Together 4 Good

What if Genesis 1 isn't just about how the world was made—but about how we're meant to live within it? In this episode of Sunday School Remix, Pastor Nate explores the deeper structure of the creation story and what it reveals about God, humanity, and the rhythm of life itself. From chaos to order, from constant work to intentional rest, this ancient text speaks directly into our modern, overwhelmed lives.What You'll Learn:Why Genesis 1 is more about meaning than mechanicsHow God brings order out of chaos—and still doesWhat it means to be created in the image of GodWhy rest is not optional, but essentialHow rhythm shapes a faithful and grounded lifeChapters:00:00 What if Genesis 1 isn't about creation mechanics?01:00 God brings order out of chaos03:00 Water, Spirit, and the presence of God05:00 Creation through Word and meaning07:00 Silence and spiritual practice08:00 Light, darkness, and separation10:00 Creation as structure and intention13:00 Filling creation: sky, sea, and land16:00 Created in God's image (Imago Dei)18:00 Why rest is built into creation20:00 The rhythm at the center of Genesis23:00 Sabbath as resistance to constant work26:00 Living differently in a restless worldCall to Action:If this conversation gave you a new way to see an old story, like this video, subscribe to the channel, and share it with someone who could use a little more rhythm and rest in their life.Connect with Bethany:

Life in Christ is more than a personal belief—it's a way of living together. In this episode of Together 4 Good, Pastor Nate sits down with Imran Siddiqui, Vice President of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), to talk about the upcoming Rocky Mountain Synod Assembly and its theme: Vida en Christo — Life in Christ. Their conversation explores how congregations, synods, and the wider church work together, why conversation matters in a divided world, and why grace remains at the heart of Lutheran faith. They also discuss a renewed focus on connection across the church, and what it means for congregations navigating an increasingly disconnected culture.About the GuestImran Siddiqui serves as Vice President of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA). Raised in the Muslim faith and later identifying as an atheist during college, he eventually became Lutheran after being drawn to the church's liturgy and its emphasis on God's grace.How congregations, synods, and churchwide leadership connect in the ELCAWhy conversation and disagreement are essential for Christian communityWhat “Life in Christ” looks like through unity and shared missionWhy grace is central to Lutheran theology and still deeply relevant todayHow churches can speak more boldly about hope, compassion, and justiceChapters:00:00 Introduction and Synod Assembly Preview01:00 What the ELCA Vice President Actually Does03:00 How Congregations, Synods, and Churchwide Connect05:00 Why Conversation Matters in the Church08:00 Dialogue in a Divided Culture11:30 The Theme: Vita in Christo — Life in Christ13:00 Community in the Early Church16:00 Competition Between Churches18:00 Why Churchwide Reps Attend Synod Assemblies21:00 New Leadership and Rebuilding Connection26:00 Why Churches Are Declining28:00 Why Lutherans Don't Talk Enough About Grace31:00 Lutheran Theology in Today's World33:00 Final ReflectionsIf this conversation helped you think differently about faith, grace, and the church, please like, subscribe, and share it with someone who might find encouragement here.Connect with Bethany:

What if Jesus' healing miracles were never just about physical healing?In this episode of Sunday School Remix, Pastor Nate explores one of the most dramatic healing stories in the Gospels. At first glance it looks like a story about demon possession and a miraculous healing. But when you look more closely, the story reveals something much deeper about how Jesus restores people, challenges social exclusion, and rebuilds community.The man in this story wasn't just suffering physically. He had been pushed outside society, labeled, and treated as if he were already dead. Jesus does something radical: he refuses to define the man by his illness and instead restores him fully—spiritually, socially, and personally.This episode explores what this story teaches about healing, dignity, and how Jesus consistently moves toward the people others push away.If you've ever wondered what the story of Legion means or what Jesus' healing miracles are really about, this episode helps unpack the deeper message.• Why Jesus travels to the “other side” and why that matters• How Jesus separates a person from the illness that defines them• What the drowning pigs reveal about freedom and liberation• Why the community reacts with fear after the man is healed• How Jesus restores people not just physically—but socially0:00 Intro0:30 Why Jesus Goes to the “Other Side”2:00 A Man Cast Out by His Community4:00 Jesus Sees the Person Behind the Illness6:00 The Meaning of “Legion”7:30 The Mini Exodus Moment9:00 Healing as Social Restoration10:30 Why the Crowd Becomes Afraid12:00 Comfort vs Compassion13:00 The Man Becomes a Messenger15:00 What This Story Reveals About JesusIf this conversation helped you see scripture in a new way, consider liking the video, subscribing to the channel, and sharing this episode with someone who enjoys thoughtful conversations about faith and scripture.What You'll LearnChaptersConnect with Bethany:

What does faith look like through the eyes of a child? In this special episode of the Together 4 Good podcast, Pastor Nate sits down with his kids, Miriam and Solomon (who is now twelve for the record), for a spontaneous conversation about church, Bible stories, confirmation, and what it's like growing up in a pastor's family. Along the way, they reflect on the feeding of the 5,000, favorite Bible stories, and the small everyday moments where faith shows up in family life.It's a joyful and honest conversation about Christian parenting, curiosity, and how children often see God's love in ways adults sometimes miss.What You'll LearnHow kids interpret Bible stories like the Feeding of the 5,000What it's like growing up as a pastor's kidWhy small acts of sharing and kindness matter in faithHow everyday family traditions shape spiritual lifeWhy curiosity and asking questions are part of faithChapters0:00 Kids Take Over the Podcast1:00 Growing Up as a Pastor's Kid3:30 Church, Friends, and School4:00 The Feeding of the 5,000 Through a Child's Eyes6:00 Faith, Trust, and Believing in Something Bigger7:30 What Happens in Confirmation Class9:00 Why the Tower of Babel Still Matters11:00 Everyday Faith in Family Life14:00 The Christmas Eve Hike Tradition16:00 What Does It Mean When Your Heart Feels Full?18:00 Favorite Bible Stories23:00 Final Words of Wisdom From KidsIf this conversation encouraged you, be sure to like, subscribe, and share this episode with someone who could use a reminder of God's grace.Connect with Bethany:

The story of Cain and Abel is one many people remember from childhood—but often in a simplified way. We're told it's a story about jealousy. But when we slow down and actually read the text, something deeper begins to emerge.In this episode of Sunday School Remix, Pastor Nate explores how this ancient story raises important questions about worship, responsibility, and what happens when our hearts turn inward. At its core, the story asks a powerful question that still echoes today: Are we responsible for one another?Why the Cain and Abel story may not be primarily about jealousyWhat Genesis teaches about worship and “first fruits”How inward-focused anger can lead to destructionWhat it really means to ask: “Am I my brother's keeper?”Why God's mercy still shows up—even after failure00:00 Introduction: Rethinking Cain and Abel00:58 Why the story is usually framed as jealousy02:05 Did God actually reject Cain?03:10 What the text really says about their offerings04:25 First fruits vs. leftover worship05:20 God's warning to Cain06:35 “Am I my brother's keeper?”08:00 What happens when we turn inward09:05 The human heart and the danger of anger10:15 Mercy, judgment, and the mark of Cain11:10 The meaning behind Abel's name12:10 Why vulnerability matters13:00 Final reflections on responsibility and graceIf this conversation helped you see an old story in a new way, make sure to like this video, subscribe to the channel, and share it with someone who might be wrestling with questions of faith.What You'll LearnChaptersConnect with Bethany:

What does it mean for the church to show up faithfully in a digital world? In this conversation, Pastor Nate Preisinger sits down with Pastor Joseph Wolyniak to talk about the Narthex Project — a Lilly-funded initiative helping churches rethink digital ministry in a post-Christian age. Together they explore storytelling, online faithfulness, loving enemies in comment sections, and how the gospel speaks to deep human woundedness.This isn't about chasing trends. It's about sharing hope in a noisy world.What You'll Learn:Why digital ministry is a bridge, not the destinationHow storytelling reflects the heart of Jesus' ministryWhat it means to choose faithfulness over visible resultsWhy “love your enemies” matters onlineHow everyday Christians can practice digital evangelismChapters:0:00 Introduction to the Narthex Project2:00 Why churches had to pivot online4:30 Who are the “nones” and the spiritual-but-not-religious?10:00 Faithfulness vs. measurable success12:00 Is the church just playing the algorithm game?16:00 Digital evangelism and digital tithing21:00 Building church for people who aren't here yet26:00 Jesus as storyteller31:00 Reintroducing people to Jesus34:30 Trauma, original sin, and healing37:30 Loving enemies in a digital world44:00 Marching toward, not againstIf this conversation encourages you, like this video, subscribe to the channel, and share it with someone who's wrestling with faith in a digital world. Your engagement helps more people encounter hope.Connect with Bethany:

Are sheep and goats really that different? In Matthew 25, Jesus paints a powerful vision of feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, and visiting the imprisoned. But is this story about sorting good people from bad people—or something much deeper?In this episode of Sunday School Remix, Pastor Nate reframes the “sheep and goats” passage not as a moral scoreboard about heaven and hell, but as an unveiling of God's heart for compassion. What if this isn't about fear of judgment—but about living with a bigger heart right now?What You'll Learn:Why this passage may not be a classic parable at allHow Jesus challenges rule-focused religionWhat “apocalyptic” really means in the BibleWhy compassion is central to the Kingdom of GodWhat sheep and goats biologically reveal about the messageChapters: 00:00 Are sheep and goats really that different? 00:40 Rethinking the “parable” of Matthew 25 02:00 Is this about heaven and hell? 02:45 Pharisees, rules, and missing compassion 05:00 What “apocalyptic” actually means 06:30 Jesus' vision of the Kingdom of God 08:30 A judgment for now—not just eternity 10:15 Why sheep and goats are so similar 12:00 The surprising difference: bigger hearts 13:30 What this means for us todayIf this episode gave you a new way to see a familiar passage, like this video, subscribe to the channel, and share it with someone who grew up hearing this story a different way.Connect with Bethany:

Why do people stay connected to church in a world where belief feels uncertain and worship can sometimes feel ordinary? In this episode of Together 4 Good, Pastor Nate sits down with Senior Ministries Co-Coordinator Pastor Jane Ritterson to talk about “thin spaces,” embodied prayer, doubt, death and dying, and why community still matters. This conversation explores the tension between belief and trust—and the quiet hope that God often shows up through other people.What You'll Learn:What “thin spaces” are and how they shape faithWhy embodied prayer can matter more than perfect wordsHow faith and doubt can coexist honestlyWhy church is grounding—even when it isn't excitingHow humility and community sustain us in hard seasonsIf this conversation resonated with you, like this video, subscribe to the channel, and share it with someone who might be asking similar questions about faith, doubt, and community.Connect with Bethany:

What if the Book of Jonah isn't really about a fish at all—but about mercy? In this episode of Sunday School Remix, Pastor Nate takes us beyond the familiar children's version of Jonah and invites us to wrestle with the deeper question at the heart of the story: Have we turned God's blessings inward, or are we living as a blessing to others?This isn't a story about being afraid of running from God. It's a story about grace that extends further than we expect—and a calling that sends us toward compassion, not comfort.What You'll Learn:Why Jonah is likely a theological parable, not just historyHow the plant in Jonah 4 reframes the entire storyWhat it means to be “blessed to be a blessing”Why God's mercy toward others can unsettle usHow this story shapes our calling todayScripture:Jonah 1–4Genesis 12 (covenant and blessing)Luke 15 (The Prodigal Son)Matthew 20:15 (“Are you envious because I am generous?”)If this episode helped you see Jonah in a new way, like this video, subscribe to the channel, and share it with someone who might need a fresh word about grace.Connect with Bethany:

This week on Together 4 Good, Pastor Nate sits down with Dr. Kristina Lizardy-Hajbi, Associate Professor of Leadership and Formation at Iliff School of Theology and keynote speaker for the upcoming Rocky Mountain Synod Assembly.Together, they explore:Why vocation is more than employmentHow congregations discern their callingThe difference between growth and vitalityWhy numbers don't define faithfulnessAnd how “Life in Christ” is a call to abundance, not scarcityDr. Lizardy-Hajbi shares a powerful story of a rural congregation that responded to the opioid crisis not by trying to fix it — but by doing what the Church uniquely can do: holding sacred space for grief.This episode invites both individuals and congregations to ask:What are our gifts?What does our community need?What has God already placed in our hands?Because life in Christ isn't about becoming something else. It's about living fully into who Christ already created you to be.Chapters:00:00 – Coming Up: Life in Christ & Vocation 01:05 – What “Vida en Christo” Really Means 03:00 – Why Vocation Is Always Communal 06:00 – Congregations Have Vocations Too 08:00 – The 4 Circles of Discernment 11:00 – Scarcity vs. Vitality in the Church 14:30 – A Church Responds to the Opioid Crisis 18:30 – Why Storytelling Matters in Discernment 22:00 – Dr. Kristina's Personal Vocation Story 26:00 – “What Do You Do?” vs. “Who Are You?” 28:00 – Parenting as Vocation 29:30 – Life in Christ Is Abundance 32:00 – Preparing for Synod Assembly

What if the story of Jesus turning water into wine isn't really about wine at all?In this episode of Sunday School Remix, Pastor Nate revisits one of the most talked-about (and most misunderstood) miracles in the Gospels: Jesus at the wedding in Cana. On the surface, it feels like a lighthearted story—Jesus keeps the party going. But when you slow down and look at the cultural, historical, and theological layers, something much deeper is happening.This is Jesus' first miracle in the Gospel of John, and it's not flashy on purpose. It happens quietly, in the background, at a wedding on the “wrong side of town.” And what Jesus is really doing isn't showing off power—it's protecting a family from deep, public shame.In a world shaped by honor and shame, running out of wine at a wedding wasn't embarrassing—it was devastating. And Jesus steps in, not to draw attention to himself, but to restore dignity, preserve relationships, and quietly reveal the heart of God.In this episode, Pastor Nate explores:Why Cana and Galilee matter more than we realizeHow weddings connect to Old Testament messianic promisesWhy shame—not wine—is the real crisis in this storyWhat Jesus reveals about himself by using purification jarsWhy “the best wine saved for last” points to the cross and resurrectionThis story reminds us that Jesus doesn't avoid our most vulnerable moments. He meets us there. He redeems what feels ruined. And he shows us, again and again, that Sunday School was just the beginning.

Disclaimer: The audio is slightly less than optimal in this episode. Pastor Nate is aware of the issue and working on resolving it. In this episode of Together 4 Good, Pastor Nate sits down with Deacon Debra to talk honestly and thoughtfully about immigration, social justice, and why the Bible keeps calling us back to compassion — especially for people on the move.Debra shares stories from Bethany's Social Justice Ministry, reflects on why food and storytelling matter so deeply in faith formation, and introduces two upcoming events designed to help our congregation listen, learn, and engage without fear.This conversation isn't about politics. It's about Scripture, community, and learning how to see our neighbors the way God does.Why immigration shows up everywhere in Scripture — from Abraham to JesusWhat children's faith formation teaches us about repetition, grace, and growthHow reading The God Who Sees reframes biblical stories we think we already knowWhy sharing food lowers defenses and opens deeper conversationsHow Bethany is creating safe spaces for honest dialogue across differences

In this Sunday School Remix episode, Pastor Nate revisits one of the most misunderstood disciples in the Bible. The story of Thomas (John 20:19-31) is often used as a warning about doubt—but what if it's actually a story about trauma, fairness, and Jesus meeting people exactly where they are?Through fresh storytelling and historical context, this episode reframes Thomas not as weak in faith, but deeply human. After witnessing the brutal crucifixion of Jesus, Thomas isn't asking for proof out of stubbornness—he's asking for healing.This episode explores:Why Thomas gets an unfair reputationHow trauma shapes faith and beliefWhat it means that Jesus comes back just for one personWhy doubt, questions, and locked doors are not barriers for JesusHow this story speaks to anyone who has ever felt left out, unsure, or behind in their faithIf you've ever thought, “I wish my faith felt easier,” or “Why don't I experience God the way others do?”—this episode is for you.Sunday school was just the beginning. Faith is still unfolding.00:00 – Intro: What If Thomas Was Just Having a Bad Week?01:05 – Why Pastors Always Preach This Text02:10 – Why Thomas Wasn't There03:00 – Roman Crucifixion & Trauma04:45 – Why Doubt Makes Sense06:15 – From “Doubting” to Honest Thomas07:30 – Jesus Comes Back for the One09:00 – Jesus, the God of Locked Doors10:45 – Breaking the Fourth Wall in John's Gospel12:15 – What This Story Asks of Us Today13:30 – Closing: Sunday School Was Just the Beginning

The episode everyone has been waiting for is finally here.In this conversation, I sit down with Addison Andrix, Bethany's newly hired Coordinator of Confirmation, High School, and Young Adult Ministry.Addison shares his story and what brings him to Bethany Lutheran Church. Addison grew up Lutheran in Minnesota and stayed connected to church through high school. And as most college kids he drifted a bit before finding his way back and rediscovering a deeper relationship with God through prayer, rest, Scripture, and community. During this conversation we talk about:Growing up with faith as routine and stabilityHow ministry can quietly turn into a jobThe difference between religious participation and a relationship with GodWhy pray isn't magic, but it does reorient usGrace vs. performance (and why God isn't keeping score)What Sabbath can teach us about the freedom to stop pretending we're in controlWhy unconditional love is both central to faith and incredibly hard to live outThis conversation is more than meeting Addison, it's about grace, burnout, trust and learning to navigate faith in real life.

In this episode of Together 4 Good, I'm joined by Kate Souther, who just completed her first semester at Candler School of Theology in Atlanta, Georgia. During our conversation we talk about what seminary is really like, why theology still matters, and how faith can grow not just through prayer and worship, but also through reading, studying, and thinking deeply. Kate shares her experience studying pastoral care, Christian history, and contextual education. She reflects on her work with refugee children in an afterschool program and gained the knowledge that play, presence, and community impact ministry. We also talked about calling: how Kate first fell in love with theology in middle school, how being told “no” pushed her into becoming a Pastor, and what draws her into the idea of being a parish pastor. You'll learn:Why seminary still mattersHow theology connects to everyday lifeWhat is means to feel “where you're supposed to be”How faith can be strengthened through learningConnect with us wherever you get your podcasts and for more on Bethany Lutheran Church in Denver, CO visit: https://linktr.ee/bethanydenver

What does faith actually look like for Gen Z right now?In this episode of Together 4 Good, I sit down with two incredible young people, Addison, a high school sophomore, and Sophie, a first-year college student at Virginia Tech, to talk honestly about faith, friendship, and belonging in high school and college today.We talk about:How friendships shift from middle school → high school → collegeWhy community matters more than having all the right answersWhat it's like to be Christian without making it your entire personalityHow Wednesday night youth group became a lifelineWhy service, mission trips, and shared experiences shape faith more than lecturesNavigating faith with friends who believe differently — or not at allThis conversation is thoughtful, funny, deeply human, and refreshingly honest. It's not about forcing belief or having perfect theology — it's about connection, curiosity, and finding people who help you feel less alone.Whether you're a student, a parent, or someone wondering how faith connects to real life today, this episode offers a hopeful glimpse into what Gen Z is actually experiencing.

We all know the story of the Good Samaritan. Most of us learned it in Sunday school as a lesson about being kind, helping others, and doing the right thing.But Jesus wasn't just giving us another moral rule to follow.In this Sunday School Remix episode, I take a deeper look at Luke 10:25–37 and the moment that prompted Jesus to tell this parable in the first place. A lawyer—someone who knew all the religious rules—asked Jesus a familiar question: “Who is my neighbor?” Luke tells us he asked it hoping to justify himself.That detail matters.Because this story isn't about earning goodness or proving you're right. It's about how easily religious rules can distract us from mercy—and how God keeps placing opportunities for compassion directly in our path.Why Jesus tells this story in response to self-justificationHow religious rules can become barriers to compassionWhy the priest and Levite walk by—and why that made sense religiouslyWhy making the Samaritan the hero was so shockingHow humility is the starting point for real compassionWhat it looks like to notice the needs God places right in front of usThe Good Samaritan isn't a story about being a better rule-follower. It's an invitation to live a life shaped by mercy—again and again.

This is not a Christmas story.This is a story about perspective.About how the same moment can mean everything to one person—and almost nothing to another.Over the next twelve episodes on Together 4 Good, we're sharing real stories that remind us we don't all experience joy, meaning, or even God in the same way.This is not a Christmas story.But it is a real one.In this episode of Together for Good, Pastor Gary shares a formative story from his teenage years—one that begins with a brand-new Schwinn bike, a scorching summer day, and a long ride toward Kings Island that didn't exactly go as planned.What started as a straightforward journey quickly turned into a series of wrong turns, repeated hills, and decisions made without a map. And somewhere along those winding country roads, a deeper truth emerged: faith often works the same way.Many of us know where we hope our faith will lead—a deeper relationship with God, a sense of peace, meaning, or trust. But getting there isn't always clear. Do we pray more? Read Scripture differently? Join a group? Try something new? Sometimes we choose a path that feels right… only to find ourselves back where we started, facing the same challenges again.In this reflection, Pastor Gary reminds us that those moments aren't failures. They're part of the journey. Sometimes the road that feels like a setback is actually teaching us something essential. And sometimes we have to climb the same hill more than once before we discover what truly bears fruit.The good news? God doesn't disappear at the fork in the road. God stays—inviting us to choose again, to keep moving, and to trust that even the wrong turns can lead us closer to love.Learn more: https://bethany-denver.orgfaith stories, Christian storytelling, everyday faith, modern Christianity, spiritual reflections, faith and life, lived faith stories, faith beyond certainty

This is not a Christmas story.This is a story about perspective.About how the same moment can mean everything to one person—and almost nothing to another.Over the next twelve episodes on Together 4 Good, we're sharing real stories that remind us we don't all experience joy, meaning, or even God in the same way.This is not a Christmas story.But it is a real one.It starts with a snowy football game in Buffalo… and an eight-year-old who genuinely didn't care who won.In this episode, Pastor Nate reflects on a moment that seems small—but ends up saying something big about faith, God, and the many ways people experience the divine. From family, football, and pancakes to worship styles, prayer practices, and spiritual assumptions, this story becomes an invitation to loosen our grip on certainty and make room for a God who can't be reduced to one voice, one style, or one “right” way.If you've ever wondered whether your way of experiencing God counts—or felt uneasy when someone claims to have all the answers—this episode is for you.Learn more: https://bethany-denver.orgfaith stories, Christian storytelling, everyday faith, modern Christianity, spiritual reflections, faith and life, lived faith stories, faith beyond certainty

This is not a Christmas story.This is a story about perspective.About how the same moment can mean everything to one person—and almost nothing to another.Over the next twelve episodes on Together 4 Good, we're sharing real stories that remind us we don't all experience joy, meaning, or even God in the same way.This is not a Christmas story.But it is a real one.In this episode, Pastor Gary shares a story from his high school years—working late nights at McDonald's, cleaning the store after closing, and still showing up for church every Sunday morning.What began as a simple family rule slowly became something more: a life shaped by discipline, freedom, and faith.This story is about how structure can create space for growth—and how discipleship is often formed long before we realize it.Learn more: https://bethany-denver.orgfaith stories, Christian storytelling, everyday faith, modern Christianity, spiritual reflections, faith and life, lived faith stories, faith beyond certainty

This is not a Christmas story.This is a story about perspective.About how the same moment can mean everything to one person—and almost nothing to another.Over the next twelve episodes on Together 4 Good, we're sharing real stories that remind us we don't all experience joy, meaning, or even God in the same way.This is not a Christmas story.But it is a real one.In this episode, I tell a story from my early twenties—about roommates, late nights, creative energy, and a sitcom that never quite happened.What started as an ambitious idea turned into something else entirely: shared laughter, imagination, and the joy of making something for no other reason than that it was fun.This story is about creativity as a spiritual practice—and why success isn't always the point.Learn more: https://bethany-denver.orgfaith stories, Christian storytelling, everyday faith, modern Christianity, spiritual reflections, faith and life, lived faith stories, faith beyond certainty

This is not a Christmas story.This is a story about perspective.About how the same moment can mean everything to one person—and almost nothing to another.Over the next twelve episodes on Together 4 Good, we're sharing real stories that remind us we don't all experience joy, meaning, or even God in the same way.This is not a Christmas story.But it is a real one.In this episode, Sophie shares a childhood memory from summer camp—trapped on a bus in the middle of a terrifying Colorado thunderstorm.With hail pounding the roof, visibility gone, and fear rising, Sophie prayed—earnestly, desperately—for the storm to stop.Moments later, it did. This story is about fear, trust, and the kind of prayer that forms faith long before we know how to explain it.Learn more: https://bethany-denver.orgfaith stories, Christian storytelling, everyday faith, modern Christianity, spiritual reflections, faith and life, lived faith stories, faith beyond certainty

This is not a Christmas story.This is a story about perspective.About how the same moment can mean everything to one person—and almost nothing to another.Over the next twelve episodes on Together 4 Good, we're sharing real stories that remind us we don't all experience joy, meaning, or even God in the same way.This is not a Christmas story.But it is a real one.In this episode, I tell a story from ninth grade—one involving basketball, neighborhood friends, and an informal economy based entirely on Taco Bell chalupas.What started as a game turned into something more: shared joy, anticipation, and the simple pleasure of being together.This story is about abundance—not the kind that hoards or wins, but the kind that sustains, delights, and gives us enough for the day.Learn more: https://bethany-denver.orgfaith stories, Christian storytelling, everyday faith, modern Christianity, spiritual reflections, faith and life, lived faith stories, faith beyond certainty

This is not a Christmas story.This is a story about perspective.About how the same moment can mean everything to one person—and almost nothing to another.Over the next twelve episodes on Together 4 Good, we're sharing real stories that remind us we don't all experience joy, meaning, or even God in the same way.This is not a Christmas story.But it is a real one.In this episode, Janet shares a story from her teenage years—one involving a beat-up car, a lot of effort from a loving father, and a mistake made just days after everything was finally fixed.What follows isn't anger or disappointment, but restraint. Grace. Love that refuses to shame.This story reminds us that accidents happen, mistakes are inevitable, and grace is often shown in what isn't said.Learn more: https://bethany-denver.orgfaith stories, Christian storytelling, everyday faith, modern Christianity, spiritual reflections, faith and life, lived faith stories, faith beyond certainty

This is not a Christmas story.This is a story about perspective.About how the same moment can mean everything to one person—and almost nothing to another.Over the next twelve episodes on Together 4 Good, we're sharing real stories that remind us we don't all experience joy, meaning, or even God in the same way.This is not a Christmas story.But it is a real one.In this episode, I tell a story from early ministry—one that began with a locked church door and ended with a pastoral call I never could have imagined.What felt like a closed door, a clear “no,” turned out to be the beginning of something much larger.This story is about detours, human inconsistency, and trusting the God who keeps working—even when we think we've reached the end of the road.Learn more: https://bethany-denver.orgfaith stories, Christian storytelling, everyday faith, modern Christianity, spiritual reflections, faith and life, lived faith stories, faith beyond certainty

This is not a Christmas story.This is a story about perspective.About how the same moment can mean everything to one person—and almost nothing to another.Over the next twelve episodes on Together 4 Good, we're sharing real stories that remind us we don't all experience joy, meaning, or even God in the same way.This is not a Christmas story.But it is a real one.In this episode, Kate shares her story—one shaped not by certainty, but by experience.It's a reflection on how faith forms over time: through questions, shifts, and moments that don't always fit into clean categories.This story reminds us that faith doesn't have to be loud or fully resolved to be real. Sometimes it's something we grow into slowly, learning to carry it with honesty and care.Learn more: https://bethany-denver.orgfaith stories, Christian storytelling, everyday faith, modern Christianity, spiritual reflections, faith and life, lived faith stories, faith beyond certainty

This is not a Christmas story.This is a story about perspective.About how the same moment can mean everything to one person—and almost nothing to another.Over the next twelve episodes on Together 4 Good, we're sharing real stories that remind us we don't all experience joy, meaning, or even God in the same way.This is not a Christmas story.But it is a real one.In this episode, I tell a story from my first semester of college—one involving crutches, a prank gone too far, a stolen towel, and a very large offensive lineman.It's a funny story on the surface.But underneath it's about vulnerability, repentance, and what it means to repair relationships when we've crossed a line.Faith isn't just about confession in worship.It's about owning our mistakes, telling the truth, and doing the work of repair.Learn more: https://bethany-denver.orgfaith stories, Christian storytelling, everyday faith, modern Christianity, spiritual reflections, faith and life, lived faith stories, faith beyond certainty

This is not a Christmas story.This is a story about perspective. About how the same moment can mean everything to one person—and almost nothing to another.Over the next twelve episodes on Together 4 Good, we're sharing real stories that remind us we don't all experience joy, meaning, or even God in the same way.This is not a Christmas story.But it is a real one.In this episode, Addison shares her story of losing her mom at a young age—and how grief changed her relationship with faith and the church.After her mom's funeral at Bethany, returning felt impossible. The memories, the questions, and the weight of expectation made faith feel distant instead of comforting.This story is about grief, boundaries, and the slow work of finding support again—not all at once, but one step at a time.Learn more: https://bethany-denver.org

This is not a Christmas story.This is a story about perspective.About how the same moment can mean everything to one person—and almost nothing to another.Over the next twelve episodes on Together 4 Good, we're sharing real stories that remind us we don't all experience joy, meaning, or even God in the same way.This is not a Christmas story.But it is a human one.In this episode, I tell a story from high school—one that never really resolved.What started as a bike ride through an unfamiliar neighborhood turned into an unexpected encounter in the woods. No clear explanation. No tidy ending. Just a moment that stayed with us.This reflection isn't about fear—it's about courage, community, and the power of a simple question: Are you okay?Sometimes faith doesn't give us answers.Sometimes it gives us the courage to ask.Learn more: https://bethany-denver.org

Christmas often feels like a finish line. The gifts are opened, the music fades, and life moves on. But what if Christmas was never meant to be the ending?In this episode of Together 4 Good, I reflect on the deep meaning of the incarnation — the bold claim that God didn't stay distant, but became human in Jesus. Christmas isn't just about a baby in a manger. It's about God entering real, messy, ordinary human life — and continuing to show up long after Christmas Eve.We explore why the incarnation matters so much for faith, especially in seasons of grief, doubt, or feeling like God is absent. From the overlooked details of Luke's Christmas story to the way the early church understood itself as the Body of Christ, this conversation invites us to see how God's presence continues through ordinary people showing up for one another.Christmas doesn't end. It expands. God keeps showing up — often through compassion, community, and small acts of grace.In this episode, we talk about:• Why the manger wasn't the end — it was the beginning• What the incarnation really means for everyday faith• How God shows up in messy, overlooked places• Why the church is called the Body of Christ• How God's presence continues through ordinary people• What it means to “make Christmas last all year”If you've ever wondered where God is in the middle of real life — this episode is for you.Scripture referenced: Luke 2:1–20 John 1:5Chapters00:00 – Christmas isn't over yet01:00 – The manger was the beginning, not the end02:00 – Why the incarnation matters04:00 – God enters real, messy ordinary human life06:00 – Luke's overlooked Christmas details09:00 – The Body of Christ and the church's role11:00 – God showing up through ordinary people14:00 – When God feels absent18:00 – Grace always comes first21:00 – Making Christmas last all year22:30 – The light shines in the darknessLearn More: https://linktr.ee/bethanydenver

This Advent season, we've been taking a few quiet minutes each week to reflect on Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love — not as abstract ideas, but as lived realities.This week, the focus is Love.Not the loud, flashy kind.Not the kind that arrives with certainty or spectacle.But the kind that shows up while we're still waiting.This spoken-word reflection centers on Mary — on waiting, on trust, and on a love that doesn't hesitate or hold back. Mary doesn't wait for proof. She doesn't speak in “someday” language. She sings in the past tense, trusting that when God speaks a promise, it's already true.And that matters, because we're still waiting.We're waiting for wars to end.For divisions to heal.For hearts to feel whole again.But Advent reminds us that love doesn't always arrive with thunder. Sometimes it whispers in hospital rooms. Sometimes it sits beside a bed. Sometimes it shows up at a neighbor's door or quietly wipes the table and sweeps the floor.This reflection is an invitation to notice where love is already present — even now — and to trust that God's love has come, and is still coming.Why Advent waiting isn't passive — it's expectantHow Mary models trust before certaintyWhy love doesn't wait for the ending of the storyWhere God's love shows up in ordinary, quiet waysWhat you'll hear in this reflection:What it means to be named Beloved before everything is resolved

Every December, it feels like the whole world is shouting buy more, hurry up, don't miss out. And honestly? Most of us listen. Whether it's a late-night Amazon cart or that one gift we're convinced will finally make Christmas feel right, we all know the rhythm.But underneath the purchasing and the pressure is something deeper — a soul-level ache that Advent invites us to notice rather than numb.In this episode, I talk about the strange ways consumerism shapes us, why our desires feel endless, and how Advent meets us right in the middle of that frustrated longing. With a little help from Hagel, Lacan, and Peter Rollins (yes, we're getting philosophical — but I promise, gently), we explore why waiting matters and how God might already be meeting us in the places we feel most incomplete.Advent isn't asking you to buy less stuff to be a better person. Advent is asking you to make space — in the ache, the boredom, the wanting — for the God who calls you enough before you even begin.If you've ever wondered why the thrill of buying fades fast… or why your soul feels restless in December… this one's for you.00:00 — The weird thrill of online shopping01:00 — Why we buy more than we need03:00 — Capitalism, wants vs. needs, and the December pressure cooker05:00 — 3,000 ads a day: how marketing shapes our souls07:00 — The ache beneath our desire to buy09:00 — Advent as a season of lack, waiting, and holy discomfort10:00 — Hagel: God at work in tension and contradiction12:00 — Lacan: Why desire never satisfies14:00 — The secret is the lack15:00 — Peter Rollins: Christianity doesn't erase the ache17:00 — God enters the messy, restless, lacking human experience18:00 — The Word tabernacles among us19:00 — Centering prayer and learning to sit with the ache20:00 — The manger as a space made ready21:00 — Asking better questions of our desires22:00 — A more abundant way to live this seasonChapters

This Advent, I've been sharing a short spoken-word piece each week—little moments to help us breathe, pay attention, and remember what God is growing in us during this season.Today, we're talking about Joy and not the thin, glittery version December tries to sell us, but the deeper kind. The kind that actually holds.Because if you're anything like me, joy can feel a little buried this time of year. The lists get long.The lights get loud. And somewhere between “too much” and “to-do”… joy gets jammed.But Scripture reminds us: joy isn't about pretending everything's fine. Joy is what happens when grace finally gets our attention.In this reflection, I explore the connection between the Greek words for joy and grace, why John the Baptist is such a surprising teacher of joy, and how stepping out of the spotlight might actually be the place where joy grows deepest.My hope is that this simple poem gives you permission to stand where grace has placed you, breathe a little deeper, and recognize the light that God is already shining through you.Make a plan and join us this Advent: https://linktr.ee/bethanydenver00:00 — Welcome & Advent mini-episode introduction00:37 — When joy gets buried under December01:15 — Joy vs. momentary happiness01:40 — The Greek roots of joy & grace02:08 — John the Baptist and the joy of knowing who you're not03:05 — Why we chase titles—and why grace tells the truth03:40 — Joy as standing where grace has placed you04:10 — The good news of who you are (and who you're not)04:40 — Blessing & Amen

Have you ever felt like the anticipation of Christmas is better than the arrival? My kids said that to me recently and honestly…they're onto something. There's something about the lead up. The lights going up, the music (I bet your favorite Christmas songs are actually hymns, looking at you “Joy to the World,”) the catalogs arriving, that stirs more excitement in us than the day itself.And believe it or not Advent has always been focused on the magic of waiting.  Today I'm talking about why waiting isn't wasted time, and how Advent invites us to slow down, breathe a bit deeper, and resist the cultural pressure to hurry, buy, and cram every moment full. If the pace of this season feels more frantic than hopeful, consider this an invitation to step back for a moment and listen again for the quieter story Advent is trying to tell.Make a plan to join us this season in-person or online: https://linktr.ee/bethanydenver00:00 — A very Advent greeting (and a nod to John the Baptist)01:00 — Why Advent hymns might just be the best hymns01:40 — Advent as a season of holy anticipation02:10 — The “almost” feeling we love more than arrival03:05 — Why we're wired to enjoy the build-up04:00 — Packaging, Oreos, and the psychology of wanting06:10 — Is Advent playing into this? A surprising “yes and no”07:20 — How Advent helps us unlearn the hurry08:30 — Centering prayer and the gift of slowing down10:10 — What surfaces when we finally get quiet11:10 — Wilderness stories and the importance of in-between time12:35 — Why we need space before we're ready for Christmas13:40 — Advent vs. cultural Christmas: two different rhythms14:45 — Letting Advent reshape our pace15:15 — A blessing for slowing down

This Advent season, we're taking a few minutes each week to reflect on Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love. And to mix things up a bit, I'm sharing a short spoken-word piece every week.This week, I'm talking about Peace.Advent Peace isn't the soft, candle-lit word we print on cards. It's not the “if I could just get my life together…” kind of peace. And it's definitely not the version we try to manufacture by control, comfort, or numbing.In the poem, I explore how real peace doesn't show up in palaces or power structures — it shows up in the wilderness. In unexpected places. In unlikely people. And ultimately in Jesus, who brings peace not by force, but by presence.If you're carrying worry, striving for calm, or trying to hold it all together during a season that promises “peace and quiet” but rarely delivers… this reflection is for you.Take a breath. Listen in. And let this be a reminder that peace isn't something we achieve — it's a gift already given.Watch, reflect, and share if someone in your life needs a small moment of peace today.Make a plan and join us this Advent: https://linktr.ee/bethanydenver00:00 — Opening Reflection: What Do We Mean by Peace?00:32 — The Peace We Chase (and Can't Quite Catch)01:13 — Peace in Jesus' Day: Power vs. Promise01:50 — The Wilderness Word: John's Message02:28 — Peace as Gift, Not Achievement03:05 — Peace in the Manger, Cross, and Resurrection03:48 — Closing Invitation: Stop Running, Receive Peace

Every year, Advent shows up with candles, wreaths… and, strangely enough, apocalyptic readings. And if you've ever thought, “Wait—why are we talking about the end of the world when we're gearing up for twinkle lights and baby Jesus?”—you're in good company.In this episode, I'm talking about why the church calendar always begins with the end. Why Jesus keeps bringing up apocalyptic moments. And why “apocalypse” doesn't really mean destruction—it's about transformation.I share a story about binge-watching House when my daughter Evelyn was a newborn (yes, really), and how a cliffhanger episode helped me understand what Advent is actually trying to teach us: We don't know every detail of what's ahead, but we do know how the story ends—with God gathering all things in love.And maybe that's why Martin Luther could say, “If I knew the world was going to end tomorrow, I'd still plant my apple tree today.” Because faith in an apocalyptic God isn't about fear—it's about hope. It's about trusting that God is already in the future, pulling us toward something good, something whole, something new.As we step into Bethany's Advent theme, The Beginning of Everything, I pray this episode helps you hear those apocalyptic texts not as doom, but as a promise: Something new is beginning. Something hopeful. Something God-shaped.Thanks for listening, and as always—stay in peace.Sunday School Remix is a new Together 4 Good series re-examining familiar Bible stories to uncover what they really tell us about faith, humanity, and grace today.

This Advent season, we're taking a few minutes each week to reflect on Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love. And to mix things up a bit, I'm sharing a short spoken-word piece every week.This week, I'm talking about Hope.Hope and fear can live in the same space inside us — same heartbeat, same tight shoulders — but they push us in very different directions. Fear shuts us down. Hope asks us to open up, even just a little.In this reflection, I'm naming that tension we all feel when life is unclear, and why Advent is the perfect time to lean toward hope while we wait for Jesus to show up.If you're needing that shift toward hope this week, I'm right there with you.Join us this season https://bethany-denver.org

In this Sunday School Remix I take another look at one of Jesus' most well known miracles, the feeding of the 5,000, and explore a different angle than what many of us learned in Sunday School. Yes, Jesus multiplies bread and fish, but what if that is not the only miracle happening on that hillside?As I walk through the story, I share:Why this is one of the only miracles recorded in all four gospelsThe small detail most people miss, Jesus organizing the crowd into little communitiesWhat happens in our hearts when someone goes first in generosityWhy “You give them something to eat” might be the real invitationHow gratitude, neuroscience, and faith overlap in surprising waysWhy Thanksgiving is not only giving thanks but giving it backHow sharing even a little of what we have can bring God's kingdom closerMy hope is that this story shapes your Thanksgiving week with a deeper sense of abundance, gratitude, and community.Thank you for being here. Truly.Stay in peace, friends.Sunday School Remix is a new Together 4 Good series re-examining familiar Bible stories to uncover what they really tell us about faith, humanity, and grace today. 

You've heard the story of Adam and Eve before: a snake, an apple, a garden, and a whole lot of trouble.But what if that's not what the story was ever meant to be about?In this first episode of Sunday School Remix, Pastor Nate digs into the Garden of Eden story with grown-up eyes. Together, we look at how this ancient story speaks to our world today, where we still wrestle with control, guilt, and the temptation to “play God.”Maybe the serpent wasn't Satan.Maybe the fruit wasn't an apple.And maybe the real “fall” was never about disobedience at all — but about shame and blame.In this episode:The surprising details Genesis actually says (and doesn't say)Why calling the serpent “Satan” misses the pointThe connection between the fig tree and Jesus' last weekHow shame and blame became humanity's oldest reflexWhat it means to let God be God — and live unashamed✨ Sunday School Remix is a new Together 4 Good series re-examining familiar Bible stories to uncover what they really tell us about faith, humanity, and grace today.

When faith feels complicated or life gets messy, why do we still show up?In this guest-hosted episode of Together 4 Good: Making Sense of Life and Faith, Kimberly—Bethany's podcast producer—takes over while Pastor Nate is away and looks back at our summer series, Why Are You Still Here? This collection of stories from the Bethany community reminds us what keeps us grounded in faith—hope, belonging, and grace.From the “God-size hole” that faith fills to the “foreverness” of church that anchors us, these voices reflect what it really means to be part of something bigger than ourselves. You'll hear moments of honesty, humor, and deep connection that show how faith is lived through people—on mountaintops, in worship, and everywhere in between.

It's Pastor Nate's birthday episode and he's using it to talk about one of his favorite topics: spirituality in everyday life.Because let's be honest sometimes faith can start to feel like another thing on the to-do list.Go to church. Read your Bible.Say your prayers.And all of that matters, but having faith is so much more than just going to church or reading your Bible.It's about connection and relationships. Remembering that God is bigger than any one practice or person.After 15 years as a pastor, Nate admits that worship and Bible study can sometimes feel more like work than rest, so he's learned to look for God in other places, too:in gratitude before a meal,in a walk under the trees,in the rhythm of a ritual that brings you peace,or even in a sticky note on your bathroom mirror that reminds you:God's here.He shares how the Bible talks about forgetting and remembering God and how spiritual practices are really just ways to help us remember who God is, who we are, and who we're called to love.

Everyone's talking about artificial intelligence, but beneath the headlines and hot takes, many of us are quietly wondering: what does this mean for our faith?In this episode of Together 4 Good, Pastor Nate explores our shared AI anxiety, that uneasy feeling that technology might outpace our humanity, and what Scripture has to say about it. From the story of creation to the healing miracles of Jesus, this conversation reminds us that the heart of the Gospel has always been about relationship, incarnation, and community.As AI reshapes how we live, learn, and even pray, Nate challenges us to see the hope within the change, that God is still at work, calling us back to real human connection and reminding us that we are more than what we produce.You'll hear about:Why AI is changing everything — but maybe for the betterHow technology can push us toward deeper community instead of away from itWhat Jesus' incarnation teaches us about the importance of being physically presentThe danger of idolatry when we start thinking we can “save ourselves”How faith invites us to hope beyond our fears of the future

What if the moment you thought your faith was slipping away… was actually the moment it started growing deeper roots?In this episode of Together 4 Good, Pastor Nate wrestles with a truth that's both unsettling and freeing: sometimes, you have to lose your faith to find it again. He explores why doubt isn't a failure—it's often the beginning of a more honest, mature faith.This episode unpacks how God meets us in our uncertainty, how compassion heals more than clichés ever could, and how even in the silence, God is already showing up, sometimes right in the palm of your hand.You'll hear about:Why “childlike faith” isn't the same as childish faith.The harm in faith clichés like “God never gives you more than you can handle.”What it really means to suffer with someone (compassion's truest definition).How doubt and belief can coexist and why faith actually requires both.A personal story about doubt, communion, and discovering God in the middle of it all.Whether you've ever felt disconnected from church, uncertain about your beliefs, or frustrated by easy answers, this episode is for you. It's a reminder that resurrection comes after death of faith, of certainty, of what we thought we knew.Maybe what feels like losing faith is really God inviting you into something more real.

Let's be honest, a lot of us are doing everything right. We've got the job, the family, the house, the hobbies. Maybe even a decent morning routine. And yet…we're not happy.Why?In this episode of Together 4 Good, Pastor Nate digs into that question we all wrestle with but rarely say out loud. Why do we keep chasing the next thing, the next achievement, the next purchase, the next version of ourselves, only to end up feeling restless again?It's what psychologists call the hedonic treadmill: the more we get, the more we want. And that cycle can leave even the most faithful among us exhausted and unsatisfied. But grace tells a different story. Grace says you don't have to keep running. Grace says you are enough, right now, exactly as you are. Nate shares a real-life confession about stress-buying on Amazon (because we've all been there) and even pulls a surprisingly wise lesson from NBA star Kevin Durant. This episode paints a picture of how our endless pursuit of happiness, more stuff, more success, more “nexts” can blind us to the joy that's already sitting right in front of us.Because maybe the question isn't “Why am I not happy?” Maybe it's “What if I already have everything I need?”Listen if you've ever felt like:You should be happier than you areYou're stuck chasing “the next thing”You can't rest until life finally feels perfectYou want to find a joy that actually lasts

Have you ever sat with the question, “What am I supposed to do with my life?” You're not alone. In this episode of Together 4 Good, Pastor Nate wrestles with the big questions of purpose, vocation, and identity, and why chasing the “perfect” career or calling often leaves us more restless than fulfilled.Through scripture, stories, and some honest reflection, Nate reminds us of an important truth: you are already loved, already blessed, and already enough in God's eyes. Instead of searching endlessly for the next big thing, maybe God is inviting you to notice what's already in your hands.You'll hear about:Why our culture pushes us to believe something better is always around the corner.How the story of Moses and the burning bush invites us to look at the gifts we already carry.The difference between original sin and “original blessing” in understanding who we are.Practical ways to discern identity, belonging, and purpose through faith.Why gratitude and joy are linked—and how that can shift your perspective today.This episode is for anyone feeling restless, burned out, or stuck in the constant “what's next?” cycle. Instead of chasing greener grass, learn how faith roots us in the moment, teaches us to love what's in our hands, and shows us that there is more than one way to live a purposeful life.

Why doesn't prayer work the way we want? You pray for healing, peace, or even a new job…and instead of a clear answer, it feels like God left you on “read.” If you've ever wondered why God doesn't answer prayers, you're not alone.In this episode of Together for Good, Pastor Nate explores the purpose of prayer from a Lutheran perspective, with a little help from three German theologians (Schleiermacher, Tillich, and Martin Luther). Think of it as a crash course in “Prayer for Real Life,” with fewer halos and more honesty.✨ What you'll hear:Why prayer isn't a vending machine (sorry, no button for instant miracles).How Christian theology explains unanswered prayers.Why even Jesus prayed for something and didn't get it.What prayer is really about: connection, trust, and God's presence in suffering.Whether you're searching for “why doesn't God answer my prayers,” “Christian teaching on unanswered prayers,” or just curious about how prayer actually works, this conversation is for you.

Parenting is messy, beautiful, and exhausting. And for many of us, one of the big questions we carry is: How do I raise my kids in the Christian faith?In this episode of Together 4 Good, Pastor Nate shares Christian parenting tips that he and his wife are learning as they raise their three kids; what's working, what they're still figuring out, and why faith has to be about more than just “good morals.”You'll hear stories about family traditions that nurture Christian faith (like Christmas Eve hikes with hot cocoa), simple rituals that help children connect with God (their sign-language mealtime prayer is a favorite), and why curiosity, awe, and wonder might be the best tools parents have for passing faith to the next generation.In this episodeHow to raise kids in the Christian faith without just teaching rulesWhy “faith is caught, not taught” matter for parenting todayFamily traditions and rituals that ground children in faithSimple ways to teach children about God through wonder and curiosityWhy asking “when did your heart feel full?” is a better spiritual practice than focusing only on morals.If you're looking for practical ways to raise kids with faith, love, and humility, this episode will give you encouragement and ideas to bring into your everyday family life. And if you need to hear it today: you're doing a great job.Special Bonus: As a companion to this episode, you can also watch or listen to a bedtime story of God's love, Bible stories for sleep, relaxation, and faith. A gentle way to end the day and remind your children that they are deeply loved. You can tune in here: https://youtu.be/xYUWupzgZrY

On today's Together 4 Good, Pastor Nate pulls together two of our most recent conversations into one big theme: how to stop measuring yourself by the grind and start resting in God's peace.First up: hustle culture. You know the drill: more hours, more hustle, more “look what I did.” Nate shares some personal stories (yes, including his grandpa's trusty steel lunchbox) and the reminder that while hard work is good, it's not what gives us our worth. That's where Sabbath comes in, God's gift to remind us that we're already loved.Then we shift gears into what happens after you step off the hamster wheel: how do you actually protect that peace? Enter “spiritual sunscreen.” In a world that won't stop shouting at you to buy, produce, and perform, God flips the script with grace first, then gratitude.✨ You'll hear:Why hustle culture always leads to burnout and despair.How Sabbath is resistance against being defined by what you do.The Exodus story as a guide for a new way of living.What it means to put on “spiritual sunscreen” and guard your peace.Why grace—not hustle—is always God's starting point.

On today's episode of Together 4 Good, Pastor Nate sits down with Pastor Carrie Bayless and her daughter Emmy for a conversation that was totally unplanned, and turned out to be one of the most real, funny, and thoughtful episodes yet.We talk about what it's like growing up as a pastor's kid (fun fact: Nate's a PK too!), the expectations that come with being “the pastor's family,” and why Emmy, a high school senior, is still showing up for church when so many of her friends aren't. Along the way we swap stories about pajama pants vs. church clothes, why kids especially 6-and 7-year-olds are the most hilarious part of Sunday school, and how church can feel like home.This episode is about faith, family, and purpose, and why being known and welcomed in a church community makes all the difference.You'll hear:Honest stories about what it's like to be a pastor's kid and how expectations shape faith.How church challenges us to grow and why that's different from checking a box on Sunday.The difference between school friends and church friends and why it matters.Why church is still the one place we gather around love, belonging, and Jesus.Download the full podcast here: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/together-4-good-conversations-on-faith-family-and/id1529196060Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0aFHcs9xjcRK54uXJzUBbH?si=VwBUEjyQQnieXyKHdkcfvAFollow Bethany Lutheran Church on social media for all the best moments from the show: https://linktr.ee/bethanydenverAnd keep up with us in the Bethany Connect app available in your app store!

On this week's episode of Together 4 Good, I sat down with Becky Robinson-Lavenburg. She grew up surrounded by music, sang with prestigious choirs as a kid, and now she's studying to be a mental health counselor. What I love about her story is the way music and faith keep circling back for her. She didn't stick around church because she had to, but because she found a community she actually wanted in her life.We get into everything from what Bach can teach us about freedom in faith, to why being a Christian isn't a destination, to how choir rehearsals and youth soccer practice teach kids about showing up and working together. Becky's story is thoughtful and real, and it's a reminder that faith isn't about “arriving,” it's about choosing community, staying curious, and letting God meet you right where you are.Download the full podcast here: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/together-4-good-conversations-on-faith-family-and/id1529196060Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0aFHcs9xjcRK54uXJzUBbH?si=VwBUEjyQQnieXyKHdkcfvAFollow Bethany Lutheran Church on social media for all the best moments from the show: https://linktr.ee/bethanydenverAnd keep up with us in the Bethany Connect app available in your app store!

What does Division 1 football have to do with faith? A lot more than you might think. In this episode of Together 4 Good, Pastor Nate sits down with Michael Ziemba, former Indiana University football player, UPS “industrial athlete,” and Bethany member, to talk about how faith and football shaped his life. From growing up in Florida, playing under Coach Tom Allen in the Big 10, to navigating injuries, career changes, and a move to Colorado, Michael shares how faith, hard work, and community have carried him through. His story is one of optimism, perseverance, and trust that God really does have a bigger plan. You'll hear:How football taught Michael about teamwork, trust, and accountability.The way coaches and mentors wove faith into everyday life on and off the field.What it looks like to lean on God in the face of injuries, setbacks, and big transitions.Why community, whether on a team or in a church, is the key reason he's still here.Michael's story is down to earth, heartfelt, and full of reminders that faith isn't just for Sunday mornings, it's lived out in locker rooms, delivery trucks, and all the everyday places we show up. Listen in, share with a football fan in your life, and be reminded: it's always about the people, and it's always about God's bigger plan.Connect with us at Bethany-Denver.org or follow us on Instagram @Bethany_Denver