What can an ordinary person do when faced with something extraordinary? This episode explores the surprising ways teachers, unlikely heroes, and faithful people can shape the world around them. As we reflect on the midwives Shiphrah and Puah in Exodus, we consider what it means to recognize the power we do have—and to choose faithfulness when we are called to act. What might it mean to trust that even the smallest acts of courage can make a lasting difference?

Why does Jesus seem to refuse the Canaanite woman’s request for mercy? This episode explores the challenging story of the Canaanite woman and the deeper lesson Jesus is teaching about holiness, identity, and the boundaries we create. As Jesus moves beyond the familiar markers of who is “in” and who is “out,” we are invited to consider what truly matters: not what we look like on the outside, but what is happening in our hearts. What might it mean to let God transform the places within us where we draw lines between ourselves and others?

What do we do when fear comes? This episode explores the fears we all carry—from childhood nightmares to the very real uncertainties of illness, loss, conflict, and change. Reflecting on Jesus’ words to the disciples caught in a storm, “Take heart. It is I. Do not be afraid,” we are reminded that faith does not mean we will never be afraid. It means we can bring our fear to God and remember that we are not alone.

What if faith is about more than being nice? This week, we reflect on Jacob’s struggle with God and the surprising blessing that comes through the struggle. From our personal “Egypts” to the injustices of the world, we’re invited not only to respond to suffering, but to move upstream—to seek transformation, pursue justice, and join God in bringing resurrection and hope to the world.

What if the smallest things around us have something to teach us about God? This episode explores the spiritual practice of paying attention, as we reflect on Jesus’ parables, the wonder of creation, and an unexpected lesson from Cincinnati’s Lazarus lizards. What might it mean to live more present and attentive to God’s work in the ordinary moments of everyday life?

What if the thing we fear most—being truly known—is actually where we encounter God’s greatest grace? This episode explores our tendency to hide behind shame and self-protection as we reflect on Psalm 139. Through a personal story of disappointment and unexpected encouragement, we’re reminded that God knows us completely and meets us not with rejection, but with steadfast love. What might it mean to live more courageously by allowing ourselves to be fully known?

What difference can one small act of faith really make? This episode reflects on stories from our youth mission trip to Bat Cave, North Carolina, where playgrounds were rebuilt, storm-damaged land was restored, and hope slowly took root in unexpected ways. Through these experiences, we’re invited to consider how God works through ordinary people, persistent love, and seemingly small acts of service to bring new life—even when the task before us feels overwhelming.

What if the most shocking part of Abraham and Isaac’s story isn’t what we think it is?

In this episode, we explore one of the hardest passages in Scripture: Genesis 22, the binding of Isaac. At first glance, the story can leave us disturbed, confused, or even questioning the character of God. But what happens when we step back and consider the cultural and historical context surrounding the text?

Through the lens of plot twists, expectation, and interpretation, this sermon reflects on how context changes everything — not only in storytelling, but in faith. As God is progressively revealed throughout Genesis, we discover a God who does not delight in violence, but who interrupts it, provides mercy, and reshapes humanity’s understanding of worship and sacrifice.

What might it mean to read difficult Scripture with deeper trust, humility, and hope today?