativity, a story that begins centuries before the birth of the Christ child."
Detailed Storytelling
The narration vividly portrays the journey of Joseph, Mary, and the infant Jesus to Bethlehem. It captures the emotional and physical struggles of finding shelter, the significance of the humble manger, and the celestial events that heralded the Messiah's birth. The story emphasizes themes of faith, promise, and the profound impact of Christ's arrival.
Narrator (07:41): "For behold, a virgin shall be with child and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel."
Reflection on Prophecies and Significance
The narrative underscores the fulfillment of ancient prophecies and the intentional nature of Christ's birth within a divine master plan. It contrasts the humble circumstances of the Nativity with the magnitude of its historical and spiritual significance.
Narrator (07:41): "The prophecies are quite explicit as to time and place and circumstance... The world truly was never the same."
Janie B. Cheney’s Thoughts on the Incarnation
Post-narration, Janie B. Cheney offers a profound commentary on the Incarnation and its everlasting impact on history and modernity.
Impact of Christ's Birth on History
Cheney articulates how the birth of Christ was a pivotal event that transformed the course of human history, moving away from cyclical pagan traditions towards a linear progression centered on redemption and salvation.
Janie B. Cheney (31:36): "The birth of Christ... is an event that altered the course of all history."
Cultural and Theological Insights
She explores the contrast between the ancient pagan world and the Christian era, highlighting how Christ's coming introduced a new dynamic of progress and moral accountability.
Janie B. Cheney (35:09): "Progress as God in Christ leads us in triumphant procession... the world truly was never the same."
Eternal Significance and Future Implications
Cheney emphasizes that the Christian narrative began a linear timeline that continues to shape expectations and hopes for the future, firmly placing Christ at the center of historical and eschatological developments.
Janie B. Cheney (35:09): "History will not... It will not be a return to the endless cycles of expansion and decline."
Advent Music Celebration
Musical Selections by Bonnie Pritchett
The episode culminates with a moving musical segment curated by Bonnie Pritchett, featuring traditional and contemporary hymns that celebrate the birth of Jesus. This selection serves as a sonic reflection of the themes discussed, reinforcing the spiritual essence of Christmas.
Featured Hymns:
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"Hark the Herald Angels Sing"
- Composer: Charles Wesley and George Whitfield
- Arrangement: Choir of King's College and Philip Jones Brass Ensemble
- Highlights: Calls listeners to heed the angelic proclamation of Christ's birth.
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"Sing We the Song of Emmanuel"
- Songwriters: Matt Boswell and Matt Papa
- Highlights: Encourages adoration and proclamation of God's love manifested in Jesus.
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"Lo, How a Rose E'er Blooming"
- Origin: 1599 German Hymnal
- Highlights: Utilizes Isaiah's prophecy to poetically describe Jesus as a rose, symbolizing his beauty and redemptive power.
Bonnie Pritchett (36:32): "The thin cry of a newborn baby registered not at all, but it signaled the birth of something new."
The musical interlude not only enriches the listener's experience but also reinforces the episode's central message of hope, redemption, and the transformative power of Christ's birth.
Conclusion
As the episode draws to a close, WORLD Radio reflects on the enduring significance of the Nativity story amidst contemporary challenges and global events. By intertwining news, storytelling, and music, the program offers a holistic perspective that honors tradition while engaging with present realities.
Lindsay Mast (42:14): "The world and everything in it comes to you from World Radio. World's mission is biblically objective journalism that informs, educates and inspires."
Listeners are left with a profound appreciation for the timeless message of Christmas and its relevance in shaping both personal faith and collective history.
Notable Quotes:
- Nick Iker (00:25): "This tragedy... is a prime example of a gotaway."
- Tom Homan (02:10): "I want Hochul... to know how this young lady suffered, what a heroic death she had."
- Janie B. Cheney (31:36): "The birth of Christ... is an event that altered the course of all history."
- Bonnie Pritchett (36:32): "The thin cry of a newborn baby registered not at all, but it signaled the birth of something new."
Additional Resources
- Support Asbury University: Enrollment is open for January online graduate and undergraduate classes. Learn more at Asbury University.
- Watch Eyewitness Silent Night: Season two of the student-led podcast drama following time travelers to the first Christmas is available on podcast apps or at eyewitnesspod.com.
For more detailed discussions and weekly updates, subscribe to The World and Everything In It on Apple Podcasts and join our listener-supported community at wng.org. Merry Christmas!