Pastor Andy Greer went from fundraising for the Nebraska Cornhuskers to preaching from the pulpit at Messiah Lutheran Church. His story shines a light on one of the most controversial discussions in the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod: the Specific Ministry Pastor (SMP) program.

In this honest and hope-filled conversation, Tim and Andy tackle the ongoing tension between residential seminary training and SMP pathways, the need for new leadership models in growing churches, and how to stay centered on Christ and His mission amid theological division.

They also touch on the recent tragedy of Charlie Kirk’s assassination, the church’s response to political violence, and the call for unity in a polarized time.

Whether you’re a pastor, lay leader, or simply care about the future of the LCMS, this conversation is a must-listen.

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Are emotions a weakness—or a vital part of faith?

💡 Grab Bill & Kristi’s new book, Deeply Loved, here:
👉 https://soulshepherding.org/deeply-loved-book
Also available wherever books are sold.

In this episode of Lead Time, Pastor Tim Ahlman sits down with Dr. Bill & Kristi Gaultiere, founders of Soul Shepherding and authors of the new book Deeply Loved: Receiving and Reflecting God’s Great Empathy for You, to explore how Lutheran culture—and the broader LCMS—may have misunderstood emotions.

For decades, many in the church have lived as if “faith over feelings” is the only faithful approach. But what if Jesus Himself shows us a better way—one that embraces both truth and empathy?

You’ll hear:
- Why emotional health and spiritual maturity go hand in hand
- How empathy transforms leadership and relationships
- The difference between sympathy and biblical empathy
- What happens when we repress emotions in the name of doctrine
- And how to recover a faith that truly feels like grace

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Join the Lead Time Newsletter! (Weekly Updates and Upcoming Episodes)
https://www.uniteleadership.org/lead-time-podcast#newsletter

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In this powerful Lead Time episode, Tim Ahlman sits down with Rev. Mark Brandt — pastor, coach, and longtime leader in the Michigan District of the LCMS. Together they tackle deep and timely questions: What do we do when our prayers feel unanswered? How do we trust God’s love in seasons of suffering? And what are the biggest temptations pastors face today?

Mark shares personal stories from family struggles, ministry in Frankenmuth, and lessons learned from decades of service in the church. From the viral “crosses in the lawn” movement to the challenges of grief, division, and culture wars, this conversation is both raw and hopeful.

Whether you’re a pastor, lay leader, or someone wrestling with prayer in dark times, this episode will give you fresh perspective and encouragement to keep your eyes fixed on Jesus.

Support the show

Join the Lead Time Newsletter! (Weekly Updates and Upcoming Episodes)
https://www.uniteleadership.org/lead-time-podcast#newsletter

Visit uniteleadership.org