Growing Hope Living Faith

In this episode, Pastor Rhonda and Pastor Seth look at one of the stories of motherhood in the bible. They look at the story of Hannah, and parlay that into the gospel passage of the lectionary. John is Jesus talking about the fact that He will not leave us alone, but will send an advocate for us if we keep His commands. Hannah is a story of suffering and agony. She is struggling with the reality of not having kids, but it does not end there. Her rival is using this against her. Hannah was faithful in her journey, in her sacrifices, in her prayer. God sees and through Eli, advocates for her. She has a son and gives the son back to God. The blessings keep on coming after that. What a great promise for us, that we are not alone, and we can go to and rely on the Spirit as we walk on this journey.#GrowingHopeLivingFaith #Lectionary #HolySpirit #Advocate # LoveGodLoveOthers #ObeyTheCommands

In this episode, Pastor Rhonda and Pastor Seth discuss Psalm 23, realizing that this passage speaks so much into life now. It is a great passage for funerals, but this one really does speak to the fact of life and how God moves and works in all aspects of life. Most theologians think that this passage was written by David later in life, as he looked back on all the ups and downs that life brought. What great perspective he was able to write that has lasted through the test of time. We hope you enjoy this conversation and apply this to life now as you move forward in the direction God desires for you.#GrowingHopeLivingFaith #Psalm23 #LoveGodLoveOthers #Lectionary #TheGoodShepherd

In this episode, Pastor Rhonda and Pastor Seth discuss this weeks lectionary passage focusing on the John passage. In this passage, Jesus reveals Himself to His disciples after His death. This is the first time this has happened. Jesus ushers in peace to the midst of the chaotic situation. He then breathes the spirit upon them and tells them that He is sending them into the world. One of the disciples was not there though. The others told Thomas, but he found it hard to believe. Jesus did not leave him in the dark though and later showed up and allowed Thomas to experience His presence. This story is so familiar, but we hope you enjoy some of the different angles we took as we pursued truth within. We love you and are praying for you as you listen and continue to experience this Easter Season.#GrowingHopeLivingFaith #Lectionary #DoubtingThomas #HolySpirit #JesusSendsThemOut #LoveGodLoveOthers

In this episode, Pastor Rhonda and Pastor Seth are back. We discuss this last weeks event of Palm Sunday, it's importance and why it should make a difference in our lives on a daily basis. Now that we are back, as Seth was dealing with some physical issues, we will hopefully be on a more consistent basis. Palm Sunday is the start of Holy week, the time that we celebrate the entry, passion, and resurrection of Jesus. This happens during Passover, so there are a lot of people from all over celebrating this feast. The people are ready for a strong leader, to come in and over thrown the Roman government, but Jesus comes on a symbol of peace, not a sword. If only they could grasp and understand this importance, but even the disciples struggled to see the significance. We hope you enjoy this conversation and know that you are loved and prayed for as you journey to the cross.#GrowingHopeLivingFaith #LoveGodLoveOthers #HolyWeek #PalmSunday #HeRodeADonkey #TheWayOfPeace

In this episode, Pastor Rhonda and Pastor Seth do a deep dive into the transfiguration and all that it entails. There are a lot of different perspectives you can take on it, but this is a great passage to push us into Ash Wednesday and the Lent season. It is hard to believe we are already at Lent, but journey with us as we begin to prep our hearts and mind for the trip to the cross. Immerse yourself in the journey and know that we are excited to take this journey with you. Don't hesitate to reach out if there is anything we can do for you! You are loved!!!#GrowingHopeLivingFaith #Lectionary #Transfiguration #ListenToJesus #TheSecretKingdom #LoveGodLoveOthers

In this episode, Pastor Rhonda and Pastor Seth discuss the narrative lectionary passage. This week, the lectionary looks at the story found in John 4, the woman at the well. This is a passage that we are familiar with, and it is easy to read it and skim through all the amazing nuggets in it. This is such a pivotal passage within the gospel of John, and a passage that continues to point to the season of Epiphany. We had such a good time hitting on several themes throughout this passage and we hope that you enjoy this conversation and find your own way to join the conversation. Thanks for the support and please know that we love you and are praying for you!#GrowingHopeLivingFaith #NarrativeLectionary #John4 #TheWomanAtTheWell #YourStoryMatters #JesusCameForAll #LoveGodLoveOthers #You'reTalkingToHer

In this episode, Pastor Rhonda and Pastor Seth discuss the narrative lectionary passage of John 3:1-21. This is the story of Nicodemus coming to Jesus, trying to discover what Jesus has up His sleeve. Jesus lays it all out for Nicodemus, a leader of the Pharisees, but Nicodemus does not understand. He is looking for Jesus to come in a certain way and to come into power, and wants to make sure that he is on the inside when that happens. Jesus says there is no inside! He came for all. We imagine this would have been hard to hear as a good, obedient Jew. Jesus does not back away though and beckons all to come to a deeper life of following Him. Living in the light instead of darkness and shame. Some will choose the light, others will not. The option is there for us though. Shall we look to the cross or not? We hope you choose the cross. Thanks so much for listening in and know that you are loved and prayed for! [email protected]: Growing Hope Living Faith Podcast#GrowingHopeLivingFaith #NarrativeLectionary #John3:16 #LoveGodLoveOthers #Light #Darkness #Epiphany

In this episode, pastor Rhonda and pastor Seth look at the narrative lectionary for 1/18/2026. We are going to be doing things a little different and see how it works out. Instead of looking ahead, we will put a podcast out on Monday recapping the previous week with some final thoughts. We hope you enjoy this conversation about Jesus cleansing the temple and some questions we need to continue to ask we continue to digest. We hope you enjoy this conversation and know that we are praying for you and love you!#GrowingHopeLivingFaith #NarrativeLectionary #CleaningTheTemple #LoveGodLoveOthers #UsingPowerForGood

We are so thrilled to be back having conversations. In this episode, Pastor Rhonda and Pastor Seth discuss the narrative lectionary as we enter into the season of Epiphany. After catching up on all of what has been happening and Pastor Rhonda transitioning into her new role as lead pastor as Blairsville Church of the Nazarene, we look at the first miracle of Jesus. Please note that we are not condoning driking in this episode. But, this is such a cool story and a big part of epiphany, the revelation of Christ. There are so many different angles that can be taken when it comes to this passage, and we try and hit on a few. Willingness to go to Jesus in need, empathy, compassion, obedience, kingdom mindedness, this passage is so rich. We hope you enjoy this conversation and we look forward to the continued conversation in 2026.#GrowingHopeLivingFaith #Lectionary #LoveGodLoveOthers #Obedience #Empathy #Compassion #KingdomLiving

In this episode, Pastor Rhonda and Pastor Seth catch up, talk about pastor appreciation, and move into the lectionary. This weeks focus is on the 2 Timothy 3 and 4 passage. The focus in this passage points back to scripture. Scripture us such a useful tool for the believer, and allows us to explore and know God and His desires for kingdom living now. Scripture is a breathing life giving thing and when utilized correctly, allows us to examine our life and the things in our life, ensuring they are promoting and enhancing the reality of the true God rather than our own desires. It is easy to take scripture and make it say the things we want it to say or to use it in a way that brings us power and position, but this is not the purpose of scripture. We must fall in love with scripture and allow it to be a lamp to our feet as God uses it to speak to us. May we fall in love with scripture on a deeper level and push ourselves in understanding it to the best of our abilities. You are loved!!#GrowingHopeLivingFaith #Scripture #Lectionary #KingdomLiving #PastorAppreciation

In this episode, Pastor Rhonda and Pastor Seth interview Roger Kittle, a minister who is now serving at the Four Corners Home for Children on the Navajo Reservation in Farmington, New Mexico. Roger now has a directed focus on discipleship, and making sure that he is apart of the discipling process. This part looks at how Roger has taken all he has learned and its application. Ministry can be so daunting sometimes, but it and discipleship come down to relationships. In this part we learn what future ministry and discipleship looks like for Pastor Roger as he continues to answer the call that God has placed on his life. Thanks so much for listening to this interview. We hope that it has transformed and challenged you as much as it has us. We love you and are praying for you.Four Corners Home for Children Website - https://4ch4c.org/#GrowingHopeLivingFaith #Interview #RogerKittle #FourCornersHomeForChildren #Discipleship #Ministry

In this episode, Pastor Rhonda and Pastor Seth interview Roger Kittle, a minister who is now serving at the Four Corners Home for Children on the Navajo Reservation in Farmington, New Mexico. Roger now has a directed focus on discipleship, and making sure that he is apart of the discipling process. This part looks at Roger's and his wives move to Farmington, New Mexico. This happened much later in life, and Pastor Roger and his wife sold everything they had, including their house, and moved to Farmington, New Mexico. God was all over this call and continued to reaffirm and confirm through different methods. Roger was able to meet and grow close with many on the reservation though avenues of ministry and outreach. He and his wife started out pastoring and serving at the Home for Children. In the midst of this all, discipleship continued to be the core of his thought process and journey. We hope you enjoy this conversation and make sure you check out the last part of the conversation as well.Four Corners Home for Children Website - https://4ch4c.org/#GrowingHopeLivingFaith #Interview #RogerKittle #FourCornersHomeForChildren #Discipleship #Ministry

In this episode, Pastor Rhonda and Pastor Seth interview Roger Kittle, a minister who is now serving at the Four Corners Home for Children on the Navajo Reservation in Farmington, New Mexico. Roger now has a directed focus on discipleship, and making sure that he is apart of the discipling process. This part looks at Roger's later years in church ministry, specifically focusing on his time that he served as the lead pastor at St. Elmo Ave Baptist Church in St. Elmo, TN. This part is filled with stories of hope, provision, and grace. Roger was able to take what he learned in previous ministry and apply it to his congregation in St. Elmo. A trust in God and surrender of all to Him, puts the church in a position to fulfill the call of loving others and reaching its community. Roger continues to grow in his leadership and discipling process and God responds through answered prayers and true growth in the people. We hope you enjoy this part of the conversation and know we are praying for you in all that you do.Four Corners Home for Children Website - https://4ch4c.org/#GrowingHopeLivingFaith #Interview #RogerKittle #FourCornersHomeForChildren #Discipleship #Ministry

In this episode, Pastor Rhonda and Pastor Seth interview Roger Kittle, a minister who is now serving at the Four Corners Home for Children on the Navajo Reservation in Farmington, New Mexico. Roger now has a directed focus on discipleship, and making sure that he is apart of the discipling process. This part looks at Roger's early year in ministry and how he got his start serving the Lord. Things do not always goes as planned though. Roger talks about some issues he and his churches had with racial bias and how it affected his church and ministry. This is hard and is something that many of us may have experienced. All of this was fuel though and helped Roger in his future ministry. We hope you enjoy this part of his story, and make sure that you listen to the rest of the story as this is part 1 of a 4 part podcast. Thanks for listening and know that you are loved.Four Corners Home for Children Website - https://4ch4c.org/#GrowingHopeLivingFaith #Interview #RogerKittle #FourCornersHomeForChildren #Discipleship #Ministry

In this episode, Pastor Rhonda and Pastor Seth discuss this weeks lectionary passages. There is a heave focus on lament this week, which is so important for us to learn how to do as followers of Christ. It is out of lament that often healing and growth come and this can be an informative time for believers. Beyond that, we focus on Psalm 37. This Psalm points to a reality of focusing on that which you can control, and letting God deal with that which you can't. We can control our actions and thought processes. This Psalm says to take delight in the Lord, and when we do that, He will give us the desires of our heart. Not that we get what we want, but that our heart desires are transformed to what He desires. We hope you enjoy this conversation and please know that you are loved and prayed for.#GrowingHopeLivingFaith #Lectionary #Lament #LoveGodLoveOthers #DelightInTheLord #Psalm37

In this episode, Pastor Rhonda and Pastor Seth discuss several different things. We look at the conversations around social media that have gravitated towards rapture and the return of Christ. It is good to be looking forward, but the christian does not live in fear. Beyond that, we look at the lectionary passages, which are tough. This weeks passages look at wealth and how we use what God has given us. Wealth can lead us to a lot of places that direct us away from God. God cares what we do with what has been given to us. How we utilize our money and possessions should be directly influenced by kingdom living before our western context and way of life. This is not easy to live out and is something that we struggle with as well. But kingdom living is possible, only if we submit to God and follow His ways. When we follow His ways, it leads to a live of contentment. We are praying for you as you enter this conversation and please know that you are loved! Grace and Peace and God Bless!!#GrowingHopeLivingFaith #Lectionary #RaptureTalk #LoveGodLoveOthers#KingdomLiving #KingdomEconomics #Contentment

In this episode, Pastor Rhonda and Pastor Seth discuss the current events and how they are approaching them. There is so much division outside and inside the church because of the events, and it is important to make sure that we are not part of that division as that does not come from God. As we dialogue we encourage you to listen with an open heart and know that we are praying for you. God's desire though is that all would be saved. It is important we pray for each other and our leaders for salvation, but also so we can live the kingdom, not from a place of power, but from service. We hope you enjoy this episode and please let us know if you would like to have further conversation or discussion. Grace and Peace.#GrowingHopeLivingFaith #Lectionary #LoveGodLoveOthers #God'sDesire #PrayerMakesADifference #PrayAlways

In this episode, Pastor Rhonda and Pastor Seth discuss the lectionary passages for this week. These are some heavy hitting passages and they are not easy to work through and live. But it is important that we journey through them and what Jesus is essentially trying to say. All of the passages point to choice. We have a choice. We can choice to follow Jesus and His way, or we can go our own way. There is no half way in on the cross though. The cross leads to life though, and is the better choice, but it does mean that we are willing to follow Jesus no matter what. Do we love our relationships more than Jesus? Do we love our possessions more than Jesus? The call of Jesus tells us this is not possible and that we must love Him more than these things, but the choice is ours.#GrowingHopeLivingFaith #Lectionary #Hate? #HeavyHittingScripture #LoveGodLoveOthers #TheChoiceIsOurs #TakeUpYourCross

In this episode, Pastor Rhonda and Pastor Seth discuss the shooting that happened at the Minneapolis Catholic school as well as some of the lectionary passages for this week. There are several themes throughout the passages, one being God will provide for our needs and the other being humility and how we approach others. Both are so important for us to evaluate in our lives to make sure that we are living as though we trust God, but also position ourselves in the most Christ-like manner we can. We hope you enjoy this conversation and know that we love you and are praying for you.#GrowingHopeLivingFaith #Lectionary #Humility #LoveGodLoveOthers #GodProvides

In this episode, Pastor Rhonda and Pastor Seth discuss this weeks Gospel passage. A lot of the passages focus on the idea of sabbath, and the Gospel is no different. In this passage, Jesus heals on the sabbath. This of course upsets some of the leaders in the church, as sabbath had become a ritual for them. On this ritual day, you are to not do any work, not even lift a finger. In doing this, the people of God can maintain their purity and be close to God. That is not what sabbath was set up for though, and Jesus is very frank in bringing sabbath back to its original meaning. Sabbath is about freedom and mercy. It is so easy to get caught up in the rat race of life. Sabbath allows us to stop and remember whose we are, who is in control, and what this is all about. As we do that, we remember the sabbath and the gospel is about freedom. What would happen if we stopped? What would happen if we fulfilled sabbath in our lives? We pray and hope you enjoy this conversation and know that you are loved.#GrowingHopeLivingFaith #Lectionary #Sabbath #STOP #SlowDown #YouAreFree #YouAreNotInControl

In this episode, Pastor Rhonda and Pastor Seth discuss this weeks lectionary passage featuring the gospel. This is definitely an odd text and often gets taken out of context, but it really is a passage that should challenge and bring us to a place of deeper commitment and growth in Christ. It is so important that we reconcile this passage with the full gospel of Jesus, and realize that when we follow Jesus, it does mean that some people may not understand that decision. They may not understand why we do what we do and it could affect relationships and opportunities we have in life. The question is, are we still going to choose to follow. We hope you enjoy this conversation and know that you are loved.#GrowingHopeLivingFaith #LoveGodLoveOthers #Lectionary #Division? #HowCommitedAreYou

In the episode, Pastor Rhonda and Pastor Seth discuss the theme that is found throughout the text. The theme is faith. Faith is such an important thing in life and although faith does mean belief, it also must be lived out in action as we go about our lives. This is clearly seen in all of the text today and is something that we should keep at the forefront of our thoughts. We need not worry though about the future, we just must live as though God desires for us to live and everything else will take care of itself. We must desire to do good, seek justice, and take care of the oppressed. These are the things that God deems as good and upright. How are you living out your faith?#GrowingHopeLivingFaith #Lectionary #Faith #LoveGodLoveOthers #NoNeedToFearTheEnd

In this episode, Pastor Rhonda and Pastor Seth, discuss the epistle passage of the lectionary. There are so many places you can go with this passage, but it is a great passage of hope and grace. It is so important to remember that there are so many things that can distract us from our identity in Christ. These things often divide us and put as at odds with others. Paul is encouraging the church to remember Christ and Him crucified and to realize that beyond that, there is nothing else. Knowledge is good, but it does not over throw the centrality of the Christ. Religion is ok, but it does not provide leadership over the headship of Christ. The call comes from the beginning of the passage to aggressively hold onto Christ and continually live in Him. We hope you enjoy this conversation and know that we love you all so much!#GrowingHopeLivingFaith #Lectionary #LoveGodLoveOthers #BackToTheGospel

In this episode, Pastor Rhonda and Pastor Seth catch up from a couple weeks off. Vacation has been great, but it is good to be back to routine. We discuss this weeks lectionary passage, looking at the Amos and Gospel passage. This weeks passages are hard to digest, but are very important and speak to a lot of the heart of the issues we are dealing with now in the church and world. It is so important for us to continually stay in tune with the voice of God so that we can live the life that God desires for us to live. Israel did not. This pushed them away from selfless living into abuse and misuse of the things God has given for their own benefit. The punishment for this is not destruction, but that they will no longer be able to hear the voice of God. Even if they search. In the gospel, Mary chooses to sit and listen to Jesus, while Martha works. Mary chooses right. What are the choices we make? How are we listening to the voice of God? We hope you enjoy this conversation and know that you are being prayed for.#GrowingHopeLivingFaith #Lectionary #LoveGodLoveOthers #MinorProphets #TheVoiceOfGod

In this episode, Pastor Rhonda and Pastor Seth discuss what has been going on in life, as well as the lectionary passage found in Galatians. Congrats to Pastor Rhonda for having one of the songs that she co-wrote reach the top 25 current gospel songs. We are so proud of her and her work. This weeks passage focuses on love, and what is love lived out. It is so easy to focus on ourselves, which leads to the ways of the flesh, instead of the Spirit, which leads to the way of love. We got caught up in our ways of doing things and pushing that on others, instead of living into the life of freedom that God calls us too. When we live into the love and freedom God offers, then we will leave a path behind us that reflects the fruits of the spirits instead of destruction. We hope you enjoy this conversation and know that you are loved!#GrowingHopLivingFaith #LoveGodLoveOthers #FruitsOfTheSpirit #TheSpirit #Freedom #LoveThyNeighbor

This week, Pastor Rhonda and Pastor Seth celebrate their 100th episode since they began a few years ago. We reminisce on the beginning and many of the things we learned and enjoyed. Beyond that, we discuss Trinity Sunday and its importance for the church. Thank you so much for listening over these last few years, and know that we appreciate you so much! We look forward to continuing on with the podcast in the future.#GrowingHopeLivingFaith #100thEpisode #LoveGodLoveOthers #Lectionary #TrinitySunday #LetsKeepGoing

In this episode, Pastor Rhonda and Pastor Seth discuss what has been happening in their lives over the last several weeks, as well as Pentecost Sunday and its importance. Most scriptures point to the truth of unity and God's desire for His people to be unified. This is no easy task though, and can only be accomplished if we allow God to be the head of the church. It is so easy for us to try and take control, but when we do that we often create the church in our image instead of the image of God. If the church could understand and embrace all of our differences, realizing there is one thing that does connect us, then the world would forever be changed. God moves and works when there seems to be unity amongst His people. Pentecost is another example of this. How are you pushing to unity? How are you embracing the Spirit? Know you are loved and that we are praying for you.#GrowingHopeLivingFaith #Lectionary #Pentecost #Unity #Discipleship #LoveGodLoveOthers

In this episode, Pastor Rhonda and Pastor Seth discuss this weeks lectionary passages and the themes within. Focusing on the Revelation passage and gospel, these passages are filled with hope, revealing and implementing the Kingdom of God and how it comes and will come. The Revelation passage is such an awesome passage of hope of what is to come and a great promise for the people of God. What a hope we have. It is important though not to get lost in the future, but to live in the now though. And how we live now is important. Jesus says that the most important thing we can do is love well, especially our brothers and sisters in Christ. This is not easy in todays environment, but is the call of the disciples of Christ. We hope you enjoy this episode and know that we love you and are praying for you.#GrowingHopeLivingFaith #LoveGodLoveOthers #Lectionary #Easter #Hope #Love #Revelation #Gospel

In this episode, Pastor Rhonda and Pastor Seth catch up on what happened this past weekend, Pastor Rhonda walked her graduation ceremony at Trevecca and Pastor Seth's son promoted to black belt in Tae Kwon Doe, as well as we discuss the Gospel lectionary passage. We focus on the idea of knowing the shepherd's voice and the importance of that. It is easy to desire a sign from God, to move and work so that we can know He is real and believe, but God works in a different way. He is moving and working all around us, but we must have eyes to see, and He desires to work in and around our lives, but will we hear His voice and see His kingdom for what it is, not what we desire for it to be. If we hear and follow His voice, this passage gives us such a great promise in life. We hope you enjoy this passage and know that you are loved!#GrowingHopeLivingFaith #Lectionary #LoveGodLoveOthers #Shepherd #HearHisVoice #Believe #Life

In this episode, Pastor Rhonda and Pastor Seth discuss this weeks lectionary passage, focusing on the gospel. This is such a great text, but also has several verses that could be deemed controversial in how we translate it. This is a great passage for the church today and provides great promise for those that follow Him. It is so easy to get caught up in the fear and anxiety of the world around us, and it is so good to serve Jesus who steps into those situations offering peace and comfort. What a call for the church. Even in the midst of doubt, Jesus still ushers in peace. As we receive the spirit, we have the ability to live out of that, and that is the call of the believer. But, ultimately the choice is ours. We hope you enjoy this episode and know that we are praying for you as we journey towards Pentecost.#GrowingHopeLivingFaith #Lectionary #LoveGodLoveOthers #Forgiveness #Peace #Wholeness #DoubtingThomas

In this episode, Pastor Rhonda and Pastor Seth discuss the lectionary Gospel passage which takes focus on Palm Sunday. This is Jesus' entrance into Jerusalem, pushing towards His death and all that entails. For some of us, we did not celebrate palm Sunday growing up and this may be new to us, but for others we may have heard these passages a lot. There are a lot of themes that run through this passage and it is important to explore those and apply to our lives. Obedience, trust, surrender, all are seen in this passage and are important in understanding this passage to its fullest. It is also important to explore this passage in its original context, and all of these things that are discussed within this episode. We hope you enjoy and know that you are loved!#GrowingHopeLivingFaith #LoveGodLoveOthers #Lectionary #PalmSunday #Lent #MicDrop

In this episode, Pastor Rhonda and Pastor Seth discuss a passage that is very familiar amongst believers. The story of the prodigal son is a great story of faith, and traditionally, we have grown accustom to putting ourselves into the story either as the prodigal, older brother, or even the father. We try to look at this story a little different, realizing that the church has a purpose to fulfill, and many times it easier to judge and not follow through on the purpose God has for us. It is important for us to look to our purpose and be apart of fulfilling this purpose in the mission of God to give and show love, grace, and mercy. It takes complete humility and self denial though, and the question is are we willing to go there. We hope you enjoy this conversation and know that we are praying for you.#GrowingHopeLivingFaith #Lectionary #LoveGodLoveOthers #Purpose #GraceMercyLove #Lent #JourneyToTheCross

In this episode, Pastor Rhonda and Pastor Seth discuss this week lectionary passages and how they flow together. This week, as we journey towards the cross, the passages seem to focus on lament. Lament is such a powerful tool for the believer, but we often do not explore this resource in our walk. There are so many things in this world that we look at and desire for it to be different, better. But it is often easier to have rosey sunglasses on and continue on with life as if though everything is ok. Jesus, and the writers lament the reality of those who do not take serious the call of the cross and kingdom. We ponder what this means for us now, as we look at the world around us and what is the proper response to these passages. We hope you enjoy and we pray that your lent season is bringing you closer and closer to the face of God. Grace and Peace!#GrowingHopeLivingFaith #Lectionary #LoveGodLoveOthers #Lent #JourneyToTheCross

In this episode, Pastor Rhonda and Pastor Seth discuss Ash Wednesday and the Lent season and its meaning. This is a such an important turn in the church calendar, and it is important for us to embrace this season and enter into this journey. As we embrace and enter this season, it allows us a better understanding of the passion and easter. We hope you enjoy this conversation and know that we are praying for you during this season of Lent. Grace and Peace.#GrowingHopeLivingFaith #Lectionary #AshWedensday #Lent #LoveGodLoveOthers #JourneyToTheCross

In this episode, Pastor Rhonda and Pastor Seth discuss the lectionary passage on the Transfiguration of Jesus. This passage is absolutely loaded with content, and was a challenge to get through. But, it is a beautiful passage that helps us to get ready for the next season in the lectionary season of Lent. In this passage we see the humanity of Jesus played out within the representation of His glory. Moses and Elijah come and talk to Jesus about His exodus to come. Jesus is now preparing to head towards Jerusalem, and in this moment, the glory of God is revealed in Jesus. The disciples, struggle to understand, and in the end Jesus heals the sick around Him. We hope you enjoy this conversation, and know that we are praying for you.#GrowingHopeLivingFaith #Lectionary #LoveGodLoveOthers #TransfigurationSunday #GloryOfGod

In this episode, Pastor Rhonda and Pastor Seth discuss the lectionary passages for this week. There seems to be a theme through the text of "love for enemies" and those who have done us wrong. This is one of the hardest realities of living the Gospel of Jesus Christ in our day and age. Everything within us wants revenge, for someone to feel what we have felt, but the way of the cross and kingdom is different. It should lead us to a different place. But, this does not mean that we are simply door mats. We have been giving a beautiful thing, creativity and imagination, and God'd desire is that you those in ways to expose evil and misuse of power in a way that neutralizes its abuse. Once again, this is not easy and goes so much deeper than our words. We must live it through our actions. We can trust God though, and know that he is with us through the hard times in life.#GrowingHopeLivingFaith #Lectionary #LoveOurEnemies? #LoveGodLoveOthers #Mercy #ContextMatters

In this episode, Pastor Rhonda and Pastor Seth discuss the lectionary passages, looking at the theme of trust and how it relates to all the passages. Most of the passages include themes of good vs evil, righteous vs wickedness, and blessing vs curses. So many times it is easy to focus on the negative sides of these comparisons, instead of focusing on the positive and how it affects our lives. To live goodness and righteousness, means that we do trust in God for all things and look to Him to be the leader and guider of our lives. When this is done, then blessings will come as our lives become a response to the goodness of God and we will care about the things that God does care about. We can trust in Jesus though, as He is the one who has stepped into our lives. We hope you enjoy this conversation. Know you are prayed for!!#GrowingHopeLivingFaith #Lectionary #LoveGodLoveOthers #Trust #FocusOnThePositive

In this episode, Pastor Rhonda and Pastor Seth discuss the lectionary passages. This weeks passage are near and dear to the heart of epiphany and the role of the follower of Jesus within epiphany. In 3 of the text, we see how we are to approach the Holy God we serve, and what our Holy God calls us too. It is so easy to get complacent and comfortable in our walk, but the call of God should push us and challenge us to be bold and fish for people, declaring and sharing the good news and all it entails for Jesus followers. We are to carry the message of the cross, even if others will not listen and move from their positions. We are called to stand up against power and the abuse of power that brings people down, but lifts up others. The call is there for us all, what will be our response. #GrowingHopeLivingFaith #Lectionary #LoveGodLoveOthers #HolyGod #TheCommission #Epiphany

In this episode, Pastor Rhonda and Pastor Seth discuss all of the lectionary passages, first focusing on, the "love chapter", 1 Corinthians 13. This passage is definitely a passage that most have heard, as it is widely used in weddings. It is important to understand the context of the passage though and the meaning of the word love used in the passage. Love is not any easy thing to live out and this lectionary passage points to that reality. What is cool about the lectionary is that we see a natural progression from Jesus living this out, the call in Jeremiah that we also have on our lives, and the reality of Psalm in carrying it out. We hope you enjoy this conversation and know that we are praying for you. #GrowingHopeLivingFaith #LoveGodLoveOthers #AgapeLove #Lectionary #ChristCameForAll

In this episode, Pastor Rhonda and Pastor Seth discuss the lectionary passage in Nehemiah and Luke. These passages point to the law and gospel, and its importance. In Nehemiah, we see someone who has been faithful in studying the law being utilized to share and interpret it for the people of God. this has many side effects, but ultimately brings the people to a place of repentance and grace. The Luke passage is an echo of the reality of the law and its purpose. Jesus, in His hometown, essentially declares what His purpose truly is. He has come to declare the Year of the Lord's Favor, a law that was never fully lived out by the Israelites. This is good news and should be the path that we proceed forth with as we declare the gospel to all around us. We hope that you enjoy this conversation and know that we love you and are praying for you. #GrowingHopeLivingFaith #TheGospel #InterpretationMatters #TheYearOfTheLordsFavor #Lectionary #LoveGodLoveOthers

In this episode, Pastor Rhonda and Pastor Seth discuss their perspective on the great snow of 2025. It has been a while since we have got this much snow in our area, and it was beautiful. Beyond that, we discuss the 1st Corinthians passage, which is related to the gifts that God gives. If someone declares that Jesus is Lord, then their gift is valid, as it comes from God. We in the church have no right to look down upon someones gift, even when they are in their infancy of knowing Christ. How we journey with people and foster relationship and growth, is important and should help someone utilize their gift to the fullest. Just because someone's gift is different then us, then that does not mean we are better. The challenge is to accept others and their gifts and to move forward as it is the Spirit that gives gifts to all and all have gifts. God gives for the common good of all. How do we use our gifts? And how do we encourage and support others in their gifts? Thanks for listening and know that you are awesome and loved! #GrowingHopeLivingFaith #Lectionary #LoveGodLoveOthers #Epiphany #GiftsFromGod #DontLookDownOnMyGift #TheSpirit

In this episode of Growing Hope and Living Faith, Pastor Rhonda and Pastor Seth catch up and bring you up to date on what has been going on in their lives. There have been a lot of big things happening which have pulled them away from recording regularly, but they are excited as they are ready to approach the podcast with more regularity and purpose. They also discuss their plans for the podcast and the future, and where they hope to take it in the future. They end discussing the lectionary, as enter into Epiphany and all that it brings. We hope you enjoy this conversation and we hope you join us on our journey of growing our hope and living our faith!! Thanks for listening. #GrowingHopeLivingFaith #Lectionary #LoveGodLoveOthers #Epiphany #BaptismOfChrist

In this episode, Pastor Rhonda and Pastor Seth discuss the story of Hannah in the book of Samuel. Hannah is a great story of perseverance in the midst of struggling and adversity. It is easy to get complacent and to give up on the reality of our desires, but God desires for us to continue to go to Him for our needs and desires. There are several great questions that arise from this story. What do we do when God gives us the desire of our hearts, do we like Eli, speak and give blessing, or shun and push away those in need, and how do we treat those around us in word and deed? We hope you enjoy this conversation and please know that you are loved and prayed for. Thanks for listening. #GrowingHopeLivingFaith #HannahsStory #LoveGodLoveOthers #PrayerChangesThings #LiveBlessing #SamuelIsBorn

In this episode, Pastor Rhonda and Pastor Seth discuss the Job passage from lectionary and its value to today. It is easy to read the passage and have a view of God that is mad at Joe and putting Job in his place. We discuss this view of God and the reality of how one approaches suffering. We are all going to suffer, but as followers of Jesus, we have reason to have joy. What will be your posture though. Thanks for listening and know that you are loved. #GrowingHopeLivingFaith #Suffering #LoveGodLoveOthers #Lectionary #Grace

In this episode, Pastor Rhonda and Pastor Seth discuss the James lectionary passage, which dives deep into wisdom. James simply states there are 2 kinds of wisdom. There is earthly wisdom, which is selfish, envious, and bitter, and there is heavenly wisdom, which loves mercy, is gentle, makes peace, and more. It is so easy to live earthly wisdom, as everything within us tells us we should do that. James calls us to something more. We should live God's wisdom, and as we live God's wisdom, He will draw close to us. Just like there are fruits of the spirits, when we live God's wisdom, there will be markers that we see in someone's life. What wisdom are you living? How can you draw closer to God and His wisdom? Know we love you are and praying for you as you continue on with your journey of faith. #GrowingHopeLivingFaith #LoveGodLoveOthers #Lectionary #James #HeavenlyWisdomOverEarthlyWisdom

In this episode, Pastor Rhonda and Pastor Seth discuss words, and why they matter. We live in a day and age where words are used in so many negative ways, and if we are not careful, this can infiltrate the church. We use words to lie, portray ourselves in ways that aren't true, bring others down and raise ourselves up. According to scripture, our words matter, and more important, we better back up our words with how we live. Beyond that, everything we do is a representation of our faith and our relationship with Christ. What are you portraying with your words? How do your actions back up what you say? Thanks for listening and know that you are loved. #GrowingHopeLivingFaith #Lectionary #LoveGodLoveOthers #WordsMatter #ActionsMatter

In this episode, Pastor Rhonda and Pastor Seth discuss the James lectionary passage. James is such a great book of the bible and is a great place for beginners to start. The 2nd chapter leads us to a place of working through faith and works. It is so easy to lean into grace, and not allow that grace to change our lives. James says, this must not be done. We must allow our faith to change how we go about living life with others. If we show partiality and judge, our faith is as good as dead. It is the way of Christ to show mercy over judgement. We hope you enjoy this conversation and know that you have been prayed for. #GrowingHopeLivingFaith #LoveGodLovePeople #Lectionary #TheBookOfJames #MercyOverJudgement

In this episode, Pastor Rhonda and Pastor Seth discuss the Joshua passage from lectionary. In this passage, the people of God have a choice to make. They can serve the gods of their ancestors and the people that are around them, or they can serve the God who freed them from oppression. Joshua tells the people that no matter what, he and his family are going to serve God. The people respond with this as well, saying they can not forget God and what He has done for them. The choice is laid in front of us as well. Who are we gonna serve? The God who frees from oppression, or the gods that are around us and that our forefathers served. thanks for listening in. Know that we are praying for you. #GrowingHopeLivingFaith #LoveGodLoveOthers #Lectionary #WhomShallYouServe

In this episode, Pastor Rhonda and Pastor Seth discuss the Ephesians lectionary passage, which leans into wisdom. Wisdom is different than knowledge and should effect how we live our lives and interact with others. Wisdom should lead us to encouragement together in living the life God wants us to live. We also discuss the reality of wisdom and its potential downfall. Just like everything given by God, we can use wisdom for God or for our gain. How do you use wisdom and how do you allow it to change how you live? Thanks for listening and know we are praying for you. #GrowingHopeLivingFaith #Wisdom #Lectionary #LoveGodLoveOthers

In this episode, Pastor Rhonda and Pastor Seth catch up and discuss the Ephesians passage from lectionary. This passage looks at our response that we as followers of Jesus take in speaking truth and receiving truth from each other. It is so easy to respond to those things with evil and judgement. To use our tongues in a way that do not lead to redemption and reconciliation. It is so important though that we respond with grace and affirmation and be willing to look inwardly in moving towards the way of God. We hope you enjoy this episode, and know that we are praying for you. #GrowingHopeLivingFaith #LoveGodLoveOthers #RedemptionStory #Lectionary #TruthInLove