Podcast appearances and mentions of rich villodas

We continue our Advent sermon series, “Waiting for Jesus,” by turning from the theme of Waiting to the theme of Peacemaking. Advent invites us to reflect on Christ as the Prince of Peace and to prepare our hearts for his coming. We'll explore how Matthew 5 calls us to embody God's peace in tangible, restorative ways. Jesus' words remind us that peacemaking is not passive but an active expression of God's character in the world. Together, we'll consider how meeting needs and righting wrongs become part of our faithful anticipation of Christ's arrival. Scripture Referenced: Matthew 5

The government of Israel has been criticized for building fences in Gaza and the West Bank, but now it's geofencing American churches. Will its plan reverse the decline of evangelical support for the Jewish state? Donald Trump says he's making the country more Christian, but data shows his immigration policy favors secular immigrants and rejects Christians. Rich Villodas is back to talk about his new book for Advent, "Waiting for Jesus." He says we should use this season to resist consumerism, commercialism, and Christian culturalism. Also this week, a giant flightless parrot has issues Down Under. Holy Post Plus: Ad-Free Version of this Episode: https://www.patreon.com/posts/144923335/   Advice-ish: https://www.patreon.com/posts/advice-ish-im-in-144823944   66 Verses to Explain the Bible:  https://www.patreon.com/posts/144916622/   0:00 - Show Starts   4:43- Theme Song   5:06 - Sponsor - BetterHelp - This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at https://www.betterhelp.com/HOLYPOST and get 10% off your first month!   6:05 - Sponsor - AG1 - Heavily researched, thoroughly purity-tested, and filled with stuff you need. Get the AG1 welcome pack when you order from https://www.drinkag1.com/HOLYPOST   7:35 - Toucan Butt Disease!   14:35 - Israel Geofencing Ads Around Churches   29:00 - Deportations Making America More Secular?   48:42 - Sponsor - World Relief - Start a monthly partnership with World Relief to help families in crisis at https://www.worldrelief.org/holypost   49:51 - Sponsor - Aura Frames - Need a Great Christmas Gift? Use code HOLYPOST at checkout to save $45-off the Carver Mat Aura Frame at https://www.AuraFrames.com   51:00 - Sponsor - Blueland - Just for this holiday season, Blueland has a special 30% off deal to help you keep your home clean this Christmas! Go to https://www.blueland.com/holypost   52:10 - Interview   54:06 - Church Calendar Explained   1:03:50 - Spirit of Herod   1:17:37 - End Credits   1:18:09 - Sponsor - The Pour Over - Stay informed while remaining focused on Christ with The Pour Over Today. Check it out at https://links.thepourover.org/holy-post   Links Mentioned in News Segment: Kakapo Crusty Butt Disease! https://www.popsci.com/environment/kakapo-antibiotics-crusty-bum/   Immigration Crackdown Making Us Less Christian? https://religionnews.com/2025/11/18/why-trumps-immigration-crackdown-may-make-america-less-christian/?utm_source=RNS+Updates&utm_campaign=506d68c8ac-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2025_11_19_01_03&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_c5356cb657-506d68c8ac-387424458   Other Resources: Waiting for Jesus: An Advent Invitation to Prayer and Renewal: An Advent Christmas Devotional by Rich Villodas: https://amzn.to/3Me8e8v   Holy Post website: https://www.holypost.com/   Holy Post Plus: www.holypost.com/plus   Holy Post Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/holypost   Holy Post Merch Store: https://www.holypost.com/shop   The Holy Post is supported by our listeners. We may earn affiliate commissions through links listed here. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.  

I am SO EXCITED to talk to Pastor Rich Villodas about Advent and the Christian calendar. Advent officially started yesterday and Rich is helping us better understand why the Christian calendar even matters and what Advent means to our relationship with God. We're going to talk about what it looks like to wait well (which I don't like to do!), and we unpack the reality of living in the middle of both pain and rejoicing. Advent is all of it, right?  If you're looking for a study to go through this Advent, it's not too late to start one. You can grab it today and jump right in. Our Stay Tuned series is available to download now at shopanniefdowns.com AND you're going to love hearing about Rich's Advent devotional, Waiting for Jesus, today. If you're following along in your TSF Seasons Guidebook, We're on page 127. As always, the guidebook is available for you at anniefdowns.com/seasons. . . . . .  Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guest If you enjoyed this episode, I think you'd also love: Advent Makes Space for our Grief, but Christmas Makes Space for our Joy with Lanier Ivester- Episode 943 Episode 500: She Reads Truth + Advent . . . . . Thank you to our sponsors! This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp: My friends get 10% off their first month at BetterHelp.com/THATSOUNDSFUN. Our Place: Our Place is having their biggest sale of the year right now! Save up to 35% site-wide through December 2nd. Shop the Our Place Black Friday Sale right now, no code needed at ourplace.com. Thrive Causemetics: Go to thrivecausemetics.com/TSF for an exclusive offer of 20% off your first order. AG1: If you go to drinkag1.com/soundsfun you'll get the welcome kit, a Morning Person hat, a bottle of Vitamin D3+K2, an AG1 Flavor Sampler, and you'll get to try their new sleep supplement AGZ for free! WayFair: Head to Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home. Hiya Health: Receive 50% off your first order. To claim this deal you must go to hiyahealth.com/THATSOUNDSFUN. Shopify: Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at Shopify.com/soundsfun⁠. Capstone Wellness: Learn more at ⁠capstonewellness.com/thatsoundsfun⁠. Helix Sleep: Go to helixsleep.com/thatsoundsfun for 27% off sitewide.  Wonder Project: Start your free trial and make sure to choose the annual subscription at watch.thewonderproject.com/thatsoundsfun. When you pick the annual plan, you save money and directly support their mission to bring more of these stories to the world.  NIV Application Bible: If you're looking for a new Bible or know someone you'd like to gift a Bible to, I highly recommend the ⁠NIV Application Bible⁠! Antique Candle Co: Use code “thatsoundsfun” to get a free Gift Set on any order of $40 or more through Dec 15 at ⁠antiquecandleco.com⁠.  NYTimes bestselling Christian author, speaker, and host of popular Christian podcast, That Sounds Fun Podcast, Annie F. Downs shares with you some of her favorite things: new books, faith conversations, entertainers not to miss, and interviews with friends. #thatsoundsfunpodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This message marks the beginning of our four-week Advent series, "Waiting For Jesus." As we turn to Psalm 130, we reflect on what it means to be a people who wait on the Lord with hope and expectancy. Like the watchman longing for the first light of dawn, we'll consider how God shapes us in the waiting and invites us to trust His unfailing promises. Scripture Referenced: Psalm 130

On Sunday, Natalie kicked off our new series Waiting for Jesus, based on the devotional of the same name by Rich Villodas. This series isn't just a Sunday morning mindset, but a daily practice of reflection, prayers, and prompts that help you slow down, seek God, and prepare your heart to welcome Christ with renewed peace and joy this Christmas season.  To visit our Teaching Notes: https://stclair.substack.com/

The holidays often feel like a marathon, as we dash from one event, errand, or party to another. In the busyness, it's easy to neglect what really matters: reflecting on the glory of Jesus. Pastor Rich Villodas shares from his book, "Waiting for Jesus: An Advent Invitation to Prayer and Renewal."  Waiting on God by Andrew Murray Originally aired November 24, 2025 Check out Susie's new podcast God Impressions on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts! Faith Radio podcasts are made possible by your support. Give now: click here

Rich Villodas is the Brooklyn-born lead pastor of New Life Fellowship in New York City. He is the author of several books including the award winning 'Deeply Formed Life'. He joins Belle and Justin to talk about his new book 'Waiting For Jesus - An Advent Invitation to Prayer and Renewal'.For 'Waiting For Jesus': https://www.amazon.co.uk/Waiting-Jesus-Devotional-Readings-Christmas/dp/1846049032 If you found this conversation interesting, Seen & Unseen, the creators of Re-Enchanting, offers thousands of articles exploring how the Christian faith helps us understand the modern world. Discover more here: www.seenandunseen.com Generosity changes things — in us, in others and in the world.At Stewardship, we help Christians give well and see their generosity make a real difference.Find out how a Stewardship Giving Account can help you give, grow, and live generously every day.https://stwdshp.org/re-enchanting Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The holidays often feel like a marathon, as we dash from one event, errand, or party to another. In the busyness, it's easy to neglect what really matters: reflecting on the glory of Jesus. Pastor Rich Villodas shares from his book, "Waiting for Jesus: An Advent Invitation to Prayer and Renewal."  Waiting on God by Andrew Murray Check out Susie's new podcast God Impressions on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts! Faith Radio podcasts are made possible by your support. Give now: click here

During our Thanksgiving service, Pastor Rich shared a message on gratitude, and New Lifers shared stories of gratitude and hope. Scripture Referenced: Mark 5:18-20

In this episode, we talk honestly about something so many of us feel but almost never say out loud: loneliness. It's crazy how life can look so full from the outside… so many people, so much activity… and yet on the inside, we feel completely empty. We've gotten really good at giving the illusion that everything's great, even when it's not. But that gap between what we show and what's actually real? It's exhausting! And it's taking a toll on so many of us. Loneliness can affect us mentally, spiritually, and even physically. But hear this: God never intended for you to walk through life by yourself. From the very beginning, He hardwired us for close friendships. Deep, honest, life-giving friendships. In this conversation, we talk about how to move past the surface, how to admit when we're lonely, and how to start pursuing the kind of real connection our souls are craving. 21 MUST FOLLOWS: Pastors   Noah Herrin - @noahherrin Megan Fate Marshman -  @meganfate Jonathon Pokluda - @jpokluda World Events Carlos Whittaker - @loswhit Sharon McMahon - @sharonsaysso Rich Villodas - @richvillodas Sharon Hodde Miller - @sharonhmiller Therapy/Knowing Yourself Jason VanRuler - @jason.vanruler Mike Foster - @mikefoster2000 Carl Lentz - @carllentz Goals and Outlook Carey Nieuwhof - @careynieuwhof Jon Acuff - @jonacuff Jon Gordon - @jongordon11 Ethan Bernard - @ethanbenard Nonprofits I love God behind bars - @godbehindbars IJM - @ijm Convoy of Hope - @convoyofhope Joy Jimmy Darts - @jimmydarts Cam Bynum - @cambeezy_24 Gabe Dannenbring - @gabedannenbring Style/Fashion Joe Burrow - @joeyb_9 Thanks to our amazing partners on this episode:   International Justice Mission is a global nonprofit working to end slavery and violence around the world, taking special care of survivors from the moment they're rescued all the way through their healing and restoration. To learn more and support their mission, visit ijm.org   Vern Eide Motorcars is a growing employee-owned company that offers sales, service, and financing of automotive, motorcycle, and power sports lines, including Acura, Ford, Chevy, GMC, Honda, Hyundai and Mitsubishi brands. Whether you live locally or across the country, visit verneide.com   Subscribe to The Conversation on YouTube youtube.com/@adamaweber Sign up for The Crew: adamweber.com/thecrew    

What does it mean to make room for something new? This message explores Jesus' teaching on wine and new wineskins in the Gospel of Mark, and how God invites us into a life of renewal and fresh possibilities. Scripture Referenced: Mark 2:18-22

It's the most wonderful time of the year… and the most exhausting. Between the decorating, the baking, the shopping, and the pressure to make everything magical, our souls can feel more hurried than holy. In this episode, we slow down to talk about what it really means to rest during the holidays, not just physically, but spiritually.Drawing from The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer, The Deeply Formed Life by Rich Villodas, and the practice of Slow Living, join us as we explore how doing less will actually help us experience more: more peace, more joy, and more presence with the people (and the God) who matter most.If you feel like you're carrying the weight of making the holidays “perfect,” this conversation will remind you that perfection isn't the point - presence is. You'll walk away with practical ideas to simplify the season, breathe deeply, and rediscover the sacred rhythm of rest, even in the holiday hurry.Show Notes:The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark ComerThe Deeply Formed Life by Rich VillodasSlow Living Articles:Already Stressed About the Holidays?https://www.latimes.com/lifestyle/story/2025-11-06/tips-holiday-overwhelm-stress-niro-felicianoHow to Slow Down During the Holidays              https://caitlinhoustonblog.com/how-to-slow-down-during-the-holidays/Why Doing Nothing Intentionally is Good for Us: The Rise of the Slow Living Movement.                                           https://www.bbc.com/culture/article/20240724-why-doing-nothing-intentionally-is-good-for-us-the-rise-of-the-slow-living-movement

This message continues our series through the Gospel of Mark. We explore a story where Jesus finds Himself among people of questionable reputation. Yet this scene is far more than a moment of social tension—it is deeply theological, revealing the heart of God's kingdom and what life looks like when grace welcomes sinners to the table. Scripture Referenced: Mark 2:13-17

As the noise of the holiday season rises, how can we recover the stillness, peace, and joy at the heart of Advent? In this deeply moving episode of Now & Then, host Wendy VanderWal Martin welcomes pastor and author Rich Villodas to explore his new devotional, Waiting for Jesus: An Advent Invitation to Prayer and Renewal. Rich shares how the rhythms of the church calendar have reoriented his life and ministry in New York City — “the city that never sleeps” — toward waiting, peacemaking, rejoicing, and beholding. Together, Wendy and Rich reflect on how these ancient Advent themes offer an antidote to our culture's frenzy and distraction, inviting us into a slower, more attentive way of being with God. Listeners will be drawn into stories of how prayer sustains community, how true peace begins within, and how joy and lament can coexist in the same heart. Rich also opens up about the lasting influence of Henri Nouwen — his honesty, vulnerability, and insistence that we are all the beloved of God. Whether you're longing to rediscover the sacred meaning of Advent or simply seeking renewal in a weary world, this conversation offers a compassionate and contemplative guide to centering your life on Christ amid the clamor of December. “Waiting is not despair — it's dependence.” — Rich Villodas Listen now to be inspired, refreshed, and reminded that even in a restless world, the invitation to behold beauty and live as God's beloved still stands. ___________ Resources: https://www.richvillodas.com/ https://www.penguinrandomhouse.ca/books/776021/waiting-for-jesus-by-rich-villodas/9780593602607 ___________ SUPPORT THIS PODCAST: henrinouwen.org/donate/ * SIGN UP FOR FREE DAILY E-MEDITATIONS: henrinouwen.org/meditation/ * MORE FREE RESOURCES: henrinouwen.org/ * FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA: INSTAGRAM: www.instagram.com/henrinouwensociety/ TWITTER: twitter.com/nouwensociety FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/nouwensociety/

We continue our series through the Gospel of Mark. This message explores how the kingdom of God draws near through the forgiveness that Jesus offers. Scripture Referenced: Mark 2:1-12

We continue our series through the Gospel of Mark as we explore Jesus as the Healer. Mark offers us a vivid snapshot of just twenty-four hours in the life of Jesus. In this brief yet beautiful account of His healing ministry, we discover profound truths about how to bring our own areas of brokenness before Him. This passage reveals what characterizes healing in the kingdom of God and how both healing and the absence of it can ultimately point us to something far greater. Scripture Referenced: Mark 1:29-34

We continue our series through the Gospel of Mark as we explore what it truly means to follow Jesus—and to fish with Him. At the heart of this message is the call to discipleship. Together, we'll look at two key aspects of what it means to live in genuine relationship with Jesus. Scripture Referenced: Mark 1:16-20

Ever feel like you're writing for God but not with Him? In this episode, I sit down with author and pastor Rich Villodas to talk about how writing can become an act of worship—a way to slow down, listen, and experience God's presence in the creative process. We also discuss our upcoming Advent devotional and how writing can shape us into the image of Christ. Hi! I'm Will Parker Anderson and I'm an editor and writing coach, here to help you get the message burning in your heart onto the page and into the world. At Writers Circle, there's no cool kids—just fellow learners. We exist to make writing feel a little less lonely and a lot more doable. Welcome to our circle. Email Will: hello@writerscircle.co Rich's new book: Waiting for Jesus Will's proposal course: https://www.writerscircle.co/course Join Will's newsletter: writerscircle.co Substack: https://willparkeranderson.substack.com/ Instagram: @willparkeranderson

What is the Kingdom of God, and why does it matter for our everyday lives? This message explores one of Jesus' central teachings in the Gospels—the good news that the Kingdom is near. Together, we'll discover what this means for us today and how God calls us to live in response to it. Scripture Referenced: Mark 1:14-15

This message continues our journey through the Gospel of Mark with the story of Jesus' baptism, a moment where His true identity is revealed more clearly. As we see who Jesus is, we begin to see ourselves differently. What does it mean for your life that Jesus is called the Beloved—and how might His identity reshape your own? Scripture Referenced: Mark 1:9-13

This message marks the beginning of a 5-month journey through the Gospel of Mark. Mark wastes no time confronting us with the reality of Jesus—the Messiah who calls us to follow Him with our whole lives. We launch the series with two pressing questions: What makes Jesus distinct? and What does it mean to prepare the way for Him? These are not just questions to ponder, but a call to live differently in light of the Gospel. Scripture Referenced: Mark 1:8

The next generation doesn't need a flawless church — they need a faithful one. Right now, kids and teens are forming their faith by watching the way we live. Just as Paul urged Timothy to “fan into flame the gift of God” (2 Timothy 1:6), we are called to nurture our faith today in a way that can be seen, shared, and followed. A vibrant, living faith in the present is the greatest gift we can pass on to the future. This message invites us to discover how we can be future-focused by living faithfully in the present. Scripture Referenced: 2 Timothy 1:3-7

This Vision Sunday message is a reminder of who God is calling us to be as a church family. Pastor Rich talks about what it means to live as people sent into the world for the sake of others. He also shares about a new churchwide initiative that will shape our life and ministry in the season ahead. Scripture Referenced: John 20:19-22

We live in a culture that wants it all. More is seen as better—whether it's more money, social media fame, choices, or power. For those chasing this way of life, “narrow” seems negative. Pastor Rich Villodas shares from his book "The Narrow Path: How the Subversive Way of Jesus Satisfies Our Souls."  Originally aired August 13, 2024  Find the Dr. Rob Reimer conversation Susie mentions here. Faith Radio podcasts are made possible by your support. Give now: click here 

This message concludes our Sunday School series by looking at one of the most well-known stories in the Old Testament, the story of Naaman. In his journey toward healing and transformation, we'll find a powerful reminder of God's grace and the unexpected ways He works in our lives. Scripture Referenced: 2 Kings 5

We all know the story of Moses parting the Red Sea—but what if it's about more than escaping captivity? This message continues our Sunday School series. In it, we'll see that God doesn't only free us from what holds us back; He leads us into something brand new. At the waters, He offers more than deliverance – God offers us a new creation! Scripture Referenced: Exodus 14:19-28

You've probably heard about Jonah and the whale—but what if the best part of the story comes afterward? We continue our Sunday School series by diving into Jonah's journey. This message explores something we don't often discuss: what to do when we're frustrated and angry—even when that frustration is aimed at God. Scripture Referenced: Jonah 4

David and Goliath is often told as the ultimate underdog tale… but is that the whole story? As we continue our Sunday School series, we'll discover the true source of David's confidence—and see how it can transform the way we live today. Scripture Referenced: 1 Samuel 17:45–47

Rich Villodas—pastor, author, and one of today's clearest voices on spiritual formation—joins Pastor Tyler for a powerful conversation on how the Sermon on the Mount shaped his life.From his early discipleship under the guidance of his grandfather to his current role as lead pastor at New Life Fellowship in Queens, Rich shares how he came to embrace Jesus' words not as ideals, but as a way of life.This conversation marks the one-year anniversary of his book The Narrow Path and offers deep insights into prayer, formation, and authentic discipleship.You'll hear reflections on success, power, presence, and what it means to follow Jesus with both depth and integrity—alongside practical insights for living out the Sermon on the Mount in everyday life.Whether you're a spiritual leader or simply longing to follow Jesus more deeply, this episode offers a richer, more beautiful view of the Kingdom.

Rich Villodas—pastor, author, and one of today's clearest voices on spiritual formation—joins Pastor Tyler for a powerful conversation on how the Sermon on the Mount shaped his life.From his early discipleship under the guidance of his grandfather to his current role as lead pastor at New Life Fellowship in Queens, Rich shares how he came to embrace Jesus' words not as ideals, but as a way of life.This conversation marks the one-year anniversary of his book The Narrow Path and offers deep insights into prayer, formation, and authentic discipleship.You'll hear reflections on success, power, presence, and what it means to follow Jesus with both depth and integrity—alongside practical insights for living out the Sermon on the Mount in everyday life.Whether you're a spiritual leader or simply longing to follow Jesus more deeply, this episode offers a richer, more beautiful view of the Kingdom.

Are we living as tourists in our faith, or as pilgrims on a purposeful path? This message continues our Sunday School series with a study of the call of Abraham. Together, we explore how Abraham's journey challenges us to examine our own. Scripture Referenced: Genesis 12:1-4

We continue our "Sunday School: A Fresh Look at Familiar Stories" series with a look at the well-known story of the Tower of Babel. Together, we explore how this ancient account speaks directly to our modern world, and what it means to follow Jesus in a culture where appearances of unity often mask deeper divisions. Join us as we seek wisdom, clarity, and purpose through God's Word. Scripture Referenced: Genesis 11:1-9

We continue our "Sunday School: A Fresh Look at Familiar Stories" series by exploring the Book of Ruth and what it reveals about unwavering love and faithfulness amid deep loss and hardship. Listen in for a fresh perspective on Ruth's journey—a story of hope, loyalty, and God's redeeming grace. Scripture Referenced: Ruth 1-4

We continue our "Sunday School: A Fresh Look at Familiar Stories" series by diving into one of the most well-known Bible stories — Daniel in the lion's den. While it's often told in children's books, this powerful account carries profound truths for people of all ages. This message explores this story with fresh eyes and an open heart, discovering how it speaks into our everyday struggles. Scripture Referenced: Daniel 6

This Sunday, we kicked off an 8-week summer sermon series called "Sunday School: A Fresh Look at Familiar Stories." We revisited one of the most well-known—and deeply human—stories in the Bible: Cain and Abel, exploring the powerful themes of jealousy, broken relationships, and how these struggles shape our walk with God and our connections with others. Scripture Referenced: Genesis 4:1-16

Life is both beautiful and disappointing, but the story of God has always been one of His pursuit of us. Drew Hyun, former New Life pastor and now the Founder and Lead Pastor of Hope Church NYC, guides us through a powerful message exploring how the Christian story can be summed up in three words: beautiful, disappointing, hopeful, and how God continues to see and notice us, even when we may not realize it. Scripture Referenced: Acts 17:22-28

This message concludes our series on The New Family of Jesus. Together, we reflect on one of Jesus' most profound prayers and consider what it means for our congregation to grow deeper in life together. Scripture Referenced: John 17:20-23

In this episode, I talk with Will Parker Anderson—writer, editor, and founder of The Writer's Circle—about the tension we all feel between productivity and presence, business and ministry, hustle and holiness. Will brings clarity and honesty to the internal battle many creatives face: how do we create from a place of joy, not just ambition? How do we resist comparison, reclaim play, and keep our identity grounded—not in our platform—but in the God who delights in us? We dig into the realities of Christian publishing, the spiritual disciplines that sustain us, and the hidden dangers of remote work and quiet isolation. Whether you're a writer, an entrepreneur, or someone simply trying to live faithfully in a noisy world, this conversation is full of wisdom, vulnerability, and practical encouragement for staying rooted in what matters most.Will Parker Anderson is a senior editor at WaterBrook and Multnomah, an imprint of Penguin Random House—the world's largest publisher. He specializes in acquiring and editing Christian living, Bible teaching, spiritual formation, and faith-based inspirational nonfiction. Will has collaborated with authors like Rich Villodas, Josh Butler, Jon Tyson, Doug Wekenman, and YouTuber Ruslan KD, helping them shape compelling books that resonate with readers.Beyond publishing, Will's background includes fifteen years in pastoral ministry and nonprofit work, giving him a deep understanding of the spiritual and practical challenges writers face. His writing and editorial expertise extends to a range of media outlets, including The Chosen, The Gospel Coalition, Dwell Bible App, Preaching Today, and Relevant magazine.Will holds a BA in journalism from Biola University and an MA in New Testament from Talbot School of Theology. A passionate teacher, he has taught biblical studies and theology at both the high school and college levels. Based in Southern California, Will spends his free time exploring the outdoors with his wife, Emily, and their three young children, which means he's often running on caffeine and grace.Will's Website:writerscircle.coWill's Recommendation:Every Moment Holy Vol. IIISubscribe to Our Substack: Shifting CultureConnect with Joshua: jjohnson@allnations.usGo to www.shiftingculturepodcast.com to interact and donate. Every donation helps to produce more podcasts for you to enjoy.Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Threads, Bluesky or YouTubeConsider Giving to the podcast and to the ministry that my wife and I do around the world. Just click on the support the show link belowSubscribe on Substack for Early, Ad-Free Episodes and More Support the show

The New Family of Jesus is beautifully diverse, spanning every age and stage of life. Yet many of us have never truly experienced the richness of blessing across generational lines. This message explores how God invites us to both give and receive blessing between generations—restoring connection, honoring one another, and living as a reconciled family in Christ. Scripture Referenced: 2 Timothy 1:1-9

We continue our series on The New Family of Jesus. We explore how the family that Jesus is forming makes space for those who are economically and socially marginalized. Scripture Referenced: Galatians 2:1-10

In John 9, Jesus heals a man born blind, but the real story is what happens after. Guest speaker and Lead Pastor of Bridgetown Church, Tyler Staton, leads us as we explore the surprising and often disruptive ways Jesus brings about true healing and lasting restoration. Scripture Referenced: John 9

Pastor Rich continues our series through The New Family of Jesus. We explore how Jesus unites men and women in partnership to fulfill the mission of the gospel. Discover what this means for our life together, our homes, and our mission as a church family. Scripture Referenced: Genesis 3:16-19, Galatians 3:28

“We must have some room to breathe. We need freedom to think and permission to heal. Our relationships are being starved to death by velocity.” — Dr. Richard Swenson, The Overload SyndromeIn our fast-paced, always-on world, these words ring true. We're overloaded—physically, emotionally, mentally, and financially. But what if the antidote to our exhaustion isn't doing more, but doing less? Today, let's look at rest from a biblical perspective.What Is Margin?Margin is the “room to breathe” that Dr. Swenson describes. It's the space between our load and our limits, which allows us to pause before we break.Too often, we end the day with nothing left—no time, energy, or money. Then the next day starts…full throttle again.That kind of lifestyle comes at a cost. The Sleep Foundation reports that nearly half of Americans experience trouble sleeping—a third of them get less than seven hours of sleep a night. Chronic sleep deprivation can lead to serious (and expensive) health problems like anxiety, heart disease, and diabetes. It also undermines our relationships and decision-making.The truth? Rest is not a luxury. It's wisdom.God Created RestGod rested on the seventh day of Creation—not because He needed to, but because His work was complete. He blessed that rest and called it holy (Genesis 2:3).Later, He enshrined the Sabbath in the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:8-11). Why? Because He knows our tendency to keep pushing ourselves, and He lovingly tells us to stop. As pastor and author Rich Villodas says:“God gives us Sabbath—he gives us rest—as a gift to remind us that our standing in Christ is not based on our works. When we rest, we're reminded: I'm not producing anything…and God still loves me.”Margin in a Work-Obsessed WorldTechnology allows us to work from anywhere, at any time. But just because we can doesn't mean we should. Rest gives us the strength and focus to do our work “as unto the Lord” (Colossians 3:23).Working late nights and skipping vacations might seem productive, but over time, they damage what matters most—our health, our relationships, and our spiritual lives.Rest doesn't mean avoiding work. It means working wisely and worshipfully—and stepping away when it's time to refuel.The Difference Between Rest and LazinessNow, let's be clear: Rest is not laziness.Laziness is neglecting what we're called to do. It violates God's design for us to work, serve, and create. Paul warned the Thessalonians to “warn those who are idle and disruptive” (1 Thess. 5:14), and added in 2 Thessalonians 3:11 that idleness often masks itself as busyness.Proverbs 31 praises the noble woman who works diligently. Verse 27 says she “does not eat the bread of idleness.” Laziness can show up subtly, like scrolling endlessly or shopping to avoid responsibility.Proverbs 24:30–31 tells of a neglected field, overgrown and crumbling, due to a lack of care. That's what happens when laziness takes root. But there's hope.Rest Is a Gift of GraceWhether you're burned out or stuck in patterns of procrastination, God's grace meets you where you are. Jesus doesn't offer a tighter schedule—He offers a lighter burden.“Come to me, all who are weary and burdened,” Jesus says, “and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28)Rest isn't something you earn. It's something you receive. So step into the rhythm of grace, not guilt. Your soul—and your stewardship—depends on it.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:My son is 26, and last year he was able to start a 401(k) with his job. I want to get him a Roth IRA and start with $200 to get something going. Is that a good idea?I'm 87 years old. If all my assets have beneficiaries designated, is there any reason to have probate, or is there a maximum dollar amount that requires probate, so I would have to get a trust?I pay my bills and save as much as I can. Is it okay for me to spend $10 at the Salvation Army to get a new church dress? I don't make much money, but I get paid every two weeks with a decent check.Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)The Overload Syndrome: Learning to Live Within Your Limits by Dr. Richard A. SwensonMargin: Restoring Emotional, Physical, Financial, and Time Reserves to Overloaded Lives by Dr. Richard A. SwensonSchwab Intelligent Portfolios | BettermentHeart for LebanonWisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money (Pre-Order)Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.

We continue our series on The New Family of Jesus, exploring how racism harms the family of Jesus and our world. And, we examine how the gospel calls us to be different. Scripture Referenced: Galatians 3:28

We continue our 8-week sermon series titled The New Family of Jesus. This message examines the gospel's call to a new humanity that addresses the complexity of ethnic & racial diversity. Scripture Referenced: Ephesians 2:14-22

How do we, as the new family of Jesus, respond to the division and injustices we are encountering all around us? We continue our 8-week sermon series titled The New Family of Jesus, exploring what Ephesians 6 teaches us about how we can be on guard and stand in power together to resist evil forces at work in our world. Scripture Referenced: Ephesians 6:10-20

We're starting an 8-week journey exploring the call to Justice and Reconciliation—values at the heart of our New Life community. This is the first message in this series. In a time marked by division and brokenness, we'll press into Jesus' vision for a reconciled people and discover how it transforms our hearts, our relationships, and our world. Scripture Referenced: Revelation 7:9-10

In response to the resurrection of Jesus, we do what missional followers of Jesus have done over the centuries— we go and tell. Pastor Redd leads us in a message examining how the Easter season is a wonderful time to go to friends and family and tell them of what Jesus has done for you. Scripture Referenced: Mark 5:1-20

We join the Church worldwide in celebrating our risen Lord, Jesus Christ. Pastor Rich leads us through a passage in the book of Revelation, reminding us of the hope the resurrection offers those who believe. Scripture Referenced: Revelation 2:8-11