Brand New Day

Christmas may be over, but we still have cause to celebrate one of the most glorious of all days in history. We don't know exactly the date when Jesus was born, but we do know that it was a moment when God entered into this world, bringing hope to humanity. Enjoy this episode from last Christmas with a special arrangement of Silent Night as you reflect on the most important Brand New Day.

It can be tempting to focus on what's missing during the Christmas season. But in this episode from last year, Michael Thompson explains why he loves speaking the words, "Merry Christmas!" as a blessing over people to encourage them to focus on the gift of Jesus.Enjoy an episode filled with delightful Christmas melodies in Michael's signature style as you reflect on the many reasons to give thanks this holiday.

As we prepare to celebrate Jesus' birth, sometimes there's no better way to get our hearts ready than to focus on music that lifts our hearts and brings peace to our souls. To help us do just that, we're sharing this special episode again featuring the music of Michael Thompson and friends. 

In a dark world that is spiritually blinded to the gospel, we have good news of great joy for all people — including us! In this Brand New Day episode from last year, Michael Thompson encourages us to focus on the awesome future we have in Christ. Even in our struggles, our joy is indestructible and something we are called to celebrate and share with others.May your Advent be blessed with music of Christmas from Michael and the OneWay team.

In this episode from last year, Michael welcomes Prayercast Director Chris Ruge for an engaging conversation that will open your eyes to a group many of us think very little about: the world's 1.8 billion Muslims. Chris recounts how it wasn't until he understood God's heart for Muslims that he began to care himself. After a thought-provoking discussion and some compelling stories, Chris shares a simple, but profound way we can each make a loving impact on Muslims during the upcoming month of Ramadan. Let's not just be hearers of the Word, but doers, making the most of this opportunity!

Days before OneWay leadership was scheduled to close on our new ministry home, President Michael Thompson broke a vertebrae in his lower back. For the past month, instead of heading up our move into the new facility, Michael has been struggling just to get through daily life. On this episode of Brand New Day, Michael talks about the incredible way God provided our new ministry center after two years of prayer, waiting and searching. He explains how we plan to use the facility to reach more people and bring like-minded ministries together. And he unpacks what he's learned about God and His timing through the process.

Sometimes in dark moments we might question whether God still speaks to His people. But Michael Thompson reminds us this week to actively seek Him. We can go to God with childlike questions, knowing that when He answers, His sheep know His voice (John 10:27). Listen to this week's podcast and be reminded that God offers us the chance to know Him in a personal and intimate way. His voice is unlike any other!

Last week, we remembered the passing of a dear friend of OneWay a year ago, and today we offer a reprise of the companion episode to When the Miracle Doesn't Come. In this follow-up episode, Michael ventures out to address an even more pressing prayer we all wrestle with: waiting for the miracle healing of someone's soul.Michael reminds us that while the miracle healing of the body is a blessing, the miracle healing of a soul in need of Christ is of infinitely more worth and truly the greatest gift God could ever give.

We've all had those times when we're desperate, when a situation seems hopeless. We cry out to God for a miracle. We know He can do it. We pray against all odds for God to give us our miracle...and then He doesn't...at least not how we would have wanted. One year after a dear friend entered heaven, we look back at this podcast episode from last January, which gave tribute to a true hero of the faith. Michael reflects not only on the life of a friend and co-worker in the gospel, but also on the issues of how to walk with a God who doesn't always give us what we want. Be encouraged at the end of this episode by a musical reminder of the glorious days that await all of us who make up the body of Christ.

There's something irresistible about an amazing story, isn't there?   In this week's episode, Michael invites listeners into OneWay's new podcast, One80, to hear incredible transformation stories of God at work in peoples' lives. Listen as he reminds us of Psalm 66:16, which says, “Come and hear, all you who fear God, and I will tell what he has done for my soul.” Then get a taste of One80 by hearing Paty Campodonico's riveting story of being brought out of despair into hope and purpose in the Lord. Every person has a story, but especially those who have been saved by Christ. May we be a people set on proclaiming God's goodness and His kingdom!

 Enjoy this episode from January 2021! Michael implores us to make praising God the theme of our lives this year: at all times, in all circumstances. He explores why God not only deserves our praise, but how it changes the atmosphere within our hearts when we resolve to live like this. Be stirred as Michael reads Psalm 103 in his signature style and then features other voices using Scripture and song to powerfully praise the Lord." 

Happy New Year, Beloved Ones!On the final episode of Brand New Day in 2021, Michael Thompson encourages listeners that God is in control. He rules and reigns over the nations!No matter how difficult the past year might have been, Michael reminds listeners that God's Word can renew your life in 2022. We hope you'll listen and be inspired to soak in God's Word and let it transform your life as you turn the calendar and begin this new year. 

Merry Christmas, friends!On this eve of Christmas, we celebrate the most glorious of all days in history. We don't know exactly the date when Jesus was born, but we do know that it was a moment when God entered into this world, bringing hope to humanity. Enjoy this special arrangement of Silent Night on a bonus episode of the podcast as you reflect on the most important Brand New Day.

"Merry Christmas!"It can be tempting to focus on what's missing during the Christmas season. But on this episode of Brand New Day, Michael Thompson explains why he loves speaking the words, "Merry Christmas!" as a blessing over people to encourage them to focus on the gift of Jesus.Enjoy an episode filled with delightful Christmas melodies in Michael's signature style as you reflect on the many reasons to give thanks this holiday.

As we prepare to celebrate Jesus' birth, sometimes there's no better way to get our hearts ready than to focus on music that lifts our hearts and brings peace to our souls. Enjoy this special episode from last Christmas featuring the music of Michael Thompson and friends. 

In a dark world that is spiritually blinded to the gospel, we have good news of great joy for all people—including us! In this week's episode of Brand New Day, Michael Thompson encourages us to focus on the awesome future we have in Christ. Even in our struggles, our joy is indestructible and something we are called to celebrate and share with others.May you be blessed this second week of Advent with music of Christmas from Michael and the OneWay team.

Despite the disappointment and chaos in the world, can this Christmas still be beautiful? In this week's episode of the Brand New Day podcast, listen in as Michael Thompson remembers the joy of past Christmases and gives a simple challenge to help make this year's holiday precious. Enjoy a few moments of favorite Christmas songs in Michael's signature piano style. As we enter Advent 2021, may you be encouraged and challenged to center the season on what matters most.

Happy Thanksgiving from the Brand New Day podcast team! In this week's episode, Michael Thompson share a practical tip to count your blessings as you gather with loved ones. You'll be inspired by Psalm 103, a song King David wrote thanking the Lord for His many gifts. As many of us celebrate Thanksgiving this week, let's do what the old hymn says: “Count your many blessings/name them one by one…”

What can you do when your swirling thoughts and questions keep you up at night?  In today's episode, Michael Thompson talks about a struggle we all face sooner or later: sleeplessness. Rather than trying to empty his mind during these moments,  Michael sets his thoughts on the Lord and His creation with intentional direction. Hear about how he focuses on topics that have brought wonder and (eventually) rest to him. Listen in and catch encouraging possibilities for how to overcome those sleepless nights. 

 This week we're replaying one of our favorite episodes from November 2020!Anxiety and uncertainty seem to press in from all sides. But today, Michael Thompson encourages listeners to take a step away from the present and look back at their entire life story. If you are a believer, there is one thing that has not and will not ever change.As we give thanks this month, let's pause and reflect on the goodness of God! 

What is God doing in our world today? As Christians, we need to be aware of how we should be praying, and this often means getting beyond the mainstream headlines and asking God how we can respond to the news we hear. In this week's episode, join Michael Thompson and special guest Ruth Kramer, producer of Mission Network News. Ruth has covered the news for more than three decades and is passionate about helping people engage effectively with gospel-centered news. Hear Ruth's perspective on current events and learn how the ministry of MNN is helping fulfill OneWay's goal of uniting believers in faithful prayer.

What can Michael Thompson's 1966 Mustang teach us about the Holy Spirit? On today's episode, Michael remembers repairing the radiator on his first car, a vintage Mustang that would spew out steam. It wasn't a favorite activity. Still, that memory is a picture of how the love of Christ should be a powerful force, pouring out to everyone around us. Hear about two encounters Michael had recently that were a human version of that broken radiator — but in this case, it was the joy of the Lord that was overflowing. You'll be encouraged that God in His power can fill us with the joy and peace of Christ — in any circumstance!Listen via Apple Podcasts, Spotify or at owm.org/podcast.

Have life struggles or world events got you down lately? Do you need a reminder that God is doing amazing things even today?  In this week's episode, join Michael Thompson and Brand New Day podcast producer Emily Neal for a Q&A focused on great things God is doing. You'll hear personal stories from Michael's life, as well as amazing reports from other parts of the world. Be encouraged by God's work in a staff member's family, as well as a call to persevere in what God has given you to do where you are today.

Is there anything you are wishing for right now? Do you want to be a more disciplined person? Do you want to love people more? Know God's peace? Experience more fruit in your life?Why not ask God for those things?In this week's episode, Michael reminds us about God's call to come with our thoughts and desires — to ask Him specifically instead of silently wishing. Listen and pray along with Michael as he prays through scripture passages as well as some of his own desires for God's work in his life.What dreams or goals have been on your heart and mind? Take this time today to think and talk honestly with God about them.

The incredible story continues on this week's podcast, as Michael Thompson recounts the second part of the story of the young man he met on the beach in West Africa. How will the boy's family respond when they learn he has taken the dramatic step to turn from his Muslim background and accept Jesus as his Savior? You will be encouraged and amazed to hear not only what God did through that situation 20 years ago, but what He continues to do in that young man and his family to this dayMichael also explains how that encounter helped launch the ministry of OneWay. You'll get caught up in the story of an 18-hour bus ride that united Michael with his friend's father and set in motion OneWay's ministry across Africa. If you've ever waited and prayed for years for God to work in someone's heart, this episode will encourage you to keep going. It's a story that offers proof that God hears and moves when we come to Him. 

Is there someone in your life you can only hope and pray will ever come to Christ? Want to be encouraged that God still does the impossible? This week Michael shares the amazing story of a stranger God brought into his life and how He used that friendship in life-changing ways.Be encouraged that God is willing and able to transform people in your life as you make yourself available to Him. 

Sometimes when a message is really powerful, we need to hear it more than once.That's why this week we are featuring an excerpt from last week's podcast featuring a compelling reflection on the recent crisis. If you missed it, we invite you to listen for the first time. If you heard it, we invite you to listen again, asking God what He would have for you in these words. Lastly, don't miss the opportunity to share this brief but poignant audio message with a friend. 

What has moved you the most about the recent events in Afghanistan? Have you felt stirred to pray and even intervene in some way?On today's podcast, Michael is joined by his wife, Rachel, who shares the heart-searching thoughts she recently wrote as she processed the recent crisis. As we continue to watch and pray over this tragedy, may we be reminded about what God calls the Church to be about, not only in Afghanistan, but in the world.  

What kind of person would others describe you as? Are you someone who's more likely to see the silver lining in a situation or to complain? On this week's podcast, Michael shares a personal experience that reminded him that our outlook on life is really a matter of choice and obedience and not one of circumstance. Want to be more content? Want to learn ways to make thanksgiving part of your prayers year-round? Listen in for tips on how to live with a thankful heart.

What would you do if you were asked to repent publicly to a group you had wronged years ago? Would you run away? Pray they don't get angry with you? Or show up and confess? After Michael Thompson learned a powerful lesson on repentance in college, he pondered this exact question. On this week's podcast, he recounts his life-changing journey to reconcile years of broken relationships.Though a challenging, embarrassing and exhausting process, Michael was given a perspective to see the beauty that can be found in asking for forgiveness and being forgiven. Listen in to be challenged in your perspective of repentance. 

With the escalating crisis in Afghanistan, the ongoing pandemic, as well as controversies in the church and the nation, it can feel like darkness is pressing in all around us. On today's podcast, Michael Thompson recalls an emotional moment from his favorite movie of all time, which inspires him to get back up when the world leaves him feeling knocked down. It's not because of the physical and mental strength modeled by his cinema hero, Rocky, but the power of God that helps him walk in victory amid the struggles around us.If you've been lacking the will or the strength to keep fighting, today's podcast is for you! 

God is merciful and compassionate. He is near to all who call on Him. His kingdom is everlasting. With all of the turmoil in the world, give your soul a few moments of nourishment straight from the Psalms.We've brought back a past episode of Brand New Day this week to help you to do this. Michael Thompson reads Psalm 145 to the backdrop of his signature piano style. Let timeless truths brought to life give you fresh strength for today's challenges.

He's a kid at heart who loves to jump in the pool with his eight children or play highly competitive video games. At the same time, he's an extreme introvert who cherishes his alone time to recharge. Get to know OneWay founder and president Michael Thompson during this special Q and A episode of the podcast. We recorded this episode about a year ago during the pandemic, but we're bringing it back this week to reintroduce listeners who are just learning about Brand New Day. Michael shares his thoughts on the church's efforts to reach people and personal stories of what God has been teaching him. 

Do you often feel under pressure? Do you ever feel the need to perform at a certain level? Or to do things the “right” way? What if you could live in freedom from all of those things? In this episode, Michael Thompson is joined by a special guest who is a Kingdom hero, global missions leader and passionate follower of Christ. Listen in to their lively conversation on the surprising power to be found when we cease striving, cut out the noise and turn our hearts in simple ways back to God. They reflect on David, who even in his darkest moments — surrounded by fear, pressure and danger — wanted nothing more than to spend time with the Lord. Ready to come just as you are? Listen in for sage advice on how to find peace and joy from being with the One who loves you.

Is prayer a struggle?Does the very thought of prayer create in you a sense of inadequacy or guilt? Maybe just boredom and lifelessness? In this inspiring episode, Michael Thompson shares practical tips for how to talk to and walk with God as the best friend He is. No matter where you are on your journey with Jesus, these tips will help revitalize your prayer life!

Have you ever given up on a relationship? Have you ever lost faith that a person you love will ever change? Do you feel like God has given up on them? And what about nations? Is it ever OK to give up on a whole nation?In today's episode, Michael Thompson challenges us to believe that the United States is not a lost cause. God wants His people to have faith and to fight for righteousness and revival in our land. Sharing four practical things we can do and illustrating the lives of biblical and modern-day charactersGod has used to impact the course of a nation, Michael equips us to be part of the change we long to see. 

Anxious? Worried? Stressed out? You are not alone. In this episode of the Brand New Day podcast, Michael Thompson gives perspective to the struggles we as Christians have against the enemy and the darkness of the world.Powerful words from the Psalms combine with soothing sounds of a familiar hymn to remind us who is in control, no matter what stress and anxiety we might face. If you are feeling buried by the weight of the world, this episode will help shift your viewpoint to the King of everything! 

If God gave you everything you were asking for, what would you see happen in your life? Join Michael Thompson in the latest episode of the Brand New Day podcast as he ponders how asking this simple question could change how you pray. Be challenged not to stop short of asking God, but instead take big swings at asking Him to work wonders in your life. Let OneWay continue to take big swings alongside you! Submit your prayer requests and let us pray for you. Then join us as we continue in our 40 Days of Prayer for a new OneWay facility.

Lift your prayers and praises to God today along with Michael Thompson and the OneWay team during this special episode of the Brand New Day podcast. You will be encouraged and inspired during this first-ever video event — whether you choose to listen or watch.Michael continues to challenge us to boldly ask God for the desires of our heart. He also calls us to pray specifically for churches, Christian colleges and other organizations seeking to stay true to God's Word and thrive in what has been a difficult season for many. You can watch the video on Facebook, Instagram or via OneWay.

What are you asking God for these days?Are you bold enough to ask God for things that are so big they would require a miracle? God has a history of doing amazing things for His people when we trust Him enough to ask. On this week's podcast, Michael Thompson specifically challenges us to ask God for the big things in life.In this special episode, Michael also invites us to pray for what he's asking God for these days:  direction regarding the future home of OneWay as we launch our 40 Days of Prayer for this. When you sign up to pray with us, please let us know how we can pray for you, as well! Make sure you don't miss next week's podcast, which will be a special online worship event with the OneWay team! More details coming soon. 

You're in for a treat on this week's episode as Michael Thompson, a long-time worship leader, shares his heart about what it really means to worship God! Michael recounts his musical journey of learning to play the piano as a young child, his years of training as a classical pianist and how he tuned into the idea that worship is more than just playing an instrument. With notes of worship scattered throughout this Q and A episode, Michael explores what it means to worship God with your life, as well as his thoughts on worship in the church. Make sure you listen to the end, when Michael wraps up with his favorite worship songs through the decades.

What would you do if you witnessed an event that could threaten the lives of those around you, but you were the only one who knew? Would you make a big deal of it? Shout a warning to everyone who could hear? Or would you stay quiet and trust those in charge to take care of the emergency?You might be surprised at Michael Thompson's reaction when he found himself in that situation. He recounts his life-changing experience on board an airplane in this week's podcast. Not only was it a wake-up call in how to respond in a dangerous situation, but it also gave him a heightened perspective on his responsibility to sound the alarm in everyday life. It's a remarkable story that will encourage and inspire Christians to take seriously their role in letting the world know the urgent news about Jesus.

You won’t want to miss this week’s episode when Michael Thompson pulls his wife, Rachel, into the studio for an impromptu interview! How does a mom of eight children manage to juggle the demands of parenting, homeschooling and ministry while still growing in her walk with the Lord? “Mayps,” as Michael affectionately calls her, shares her morning routine, her prayer life and how she finds “mentors” that she’s never met in real life! You’ll be blessed not only by her tips, but also by her worship, during this fun and inspiring episode.

Do you journal? Have you wanted to do a prayer journal but didn’t know how to get started? Be inspired today as Michael shares a prayer from his own journal, giving a transparent glimpse into how he talks to God. You’ll find a helpful pattern you can use that includes praise, confession, personal needs, thanksgiving and seeking God’s will on earth. 

What made Michael Thompson get teary-eyed at a recent high school track meet? Hear that and more as Michael encourages us to run the race Jesus has set for us. Drawing inspiration from the movie Forrest Gump (Paramount Pictures, 1994), Michael highlights what the Bible says about races, why you need to run the race, and how to do it well. “Regardless of whether you’re young or old," urges Michael, "if you have breath in your lungs, then run, my friend.” 

Ever feel down and don't even know why? Today Michael shares about his own gloomy day (on his birthday nonetheless!), and how overhearing a song from the classic movie Annie unexpectedly readjusted his perspective and refreshed his heart. Be super encouraged today to "stick out your chin and grin" as Michael shares his heart on this famous child's song. As believers in Christ, we have more reason to love tomorrow than anyone.

“We think that Covid slowed the world down, but it actually sped things up in terms of the Kingdom and what God is doing in the world.”Hear this and more as Michael shares how the pandemic has affected the world, about changes in the Church and in our lives, and even a fun goal his family has taken on as a result of the extra time at home. Enjoy thought-provoking insights as producer Emily Neal joins Michael for an engaging Q & A conversation as we hit the one year anniversary of the Brand New Day podcast.

We'll never have enough of the things we chase after in life outside of Christ. In this episode, Michael shares the true key to contentment, explaining what gets in the way of happiness and how we can recover an all-consuming, miraculous joy.Listen for why Ecclesiastes is his favorite book of the Bible and enjoy Lauren Daigle’s “You Say” remixed with Michael on the piano.

Do you want to live life well? Learn how to love! It’s our greatest mission on earth. We can be successful in our own eyes, even do amazing work for Jesus. But if we don’t have love, we are nothing. Join us today as Michael shares why love is so essential and what it looks like to do it well. 

We may know Christ as Savior, but have we really dug deep to know Jesus as a person?In this episode, Michael calls us to tap into our imagination and really try to envision the person of Jesus, as recorded in the gospels. Michael especially invites us to check out an outstanding new video series that helps us dream of what it might have been like to encounter Jesus. “As you take the time to watch,” Michael says, “I firmly believe it will awaken your imagination and yearning for the person of Jesus. I don’t want to serve or worship a concept. I want to worship a person.” 

Michael welcomes Prayercast Director Chris Ruge for an engaging conversation that will open our eyes to a group many of us think very little about: the world's 1.8 billion Muslims. Chris recounts how it wasn't until he understood God's heart for Muslims that he began to care himself. After a thought-provoking discussion and some compelling stories, Chris shares a simple, but profound way we can each make a loving impact on Muslims during the upcoming month of Ramadan. Let's not just be hearers of the Word, but doers, making the most of this opportunity!