Letters from Home
***Everyday Extraordinary Faith Stories*** Bringing encouragement to your doorstep by capturing the heartbeat of God's people one story at a time. Life can be so hard, and on most days, our faith needs a boost. Letters From Home Podcast
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will bring a new real faith story, every other week, from people who love Jesus, of all ages & demographics. The common thread: each serves our loving God. As you hear their heart you will hear...their dreams...their failures...their pain...their struggles...their life changing encounters & extraordinary moments...I pray you leave each episode, encouraged and inspired to love our God and our world more deeply...IICor. 3:3.....we are not alone. -love, meg
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- 25"Forgiveness Beyond Reason" Sean McCoy (Pt. 1)Fancy cars. Manicured lawns. Elite neighborhoods. Intellect. Science. Is this what life is really about? As life unfolds, Sean finds himself weeping on a porch… empty… searching.In his story, he shares with us his journey to faith… through his mind… and his heart… the childhood that made it harder to do so… and the one thing that changed everything for him and his family.Sean McCoy is the host of “Come to the Table Podcast”. His banner statement is ‘love in action is listening to understand, not to react.’ He has a long list of beautiful moving stories that will challenge your thinking and encourage you. Sean is a generous, kind man, always available to engage in spirited conversation and questions about faith. ——————————————We would love to hear how the Lord has encouraged you through this story at lfhpodcast@gmail.comFor more everyday extraordinary faith stories:We are on Instagram, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google, iHeartRadio and all of the places podcasts live. Just type in ‘Letters From Home Podcast’ and scroll down until you see the rainbow.
- 26"Love Beyond Borders" Sean McCoy (Pt. 2)Pt. 2 of Sean’s story. Three things you will want to hear in this conversation: his heart’s desire to truly understand and love everyone, as he sees Jesus did; his bright mind, that is constantly reasoning, asking why, and reminding him of his own humanity; and his boyish humor that lights up a room. Add to this the vast amount of countries he has visited, his experience in the military, mistakes that he has made, and a loving family, that has helped cancer patients for decades, and you have a moving inspiring listen. It is like sitting at the table with your wiser older brother you respect. Enjoy!Sean McCoy is the host of the “Come to the Table Podcast”. His banner statement is ‘love in action is listening to understand, not to react.’ He has a long list of beautiful moving stories for you to enjoy.——————————————We would love to hear how the Lord has encouraged you through this story at lfhpodcast@gmail.comFor more everyday extraordinary faith stories:We are on Instagram, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google, iHeartRadio and all of the places podcasts live. Just type in ‘Letters From Home Podcast’ and scroll down until you see the rainbow.
- 27"Finding Her Fierce Calling" Doris SwiftPregnant, engaged and deceived, but not alone. Not ideal for your senior year of high school. Doris walks us through her tough years, to the unbelievable path she is now on. She is one fierce Mama, whose love is infectious. Her love and passion to help women has taken her to some dark places, places where many have been rescued.She is also a podcaster: Fierce Calling PodcastIsaiah 30:21-“And your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, ‘This is the way, walk in it,’ when you turn to the right or when you turn to the left.”——————————————We would love to hear how the Lord has encouraged you through this story at lfhpodcast@gmail.comFor more everyday extraordinary faith stories:We are on Instagram, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google, iHeartRadio and all of the places podcasts live. Just type in ‘Letters From Home Podcast’ and scroll down until you see the rainbow.
- 28"The Search For Redemption" Holland WebbLosing a parent at an early age can be traumatic. It can leave a gaping hole, and take years to understand. Holland Webb spent years searching for what was lost, and ultimately as a life mission, has sought to redeem that loss by being that for someone else.Thus began his adoption of two little boys, age 3 and age 4, while himself a single 27-year-old man, which greatly grew his faith in Jesus Christ. His road to personal redemption is remarkable.Currently Holland is a cohost of “The Afterword: A Conversation About the Future of Words and All Things Literary” a podcast, he cohosts with Amy Bowlin. He is also the founder at The Webb Digital Marketing Company, LLC. He has co-authored the book ‘Adventures in Fatherhood”, with Carlton Hughes.A Bible verse that shaped his faith journey: Proverbs 31:8- “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute.”Some of the topics covered in this episode:*growing up without a Father*filling holes from our childhood*single parenting*parenting through the difficult teen years*how Americans are perceived in the Phillippines*working for non-profit companies*International Disability and Development Consortium.*cohosting a podcast*challenging our assumptions*missionaries*adoption as a single man*biracial families*fulfilling in others what we lack*caring for parents with dementia——————————————We would love to hear how the Lord has encouraged you through this story at lfhpodcast@gmail.comFor more everyday extraordinary faith stories:We are on Instagram, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google, iHeartRadio and all of the places podcasts live. Just type in ‘Letters From Home Podcast’ and scroll down until you see the rainbow.
- 29Bonus Episode "2020- The Stories We Will Tell"September ………. October ………. and beyond. No one could have predicted this year. It has affected so much. Our world. Our countries. Our states. Our cities. Our homes.In a way, the world has stopped. And in a moment, God has gotten the attention of the whole world. We all have shared experience, and we all have unique experience. What is the story that we will all some day tell?——————————————The guests in order:-Mike Glesener, Meg's better half-Markus Watson, host of the “Spirtual Life and Leadership” podcast-Yohanna Smith, host of the Girls Talking Life podcast-Alana Dawson, host of “The Podcasting Party”-Eric Nevins, host of “Halfway There” podcast-Ryann Gaines,leader in the Faith Mamas ministry-Chris Staron, host of the Truce podcast-Micah Glesener, Meg's child #6-Jayme Elizabeth, host of the “She Speaks Life” podcast.-Kipp Wilkinson, cohost of the “Mountain & Valley Podcast”-Dominique, founder of the Faith Mamas Ministry, and host of the Faith Mamas Podcast.-Amber Cullum, host of the “Grace Enough” podcast-Tim Winders, host of the “Seek Go Create” podcast-Elijah Glesener, Meg's child #8-Jernise Young,leader in the Faith Mamas ministry-Micah Horvath, cohost of the “Mountain & Valley Podcast”-Jordan Glesener, Meg's chid #7-Andrew Piccinni, Alderwood Community Church youth leader-Tina Smith, host of the “Not All Heroes Wear Capes” podcast and the “Raising Kids on Your Knees” podcast-Jenna Erlandsen, host of the “Bridge of The Faithful” podcast-Sean McCoy, host of the “Come to The Table Podcast”-Jody Howe, host of “The Air That I Breathe” podcast-Neil Matthews, host of the “Other People’s Shoes” podcast-Mary Snyder, host of the “Take The Stage” podcast, renamed StorySpire w/Mary R Snyder——————————————We would love to hear how the Lord has encouraged you through this story at lfhpodcast@gmail.comFor more everyday extraordinary faith stories:We are on Instagram, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google, iHeartRadio and all of the places podcasts live. Just type in ‘Letters From Home Podcast’ and scroll down until you see the rainbow.
- 30"All Joking Aside" BIG Dave EbertDeep down inside, don’t you just wish someone would hear your cry for help? Big Boy Buddy Love was A DJ & Pro Wrestler. Also, a man struggling with severe depression for years. His life takes a giant turn, from a couch to a different stage and a life-changing ministry after he takes his cue from God. This is a story you don’t want to miss, the everyday extraordinary, Dave Ebert.This verse was transforming for Dave: IJohn 5:13-“I write these things to yo who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life.”Great quote from Dave:“For many years, I used to use comedy to hide who I was, but now I use comedy to reveal who He is.”to newbie improv people he would say:“Your job is not to be funny. You do not have to be funny. Take that burden off of you, because improv is built on being human. Humans are funny. I think God built us as much for love and compassion as he did for comic relief.”Stories Dave shares:-Father with agent orange and how it affected him as a kid-A relative fallen from grace in the ministry-Rejection in his youth-severe depression-suicidal thoughts-unhelpful counselors-how God spoke to him, in a near death moment-Pro Wrestling-Big Boy Buddy Love’s 3 signature moves-Being a DJ-his sister took him in-how the love of God has changed him-how Haha Men Ministry started and evolved-How Well Versed Comedy began-How Well Versed Comedy pivoted during Quarantine-online Improv Nights-HowGifts for Glory podcast came about-God lead him to help with human trafficking survivors-Seeing laughter change people-Improv tips-How he loves wearing Depends.——————————————We would love to hear how the Lord has encouraged you through this story at lfhpodcast@gmail.comFor more everyday extraordinary faith stories:We are on Instagram, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google, iHeartRadio and all of the places podcasts live. Just type in ‘Letters From Home Podcast’ and scroll down until you see the rainbow.
- 31"The Phantasmagorical Chase" Thomas StewartHave you ever been struck by a proverbial lightning bolt once in your life? How about multiple times? For many, one bolt would be life changing. For some, it is not enough, to change the course of a life, that is off track. In today’s story, we see the journey of a small town man, who finds a God, bigger than the ups and downs of it all. And oh, what a sweet sweet encounter. “The Phantasmagorical Chase.”One of the key verses to Tom’s life: Prov. 22:6-“Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.”Tom is one of the hosts of the Biblical Chili podcast. Parts of his story he shares:Christian upbringingBible memorizationmental illness in parentssuicidal parentsno shame in low incomeit takes a villagehouse firemental health counselingsecond chancesGod pursuesbad breakupsunexpected arrestdesperation and bridgesmental health awarenessgreen goblin comicsliving in an aquariumhoneymoon in Vegashelping the homelessthe joys of familystarting a podcastfinding a community——————————————We would love to hear how the Lord has encouraged you through this story at lfhpodcast@gmail.comFor more everyday extraordinary faith stories:We are on Instagram, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google, iHeartRadio and all of the places podcasts live. Just type in ‘Letters From Home Podcast’ and scroll down until you see the rainbow.
- 32"Having Nothing & Having Everything" Glori WindersContentment is rare. Have you been through a season of having everything? And how about a season of having nothing? The Market Crash of “08 affected so many families to the core. And life itself can be a rollercoaster, especially when it starts out with every E-ticket in the book. As Glori brings you into her remarkable faith story, you will hear the moments that have changed her, and made her to be the content and grateful child of God, Mama, wife, Gigi and RV-living entrepreneurial nomad she is today.Her heart’s desire is to help women “Redefine life on your terms and Live Glorified”https://liveglorified.com/Phil. 4:4-“Be cheerful with joyous celebration in every season of life. Let joy overflow, for you are united with the Anointed One.” The Passion Translation—————————————————————————————-Stories Glori shares:Parent attempting suicideParent threatening suicideLukemia awarenessLoss of a siblingGrowing up fastWhen the child becomes the parentHow parenting changes after the loss of a childThe market crash of 2008The real estate crash of 2008Being an essentialist vs. being a minimalistLoving who her family became through the journeyRV living5 things you probably don’t know about rv livingNot having a Plan B for marriageNever saying the ‘d’ wordStewardship vs. ownershipBeing a minimalist vs. being an essentialistBusiness and ministry to womenCo-creating with her familyGreat quotes from Glori:“A lot of times the kids who are adult children of alcoholics can go two ways, they follow the alcoholic’s footsteps or they become the superstar, trying to be so perfect that they will make everything right.”“the counselor friend mentioned that really and truly honoring your Mom is not letting her sin against you, and you allowing this behavior is letting her sin against you.”“Tim got saved through the Amway business.”“We were riding high. We were doing good. And then the market crashed and real estate crashed in 2008.”“He even tried to go flip burgers at McDonald’s and they told him he was overqualified. He couldn’t get the job.”“We had a lot of things. And we realized that we just didn’t have the things, the things had us.”“We don’t say minimalist, we say essentialist, because if it is essential and you need it to do whatever it is God has called you to do, okay.”“All four of us would say, we don’t like the journey we had to go on, but we all love who we became through the journey.”Podcast: Seek. Go. Create. Related episodes:——————————————We would love to hear how the Lord has encouraged you through this story at lfhpodcast@gmail.comFor more everyday extraordinary faith stories:We are on Instagram, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google, iHeartRadio and all of the places podcasts live. Just type in ‘Letters From Home Podcast’ and scroll down until you see the rainbow.
- 33"The Real Struggle of Being a Starving Artist" Chris StaronHave you every wondered what it would be like, moving to L.A. to pursue your dreams of filmmaking? It sounds glamorous. But is it? Chris Staron will take us on his own personal journey to filmmaking and beyond. Christian Filmmaking. His experience is that so few actually talk about what it is like to be a starving artist, especially in the Christian realm. And Chris shares with us that experience, the real struggle of being a starving artist. We all get a peek behind the scenes, and will get to see some of the great lessons God has taught him along the way.Chris’s Life Verse: Mk. 8:35-“For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul?”Truce Podcast and Website: https://trucepodcast.com/Topics covered:Homeschooled twinsHis faith storyHeaven’s Gates and Hells FlamesBullied in high school Upstate New York Ithaca College Film ProgramSherwood PicturesCampus Crusade Mentor Interning on the Bernie Mac Show Production Assistant on Hells KitchenIndie Movie DirectorBringing Up Bobby successWriting his book, The Cradle RobberThe story of William Jennings Bryan & the Scopes Monkey TrialAdvice for someone being bulliedAudition tipsGreat Quotes:“I wouldn’t characterize Hollywood as necessarily anti-God, it’s that they just don’t know who he is… it wasn’t so much that they were against you, it was that you were an alien species.”“we often glamorize those things, and hold up the success stories, but there is nobody out there talking about the real struggle of being a starving artist in the Christian world.”“In most staunch conservative reformed churches, prosperity is there. We believe that nothing bad can happen to you if you are a Christian. But if you look at the Bible, the central character of the Bible is a guy who gets crucified for being exactly where God wants Him to be.”“Paul gets shipwrecked and bitten by snakes and beaten and thrown out of town for being exactly where God wants him to be. So I think our conception of whatsuccess is and what money is, is way off.”“Yellowstone is not even close to being the best part of Wyoming.” “We can’t judge our success based on the numbers and people’s response. Success in God’s eyes is being faithful.”Chris’s Work:Truce Podcast, The Elephant, Bringing up Bobby and The Cradle Robber and his own IMDB.——————————————We would love to hear how the Lord has encouraged you through this story at lfhpodcast@gmail.comFor more everyday extraordinary faith stories:We are on Instagram, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google, iHeartRadio and all of the places podcasts live. Just type in ‘Letters From Home Podcast’ and scroll down until you see the rainbow.
- 34"A 21st Century Virtual Visionary" Eric NevinsHow long did it take you to find your calling from God? For Eric, it took him 15 long years. But he arrived. and now, he is living his purpose, as a 21st Century Virtual Visionary. Come along on his journey, from actor to seminary student, to family man, to call center, to podcaster, to speaker, to visionary and so much more. You will hear the journey of a man seeking to find rest and peace before a God, who was with him in his darkest hour, and the love of his life, there with him all along the way.II Peter 1:4-“… so that through them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped from the corruption that is in the world because of sinful desire.”Topics Covered:Crazy birth storyWanting to be an actor and a pastorThe value of having mentorsAwana love story9/11 storyGoing to Trinity International School in ChicagoLearning your craft and learning the businessTrinity Evangelical Divinity SchoolHamilton the bookYoung marrieds in collegeHis dark night of the soul15 years to find his purposeDenver Seminary, 9 years to a 3 year degreeBooks that changed himA story of how God providesA story of how God is working when we don’t know he is workingEarly podcaster influencesHalfway There PodcastChristian Podcasters AssociationSchool Shooting Kendrick CastilloLectio DivinaJohn Denver and The MuppetsThe Christian PodcasterGreat Quotes by Eric Nevins:“Learn your craft, but also learn the business.”“I think we have enough drama going on in the world that we don’t need movies right now,”“Nothing says Christmas to me like John Denver and The Muppets.”References:Halfway There Episodes:Skye Jethani #215, Os Guinness #217, his Grandmothers: Betty Lou Long #192, and Harriett Miller #191Books:“Satisfy Your Soul” Bruce DemarestRichard J. Foster “Celebration of Discipine”Dallas Willard “The Divine Conspiracy”Dan Miller “48 Days to the Work You Love”Sam Jones “Off Camera”Podcasters that impacted Eric early in his calling:Cliff RavenscraftJohn Lee DumasMichael HyattMichael O’ NeilMark Marin Sam Jones——————————————We would love to hear how the Lord has encouraged you through this story at lfhpodcast@gmail.comFor more everyday extraordinary faith stories:We are on Instagram, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google, iHeartRadio and all of the places podcasts live. Just type in ‘Letters From Home Podcast’ and scroll down until you see the rainbow.
- 35Bonus Christmas Episode: "Dare to Hope"Dare to hope. In 2020, so many of our hopes have been dashed. So much has happened. And yet we know that our God is a God of hope. I have put together this Christmas Episode to lift your spirits, to help us all, to dare to hope. And many of my podcasting friends have prepared thoughts for you too. Praying 2021 will be a year where we all, dare to hope. Luke 2:25 “Now there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon, and this man was righteous and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him.”——————————————-Here are the credits for my fellow podcasters from the Christian Podcasters Association in the order they appear, and their podcasts:Monika Hardy “Moments With Moni”Chris Staron “Truce” Michelle Rayburn “Life Repurposed” Brad Simon “Monday Morning Inspiration”Char Candid “The Char Candid Podcast”——————————————We would love to hear how the Lord has encouraged you through this story at lfhpodcast@gmail.comFor more everyday extraordinary faith stories:We are on Instagram, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google, iHeartRadio and all of the places podcasts live. Just type in ‘Letters From Home Podcast’ and scroll down until you see the rainbow.
- 36"Finding His Father" Michael McDonald (Bible Project Director of Global Focus and Strategic Relationships)Sometimes it takes a rough childhood, and the longing of a young boy to find a father figure, to inform his global focus and mindset. Changed by the love of his Father, he grows up to be a world changer, albeit imperfect. Michael McDonald is currently the Bible Project Director of Global Focus and Strategic Relationships in Portland, Oregon.His story to get there is rare, and is a beautiful global adventure we are invited on. It is so easy for our homes to be self-focused and American-focused. His perspective will change you.Matthew 5:14-“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.”Topics Shared:Raised strong Baha’iNelson, crazy wild childhoodMental illness and abuse in the homeHow the Baha’i faith shaped his views about GodTraveling alone at 14 and on his own at 17Where he got his love for helping with injustice, compassion and women’s equalityLiving in Turkey to find himselfHis move from business into the non profit worldStarting his nonprofit, Hear The Cry10 years + traveling with Bob Goff and Dream BigHis current work at Bible Project, with John Collins & Tim MackieHis heart to bring Bible Project to the nationsBible Project in 30 languages so farBook to help our Global Mindset:“Jesus Through Middle Eastern Eyes” Kenneth BaileyQuotes from Michael McDonald:“We started a number of schools, opened up some hospitals and some rescue homes for gals getting rescued out of the sex trade. We worked in Ughanda Somalia, Iraq, Afghanistan, Nepal, India, different ministries in each of those places. So we find incredible local leaders that have a passion for one of those types of things and then help create some infrastructure and do that.” (with Bob Goff)“I have been part of Bible Project since the beginning, because it has been friends that were working on this project. I saw the first two videos that came out in 2014, and just thought ‘wow, these are going to be an incredible resource for people.’ I was thinking of them globally right away, just because I worked with so many pastors and teachers in other countries that are starving for good Bible resources, and thought these would be a great asset, especially because they are free, and they are so well done.”“The reality is Christianity isn’t a western religion. It was a Middle Eastern religion that is coming out of Israel…we need to understand history and context.”——————————————We would love to hear how the Lord has encouraged you through this story at lfhpodcast@gmail.comFor more everyday extraordinary faith stories:We are on Instagram, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google, iHeartRadio and all of the places podcasts live. Just type in ‘Letters From Home Podcast’ and scroll down until you see the rainbow.
- 37"Running From and To His Calling" T.J. McKnight Jr. (Dedicated to the memory of Yvette McKnight and Maurel Domingo)As a young boy, T.J. knew he was called to preach. His mother, his dreams, and even a grocery store clerk, spoke these words into his ears. And he ran from this calling, like Jonah. For a season. Through the love of a once-in-a-lifetime friendship, and the gentle love of a Mother, God moved in his heart and life so much, that he is no longer running from, but running to his calling. And it is a beautiful thing to behold. One Faith.This episode is dedicated to the memory of his beautiful Mama, Yvette McKnight, his loving friend, Maurel Domingo, and his loving wife, kids, family, and church family. Eph. 4:5- “One Lord, one faith one baptism.”Topics Shared:Happy childhoodHolt Elementary Durham, N.C. Step TeamMom diagnosed with lung cancerHis Mom’s lung cancer diagnosisSalvationMom healed Low self-esteemTeenage depression & mental healthBarton College MinistryDeath of his friendsMaurel DomingoPreaching his friend’s funeralComplete life changeHis call to ministryA hospital miracleA last conversationHis mother’s passingLost and foundA Call to MinistryA new beginningThe Church of God in ChristBreakthrough Ministries The Church of God in Christ Temptations Christmas AlbumT.J. Quotes:“One of my favorite rappers, KB, he said ‘King David , after he sinned, limped all the way to glory. I resonate with that.”“He said ‘why are you doing this? you are better than this’…he took my drink that I had and threw it away and said, ‘I don’t want to see you with another drink at this party’…”“When I was on the floor crying my heart out… and just really struggling and depressed… I remember hearing a still small voice whisper in my ear, saying ‘get up, everything is going to be alright’…and immediately I stopped crying… and I got up.. and I said to God…”References:Rapper KB, King DavidKurt Franklin “The Last Jesus”——————————————We would love to hear how the Lord has encouraged you through this story at lfhpodcast@gmail.comFor more everyday extraordinary faith stories:We are on Instagram, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google, iHeartRadio and all of the places podcasts live. Just type in ‘Letters From Home Podcast’ and scroll down until you see the rainbow.
- 38"The Maverick Minister" Cliff RavenscraftAt a new church, a self-proclaimed ‘nut job’ came up to Cliff and told him that he was going to not only be a full-time minister, but that he would minister to tens of thousands of people. In that moment he was stunned. As his life and mission unfold, you will see how this prophecy is fulfilled, in a very unorthodox way. Cliff Ravenscraft is a maverick minister, and his story will inspire you to carve your own way. He is an O.G. podcaster, who has over 5,000 episodes, has created more than 40 podcasts, and is responsible for teaching thousands how to podcast. He is also “The Mindset Answerman.” In his life today, he continues to influence many. He and his wife Stephanie help thousands “Free The Dream” inside of them, and break through limiting beliefs.Romans 8:38-39 “For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.” ________________________What Cliff shared about:Difficult early childhood memories Catholic schooling The only non-catholic in a catholic schoolAfraid to burn in hellSaved at a summer campHis experience in lots of denominationsQuestioning his salvationHigh school transformationHis mic drop walk out experienceRejected by a girlFrom 100% commitment, to completely off the gridCollege alcohol to cold turkeyMeeting StephanieA crazy nut job tells him “one day you will minister to tens of thousands of people”Marriage EOTC Bible Study Group “Cliff’s Clubhouse handle”“Encouraging Others Through Christ”Cell Group multiplicationChartering a church in his home after a church splitFinding his callingCliff Ravenscraft Quotes:“I have always had a passion and a desire to know about God and to not burn in hell.”“He restores my soul and gives me opportunity to be in union with Him, all day every day, even if I am not consciously aware of it.” “I wanted to fast from actually receiving the appreciation and praise of anyone in the world.”——————————————We would love to hear how the Lord has encouraged you through this story at lfhpodcast@gmail.comFor more everyday extraordinary faith stories:We are on Instagram, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google, iHeartRadio and all of the places podcasts live. Just type in ‘Letters From Home Podcast’ and scroll down until you see the rainbow.
- 39"What Does Being a Child of God Mean to You?" Bonus EpisodeWhen I think of who I am, before I think of being a Mom of 8, a wife, a daughter, a Grammy, a friend, a neighbor, I think first of being a child of God. Being a child of God, has changed me, in all of the good ways. And I am grateful. Over the last episodes of Letters From Home, I have asked each guest, the question, “what does being a child of God mean to you?” I trust you will be encouraged by every single voice, and heart.-love, MegJohn 1:12-“But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God, who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God.”Audio Clips in this episode:Cliff Ravenscraft Ep. 39, TJ McKnight EP. 38, Michael McDonald Ep. 37, Eric Nevins Ep. 35, Chris Staron Ep. 34, Glori Winders Ep. 33, Thomas Stewart Ep. 32, Dave Ebert Ep. 31, Holland Webb Ep. 29, and Josiah Glesener Ep.1.——————————————We would love to hear how the Lord has encouraged you through this story at lfhpodcast@gmail.comFor more everyday extraordinary faith stories:We are on Instagram, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google, iHeartRadio and all of the places podcasts live. Just type in ‘Letters From Home Podcast’ and scroll down until you see the rainbow.
- 40"Made Whole" Jamie Bailey (Expedition Marriage)God can take the broken pieces of our childhood, and not only make us whole, but He can make something beautiful, and living and thriving out of that brokenness. Jamie Bailey and her husband Chris have a marriage counseling ministry, Expedition Marriage, that is helping so many around the world heal. In this episode Jamie shares her story, and the remarkable, unimaginable way God put all of her broken pieces together.Habakkuk 1:5-“Look among the nations, and see; wonder and be astounded. For I am doing a work in your days that you would not believe if told.”—————————————————Topics Shared:Childhood abuseFeeling unlovedTeen pregnancyTeen marriageDomestic violence and JailA new wonderful husbandGetting her G.E.D.Saved after a Christmas play rehearsalLearning to fall in love with the LordThree years of anxiety and agoraphobiaA move and a new beginningMasters Degrees as counselorsGlorious salvationUnexpected funeral officiantForgiveness and restorationExpedition Marriage5 Things Most Husbands Wish Their Wives KnewJamie's Podcast:Expedition MarriageJamie's Book:Newlywed Couple’s DevotionalJamie Quotes:“As hard as it was dealing with him, what hurt the most, is her not protecting me. I started to believe I’m not worthy of love.”“I would not know Jesus if it weren’t for my husband. He entered into my life as a savior and as Jesus with skin on.” If I had not learned to trust his love first, I never would have been put in a position to receive the Father’s love for me.”“Having a one-sided relationship with a parent is really hard.”“I am somebody who loves big.”“My hero was your villain.”“It was at that moment the stamp was pressed upon me that says ‘you are not lovable’.”——————————————We would love to hear how the Lord has encouraged you through this story at lfhpodcast@gmail.comFor more everyday extraordinary faith stories:We are on Instagram, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google, iHeartRadio and all of the places podcasts live. Just type in ‘Letters From Home Podcast’ and scroll down until you see the rainbow.
- 41"Lovingly Brought to Her Knees" Tina SmithYou don’t become the founder of “Raising Kids on Your Knees” unless you have discovered the value of prayer. The founder of this impactful ministry, Tina Smith, shares with us her beautiful journey to get there. And every journey worth fighting for has bumps, and choices, and consequences, and the welcome arms and smile of God waiting, for those who are willing.Romans 8:28-“And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.”————————————————Topics Shared:Privileged upbringingRadical change of financesDivorced parentsSecret abortionYoung marriageInfidelityDifficult public divorce Single motherhoodLifetime mentorSecond marriageTriggers from the pastBlended family strugglesAbortion counselingStarting a prayer lifeHer war chairZoom Prayer 2020Resources:Tina’s Prayer Podcast- “Raising Kids on Your Knees”Tina’s Parenting Podcast- “Not All Heroes Wear Capes-A Mom Podcast”Tina Quotes:“Lord, if this relationship cannot be restored, please set me free. And within weeks, he set me free. it was crystal clear.”“You reap what you sow, but here is the deception. You don’t reap in the same season that you sow.” “Single momming is hard. I have the utmost respect for single moms.”“Second marriages are not like first marriages. There’s a whole lot of other nuances.”“God began setting me free, and began healing me.”——————————————We would love to hear how the Lord has encouraged you through this story at lfhpodcast@gmail.comFor more everyday extraordinary faith stories:We are on Instagram, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google, iHeartRadio and all of the places podcasts live. Just type in ‘Letters From Home Podcast’ and scroll down until you see the rainbow.
- 42“Purpose in Our Pain" (The Faith Stories of the D.N.A. Podcast Show Live Hosts)Pain. We all have it to various degrees. And sometimes, in the heat of it, we don’t know the purpose. Purpose Pains. This is the book Deonte Bolden wrote. Deonte, Beloved and Jazzy, hosts of the DNA Podcast share their faith stories, and the discoveries of the purpose for their hardest moments. This is a journey that will encourage and uplift your faith!Jeremiah 33:3-“Call to me and I will answer you and will tell you great and hidden things that you have not known. “——————————————DNA Podcast Hosts Sharing PointsDeonte:-Growing up very young-Muscular Dystrophy-Losing his brother senior year-Delayed grieving process-Experimenting with same sex relationships-Accountability group help-First stage production “Looking For Love in All The Wrong Places” -“The Skin I’m In”Quotes From Deonte:“He turned that test into a testimony. ““With this whole COVID experience, you realize that life is short and you want to love people while they are here.” “We expose our wounds to let God do the healing.”Beloved:-God changed her name-Seeking for long in the wrong places-Three months of marriage and feeling like a failure-Verbal and emotional abuse-the mentality of abandonmentQuotes From Beloved:“When God changed me on the inside, He let me know ‘Your name is now Beloved’ because you are my Beloved one and I love you with all my heart, mind and soul.”“I always just wanted a mother, and she was too busy trying to be my friend.”“I know I was born for greatness.”Jazzy:-Sweet parents-Traumatic teen years-Unhealthy relationships-Body image-Forgiving her perpetrators-Fear of rejection-The Lord has me on the ‘Do Not Touch’ listQuotes From Jazzy:“I can identify the feelings that I had back then , but I am not inside of those feelings. I have finally reached a place of wholeness . I use it as a testimony now. I use it to empower myself”.“My favorite book of the Bible is Genesis. It is the best soap opera.”——————————————We would love to hear how the Lord has encouraged you through this story at lfhpodcast@gmail.comFor more everyday extraordinary faith stories:We are on Instagram, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google, iHeartRadio and all of the places podcasts live. Just type in ‘Letters From Home Podcast’ and scroll down until you see the rainbow.
- 43Falsely Accused Pastor (God's Beloved, Markus Watson)Can you imagine being falsely accused as a pastor? And then adding to that, false charges filed against you, where the FBI gets involved? Awful charges. Markus Watson walks through what he and his family went through, at their church. But that is not the final chapter. Markus has arisen from that devastating chapter with a new chapter in his life. He is currently the pastor at Westmoreland Community Presbyterian Church, and the best-selling author, of Beyond Thingification, but more importantly, he knows he is God’s beloved. His story will grip your heart, and change your perspective on so many levels.Jer. 31:3-“The Lord appeared to him from far away. I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore I have continued my faithfulness to you.”——————————————Topics Shared:Raised in faithAspiring Hollywood actorA change of plansFuller SeminaryPastoring his first churchEmergency meeting while on sabbaticalAccused of pornForensic analysis of his laptop Turns into a potential criminal investigationThe FBI got involvedHow the attorney knew he was innocentExonerated by the PresbyteryVoted out of his churchFlourish San DiegoBeyond ThingificationPastor at Westmorland Community Presbyterian ChurchMarkus’ Quotes:“The FBI had my laptop.”“There are some good things that came out of this that were very painful at the time.”” ‘Lord, I don’t deserve your love.’ What a terrible message to be telling myself over and over and over again.”“I spent a lot of time in the Psalms, Psalms of lament.”“I had this image of myself having lost everything, sitting in a prison cell.”“We had double our normal attendance that Sunday. Everyone will show up for a scandal.”“The thought of being a pastor again felt like being thrown into a snake pit.”“We can’t love someone if we are judging them.”——————————————We would love to hear how the Lord has encouraged you through this story at lfhpodcast@gmail.comFor more everyday extraordinary faith stories:We are on Instagram, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google, iHeartRadio and all of the places podcasts live. Just type in ‘Letters From Home Podcast’ and scroll down until you see the rainbow.
- 44" Family Honor" (The Story of The Real Jerry Dugan)Family honor. Does your family name bring you joy? For some it brings shame, and a deep desire to restore that honor. Jerry Dugan shares his story and journey to bring honor to his family name. At 14, in his mind, his family name stood for trouble, heartbreak, bullying, racial microaggressions and brokenness. He had already been through so much in his young life. And this environment took a huge toll.Jerry shares with us the life-changing prayers and loving God that lead him to a new family honor, and helped him to change the generational patterns that informed his childhood. He isn’t perfect, but he is The Real Jerry Dugan.Jeremiah 1:5-“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations.”————————————–Topics Shared:Biracial childhoodTiger MomPerformance-based acceptancePerformance-based affectionTop Gun style bet to break up his parentsHeart-breaking divorceThe Army brushed a lot of things under the carpetSuicide ideations and suicide attemptsInterventionLoving foster homeBullied by uncles in Ca. His gentle father flips the switch to military policeman with army trainingA turning pointDeployment to Kuwait, 1/’03-3/’03Writing the ‘in case I die’ letterWar homecoming and seeing his kids for the first timeQuotes:“When you are 7 or 8 years old and the amount of affection you are getting from your mom, the kind of attention you get from your mom is solely based on your performance in an activity, that sets a weird expectation.”“In the movies they always have that ‘in case I die’ letter they hand to their buddy to hand off, but I was so convinced I was going to die, that I wrote my letter. I disguised the wording just enough so it didn’t freak my wife out when she read it, but it was there. Everything I wanted to say to her was in that letter. I folded it, and I mailed it that night. It was one last mail run before we crossed the border.”“We as a church can do better, back off the condemnation, and demonstrate more of the Jesus who hung out with prostitutes and tax collectors and treated them with dignity, treated them with respect because he honored their dignity.”References:Beyond the Rut Podcast, Jerry Dugan Ted Talk, The Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-8255& Website: https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/——————————————We would love to hear how the Lord has encouraged you through this story at lfhpodcast@gmail.comFor more everyday extraordinary faith stories:We are on Instagram, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google, iHeartRadio and all of the places podcasts live. Just type in ‘Letters From Home Podcast’ and scroll down until you see the rainbow.
- 45"Raising Lee Ann" (A Tale of Italy, Alzheimer's and Strong Foundations)Living with Alzheimer’s. Have you ever wondered what it would be like to have a parent with Alzheimer’s living with you? How about as a young woman? Lee Ann shares her story of faith from a little Italian girl, who never knew her father. She was raised by her single mom who though she only had the opportunity to complete a 6th grade education gave Lee Ann the love and strong faith foundation she would need for life. Today Lee Ann is an adjunct professor at the South Florida Bible College and Theological Seminary and the author of many books, including The Brightest Minds in Children’s Spirituality. She has created many videos and children’s books to help parents in raising Christian kids. Her desire to give back is palpable, and in her story you will see what made her the joyful Christian woman she is today. IThes. 5:16-18 “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”————————————–Sharing Points:Italian upbringingRaised by a single momSaved from her mother’s abusive boyfriendFatherless upbringingSaved from abuseNot able to go to collegeA young adult caregiver for her mother with AlzheimersMother with Alzheimers gets lost for daysTransition to a care facilityMarriage and familySeaKids MinistryRaising Christian Kids PodcastThe Brightest Minds in Children’s SpiritualityHer producer Cliff McDowell 23 EntertainmentBooks turned into an animation series called SeaKidsSouth Florida Bible College and Theological Seminary Adjunct ProfessorKen Hamm “Answers in Genesis”——————————————We would love to hear how the Lord has encouraged you through this story at lfhpodcast@gmail.comFor more everyday extraordinary faith stories:We are on Instagram, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google, iHeartRadio and all of the places podcasts live. Just type in ‘Letters From Home Podcast’ and scroll down until you see the rainbow.
- 46"Kidnapped and Tortured" Renod Bejjani's Story of Hope“Can you imagine a child being tortured for being a Christian, in several Islamic ruled nations over many years? And that child growing up at age 13, fighting in a war, for survival, because of being a Christian? Renod’s story is profound, and moving. His traumatic upbringing, led to a hatred of Muslims, and turning his back on God for 25 years. 9/11 changed everything. Today, he and his wife Karen serve the people he once despised. You will be enthralled with his story and the needed transformation God brought about in his heart. Their ministry is called “I Hope Ministries”. They have a heart to help bring Muslims to Christ and help equip others to do the same. IICor. 5:20-“Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.”————————————————–Points Shared:Born in Bagdad, Iraq in a Christian Lebanese family Raised in an Islamic ruled nationNon-Muslims had less rights and freedoms Unorthodox home schoolingAt 5 he spoke about Jesus to friends on the streetKidnapped and tortured by an Islamic extremist His narrow escapeThis pattern continued for 7 years, spanning many countriesHe discovers the meaning of the word kafir, ‘infidel’, someone who does not believe in the God of Islam.Anger and hate grew in his 10 yr. old heartAt age 13, he fought in the Lebanese war between Christians and Muslims for survival, for 6 months, and was also in hiding.Flying across the world from Tripoli Libya and finding his way around Los Angeles, at 13, alone.Culture shock and bullying in the U.S. Walking away from the Lord for 25 years9/11 changes everything Mission trip back to a Muslim countryI Hope Ministries is born.Renod Bejjani Quotes:“I packed my bags . I would line them up in the closet. I would sleep in the closet with my arm around my bags saying ‘Lord I want to wake up with my parents.”“Today Islam is the 2nd largest religion in the world, and out in the West including in America, Islam has been doubling every 10 years, while Christianity is declining fast.”Books-“Muslims: 5 Biblical Essentials Every Christian Must Know and Do”“The Way to Paradise”Related Episode:Letters From Home Ep. 37-“Finding His Father” Michael McDonald——————————————We would love to hear how the Lord has encouraged you through this story at lfhpodcast@gmail.comFor more everyday extraordinary faith stories:We are on Instagram, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google, iHeartRadio and all of the places podcasts live. Just type in ‘Letters From Home Podcast’ and scroll down until you see the rainbow.
- 47"Loved for 100 Years in 20" Ami ShroyerLoved for 100 years in 20. Not everyone gets to experience a love like this. Ami did. As a traveling teen musician, she met the love of her life. They start their marriage in love and soon after they start their family. While serving the Lord as a family, preparing land for a new ministry, her husband Mike inhales some debris. Through a series of misdiagnosis and careless medical practice, Mike passes away. Ami brings us into that season of her life, the love, the pain and the beyond. Her name means ‘beloved little follower of the Lord, and as her story unfolds, you will see her uncommon faith, from just a little girl, to this present day. She is resilient, and has an affinity for daisies, which reminds her of the love of her husband, Mike Shroyer, who loved her for 100 years in 20.Heb. 12:1-“Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us.”————————————————Topics Shared:Beloved little follower of the LordUncommon faithCreative child whose wings were clipped Lived in 21 different houses before 21Jesus clubs and writing musicFriend-zoned Bill Gaither’s nephewSkipped graduation to travel around the country singingSevered parental relationship made rightMeeting the love of her life“Miracle of Mercy” Mike’s life songQuick & happy marriageWorking at Andy Stanley’s church, their Atlanta yearsStarting a family wholeness centerThe 5/11 Wholeness JourneyMike gets suddenly illThe Doctors fumble his careMedicinal toxicity and dehydration sets inOne last visitHorrible passingSupermanLoved for 100 years in 20Fields of daisiesName on the front of the buildingA voice for strong homes Ami Quotes:“I always want purpose, not closure. You can’t close off a love like this. We are not meant to. We need to continue to live wide open with purpose.”“It literally feels like he is on a trip before we get there, but he just got there first.”“The night that he passed away my daughter said ‘Mom, now it’s even. And I said, ‘what do you mean?’ And she said, ‘Well the two babies that are in heaven have Dad, and you have us. It’s even.”My son said, “I’ve been thinking, I could be really angry with God that I am 12 and Sadie is 8, and that this would happen, but I got to thinking, if this were going to happen some day anyway, I would rather that it happen when I’m 12 and Sadie is 8, because if it were later in life, you would be all alone, and right now you have us.”Resources:Elizabeth Elliot “Path of Suffering”Podcast:Journey Through Fields of Daisies ——————————————We would love to hear how the Lord has encouraged you through this story at lfhpodcast@gmail.comFor more everyday extraordinary faith stories:We are on Instagram, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google, iHeartRadio and all of the places podcasts live. Just type in ‘Letters From Home Podcast’ and scroll down until you see the rainbow.
- 48"Quadriplegic Paralympian for Team Jesus" Joe DelagraveCan you imagine at age 19, after a boating accident, waking up from surgery to the doctors telling you that you will never walk again? This is the beginning of Joe Delagrave’s deep transformation. His journey to forgiveness and faith is one you will never forget. He brings us into his happy but imperfect childhood, his WSU football days, his boating accident, a life-changing prison visit, and ultimately his inner heart working, that gave him the drive of an Olympian. He is a keynote speaker, Team USA Paralympic Wheelchair Rigby Player, and well loved child of God.Proverbs 3:5-6 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths.”————————————————Topics Shared:Soaking up affirmation from coachesHis goal in high school was being a college athleteSupportive parentsBirth father in prison, missed Joe’s entire childhoodIt wasn’t 15 years for some crazy offense, it was choices over and overDrugs, check fraud, not paying his rentAt 13 God spoke to him about being a speakerHis battle between pleasing people or pleasing GodFootball Scholarship to Winona State in Mn.Prairie Du Chien, Wisconsin and the back sloughs of MississippiBoating accidentSpinal cord injury levelsJoe’s neck snaps at the C6 and C7, and he blacks outRescue boat, ambulance, then med flighted to the local hospitalThe Asia Test proves his spinal injuryAirlifted to LaCrosse Hospital for surgery to fuse his C6 and 7Complete quadriplegic or incomplete quadriplegic?Don Beebee House of Speed shirt cut offOpening his eyes to Prov. 3:5-6, and a newly-abled worldSurrounded by loving familyThe God of 2nd chancesFunctioning as an incomplete C6 and C7 quadriplegicGod softens his heart toward his dadVisiting his birth father in prisonReconciliation and forgiveness in one life-changing encounterMarriage, babies and adaptive sportsDiscovering wheelchair rugbyAn athlete againPreparing, making and medaling in the ParalympicsA plan of 3’sJoe’s Quotes:“Are we on fire for God, or on fire for what people think? A lot of times those two don’t coexist very well.”“As my athletic career was taking off, my relationship with Jesus was completely going the opposite way.”“Going through sports and you see the dads coaching their kids, I was so jealous of the relationship.”“We never know what kind of impact we make by simply being kind.”——————————————We would love to hear how the Lord has encouraged you through this story at lfhpodcast@gmail.comFor more everyday extraordinary faith stories:We are on Instagram, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google, iHeartRadio and all of the places podcasts live. Just type in ‘Letters From Home Podcast’ and scroll down until you see the rainbow.
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