What happens when modern charismatic passion meets ancient Christian tradition? In this episode of Deeper Experiences with God, host Dave converses with Andrew Arndt, lead pastor of New Life East in Colorado Springs and an accomplished author, including his latest book, A Strange and Gracious Light. They explore the intersections of modern Christianity and ancient spiritual traditions, highlighting how these can deepen our relationship with God. Arndt recounts his journey through 20 years of ministry and his formative experiences growing up in a charismatic church while falling in love with ancient church tradition. He describes how reading Richard Foster's 'Celebration of Discipline' and encountering the Desert Fathers and Mothers enriched his spiritual practice through different seasons of suffering and growth, encouraging listeners to press into these “thick” spiritual practices.

Takeaways:

• The Concept of 'Great Tradition Charismatic': Arndt identifies as a 'great tradition charismatic,' blending the vitality of charismatic worship with the theological depth of historical Christian traditions. He encourages leaders to integrate various Christian practices to enrich their faith communities.
• Explore one ancient practice—such as praying the Psalms, using a written prayer, or learning about the church calendar—to deepen your own walk with God.
• The Role of Suffering and Contemplative Prayer: Arndt shares his personal journey of suffering and identity crisis upon leaving his church plant in Denver. He emphasizes how embracing suffering and engaging in contemplative prayer can lead to profound spiritual transformation.
• Instead of rushing past your struggles, bring them to God in prayer. Try five minutes of silent, contemplative prayer this week.
• Wisdom from the Desert Fathers and Mothers: The conversation delves into the importance of learning from ancient Christian monastics who found God in desolate places. Arndt highlights how their teachings can guide modern believers through crises.
• Read a short saying or story from the Desert Fathers & Mothers and sit with it—ask, What might this mean for my life right now?
• Practicing Detachment and Simplicity: We often cling to ego and things that don’t ultimately satisfy—approval, busyness, or success. Letting go makes more room for God.
• This week, notice one compulsion you feel (checking your phone, seeking affirmation, overfilling your schedule). Practice pausing, breathing, and turning your attention back to God. Even ask the Holy Spirit to help you do this.
• Community and Spiritual Direction: The importance of surrounding oneself with a supportive community and seeking guidance from a spiritual director is discussed as essential for navigating spiritual crises and growth.
• Reach out to one trusted friend or mentor to talk honestly about your spiritual life. Invite them to pray with you or walk with you through your current season. Maybe even consider and pray about finding a Spiritual Director.

Quote of the Show:

• “ I think it's almost always crisis that initiates the deepest kinds of transformation in our lives” - Andrew Arndt
• “ Most of our Christian life is just learning how to die well and it's learning to rest in peace in whatever grave God has given us in Jesus.” - Andrew Arndt
• “ Pop Evangelicalism is like a thinly veiled version of the gospel of the American dream.” - Andrew Arndt

Links:

• Website: http://andrewarndt.com/
• Book Link: http://andrewarndt.com/book/

How would our spiritual lives change if we could turn from distraction and linger at the feet of Jesus? In this episode of 'Deeper Experiences with God,' host Dave welcomes doctors Bruce and Carolyn Hindmarsh to discuss encountering God's presence through scripture. Bruce, a professor of Spiritual Theology and History of Christianity, and Carolyn, who teaches Spiritual Theology and New Testament Greek, have co-authored the book 'At the Feet of Jesus: A Guide to Encountering Christ in the Gospels.'

The conversation explores themes from Ignatian spirituality, the insights of Saint Augustine, and how scripture serves as a meeting place with God. The authors share their experiences offering retreats focused on encountering God through Gospel narratives, particularly the story of Mary of Bethany. The discussion touches on overcoming distractions, the importance of preparation, and the relational nature of engaging with scripture. Bruce and Carolyn also reflect on their personal spiritual journeys, sharing wisdom for deepening one's spiritual life and providing practical advice for married couples seeking to grow together in faith.

Takeaways:

• Scripture as a Meeting Place with God: Bruce and Carolyn emphasize that scripture is not just for study but is a living space where we can encounter Christ personally.
• Takeaway: When reading a Gospel passage, pause and ask, “How is Jesus present to me here and now?”
• Mary of Bethany’s Posture of Presence: The story of Mary sitting at Jesus’ feet serves as a model for slowing down and listening deeply.
• Takeaway: Choose one Gospel story this week and linger with it prayerfully, resisting the urge to rush through.
• Overcoming Distractions in Prayer: They highlight the importance of preparing the heart and mind to meet God through scripture.
• Takeaway: Before reading scripture, take a few minutes of silence to release distractions and invite the Holy Spirit to guide your attention.
• Ignatian Spirituality & Augustine’s Wisdom: The conversation shows how spiritual practices from the Christian tradition can help us enter scripture relationally.
• Takeaway: Try placing yourself imaginatively in a Gospel story—see, hear, and feel what it’s like to be with Jesus in that moment.
• Spiritual Growth as a Couple: Bruce and Carolyn share insights into cultivating a shared spiritual life in marriage.
• Takeaway: If married, set aside time with your spouse to read a short Gospel passage together and share what stands out to each of you.

Quote of the Show:

• “ We need God to reveal God.” - Carolyn Hindmarsh
• “ In the gospels…if this is Jesus speaking, it actually isn't just then and there.It's happening here and now.” - Bruce Hindmarsh

Links:

• Website: www.brucehindmarsh.com/
• Book Link: https://www.ivpress.com/at-the-feet-of-jesus?utm_source=IVPOD25&utm_medium=ivp_evn