Reflection

On this episode, I talk with Joel Biermann of Concordia Seminary in St. Louis about Christian leadership, the challenges facing the Church today, and the hope that continues to anchor God’s people. Dr. Biermann—longtime professor, pastor, and current candidate for president of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod—reflects on the experiences that shaped his calling, the role of theological formation in a changing world, and what it means for Christians to stay centered on Jesus amid cultural uncertainty.Whether you’re Lutheran, from another Christian tradition, or simply curious about faith, this conversation offers clarity without insider language (or at least we explain that language!), depth without jargon, and a thoughtful look at how the Church can engage the world with both conviction and compassion. Dr. Biermann brings a steady, pastoral voice to questions of identity, mission, and the future—and invites listeners to consider where God may be calling them to lead, serve, and hope.Day 7: For Work, Rest, or Play by Joel BiermannThe Quest for Holiness by Adolf KoberlePlease take a quick second to rate this podcast on your favorite platform—Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you’re listening. Those stars really help others discover us. Next, hit that like button or give us a thumbs-up—it’s a small gesture that makes a big difference. Finally, share this episode! Text it to a friend, post it on social media, or tell someone about it over coffee. You never know who might need to hear this message today.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The St. Mathew YouTube Channel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The St. Matthew Podcast Channel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click here for more information about St. Matthe⁠w⁠

They met as kids, grew up together, then started a life together!Meet Jonathan and Christa Petzold.He's an author and pastor of church in Northeast Illinois.She's an author and doctoral student and pastor's wife.And they are living in Christ!You can find out more about the Petzolds and get their books here.Please take a quick second to rate this podcast on your favorite platform—Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you’re listening. Those stars really help others discover us. Next, hit that like button or give us a thumbs-up—it’s a small gesture that makes a big difference. Finally, share this episode! Text it to a friend, post it on social media, or tell someone about it over coffee. You never know who might need to hear this message today.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The St. Mathew YouTube Channel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The St. Matthew Podcast Channel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click here for more information about St. Matthe⁠w⁠

Imagine what your life would be like if you were to do the things that Jesus says - which is in red letters in many Bibles?That's the premise of the Red Letter Challenge by Zach Zehnder and that is what we talk about on this episode!Check out the Red Letter Challenge website here.Purchase your copy of Red Letter Challenge here.You can find out more about Zach and his ministry here.Please take a quick second to rate this podcast on your favorite platform—Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you’re listening. Those stars really help others discover us. Next, hit that like button or give us a thumbs-up—it’s a small gesture that makes a big difference. Finally, share this episode! Text it to a friend, post it on social media, or tell someone about it over coffee. You never know who might need to hear this message today.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The St. Mathew YouTube Channel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The St. Matthew Podcast Channel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click here for more information about St. Matthe⁠w⁠

Dr. Jeff Kloha, dean of the Center for Missional and Pastoral Leadershi, has spent his career helping the Church think deeply about Scripture, formation, and the mission of God in a changing world. In his work with pastors and leaders, he brings a rare blend of theological depth, practical wisdom, and a heart for equipping God’s people for faithful ministry.For more information about The Center for Missional and Pastoral Leadership, click here.Please take a quick second to rate this podcast on your favorite platform—Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you’re listening. Those stars really help others discover us. Next, hit that like button or give us a thumbs-up—it’s a small gesture that makes a big difference. Finally, share this episode! Text it to a friend, post it on social media, or tell someone about it over coffee. You never know who might need to hear this message today.⁠⁠⁠⁠The St. Mathew YouTube Channel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The St. Matthew Podcast Channel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click here for more information about St. Matthe⁠w⁠

He comes from New York, grew up in Iowa and now lives in Wisconsin.A life-long - and long-suffering - Buffalo Bills fan, as well as being the youngest of seven children, Steve Kline has a rather unique insight on who God is and what it means to be a follower of Jesus.To find out more about Steve:Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran ChurchBooks recommended by Steve:Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes Are High by Joseph Gretty, Kerry Patterson, Ron McMillan, Al Switzler, and Emily GregoryThe Best Is Yet to Come: 7 Doors of Spiritual Growth by John KieschnickIf You Want to Walk on Water by John OrtbergHeaven by Randy AlcornRed Letter Challenge by Zach ZehnderPlease take a quick second to rate this podcast on your favorite platform—Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you’re listening. Those stars really help others discover us. Next, hit that like button or give us a thumbs-up—it’s a small gesture that makes a big difference. Finally, share this episode! Text it to a friend, post it on social media, or tell someone about it over coffee. You never know who might need to hear this message today.⁠⁠⁠The St. Mathew YouTube Channel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The St. Matthew Podcast Channel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click here for more information about St. Matthe⁠w⁠

He is a husband, father, pastor, public speaker, and author. And he’s got something to say to today’s generation!The Christian Faith is not an obligation.The Christian Church is not a place where you “check the boxes.”Meet Zach Zehnder, who tells us that following Jesus is an opportunity!For more about Zach, head over to his website, Red Letter Challenge.Red Letter ChallengeBooks recommended by Zach:Confessing Jesus’ Mission by Tim Ahlman The Prodigal God by Tim KellerSteps by Jon Ortberg Divine Conspiracy by Dallas WillardGood to Great by Jim CollinsPlease take a quick second to rate this podcast on your favorite platform—Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you’re listening. Those stars really help others discover us. Next, hit that like button or give us a thumbs-up—it’s a small gesture that makes a big difference. Finally, share this episode! Text it to a friend, post it on social media, or tell someone about it over coffee. You never know who might need to hear this message today.⁠⁠The St. Mathew YouTube Channel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The St. Matthew Podcast Channel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click here for more information about St. Matthe⁠w⁠

From humble beginnings growing up in Texas to being the leader of several churches, a District President and the the President of The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod - a church body of nearly 2 million people - the Rev. Dr. Jerry Kieschnick inspires us to answer God's call to serve others!Books recommended by Jerry:The Story: The Bible as One Continuing Story of God and His PeopleThe 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen CoveyPlease take a quick second to rate this podcast on your favorite platform—Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you’re listening. Those stars really help others discover us. Next, hit that like button or give us a thumbs-up—it’s a small gesture that makes a big difference. Finally, share this episode! Text it to a friend, post it on social media, or tell someone about it over coffee. You never know who might need to hear this message today.⁠The St. Mathew YouTube Channel⁠⁠⁠⁠The St. Matthew Podcast Channel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click here for more information about St. Matthe⁠w⁠

Life feels heavy at times. Especially in dark times.Where do you turn when it does? Who do you turn to to get through what you're going through?Tanner Olson returns to the Reflection Podcast with a new book of poems and essays!To find out more about Tanner, go to Written to Speak.To get a copy of Getting Through What You're Going Through, click here.Here are the previous episodes featuring Tanner.That's What I Need to Hear with Tanner Olson and Blake Flattley.Life is Not a Race and You are Not Behind with Tanner Olson.Please take a quick second to rate this podcast on your favorite platform—Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you’re listening. Those stars really help others discover us. Next, hit that like button or give us a thumbs-up—it’s a small gesture that makes a big difference. Finally, share this episode! Text it to a friend, post it on social media, or tell someone about it over coffee. You never know who might need to hear this message today.The St. Mathew YouTube Channel⁠⁠The St. Matthew Podcast Channel⁠⁠⁠Click here for more information about St. Matthe⁠w⁠

What if I told you that the Christmas story you know—Mary, Joseph, a manger, and a baby—wasn’t a surprise to God… not even close? In fact, He announced it centuries in advance, hiding jaw-dropping clues in plain sight all throughout the Old Testament. Some scholars say there are as many as 300 specific prophecies about the Messiah written hundreds, even thousands of years before Jesus was born.On this special Christmas episode, author and scholar Chad Bird sits down with Ed Blonski to pull back the curtain on four of the most astonishing prophecies. We’re talking precise details—where He’d be born, how He’d arrive, what His mission would be—that are so accurate they’ll make the hair on the back of your neck stand up.If you’ve ever wondered whether the Christmas story is more than just a sweet tradition… if you want proof that blows the lid off coincidence… you do NOT want to miss this one.Hit play right now and discover why the first Christmas was the most predicted moment in human history.Chad Bird is a Scholar in Residence at ⁠1517.org⁠. He has served as a pastor, professor, and guest lecturer in Old Testament and Hebrew. He holds master's degrees from Concordia Theological Seminary and Hebrew Union College. He has contributed articles to Christianity Today, The Gospel Coalition, Modern Reformation, The Federalist, Lutheran Forum, and other journals and websites. Reflection Episodes Featuring Chad BirdUntamed Prayers Part 1Untamed Prayers Part 2Hitchhiking with ProphetsConnection Between Passover and The Lord's SupperJesus Died and Rose For YouPodcasts featuring Chad Bird40 Minutes in the Old TestamentHidden StreamsUnveiling MercyBooks by Chad Bird can be found at 1517.orgTo connect with St. Matthew Lutheran, click ⁠⁠here⁠⁠: Please take a quick second to rate this podcast on your favorite platform—Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you’re listening. Those stars really help others discover us.Next, hit that like button or give us a thumbs-up—it’s a small gesture that makes a big difference. Finally, share this episode! Text it to a friend, post it on social media, or tell someone about it over coffee. You never know who might need to hear this message today.

Today you'll get a little insight into how a preacher learns how to preach from one of the men responsible for teaching preaching!He grew up in a church worker family, became a parish pastor himself and then was called to teach homiletics at Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, Missouri.To find out more about Peter Nafzger, click here.Book recommendation:The Genius of Luther's Theology: A Wittenberg Way of Thinking for the Contemporary Church by  Robert Kolb  &  Charles P. ArandJust Words: Understanding the Fullness of the Gospel by  J. A. O. PreusLoving Jesus by Mark Allan PowellTo connect with St. Matthew Lutheran, click ⁠here⁠Please take a quick second to rate this podcast on your favorite platform—Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you’re listening. Those stars really help others discover us. Next, hit that like button or give us a thumbs-up—it’s a small gesture that makes a big difference. Finally, share this episode! Text it to a friend, post it on social media, or tell someone about it over coffee. You never know who might need to hear this message today.

From small town Iowa to the capital of the United States, Mark Shaltanis serves as pastor in one of the most contentious but also exciting places in the world! He will inspire you to reflect God's light and love in this world!Book RecommendationsFearful Breakers by Janice SebringThe Story of Civilization: The Reformation by Will DurantMartin Luther’s Small Catechism with ExplanationThe Lutheran Study BibleThe Lutheran Service Book (hymnal)To connect with St. Matthew Lutheran, click here.Please take a quick second to rate this podcast on your favorite platform—Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you’re listening. Those stars really help others discover us. Next, hit that like button or give us a thumbs-up—it’s a small gesture that makes a big difference. Finally, share this episode! Text it to a friend, post it on social media, or tell someone about it over coffee. You never know who might need to hear this message today.

A public school teacher who ends up serving as a missionary in Europe then comes back to America to lead Deaconess studies in the U.S.This is the inspiring story of Dr. Jennie Asher, Deaconess and Director of Deaconess Studies at Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, Missouri.To find out more about the Deaconess Program at Concordia Seminary, click here. Books recommended by Dr. Asher:The Lutheran Study BibleThe Lutheran Service Book (hymnal)Cottage Decorating Books from AmazonTo connect with St. Matthew Lutheran, click here: ⁠Please take a quick second to rate this podcast on your favorite platform—Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you’re listening. Those stars really help others discover us. Next, hit that like button or give us a thumbs-up—it’s a small gesture that makes a big difference. Finally, share this episode! Text it to a friend, post it on social media, or tell someone about it over coffee. You never know who might need to hear this message today.

Sometimes we have a plan for our lives and then God comes along and says, "Have I got something for you!"That's what happened to Jamie Crustals. And you are about to hear her story.Books recommend by Jamie:Make It Stick by Peter C. Brown, Henry L. Roediger III, and Mark A. McDaniel Spark by John J. Ratey MD and Eric HagermanThe Spark of Learning by Sarah Rose Cavanagh To connect with St. Matthew Lutheran, click here: Please take a quick second to rate this podcast on your favorite platform—Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you’re listening. Those stars really help others discover us. Next, hit that like button or give us a thumbs-up—it’s a small gesture that makes a big difference. Finally, share this episode! Text it to a friend, post it on social media, or tell someone about it over coffee. You never know who might need to hear this message today.

Dreams are a reflection of what is in our heart. And if our heart belongs to God then our dreams can be anchored in God!Today's conversation is with Dave Ficken, who is the Chicago City Director for LINC - Leaders in every Community (the "e" is silent). The dream of LINC is that there will come a day when everyone on every corner of our cities can experience the Gospel in terms they can understand from someone they know.To find out more about LINC click here.Some books that Dave recommends to help you catch their dream:The Other Half of Church: Christian Community, Brain Science, and Overcoming Spiritual Stagnation by Jim Wilder and Michel HendricksThe Voice of the Heart: A Call to Full Living by Chip DoddCanoeing the Mountains: Christian Leadership in Uncharted Territory by Tod BolsingerPlease take a quick second to rate this podcast on your favorite platform—Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you’re listening. Those stars really help others discover us. Next, hit that like button or give us a thumbs-up—it’s a small gesture that makes a big difference. Finally, share this episode! Text it to a friend, post it on social media, or tell someone about it over coffee. You never know who might need to hear this message today.For more about St. Matthew, click ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

The Latin Phrase "Extra Nos" means "outside myself." This is the theme of the life of Flame, a rap music artist who was taught about Jesus from his grandmother and grew up in the Reformed Church tradition.But then he discovered God's grace comes outside of himself and found a home in Lutheranism.Now he composes music, hosts a podcast, and writes books telling his story and leading others to find the grace of Jesus Christ outside themselves!To find out more about FlameExtra Nos with FlameExtra Nos: Discovering Grace outside Myself by FlamePlease take a quick second to rate this podcast on your favorite platform—Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you’re listening. Those stars really help others discover us. Next, hit that like button or give us a thumbs-up—it’s a small gesture that makes a big difference. Finally, share this episode! Text it to a friend, post it on social media, or tell someone about it over coffee. You never know who might need to hear this message today.For more about St. Matthew, click ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Untamed Prayers will take you out of your spiritual comfort zone. On this episode we’ll leave behind the boring, predictable prayers that so many Christians are stuck in and dive into ones full of praise, despair, joy, and lament. Based on The Book of Psalms, these prayers cover all parts of life—the good times and the tough ones—and what better way to find the right words to say to God than the very prayers He gave us to pray?But wait! There’s more! Chad Bird shows how these ancient prayers are connected to Jesus as you go through the Psalms. You'll discover that you're not just talking to God by yourself; Jesus is right there with you, praying alongside you. This is part 2 of a conversation with Chad Bird about his new book Untamed Prayers. A conversation that will help you feel a closeness to God, freeing you to speak to the Father with complete honesty. Order Untamed Prayers here.⁠Find out more about Chad Bird and 1517, where he is Scholar in Residence, ⁠here.⁠For a reading plan to read through the Book of Psalms in 30 days, Ed Blonski recommends this plan based on the Book of Common Prayer ⁠here⁠.Please take a quick second to rate this podcast on your favorite platform—Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you’re listening. Those stars really help others discover us. Next, hit that like button or give us a thumbs-up—it’s a small gesture that makes a big difference. Finally, share this episode! Text it to a friend, post it on social media, or tell someone about it over coffee. You never know who might need to hear this message today.For more about St. Matthew, click ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Untamed Prayers will take you out of your spiritual comfort zone. On this episode we’ll leave behind the boring, predictable prayers that so many Christians are stuck in and dive into ones full of praise, despair, joy, and lament. Based on The Book of Psalms, these prayers cover all parts of life—the good times and the tough ones—and what better way to find the right words to say to God than the very prayers He gave us to pray?But wait! There’s more! Chad Bird shows how these ancient prayers are connected to Jesus as you go through the Psalms. You'll discover that you're not just talking to God by yourself; Jesus is right there with you, praying alongside you. This is part 1 of a conversation with Chad Bird about his new book Untamed Prayers. A conversation that will help you feel a closeness to God, freeing you to speak to the Father with complete honesty. Order Untamed Prayers here.Find out more about Chad Bird and 1517, where he is Scholar in Residence, here.For a reading plan to read through the Book of Psalms in 30 days, Ed Blonski recommends this plan based on the Book of Common Prayer here.Please take a quick second to rate this podcast on your favorite platform—Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you’re listening. Those stars really help others discover us. Next, hit that like button or give us a thumbs-up—it’s a small gesture that makes a big difference. Finally, share this episode! Text it to a friend, post it on social media, or tell someone about it over coffee. You never know who might need to hear this message today.For more about St. Matthew, click ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Join us for an inspiring episode featuring Pastor Matt Peeples of the Kairos Network in Saint Louis, MO, as he shares the journey of creating The Missionary Pathway. Born from a passion for making disciples and connecting the disconnected to Jesus, this project builds on Matt’s ministry experience that began in 2011 at The Point in Knoxville, TN. There, he pioneered innovative outreach strategies—like advertising on hard rock radio, hosting Bar Church, and engaging at beer festivals and tattoo conventions—reaching people who hadn’t attended church in 10-20 years.Hear how these experiences shaped a new vision for church planting, equipping everyday Christians to be missionaries in their daily lives. From launching the Kairos Network in post-Christian Ridgewood, NJ, in 2017 to making it his full focus in 2022, Matt’s path led to the development of The Missionary Pathway. Launched in September 2022, this training has already empowered 80 disciples across 8 countries in just four months to plant the gospel and make disciples where they live, work, learn, and play.Tune in to discover how Matt is reimagining ministry to reach the disconnected in today’s world!Find out more about Matt Peeples and the Missionary Pathway here: https://thekairosnetwork.comBooks, Videos, and other things mentioned by MattGod is on the Mic – Louis GiglioNo Silver Bullets – Daniel ImAND: The Gathered and Sacattered Church – Hugh Halter & Matt SmayPlease take a quick second to rate this podcast on your favorite platform—Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you’re listening. Those stars really help others discover us. Next, hit that like button or give us a thumbs-up—it’s a small gesture that makes a big difference.Finally, share this episode! Text it to a friend, post it on social media, or tell someone about it over coffee. You never know who might need to hear this message today.For more about St. Matthew, click ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Season 5 Begins September 3, 2025!

Ever feel like your own worst enemy when chasing your dreams? Those nagging voices in your head whispering, "Your purpose is too big," or "Your dreams will never come true"? In this electrifying episode, Jeff Meyer unveils a game-changing mindset shift: transforming those inner critics into your personal Internal Board of Directors! Discover how to harness these voices, align them with your purpose, and turn your biggest dreams into reality. Tune in and learn how to make your mind your greatest ally!  #DreamBig #MindsetMastery-----Links to resources and previous episodes with Jeff.Your Internal Board of Directors by Jeff Meyerhttps://books.by/Jeff-Meyer You Are a Co-Creator with Your Creator, the episode Jeff Meyer talks about his previous book Fear Not, Dream Big and Execute!https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/r0EeEtZIPVb There is Unity in Harmony, the episode that includes Jeff Meyer and the other men in the music group The Master’s Voicehttps://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/wpjGDPXIPVb Boundaries for Your Soul by Alison Cook & Kimberly Millerhttps://a.co/d/hvYjIOdA Still and Quiet Mind by Esther Smithhttps://a.co/d/aV9RfQgTempered Resilience by Tod Bolsingerhttps://a.co/d/b1w2D2yThe Obstacle is the Way by Ryan Holidayhttps://a.co/d/7ajmdL4-----Please take a quick second to rate this podcast on your favorite platform—Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you’re listening. Those stars really help others discover us. Next, hit that like button or give us a thumbs-up—it’s a small gesture that makes a big difference.Finally, share this episode! Text it to a friend, post it on social media, or tell someone about it over coffee. You never know who might need to hear this message today.For more about St. Matthew, click ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

The "Sermon." It has been a part of the Christian Church forever.But how does a preacher craft a sermon? On this episode, I talk with three preachers and collectively, we have over 120 years of experience crafting and preaching sermons!To find out more about these pastors, here is there contact information:Kurt Taylor - https://blog.cuw.edu/dcm/Steve Kline - https://www.shepherdhills.orgMark Shaltanis - https://stpaulsfallschurch.orgAnd to find out more about Jeff Meyer - who is also a member of The Master's Voice (but couldn't join us for this conversation today) - https://livelifetogether.comBook mentioned:Preaching by Heart: How a Classical Practice Helps Contemporary Pastors to Preach without Notes by Ryan P. Tinnetihttps://a.co/d/6wkvr4gPreachers mentioned by the guys:Craig Goeschel - https://www.craiggroeschel.comFrancis Rossow - https://www.csl.edu/emeritus-faculty/rossow-francis-c/Matt Popovits - https://stmarkhouston.orgMax Lucado - https://maxlucado.comKyle Idleman - https://www.kyleidleman.comFor more information about St. Matthew Lutheran - https://www.stmatts.net

God took the son of a milkman from the Southside of Chicago and used him to reflect His light and love via parish ministry, teaching, a speaker on the longest-running religious radio program in the world, and as president of a prestigious theological institution.Now you'll hear his story - this is Dale Meyer who tells us, "Tomorrow needs you!"Books recommended by Dale⁠Amusing Ourselves to Death: Public Discourse in the Age of Show Business by  Neil Postman⁠⁠My Utmost for His Highest: Updated Language by Oswald Chambers⁠⁠The Sabbath by Abraham Joshua Heschel⁠⁠Conservative Sensibility by  George F. Will ⁠⁠Find out more about St. Matthew Lutheran here⁠

Poetry and music go together! On this episode you'll get both!The poetry and stories of Tanner Olson.The music and stories of Blake Flattley.Rate, comment and share the show!Tanner’s Websitehttps://www.writtentospeak.comTanner’s Merch (including published books)https://www.writtentospeak.com/storePre-Order All The Things I Say to God: Learning to Pray Anytime, Anywhere by Tanner Olsonhttps://a.co/d/4v54LhkBlake’s Websitehttps://www.blakeflattley.comFor more about St. Matthew Lutheranhttps://www.stmatts.net

The 2024 U.S. Presidential Election was historic! And there was - and is - a lot to say about it!But what do Christians do now?Greg Seltz, leader of the Lutheran Center for Religious Liberty in Washington D.C. talks about the Christian's response to the election and to the government.Lutheran Center for Religious LibertyAmerican Betrayed: How a Christian Monk Created America & Why the Left Is Determined to Destroy Her by David HorowitzFor more about St. Matthew, click here

Clive Staples Lewis was born on November 29, 1898, in Belfast, Northern Ireland. While starting from a humble beginning, Lewis became known as a writer, speaker, radio broadcaster, apologist, and educator, and his books have sold more than two hundred and fifty million copies to this day.  Dr. Joel Heck currently serves as the Interim President of Concordia Lutheran Seminary, Edmonton, Alberta. He is the author or editor of sixteen books, five of them on C. S. Lewis, and 42 articles on Lewis.  Dr. Joel Heck’s Website⁠ https://joelheck.com⁠  From Atheism to Christianity: The Story of C. S. Lewis by Joel Heck⁠ https://a.co/d/bll7p4y⁠ No Ordinary People: Twenty-One Friendships of C.S. Lewis by Joel Heck ⁠https://a.co/d/g6PJOdj⁠ The Lion That Roared by Joel Heck and Brenda Nauss⁠ https://a.co/d/hjSuKZH⁠⁠ To find out more about St. Matthew Lutheran, click here⁠

His world came into focus when he picked up his first comic book. He developed his art and was all set to spend the rest of his life drawing comic books and graphic novels. Then Jesus found him! He became a teacher and now a teacher of teachers who shares his art and his love of Jesus with others! Find out more about Brad and his ministry at http://bradallesprod.wpengine.com Books mentioned by Brad You Will Own Nothing by Carol Roth https://a.co/d/7FABZ3f Letter to the American Church by Eric Metaxas https://a.co/d/22tKJi3

Pat played basketball at what he called "one of the worst college basketball programs in the country." But this is where Jesus found him and gave him a new direction for his life. He runs marathons, writes books, and shares Jesus as his reflection of God's light and love in this world. Books mentioned by Pat: Life After Power by Jared Cohen https://a.co/d/isr91JR Ancient Wisdom for Modern Readers https://press.princeton.edu/series/ancient-wisdom-for-modern-readers?srsltid=AfmBOoqVOUcWwLtlzAHgPM4vPUD3z5L0PIwnGFNctOhMGUGlAXzQkxBa How to Do the Right Thing by Seneca https://a.co/d/30RKcrr Magisteria: The Entangled Histories of Science & Religion – Nicholas Spencer https://a.co/d/elKNALZ

Are you a good listener? Many people believe that they are but, when asked if they believe others are a good listener, the answer is usually no. Perhaps we all can learn to be better listeners. And there's no better model than Jesus Christ Himself. Pastor Brian Davies' new book "Captivating Conversations" is available (see link below) and talks with Ed Blonski about opening your heart and learning how to truly hear what others are saying. Captivating Conversations with Brian Davies https://www.cph.org/captivating-conversations-how-christians-can-reclaim-the-lost-art-of-listening Think Again by Adam Grant https://a.co/d/1HC0qfN

It has been said that those who refuse to learn from history are doomed to repeat it. Many people will tell you that in order to find the way to where you are going, it is important to know where you've been. Bill Federer tends to agree, which is why he travels across the country, writes articles and books, and hosts a radio and podcast show about the history of America! William Federer is a return guest, who was previously on Reflection to tell us about the history of the American Thanksgiving story. That episode can be found here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2RJhqKkVpxgrs9VGG2eemd?si=a43I9atFRMiSvb2wSPT9_Q For more about William Federer, go to his website here: https://americanminute.com Books mentioned by Bill: Believe – William & Susie Federer https://americanminute.com/collections/printed-books/products/copy-of-ebook-believe-an-inspiring-devotional-of-scriptures-quotations America's God and Country Encyclopedia of Quotations – William Federer https://americanminute.com/collections/printed-books/products/americas-god-and-country-encyclopedia-of-quotations Silence Equals Consent - the sin of omission: Speak Now or Forever Lose Your Freedom – William Federer https://americanminute.com/products/silence-equals-consent-the-sin-of-omission-speak-now-or-forever-lose-your-freedom-1

When Kris married Ross, she never saw herself as a pastor's wife, but God had other plans. When Ross received his call to be a pastor, Kris never herself as a missionary's wife, but God had other plans. When Ross entered seminary, he thought he would be a pastor in a typical American parish, but God had others plans. Now they are in the Dominican Republic, raising a family and reflecting the light and love of Jesus Christ. Season Four of the Reflection podcast is here! Find out more about St. Matthew Lutheran Church here. The Song of Albion Collection by Stephen Lawhead https://a.co/d/g5zQIPM   Las Cronicas de Narnia https://a.co/d/7s20VbC

Trailer for Season 4 of the Reflection Podcast is here! New season starts January 1, 2024 and will include 10 episodes (maybe one or two special episodes as well).

Thanksgiving is a unique holiday with a long tradition in the United States - it actually pre-dates the US by over 100 years! How did Thanksgiving come about? How did the traditions surrounding the holiday pass down to use today? William Federer of Amerisearch, Inc. tells the story of American Thanksgiving on this special episode of the Reflection podcast. For further reading and research: The Treacherous World of the 16th Century & How the Pilgrims Escaped It: The Prequel to America's Freedom Miracles in American History-32 Amazing Stories of Answered Prayers Prayers & Presidents - Inspiring Faith from Leaders of the Past

The First Amendment of the US Constitution says, "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances." Today, Greg Seltz of The Lutheran Center for Religious Liberty talks about Christian Nationalism and the upcoming presidential election. Resources from today's episode: Doubting Thomas: The Religious Life and Legacy of Thomas Jefferson by Mark A. Beliles and Jerry Newcombe https://a.co/d/9ZdoKdI Liberty Action Alert Podcast with Greg Selztz and guest Eric Metaxas https://www.lcrlfreedom.org/blog/calling-the-church-to-step-up-to-its-moral-and-gospel-voice-in-the-culture-for-the-sake-of-the-culture-and-the-mission   Lutheran Center for Religious Liberty https://www.lcrlfreedom.org

Each of us is the owner of a random collection of theologies, doctrines, and superstitions. It’s a junk drawer of religious ideas and influences. It’s the witticisms your grandmother tossed around with ease that sounded like they came from a religious text. It’s an insight gleaned about God from a half-heard sermon at a friend’s church. It’s the mental screenshot of a meme shared on social media. It’s the empowering idea you underlined in a book and wrote on a Post-it Note now forever affixed to your laptop. These are the things stuffed in our spiritual junk drawers. And as with that stash of old phone chargers, empty pens, and half-used batteries sitting in your kitchen drawer, something in us says, “I might need this.” And so we hold on. But should we? For many this junk drawer spirituality has become burdensome. We are worn down by the religious experience it creates and frustrated by a collection of traditions and “truths” that fail to deliver on their many promises. Find out more about St. Matthew Lutheran Church at www.stmatts.net Junk Drawer Jesus by Matt Popovits Amazon: https://a.co/d/3jaaveE 1517.org https://shop.1517.org/collections/coming-soon/products/9781956658491-junk-drawer-jesus Tough Call by Matt Popovits https://a.co/d/0VENNEi   Seculosity by David Zahl https://a.co/d/j6I9L6x   What Matters Most Podcast with Matt Popovits https://open.spotify.com/show/42pQWZS0UirWPNDA8XNfYx?si=6d3fc013a340440c Make It Simple Podcast with Matt Popovits and Rachel Ryder https://open.spotify.com/show/5DgcGJkqIGLLsFKO2bcIWH?si=56604b27c81149e4

Hesham Shehab grew up in Beirut, a world of bitter animosity between Muslims and Christians, which he experienced personally in a physical attack when 7 years old. By age 13 he was recruited by the Muslim Brotherhood (Lebanese Chapter) and later fought against Christians in the 1975 war in Lebanon. His brother was killed by a Christian militia and his response was to study by day, and by night seek to take revenge in attacks on Christian members if the militia that killed his brother. However, hearing the Sermon on the Mount in a course of cultural studies (at American college in Beruit), the Holy Spirit brought him to faith. He heard the words “love our enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” Today, he's the founder of Salam Christian Fellowship in Chicago and reaches out to refugees and new immigrants from eight Middle Eastern countries, and shares the Gospel with Muslims in three languages. This is Hesham's story! ---- To find out more about St. Matthew Lutheran Church www.stmatts.net Salam Christian Fellowship https://salamchristianfellowship.org   To contact Hesham Shehab [email protected]   Guidelines for Sharing the Faith with Your Muslim Friends: The Dos and the Don’ts – Bernie Lutz http://pubsearch.lhfmissions.org   Christian Witness Among Muslims – Earnest Hahn https://www.ffmna.org/product-page/christian-witness-among-muslims-a-guide-to-understanding-the-muslim-religion   Between Allah & Jesus – Peter Kreeft https://a.co/d/hISrWcu

The Bible is not some dusty textbook, but a veritable circus of humanity, with high-soaring saints, back-talking donkeys, left-handed kingslayers, and all the glory and gore you can fit inside the big top of this biblical tent. And everywhere in this story is God who, in his wild and passionate love for humanity, is shepherding history toward the birth and ministry of Jesus the Messiah.   Chad Bird talks about his latest book and also reads an excerpt! ----- Find out more about St. Matthew Lutheran Church www.stmatts.net Explore the 1517.org website https://www.1517.org   Hitchhiking with Prophets by Chad Bird https://shop.1517.org/collections/paperback/products/9781956658866-hitchhiking-with-prophets   The Christ Key – Unlocking the Centrality of Christ in the Old Testament by Chad Bird https://shop.1517.org/collections/paperback/products/9781962654876-the-christ-key   40 Minutes in the Old Testament podcast https://www.1517.org/podcasts/40-minutes-in-the-old-testament   Hidden Streams podcast https://www.1517.org/podcasts/hidden-streams   Jesus Died and Rose For You with Chad Bird – audio podcast https://spotifyanchor-web.app.link/e/8O7HxUeQTLb   Jesus Died and Rose For You with Chad Bird – video podcast https://youtu.be/V4RmaDlry7c   Connection between Passover & The Lord’s Supper with Chad Bird – audio podcast https://spotifyanchor-web.app.link/e/80aa6TeQTLb   Connection between Passover & The Lord’s Supper with Chad Bird – video podcast https://youtu.be/AE1x89HUQJ8

Ryan Ferguson was married one year ago and ordained two weeks later. Ed Blonski checks in with Pastor Ryan one year later to see how things are going! Find out more about St. Matthew at www.stmatts.net Check out these recommendations from Pastor Ryan: A Skeleton in God's Closet by Paul Maier https://a.co/d/2t7Gkop More than a Skeleton in God's Closet by Paul Maier https://a.co/d/1pINX8g Sacred Duty by Tom Cotton https://a.co/d/bvlDwj0

How does a pastor or other church leader actually become an effective and successful leader?  Ben Haupt is the Global Executive Director of the Pastoral Leadership Institute, a uniquely equipped organization that provides immersive leadership development for pastors, ministry leaders, and their spouses to lead out the mission of God with grace, joy, influence, and impact, specific to a leader’s context. The Reflection Podcast is produced by St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Hawthorn Woods, Illinois. To connect with St. Matthew go to www.stmatts.net Ben Haupt’s social media contacts  https://linktr.ee/benhaupt   PLI – Pastoral Leadership Institute https://plileadreship.org/   Books Recommended by Ben Concordia – The Lutheran Confessions https://www.cph.org/concordia-the-lutheran-confessions-a-readers-edition-of-the-book-of-concord-2nd-edition   Book of Concord – Tappert Edition https://www.cph.org/p-1065-book-of-concord   The Spirituality of the Cross – Gene Edward Veith https://a.co/d/gVbUrOa   Grace Upon Grace – John Kleinig https://a.co/d/dx6BWdo   The Square and the Tower – Niall Ferguson https://a.co/d/dx6BWdo   The Great Debate – Yuval Levin https://a.co/d/fYtRKxG

Answer God's call sometimes doesn't go as expected but usually leads to an adventure beyond imagination. That's the story Tim Hetzner tells on this episode. Our Podcast music was provided by ⁠The Podcast Host⁠ and ⁠Alitu: The Podcast Maker app⁠. Books mentioned by Tim: This Is My Body: A Call to Eucharistic Revival - Bishop Robert Barron https://a.co/d/4FyMRIQ New Testament Church Dynamics - Stephen E. Atkerson https://a.co/d/2mZczU4 The Politics of Persecution: Middle Eastern Christians in an Age of Empire - Mitri Raheb https://a.co/d/2Hk6zLe The Dash: Making a Difference with Your Life - Linda Ellis https://a.co/d/eQedM3S The Cross and the Cries of Human Need: Messages for Lent and Every Season - Robert Howard Clausen https://a.co/d/4E8avEg

Five guys who have been singing together for 40 years get together to talk about music and the harmony of life. Music is an outstanding gift of God and next to theology. I would not want to give up my slight knowledge of music for a great consideration. And youth should be taught this art; for it makes fine, skillful people. – Martin Luther Our Podcast music was provided by The Podcast Host and Alitu: The Podcast Maker app.

Recently baptized in the Christian Church, Gary and his wife are "all in" in serving Christ in the Church. Hear his amazing story of his search for purpose and meaning in Judaism and Buddhism before finally being found by Jesus Christ! Our Podcast music was provided by The Podcast Host and Alitu: The Podcast Maker app. Gary’s Book Busville: A Story about School Bus Drivers https://a.co/d/fTOHdIN     Books mentioned by Gary:   A Conflict of Visions – Thomas Sowell https://a.co/d/brNkqWl   Yes to Life: In Spite of Everything – Viktor E. Frankl https://a.co/d/8HfUvKX   George F. Kennan: An American Life – John Lewis Gaddis https://a.co/d/e5ejw4T

What do you do when you feel God's Call to serve in the Church but are struggling with anxiety and depression? This conversation with David Conley can help you with this! Our Podcast music was provided by The Podcast Host and Alitu: The Podcast Maker app. Books mentioned by David The Daniel Plan: 40 Days to a Healthier Life by Rick Warren, Dr. Daniel Amen, Dr. Mark Hyman https://www.amazon.com/dp/0310360838?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_HSN5M19EQM635BS7JT4R   Don’t Waste Your Sorrows: New Insight Into God's Eternal Purpose for Each Christian in the Midst of Life's Greatest Adversities by Paul E. Billheimer https://a.co/d/9Dmv8d3  Emotionally Healthy Spirituality: It's Impossible to Be Spiritually Mature, While Remaining Emotionally Immature By Peter Scazzero https://a.co/d/bnr1UHv

Brittany has answered God's call to be a servant in the church. She recently graduated from Concordia University Wisconsin and received a call to serve as Youth & Family Minister at St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Hawthorn Woods, Illinois. Our Podcast music was provided by The Podcast Host and Alitu: The Podcast Maker app. Books mentioned by Brittany Captivating John & Stasi Eldredge https://a.co/d/5HSanzM Rest and War: Rhythms of a Well-Fought Life Ben Stuart https://a.co/d/bSSyP7I A Woman’s Place Katelyn Beatty https://a.co/d/1dvs9H7

The third season of the Reflection Podcast begins on July 3, 2024! Guests include Brittany Johnson, newly commissioned minister at St. Matthew Lutheran. Gary Midriff a recent convert to Christianity. Musician David Conley - and will feature brand new music from him. The Master's Voice, give guys who have been singing together for 40 years. And many others! Please share this across your socials to let others know!

More than two and a half billion people will be celebrating either Passover or Easter - or both - in the next few weeks. Passover being the predominately Jewish celebration and Easter being the Christian celebration. Can the two be connected somehow? 1517.org Scholar-in-Residence Chad Bird joins Ed Blonski to lay out the connections between these two world-wide celebrations that date all the way back to the 15th Century BC. To connect with St. Matthew Lutheran Church, click here. Our Podcast music was provided by The Podcast Host and Alitu: The Podcast Maker app.

He is a truck driver. He was a seminary professor. He was a parish pastor. He's also a scholar of the Old Testament and brings incredible insight to who Jesus Christ is! Chad Bird is also a contributor to 1517.org Find out more about Chad here Books recommended by Chad: Man’s Search for Meaning by Victor Frankl   From Sabbath to Lord's Day: A Biblical, Historical and Theological Investigation - edited by D. A. Carson Our Podcast music was provided by The Podcast Host and Alitu: The Podcast Maker app

The Bible - not just a book on your shelf, desk, or nightstand. It came from somewhere long ago. Jeff Kloha knows from where and he's got a museum to show you! He's the Chief Curatorial Officer and you can find out more about Jeff here. Visit the Museum of the Bible website Books recommended by Jeff Kloha: Follow Me: Discipleship According to Matthew by Martin Franzmann Commentary on Romans by Martin Franzmann Our Podcast music was provided by The Podcast Host and Alitu: The Podcast Maker app

The Christian Church has to take seriously what it means to be the Christian Church in this world today. Dr. Joel Biermann joins Ed Blonski on today's episode. He is the Waldemar A. and June Schuette Professor of Systematic Theology at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis. He is a pastor's son, raised in both Nebraska and Michigan and now helps train a new generation of pastors for The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod. Find out more about Joel Biermann here: https://www.csl.edu/directory/joel-biermann/ Books recommended by Dr. Beirmann: The Quest for Holiness by Adolf Koberle https://a.co/d/gLAjiqf Leisure the Basis of Culture by Josef Pieper https://a.co/d/euO7PXK Luther on Vocation by Gustaf Wingren https://a.co/d/gE2hGrP Ethics by Dietrich Bonhoefferhttps://a.co/d/eVliMeK Our Podcast music was provided by The Podcast Host and Alitu: The Podcast Maker app

Over 25 years of leadership in non-profit and private business sectors - fundraising, communication, marketing, strategic planning, project and event implementation, budget processes, and organization management. Deaconess Dr. Tiffany Manor is now the Managing Director of Human Care and Ministerial Support at The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod. Find out more about Dr. Tiffany Manor. https://www.lcms.org/how-we-serve/mercy/deaconess-ministry The Bible https://www.cph.org/c-2885-the-lutheran-study-bible Martin Luther’s Small Catechism https://www.cph.org/c-2921-luthers-small-catechism Mercy Booklet Series https://resources.lcms.org/reading-study/mercy-essays-feature-lutheran-theologians-from-reformation-to-today/ Our Podcast music was provided by The Podcast Host and Alitu: The Podcast Maker app.

A conversation with Cindy Koch. She is a pastor's wife, mother of 5, and is working on her PhD in Biblical Languages! She is a poet, author, and speaker as well! Her podcast: Talk Shop with Cindy and Paul Koch https://youtu.be/U5aaIeGw8ds Books by Cindy Woman: The Forgotten Story https://shop.1517.org/products//woman-the-forgotten-story Daughter: Our Story Remembered https://shop.1517.org/products//daughter-our-story-remembered Cindy Koch's Website https://cindykochwrites.com Books Cindy recommends: Strange New World: How Thinkers and Activists Redefined Identity and Sparked the Sexual Revolution by Carl Trueman https://a.co/d/0wqManZ   The Bondage of the Will by Martin Luther https://a.co/d/2YdduId   The Captivation of the Will: Luther Vs. Erasmus on Freedom and Bondage by Gerhard Forde https://a.co/d/gamCr5W   The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck: A Counterintuitive Approach to Living a Good Life by Mark Manson https://a.co/d/ez3aSsl Our Podcast music was provided by The Podcast Host and Alitu: The Podcast Maker app.