OCF Crosspoint Podcast

  OCF MINISTRY NEWS  Keep an eye out for this fall’s Connected print newsletter: A digital copy of the newsletter is also available online at ocfusa.org/connected  https://www.ocfusa.org/connected/   Serve as the ministry support volunteer position: Check out the full volunteer listing for details and the application. https://www.ocfusa.org/volunteer/ministry-support-volunteer/  Calling all female cadets & mids: Connect with your peers via OCF Sisters in Service’s monthly Zoom calls. Find out more on SIS’ Instagram: @sisters_in_service_ocf    Register for a Winter Retreat session at one of OCF’s Conference Centers:  20-27 December, 28 December-4 January at Spring Canyon in Buena Vista, Colo. https://www.springcanyon.org/winter-retreat/   21-26 December, 27-30 December, 30 December-2 January at White Sulphur Springs in Manns Choice, Pa. https://www.whitesulphursprings.org/winter-retreat/     GUEST SPOTLIGHT  Today’s episode features the first half of Crosspoint host Josh Jackson’s conversation with Lt Gen Clint Hinote, USAF (Ret.). After a 35-year career as a fighter pilot, military strategist, and senior leader, Clint retired in 2023 and now serves as a futurist for the Air Force. He is also a professor of policy analysis at the RAND School of Public Policy.  Interested in leadership since his teen years and having gained experience through a variety of leadership roles ever since, Clint shares his thoughts on the definition of leadership, the importance of leaders’ influence, and lessons to learn from the book of Nehemiah.   Resources mentioned during this episode include:   Clint’s Nehemiah Bible study, developed during a prior deployment and used at WSS  Jim Collins’ Good to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap...And Others Don't https://www.amazon.com/Good-Great-Some-Companies-Others/dp/0066620996   White Sulphur Springs’ Summer R&R, where Clint served as a speaker this past summer https://www.whitesulphursprings.org/summer-rnr/   If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org. https://www.ocfusa.org/podcastguest/  POINTS TO PONDER  As you listen to this conversation with Clint, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:  How would you define leadership? Is “influence” a sufficient definition?  How have your own leadership roles affected your understanding of leadership?  Why is it important to remember the “human connection” aspect of leadership?  What role does consistency have in a leader's communications skills? 

  OCF MINISTRY NEWS  Check out and attend any of these local events:   Aspentime Retreat: 26-28 September at Spring Canyon (Buena Vista, Colo.) https://www.springcanyon.org/aspentime/   BBQ Bonanza: 3-4 October at Fort Leavenworth (Kan.) https://www.ocfusa.org/event/fall-bbq-bonanza-2025/   OCF Hampton Roads Region Annual Fall Picnic: 4 October at Fort Monroe, Va. https://evite.me/M6xMVkCshv  USNA Fall Retreat: 10-13 October at White Sulphur Springs (Manns Choice, Pa.) mailto:usna@ocfusa.org  OCF Mid-Atlantic Fall Retreat: 14-16 November at White Sulphur Springs (Manns Choice, Pa.) https://www.whitesulphursprings.org/event/ocf-mid-atlantic-fall-retreat/   Start an OCF small group: Read Rich's article, full of practical guidance to help you take the next step. https://www.ocfusa.org/2011/01/starting-ocf-small-group-fellowship-2/   Help OCF steward its ministry buildings: Email Director of Infrastructure and Facility Management Joe Orosz (joe.orosz@ocfusa.org) to get more information or offer your expertise in master planning, design, construction, and/or facility maintenance. mailto:joe.orosz@ocfusa.org   GUEST SPOTLIGHT  Today you’re going to hear from Kristin “KG” Goodrich, a Navy veteran and OCF’s new director of women’s ministry. KG talks about ministry efforts from her role, the impact of our current cultural climate, and an update about the military sisterhood KG discussed in a 2019 episode of OCF Crosspoint. https://www.ocfusa.org/2019/11/47-goodrich-military-sisterhood/   She mentions a few resources in today's episode: American Bible Society and Planting Roots’ Bible Boot Camp for Military Women and Planting Roots’ Growing Deeper: Spiritual Nourishment for Military Women by Kasey Raia Stout. https://resources.armedservicesministry.org/products/bible-boot-camp-for-military-women https://www.amazon.com/Growing-Deeper-Spiritual-Nourishment-Military/dp/B0FHH4FT6J   Save the date for these events KG mentioned, and keep an eye out for more details and registration links in the coming months:  Growing Deeper Conference: 31 January at Grace Community Church (Pensacola, Fla.)  OCF Leading Women Retreat: 20-22 March at White Sulphur Springs (Manns Choice, Pa.)  Women’s Week of Summer Celebration: 28 June-3 July at Spring Canyon (Buena Vista, Colo.)  Contact KG via kristin.goodrich@ocfusa.org with any input regarding women’s ministry, and be sure to follow @sisters_in_service_ocf on Instagram, too. https://www.instagram.com/sisters_in_service_ocf/  If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org. https://www.ocfusa.org/podcastguest/  POINTS TO PONDER  As you listen to this conversation with KG, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:  What challenges would you say women in the military face today?  How can you as an individual and OCF as a parachurch ministry support them in those challenges?  KG talks about a scaffolding approach to her role as OCF's director of women's ministry. How can you take a similar approach to come alongside and mentor the next generation for ministry and service?  KG also talks about the isolation female officers can sometimes feel when they’re the only one among all male officers. How has finding someone with similar experiences been an encouragement to you? 

Show Notes In this second part of “Military Brats React,” host Courtney Burdick continues the roundtable conversation with 2LT Dani Volle, USA, ENS Mary Ann Leonard, USN, and Matt Taylor as they reflect on their experiences growing up in military families. Listen to Part 1 here. While the first part of the discussion centered on the challenges and mental health struggles faced by military kids, this episode shifts to the “strengths-based perspective”—seeing the good that can come out of a hard, transient lifestyle—discussed in Josh Jackson’s Crosspoint interview with Claire Anderson.    Have thoughts or want to share your own experience? Reach out to Josh at josh.jackson@ocfusa.org and/or Courtney at courtney.burdick@ocfusa.org.  If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org. https://www.ocfusa.org/podcastguest/  POINTS TO PONDER  As you listen to this conversation with the brats, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:  Looking back on your own military or life experiences, what unexpected strengths have you developed through hardship?  Who or what helped you most in your difficult seasons, and how might you offer that same support to someone else today?  What role has your faith (or your family’s faith) played in helping you navigate challenges?  How do you think churches or ministries could better support military families in your community? 

In a recent Crosspoint episode, Josh Jackson and Claire Anderson discussed the “hidden epidemic” of mental health challenges among military kids. In this follow-up conversation, Courtney Burdick hosts three fellow military kids—2LT Dani Volle, USA, ENS Mary Ann Leonard, USN, and Matt Taylor—for a roundtable-style reaction episode.  Having met at White Sulphur Springs, OCF’s eastern camp and conference center, they discuss stories from their respective military kid experiences, thoughts on Claire’s research, and more.  Have thoughts or want to share your own experience? Reach out to Courtney at courtney.burdick@ocfusa.org.  If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org.  POINTS TO PONDER  As you listen to this conversation with the brats, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:  Which challenge of military life (deployments, moving, role confusion, food insecurity, etc.) has impacted you or someone you know the most, and how did you see God at work in it?  What do you think might help military kids and families?  What struck you about this conversation?  How do you see military culture—often marked by toughness and stoicism—affecting kids’ ability to talk about struggles openly? 

The July episode of Crosspoint served as Part 1 of a conversation with LTC Lee Robinson, USA, director of the U.S. Military Academy’s American Politics Program and an academy professor in the Department of Social Sciences. We began answering this overarching question—"What does it look like to follow Christ in uniform, when your faith is personal, your authority is public, and the Constitution sets the boundaries?” In Part 2 we continue this timely discussion on how Christian military leaders can live out their faith with integrity, while respecting the pluralism of today’s armed forces. Lee emphasizes that faith in leadership must never take the form of pressure or compulsion. Drawing from both Scripture and military experience, he outlines the importance of being a faithful witness without overstepping the boundaries of official authority. When senior leaders bring faith into their roles, the question isn't “Can I?” but “Should I?”—and wisdom is key to navigating that tension. A central focus of this conversation is the principle of religious liberty for all, not just Christians. Lee speaks to the importance of defending others’ rights, even when you disagree with their beliefs because a free society depends on reciprocal freedom. Lastly, Lee offers both encouragement and challenge to Christian leaders: You won’t get this balance perfect. But grace, humility, and a deep dependence on God are essential as you try to be salt and light in a diverse military environment. This episode does a pretty good job of standing on its own, but we do encourage you to go back and listen to part 1 to get the full context of the conversation.   Key points from the conversation Coercion and leadership don’t mix. Your influence as a Christian officer must be grounded in love and respect, not pressure. Religious liberty is for everyone. Defending others’ freedoms strengthens your own witness and integrity. Wisdom matters. Just because something is legally allowed doesn’t always mean it’s wise or helpful in a given leadership context. Mistakes will happen. What matters most is how you respond—with humility, grace, and a willingness to grow.   Questions to ponder How can you create a culture in your unit where spiritual questions and discussions are welcome but never forced? Are there moments where your leadership presence might unintentionally signal pressure around faith? What does it look like to advocate for religious freedom in a way that honors others’ beliefs? How do you respond when you realize you didn’t strike the right balance between faith and official duty? What role does humility play in spiritual leadership?

OCF MINISTRY NEWS  Become findable on the OCF Directory: Visit ocfusa.org/list-me to add or update your group’s information on our online directory of Bible studies.  Apply for Spring Canyon’s Deputy Center Director opening: Check out the job description and apply NLT 15 August.   Check out our new Widowed Ministry webpage: Visit ocfusa.org/widowed-ministry/ to access helpful resources, invitations to fellowship, and scholarship funding for summer programs at the Conference Centers.   GUEST SPOTLIGHT  Why is mentoring important to the Christian in the military? Answering that question and others in this episode are COL Jim Brown, USA (Ret.), and Navy veteran and OCF Director of Women’s Ministry Kristin “KG” Goodrich.   Jim and KG discuss the unique elements of Christian mentoring, their own personal experiences with mentors or mentees, and how military culture might create challenges to the idea of mentoring, among other topics.   Mentoring has always been part of OCF’s DNA—from prayer and accountability to sharing wisdom across generations. Check out our Mentoring Program page, which offers a structured approach to equipping Christian military leaders to grow in their faith and leadership while walking alongside others.  Whether you feel called to invest in someone else’s journey—or you’re looking for someone to invest in yours—we invite you to get involved.   If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage for consideration. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org.  POINTS TO PONDER  As you listen to this conversation with KG and Jim, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:  How would you define mentoring, and what have your experiences as a mentor or mentee been like?  In what areas of your life might you most benefit from having a mentor?  How might God be equipping you to mentor others around you?  What barriers might you see to mentoring, and how can you go about overcoming those? 

Guest: LTC Lee Robinson, USA In this Crosspoint Highlight from July 2025, LTC Lee Robinson explores the delicate balance military leaders must strike between free exercise of religion and non-establishment under the First Amendment. He emphasizes that the amendment’s brevity—and its ambiguity—stem from the compromises between Federalists and Anti-Federalists at the time of America’s founding. Lee explains how the language evolved, rejecting broader proposals like prohibiting any laws “touching religion” to avoid overly limiting the federal government. He encourages military leaders to wrestle with the historical context and constitutional principles behind the First Amendment to better understand their own oath to support and defend the Constitution, particularly in gray areas where religion intersects with public duty. What do you think? How does understanding the historical compromise behind the First Amendment help shape your approach to religious liberty in leadership? What practical steps can you take as a military leader to uphold both the free exercise of religion and the principle of non-establishment?

Guest: LTC Lee Robinson, USA In this Crosspoint Highlight from July 2025, LTC Lee Robinson tackles the complex question: Was America founded as a Christian nation? Lee draws a distinction between the first founding (e.g., Puritan colonies with explicitly religious laws) and the constitutional founding rooted in liberty and freedom of conscience. He explains that while America’s early cultural fabric was deeply influenced by Christianity, the U.S. Constitution intentionally avoided establishing a state religion—rejecting even a proposed religious test in Article VI. Citing Alexis de Tocqueville, Lee paints a vivid picture of early Americans shaped by both faith and civic engagement, underscoring the enduring impact of Christian values on the nation's moral habits, even if not enshrined in its legal foundation. What do you think? What does the balance between personal faith and civic freedom look like for Christian leaders today?

  OCF MINISTRY NEWS  Sign up for summer programs at the Conference Centers: Visit ocfusa.org/CCexperience to find the right program and week for you at Spring Canyon (Buena Vista, Colo.) or White Sulphur Springs (Manns Choice, Pa.). https://www.ocfusa.org/CCexperience/   Consider your next steps at the Caleb Challenge Career Transition Strategies Workshop (12-14 September): Visit White Sulphur Springs’ website to learn more about and sign up for this impactful weekend. https://www.whitesulphursprings.org/event/caleb-challenge-career-transition-strategies-workshop/   Update your information and stay connected: Whether it's your address, military status, rank, contact information, or something else, take 30 seconds to let us know via the Update My Info form. https://www.ocfusa.org/update/   Check out Crosspoint Highlights: Don’t miss our new episode format, designed to share just a portion of a previously posted podcast for an encouraging listen even when you’re short on time. Find Crosspoint Highlights wherever you get your podcasts.  GUEST SPOTLIGHT  What does it look like to follow Christ in uniform? LTC Lee Robinson, USA, director of the U.S. Military Academy’s American Politics Program and an academy professor in the Department of Social Sciences, joins the podcast to address questions like this.   Hailing from Georgia and having graduated from West Point in 2000, Lee now teaches and researches topics like civil-military relations and organizational leadership. In this episode, Lee shares about the cadet ministry that takes place through USMA OCF, led by Field Staff Bob & Tracy Phillips, then dives into complex topics ranging from balancing personal and professional choices to studying the United States’ historical approach to religion.  If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org. https://www.ocfusa.org/podcastguest/  POINTS TO PONDER  As you listen to this conversation with Lee, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:  Why is it important to understand the historical context of the First Amendment?  How does the vague language of the First Amendment impact us today?  As you listen to Lee's example of the company commander with the cross on his desk, how would you respond if you were in Lee’s position?  How do you think you balance your private and public personas?  What do you learn from Jesus' example of rejecting political power?  “In essentials unity, in non-essentials liberty, in all things charity.” How does this quote from seventeenth-century German Lutheran theologian Rupertus Meldenius tie into today’s conversation?  In what ways can your life be an example of the gospel and the work of Christ?  What Scriptures shape your leadership philosophy, even in ways that might be subtle to the non-believer?  Where's the line between encouraging religion and morality and compelling it?  What can we learn from the Founding Fathers as they faced tension and disagreement regarding the government's approach to religion?  Lee explains that "liberty is freedom to follow laws and freedom of conscience." What are your thoughts on this definition?  Why is it important to understand not only what the Constitution says but also why it says what it does? 

Information about Summer R&R 7 at White Sulphur Springs, and speaker LtGen Clint Hinote, USAF (Ret.): About the Topic: Wherever we are, God calls us to lead. He calls us to lead ourselves, our families, our units, our communities, and our culture. The Bible contains many accounts of leaders, including stories about their successes and failures. In this session, we will examine Biblical leaders and learn from their experiences. We will celebrate the good and be honest about the bad. In doing so, we will seek practical truths we can apply to our lives because we can always learn and grow as leaders. About the Speaker: Clint retired from the U.S. Air Force in 2023 after a 35-year career as a fighter pilot, military strategist, and senior leader. In his last assignment, he served as the futurist for the Air Force, responsible for creating the vision for the future force. He now writes and speaks on defense reform and leadership. He also teaches leadership and policy implementation at RAND’s School of Public Policy. Links: Direct registration link: http://www.ultracamp.com/info/sessiondetail.aspx?idCamp=294&campCode=wss&idSession=495759 WSS Summer R&R page: https://www.whitesulphursprings.org/summer-rnr/ Spring Canyon Summer Celebration page: https://www.springcanyon.org/summer-celebration/   

OCF MINISTRY NEWS  Sign up for summer programs at the Conference Centers: Visit ocfusa.org/CCexperience to find the right program and week for you at Spring Canyon (Buena Vista, Colo.) or White Sulphur Springs (Manns Choice, Pa.). https://www.ocfusa.org/CCexperience/   Connect with OCFers at USNA and USAFA:  OCF at USAFA: Pre-Inprocessing Day Reception (Class of 2029), 24 June, Monument, Colo. https://www.ocfusa.org/event/ocf-at-usafa-pre-inprocessing-day-reception-class-of-2029/   USNA OCF: Class of 2029 Open House, 25 June, Annapolis, Md. https://www.ocfusa.org/event/usna-ocf-class-of-2029-open-house/   Volunteer as a Local Leader at one of these locations: Columbus AFB, Fort Campbell, Fort Drum, Fort Eisenhower, Fort Jackson, Fort Riley, Fort Stewart / Hunter AAF, Goodfellow AFB, JB Charleston, MCAS Beaufort, MCB Quantico, Norwich University, NSB New London / Groton, Schofield Barracks / Wheeler AAF, Sheppard AFB, Texas A&M University, The Citadel, Tyndall AFB, University of North Georgia, USCG Air Station and Base Kodiak, USCG Air Station Miami, USCG District 11 and Base Alameda, USCG District 13 and Base Seattle, USCG Sector Key West, USCG Sector St. Petersburg, USCG Station Port Canaveral, Virginia Tech. When you are ready to volunteer, complete our quick List Me form so that members can find you on the OCF Directory and OCF staff can equip you based on local needs. https://www.ocfusa.org/list-me/   Help OCF steward its ministry buildings: Email Director of Infrastructure and Facility Management Joe Orosz (joe.orosz@ocfusa.org) to get more information or offer your expertise in master planning, design, construction, and/or facility maintenance. mailto:joe.orosz@ocfusa.org   GUEST SPOTLIGHT  Today’s guest spotlight features Claire Anderson, a military child and new graduate of Liberty University. Claire joins the podcast to talk about the military kid experience, informed by her own upbringing and her recent honors thesis, titled “Analysis of the At-Risk Mental Health of Military Children and Proposed Intervention Plans To Be Implemented by Mental Health Professionals.”  Having gotten connected to OCF through friends as a freshman in high school, Claire shares how her summers at White Sulphur Springs, particularly her work with youths attending the Camp Caleb program, piqued her interest in the military child experience. She and Josh discuss some statistics from her thesis research, connections to The Performance Paradox: The Unexpected Way to Grind Less, Grow More, and Unlock Success by Eduardo Briceño, and a Biblical view of trials.           If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org.  POINTS TO PONDER  As you listen to this conversation with Claire, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:  If you’ve grown up in the military and/or raised children in the military, what of your own firsthand or secondhand experiences relate to what Claire discussed today?  How did the statistics shared during this episode impact you?  What factors of the military lifestyle have you seen contribute to low mental health, and how might you work to address and/or mitigate those factors?  Claire’s thesis and interview talks about taking a “strengths-based perspective,” and Josh mentions Romans 5:3-4, too. How can our relationship with Jesus transform our view of trials we may experience? 

Crosspoint Highlights: Big ideas, short episodes … for your busy schedule Guests: Joshua and Lindsey Bowen From Episode 54: “The importance of small group fellowship.” Listen to the full episode here.    Highlight Summary: In this Crosspoint Highlight, Joshua and Lindsey Bowen reflect on the lasting impact of biblical community, mentorship, and servant leadership during their time in the military. They share how their early experiences in a diverse OCF small group at Fort Carson shaped their spiritual maturity and inspired them to pour into cadets at West Point years later. From late-night Bible studies to one-on-one mentoring moments, Josh and Lindsey offer a deeply personal look at how fellowship across generations can transform lives and prepare future military leaders for both spiritual and professional challenges. Find an OCF group near you Find out more about Christian mentoring   Key Takeaways: Intergenerational fellowship fosters growth: Being surrounded by older couples in their Fort Carson group helped Josh and Lindsey mature spiritually and understand what Christlike leadership looks like in marriage, military life, and beyond. Mentorship happens in everyday moments: Watching how mentors cared for their spouses, shared struggles, and modeled vulnerability left a deep and lasting impression on the Bowens—one they now strive to replicate. Leading means serving: As small group leaders at West Point, Josh and Lindsey invest time, energy, and emotional bandwidth into cadets—not just during Bible study, but through desserts, coffee chats, and showing up when it matters most. Spiritual black holes are real: Without proactive preparation, cadets can find themselves spiritually adrift after graduation. Josh shares candidly how his own post-academy faith stagnated, and how he now helps cadets plan ahead to avoid the same pitfall. God equips those He calls: Lindsey never saw herself in women’s ministry or spiritual mentorship—until someone invited her. Now she thrives in that space, walking alongside young women facing challenges she never imagined when she was in their shoes.

OCF MINISTRY NEWS  Sign up for summer programs at the Conference Centers: Visit ocfusa.org/CCexperience to find the right program and week for you at Spring Canyon (Buena Vista, Colo.) or White Sulphur Springs (Manns Choice, Pa.). https://www.ocfusa.org/CCexperience/   Free Bible studies for OCFers and groups: Visit ocfusa.org/library to download, dive in, and leave a rating to help others discover one of these 18 impactful resources. https://www.ocfusa.org/library/   Help us keep the OCF community connected: If you or someone in your OCF circle has celebrated a birth, wedding, or experienced a loss since 1 March, please send updates to Courtney Burdick (courtney.burdick@ocfusa.org) for the next issue of our print newsletter.  Introducing Crosspoint Highlights: Don't miss our new episode format, designed to share just a portion of a previously posted podcast for an encouraging listen even when you’re short on time. Find Crosspoint Highlights wherever you get your podcasts.    GUEST SPOTLIGHT  Today’s guest spotlight features COL Kurt & Donna Schosek, USA (Ret.), who share their stories of hope through grief as they each lost a spouse before meeting and marrying one another. They talk about what surprised them most in the midst of their respective loss, GriefShare, the importance of community, what hurts, what helps, and more. https://www.griefshare.org/   They both have a heart to walk alongside those who have lost their spouses in any season of life, and the Schoseks will do just that later this year when they serve as speakers during the Summer R&R #6 program at White Sulphur Springs. https://www.whitesulphursprings.org/event/summer-rnr-6/  If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org.   POINTS TO PONDER  As you listen to this conversation with Kurt and Donna, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:  If you've lost a loved one before, what helped you in the midst of your grief?  How would you describe what it means to grieve well?  What are your takeaways from the Schoseks about how you can care for others as they grieve?  What Bible passages comfort you most during loss? 

Welcome to Crosspoint Highlights: Big ideas. Short episodes. For your busy schedule.   Guest: Col Chet Arnold, USMC (Ret.) From Episode 46: “May a Christian Serve in the Military?” Listen to the full episode here. Highlight Summary: Can a Christian serve in the military and still follow Jesus’ command to love their enemies? In this Crosspoint Highlight, Col Chet Arnold, USMC (Ret.), tackles the difficult topic of killing in combat from a Biblical perspective. Drawing from both the Old and New Testaments, Chet explains why understanding the sanctity of life and the God-given authority of government is essential for military believers. He also challenges listeners to avoid dehumanizing their enemies and to grieve the loss of life—even in war—through the lens of being made in God's image. Be sure to check out our article by the same name, "May A Christian Serve in the Military?" Key Takeaways: The sanctity of life is foundational: All people are made in God’s image—even those considered enemies. God delegates authority to governments: Genesis 9 establishes the basis for protection and justice, even when that includes the use of force. Jesus’ command to turn the other cheek applies to personal offense, not to military or governmental responsibility (Matthew 5:39). Dehumanizing the enemy leads to spiritual and emotional damage: Christians are called to mourn every life lost, even in war. Grieving rightly matters: Proper understanding of life’s value can reduce the impact of trauma and moral injury after combat. Mentioned Bible Verses: Genesis 1 – Humans are created in the image of God. Genesis 9 – God delegates to human government the authority to take life in matters of justice. Matthew 5:39 – “Do not resist the one who is evil… turn to him the other [cheek] also.”

Quick links: Summer R&R 1 at White Sulphur Springs All Summer R&R sessions at WSS All Summer Celebrations at Spring Canyon The Starting Point Project website   Episode summary: In this bonus episode, Jay Seegert, managing director of the Starting Point Project, shares his journey from a Christian upbringing to becoming a prominent speaker on defending the Christian worldview. He discusses the importance of understanding the differences between a biblical and a Christian worldview, emphasizing the need for clarity in definitions to engage in meaningful discussions. Jay also highlights the challenges of defending faith in a secular environment and the significance of grounding beliefs in Scripture rather than external influences. In this conversation, Jay and Crosspoint host Josh Jackson explore the relationship between science and the Christian worldview, addressing skepticism, the purpose of defending faith, and the importance of gentleness in apologetics. They emphasize that understanding Scripture does not require extensive scientific knowledge and that foundational questions about God's existence and the Bible's inspiration are crucial for Christians. The discussion highlights the need for respectful dialogue and the power of God's Word in addressing doubts and skepticism. There’s also discussion on the intersection of science, faith, and the interpretation of Biblical texts regarding the age of the Earth, the concept of death, and the existence of dinosaurs. Jay emphasizes the importance of understanding one's beliefs and the implications of those beliefs on one's worldview. Listeners also will hear more about the Starting Point Project, which aims to help individuals explore their foundational beliefs and engage in meaningful conversations about faith and science.

OCF MINISTRY NEWS  Staff changes across the OCF team: Visit ocfusa.org/job-openings to learn more about vacant positions as a result of OCF's ongoing job moves. https://www.ocfusa.org/job-openings/   Sign up for summer programs at the Conference Centers: Visit ocfusa.org/CCexperience to find the right program and week for you at Spring Canyon (Buena Vista, Colo.) or White Sulphur Springs (Manns Choice, Pa.). https://www.ocfusa.org/CCexperience/   Take the next step in growing as a Local Leader: Visit springcanyon.org/3b to learn more about the upcoming OCF LEAD! Local Ministry Leadership Track at Spring Canyon this June.   ASK OCF  Landon Spaulding, who now serves as OCF’s Online Training Development Coordinator, shares his experience as a SkillBridge intern with OCF.   To learn more about SkillBridge opportunities, read our latest article or visit ocfusa.org/skillbridge. https://www.ocfusa.org/2025/03/serving-beyond-the-uniform-ocfs-skillbridge-internships/ https://www.ocfusa.org/skillbridge/   GUEST SPOTLIGHT  Today’s guest spotlight features an excerpt of a conversation with Jay Seegert about defending the Christian worldview. Author, international speaker, and managing director of The Starting Point Project, Jay holds degrees in both Physics and Engineering Technology and has been lecturing on the authority of Scripture for the last 40 years. https://www.thestartingpointproject.com/   He explains what it means to defend the Christian worldview, the significance of addressing the existential questions, and how the Bible ought to be our key source for these conversations. Jay also shares what our motive should be when engaging in discussions with those who hold other worldviews.  Interested in hearing more from Jay about similar topics discussed in today’s episode? Stay tuned for the full, bonus episode coming this month, and consider attending the first week (6-13 June) of White Sulphur Springs’ Summer R&R program as Jay will lead speaker sessions related to his topic: “Defending the Christian Worldview.” https://www.whitesulphursprings.org/event/summer-rnr-1/   If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org. https://www.ocfusa.org/podcastguest/  POINTS TO PONDER  As you listen to this conversation with Jay, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:  In your own words, why is it important to be able to defend your Christian worldview?  When speaking with individuals of other worldviews, how do you ensure you care more about the individual with a need for the gospel than you do about winning the argument?  What topics have you been faced with during worldview-oriented conversations that you’d like to study further?  Jay mentioned 1 Peter 3:15. What other relevant verses come to mind when thinking about how to discuss worldviews? 

This month’s special episode enables you to listen to the Global Town Hall, which OCF hosted on 8 February at its Home Office in Colorado Springs, Colo., and over Zoom for members around the world.   You’ll hear from OCF Council President Dale Holland, OCF CEO/Executive Director Scott Fisher, Director of Field Operations Colin Wooten, Local Leaders Josh and Lindsey Bowen, USMA OCF Field Staff Bob Phillips, and OCF Conference Center Directors Paul Robyn and Kim Hawthorne. After the ministry updates from these individuals, attending members asked a variety of questions of the staff present.  If you’d prefer to watch the video of GTH 2025 and/or provide follow-up questions, comments, or feedback, visit ocfusa.org/gth2025.  Here are the links for some of the resources mentioned in this episode:   Local fellowships https://www.ocfusa.org/directory/  OCF Conference Centers https://www.ocfusa.org/experience/  ROTC ministry https://www.ocfusa.org/rotc/  OCF LEAD! Local Ministry Leadership Track (during Spring Canyon’s Summer Celebration #3) https://www.springcanyon.org/event/summer-celebration-3b/  Fellowship of Christian Military Ministries Annual Conference (21-24 March) https://militarybeliever.com/fcmm-conference/  OCF Handbook https://www.ocfusa.org/handbook/  Mentoring opportunities https://www.ocfusa.org/mentoring/  OCF’s Annual Priorities: What you need to know and how you can get involved https://www.ocfusa.org/2023/03/ocfs-annual-priorities-what-you-need-to-know-and-how-you-can-get-involved/  Interested in sharing your own story on a future Crosspoint episode? Complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org. https://www.ocfusa.org/podcastguest/  POINTS TO PONDER  As you listen to these ministry updates and Q&A session, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:  How have you seen God work through OCF in your own life?  What can OCF do to serve you better? (And visit ocfusa.org/gth2025 to let us know!)  What obstacles—whether personal, logistical, or financial—have kept you from engaging more deeply with Christian community and discipleship opportunities?   As you listen to this recording, what might the Lord be putting on your heart to do to engage with military ministry in a new way?

    OCF MINISTRY NEWS  Watch the latest OCF Global Town Hall: Visit ocfusa.org/gth2025 to watch the Town Hall. https://www.ocfusa.org/gth2025/  Serve and adventure at an OCF Conference Center this spring: Make this March a meaningful mix of service, growth, and adventure through one of these two opportunities.  Spring Break Service Project Week, 10-16 March, White Sulphur Springs (Manns Choice, Pa.) https://www.whitesulphursprings.org/event/sbsp-week/   Spring Break Service and Adventure Week, 21-30 March, Spring Canyon (Buena Vista, Colo.) https://www.springcanyon.org/event/spring-break-service-and-adventure-week-2/   Support OCF during your trips to the grocery store: Visit our Ways to Give page and scroll to the bottom to see if a store near you is eligible for the Community Rewards Program. https://www.ocfusa.org/donate/   ASK OCF  Col Houstoun Waring, USAF (Ret.), who serves as OCF’s Central Regional Coordinator, answered this frequently asked question from another OCFer: Why did OCF develop a Handbook? Who should use it? How should people use it?  To learn more about this impactful resource for military ministry, read the article about the Handbook’s background. https://www.ocfusa.org/2022/09/introducing-the-newest-tool-for-military-ministry-the-ocf-handbook/  Visit our website to access the online version of the OCF Handbook. https://www.ocfusa.org/handbook/   If you have a question that you want us to consider for a future “Ask OCF” segment, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org.  GUEST SPOTLIGHT  This month’s episode features not one but two guests: Lt Col Scott and Lisa Bedrosian, USAF (Ret.). The Bedrosians have been longtime supporters of White Sulphur Springs, OCF’s eastern Conference Center located in Manns Choice, Pa. Having had roles there as guests, staff, and volunteers over the years, Scott and Lisa recount some of their cherished memories made at WSS and share how God has used this special home away from home in their lives.  https://www.whitesulphursprings.org/   The Bedrosians describe how WSS helped them navigate the challenges of military life through mentorship, Biblical teachings, and a sense of belonging. They share influential anecdotes, like being reminded of their identity as missionaries in uniform, keeping symbolic “rocks” with spiritual truths, and renaming chores “blessings” because of a simple spatula on a dining room table at WSS. Knowing the conference center’s spiritually rich and personally challenging programs might be intimidating to some, they also answer the frequently asked question: “But will I have fun?”  Interested in having your own impactful experience at a Conference Center? Visit ocfusa.org/experience to learn more about White Sulphur Springs and its sister center Spring Canyon, located in Buena Vista, Colo. https://www.ocfusa.org/experience/   If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org. https://www.ocfusa.org/podcastguest/  POINTS TO PONDER  As you listen to this conversation with Scott and Lisa, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:  When was a time you were able to truly step away from your daily rhythms to rest and spend time with the Lord?   How did that experience affect your day-to-day life?  The Bedrosians share a few examples of life-changing advice through connections made at WSS. What impactful advice have you received, and have you shared it with others?  Scott calls a stay at WSS an “investment in your family and in your ministry.” What might be the difference that makes your average vacation that kind of investment instead? 

OCF MINISTRY NEWS  OCF Global Town Hall: Visit ocfusa.org/gth2025 to learn more about and register for the next iteration of this annual, virtual event, scheduled for 8 February.  Regional ROTC retreats: Visit ocfusa.org/rotc to find the next regional ROTC retreat near you.   Annual impact report: To hear more about Freddy’s OCF experience and other stories of impact from our conference centers, field locations, and more, download our Annual Impact Report by visiting ocfusa.org/air2024.     Mentoring opportunities: If you’re interested in mentoring or being trained in mentoring and want to learn more, visit ocfusa.org/mentoring or contact Bill Rue via bill.rue@ocfusa.org.      ASK OCF  LT Will Parker, USN, who serves as the OCF Submarine Community Coordinator, answered this frequently asked question from another OCFer: How do you balance/integrate OCF involvement with commitment to the local church?  To learn more about church-OCF dynamics and ways you can integrate your involvement in both, visit ocfusa.org/handbook/chapter-22.   If you have a question that you want us to consider for a future “Ask OCF” segment, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org.    GUEST SPOTLIGHT  This month’s episode puts the guest spotlight on CAPT Terry Wichert, USN (Ret.). Having served in the U.S. Navy for 30+ years, he now serves as the executive director for Association for Christian Conferences, Teaching and Services (ACCTS), a sister ministry of OCF.    Through personal experiences and some of the 650+ recorded prayers in the Bible, such as those in the books of Nehemiah and Daniel, Terry unpacks the power of persevering prayer. He explains what prayer is and what it isn’t, gives some ideas for developing a prayer life, and viewing prayer as a way to have a relationship with our Lord and align our hearts with His.  If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org.     POINTS TO PONDER  As you listen to this conversation with Terry, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:  Terry reminds us that God “loves for us to pray” and “hears our prayer.” How do these reminders affect your view of prayer?  To pose the question Terry says he often asks other believers: Are you satisfied with your prayer life? Why or why not?  Terry mentions a monthly habit of spending an entire day in prayer before the Lord. What habits might benefit you in your prayer life?  When was a time you prayed often about a certain topic but ultimately the Lord orchestrated circumstances that differed from your prayers? How did you respond? How did that experience grow you in your faith in Him? 

Show Notes  In this bonus episode, Josh, Beth, and Corrie explore the challenges of bitterness and resentment in military marriages, highlighting the influence of faith, perspective shifts, and community support. They discuss the importance of diverse friendships, flexibility in family life, and seeking counseling. Emphasizing teamwork, Beth and Corrie share strategies for balancing responsibilities and overcoming feelings of isolation and resentment.   Beth introduces insights from her new book for military spouses called “Another Move, God?: 30 Encouragements to Embrace Your Life as a Military Wife,” while Corrie shares about her dynamic Instagram platform, @ajoyfulmilspouse, that celebrates military life. Together, they stress that community and shared experiences can strengthen relationships amid military life’s unique challenges.  In the course of this conversation, we also reference Beth’s list of 10 ways to overcome bitterness and resentment, which you can view here.   If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org. https://www.ocfusa.org/podcastguest/  Takeaways  The person most affected by bitterness is often the one holding onto it.  Military spouses often feel bitterness due to the challenges of military life.  Community support is crucial for military spouses to overcome feelings of isolation.  Engaging in activities outside of the marriage can help alleviate pressure on the spouse.  Maintaining connections with friends, even if they are far away, is important.  Perspective shifts can help in dealing with feelings of loss and resentment.  Faith and reliance on God can transform bitterness into growth.  Assuming the best in your spouse fosters a healthier relationship.  God has a purpose for every assignment in life.  Points to Ponder   As you listen to this conversation with Beth and Corrie, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:  How does unresolved bitterness affect not only the individual experiencing it but also their relationships with family, friends, and community members? How can someone recognize when bitterness is taking a toll on their life and relationships?  In what ways can military spouses balance the demands of military life with self-care and maintaining friendships, even with distance involved? How might maintaining these connections positively impact their mental health and family life?  How can a change in perspective help military spouses navigate feelings of loss, resentment, or inequality in responsibilities? What strategies can help shift perspective from bitterness to personal growth?  Why is community support so crucial for military families, and what are some effective ways to build a support network? How can this support network contribute to overcoming isolation and fostering resilience?