The Catalyst

Summary In this conversation, Chris McAlilly shares his personal journey and the importance of understanding the end of our stories to fuel our faith. He emphasizes the role of hope in navigating life's challenges and the collective responsibility of communities to bring healing and renewal. Through the lens of scripture, particularly Revelation, he illustrates a vision of a hopeful future where God makes all things new. The discussion culminates in the significance of the sacrament of Holy Communion as a reminder of God's grace and presence in our lives. Takeaways Understanding the end of our story fuels our faith. Hope is essential for navigating life's challenges. The vision of Revelation offers a hopeful future. Community plays a crucial role in healing and renewal. The story of creation is foundational to our faith. Redemption through Jesus is a key part of the narrative. We are invited into God's larger story of renewal. Hope is a choice we can make every day. The sacrament of Holy Communion symbolizes God's grace. The final word in our stories is one of light and hope. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Personal Background 05:20 The Importance of Knowing the Story's End 12:23 The Vision of Revelation and Hope 20:14 Understanding the Bigger Story of Faith 25:29 The Role of Community in Fostering Hope 31:12 Historical Example of Hope in Action 39:25 The Sacrament of Communion and Final Thoughts

Summary In this conversation, Thomas Davis discusses the significance of discipleship, emphasizing that it occurs within relationships and is guided by the Holy Spirit. He shares personal anecdotes and scriptural references to illustrate how individuals can cultivate their faith through community, compassion, and a deep connection with God. The talk encourages listeners to embrace their spiritual journey with patience and openness, highlighting the importance of supporting one another in their faith. Keywords discipleship, relationships, Holy Spirit, compassion, faith, community, spiritual growth, Jesus, ministry, college Takeaways Discipleship is fundamentally about relationships. Being open to the Holy Spirit is crucial for spiritual growth. We may be the only Bible someone ever reads. Cultivating a relationship with the Holy Spirit is essential. You cannot be a Christian in isolation; community is vital. Compassion is a key aspect of following Jesus. In suffering, we can either grow better or become bitter. Success in faith is about becoming who God calls you to be. Take up your cross as part of your discipleship journey. Nothing sacred happens in a hurry; embrace the journey. Chapters 00:00 Welcoming and Introduction 05:08 The Importance of Discipleship 10:10 Understanding Discipleship Through Scripture 16:03 Cultivating Relationships in Discipleship 29:52 The Role of Compassion in Discipleship 39:12 Conclusion and Call to Action

Summary In this episode of the Catalyst Podcast, Eric Davis, Will Bailey, and Jenisha Owens discuss the significance of mission trips, particularly in Costa Rica. Will shares his personal journey and the growth of Costa Rica Mission Projects over the years. The conversation explores the benefits of mission trips for college students, the theological implications of communion, and the importance of cultural exchange and community building. The episode emphasizes that mission work is about mutual learning and connection rather than simply providing aid. Takeaways Will Bailey has been involved in Costa Rica mission projects for over 21 years. Costa Rica Mission Projects started with a relationship between a church in North Carolina and the Methodist Church of Costa Rica. The property for the mission projects was an abandoned coffee field, now producing coffee. Mission trips provide exposure to different cultures and foster relationships with local communities. Communion serves as a powerful reminder of the universal body of Christ. Participants in mission trips often find they are served just as much as they serve. Being equipped for mission work is about having an open heart and willingness to learn. The church in Costa Rica is already vibrant and active, and mission teams participate in that work. Personal stories from mission trips can have lasting impacts on participants. The conversation encourages college students to consider mission trips as a valuable experience. Keywords Costa Rica, mission projects, college students, community, communion, church, cultural exchange, service, theological insights, personal growth Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Icebreaker 02:21 Will's Journey to Costa Rica 04:33 Costa Rica Mission Projects Overview 09:43 Theological Insights on Communion and Missions 13:52 Overcoming Doubts About Mission Trips 17:49 Understanding the Role of the Church in Costa Rica 19:51 Closing Thoughts and Personal Stories

Summary The speaker discusses the parable of the prodigal son and explores the different characters in the story. He emphasizes the rejection of identifying with the prodigal son and encourages listeners to see themselves as the father or the jealous brother. The speaker also highlights the importance of reaching out to others and making new disciples. He questions why Christians often seek constant validation from God and suggests that it may stem from a lack of faith or an unhealthy obsession. The message concludes with a call to join in the mission of fulfilling God's work. Keywords parable, prodigal son, rejection, father, jealous brother, reaching out, discipleship, validation, faith, mission Takeaways The parable of the prodigal son invites us to see ourselves as the father or the jealous brother, rather than identifying solely with the prodigal son. As Christians, we are called to reach out to others and make new disciples, focusing on their journey with Christ rather than constantly seeking validation from God. We should have faith that God is always with us, even in the dry seasons, and trust in His presence and guidance. The story challenges us to take responsibility for fulfilling God's work and to act as His image-bearers in the world. Our mission as Christians is to go out and do good deeds, rather than solely relying on God's constant attention and reassurance. Reaching Out and Making New Disciples Fulfilling God's Work: Our Responsibility "Why are we so obsessed as strong Christians, why are we so obsessed with this constant need of validation from God?" "You've accepted Jesus in your life, He's always there, and He's even closer than before." "It's not always about my journey with Christ. Sometimes it's about, me help this person with their journey in Christ." Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 03:02 The Jealous Brother and Rejection 05:23 Identifying with Different Characters in the Story 07:42 Pushing People Away: Pharisees' Attitude 08:18 Obsession with Validation from God 09:26 The Father's Unconditional Love 11:09 Responsibility to Make New Disciples 12:15 God's Presence in the Dry Seasons 13:14 Invitation for the Elder Brother 14:03 Conclusion and Prayer

Summary In this conversation, Eric Davis, Elise, Dasani, and Dr. Brian Yeich discuss the concept of bands and the Inspire movement. They talk about the importance of community and the role of bands in discipleship. They also share personal experiences and encourage college students to join a band. The conversation highlights the need for accountability, vulnerability, and support in the Christian journey. Keywords bands, Inspire movement, community, discipleship, accountability, vulnerability, supportTakeaways Bands are small groups of people who meet regularly to share their life with Jesus and encourage one another. The Inspire movement aims to help people abide deeply with God and live missionally in the world. Bands provide a space for confession, prayer, and support, fostering spiritual growth and discipleship. Being part of a band helps combat loneliness and isolation, allowing individuals to experience the richness of community. Joining a band requires a desire for deeper connection, prayer for the right group of people, and a willingness to commit to the process. "A band, historically, is just a very small group of people... who meet together to share their life with Jesus, with one another." "The goal of Inspire is to help people abide deeply with God and live missionally in the world." "Sitting with three other girls that I have known for almost a year... we have never sat down and carved out space to be vulnerable and just to discuss these heavy questions." Introduction and Favorite Food 01:28 Introducing Dr. Brian Yike and the Inspire Movement 03:09 Understanding Bands and Their Purpose 04:27 The Inspire Movement's Resources and Goals 08:47 The Impact of Bands on College Students 09:10 The Moravians and the Importance of Commitment 10:31 Personal Experience with Bands 13:18 The Need for Community in Christianity 16:21 Encouragement for College Students Interested in Bands 19:12 Closing Remarks and Friendly Banter

Summary The conversation revolves around the topic of discipleship and the Forge Bands program at Southern Miss Wesley. The participants share their experiences and assumptions about discipleship and the benefits of being in a band. They discuss the importance of vulnerability, carving out time for discipleship, and the challenges faced by college students in maintaining a consistent rhythm. The conversation highlights the need for authentic and tangible faith in the 21st century. Keywords discipleship, Forge Bands, vulnerability, carving out time, college students, authentic faith Takeaways Forge Bands at Southern Miss Wesley is a discipleship program that invites individuals to be part of a small group for spiritual growth. Participants in Forge Bands have found it to be a safe space for vulnerability and sharing their hearts without judgment. Carving out dedicated time for discipleship can be challenging for college students, but it is essential for personal growth and building authentic relationships. Authentic and tangible faith is desired in the 21st century, where individuals seek genuine connections and examples of living out one's faith. "Forge Bands are meant to draw each other closer and draw each other to Jesus." "Carving out time for discipleship builds a rhythm and provides a judgment-free zone for sharing and encouragement." "Spreading faith and discipleship is about being authentically yourself and living out your love for Christ." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Forge Bands and Discipleship 02:55 Assumptions and Experiences with Forge Bands 03:34 The Importance of Vulnerability and Dedicated Time 05:20 Spreading Faith Authentically in the 21st Century 10:06 Continuing the Conversation on Discipleship 11:13 Challenges of Carving Out Time for Discipleship

The conversation begins with a prayer and a reflection on the importance of community. The speaker shares a personal story about running out of sauce at a restaurant and relates it to the theme of community. He then introduces the scripture passage for the night, Luke chapter 10, and mentions that the next week's lesson will be brought by someone else. The speaker asks the audience to turn to their neighbors and greet them. He emphasizes the value of community and the importance of each individual's presence. The speaker then shares a personal story about getting lost as a child and relates it to the parable of the lost sheep. He asks the audience to reflect on who their enemy is and shares his own experience of anger towards someone who caused harm to his family. The speaker then delves into the parable of the Good Samaritan and explains the historical context of the Samaritans and their relationship with the Jews. He highlights the discomfort and compassion shown by the Samaritan in the story and relates it to the concept of grace. The speaker encourages the audience to be spaces of grace and to love their enemies. He concludes with a prayer and a call to worship. Keywordsprayer, community, scripture, parable, enemy, grace, love Takeaways The importance of community and the value of each individual's presence The need to extend grace and love even to our enemies The power of personal stories and parables in conveying deeper truths The transformative nature of grace and forgiveness Sound Bites "There is a part of community that you belong to." "Who's your enemy?" "Grace is uncomfortable." Chapters 00:00 Prayer and Reflection on Community 02:38 Introduction to Scripture Passage 05:01 Personal Story and Connection to Parable of the Lost Sheep 08:09 Reflecting on Our Enemies 11:19 Exploring the Parable of the Good Samaritan 20:08 The Kingdom of God and the Power of Grace 28:07 Living as Spaces of Grace 32:09 Prayer and Call to Worship

The conversation is centered around the theme of belonging and discipleship. The speaker emphasizes the importance of finding one's place of belonging and the role of discipleship in building relationships and community. The story of the lost sheep is used as an example of how God relentlessly seeks and finds those who are lost. The speaker encourages the audience to abide in God and to trust in His constant pursuit until they find their place of belonging. Keywords: belonging, discipleship, relationships, community, lost sheep, abidingTakeaways Belonging is important for individuals to find their place and purpose in life. Discipleship involves building relationships and community. God relentlessly seeks and finds those who are lost. Abiding in God and trusting in His pursuit leads to finding one's place of belonging. The Journey to Belonging Abiding in God's Constant Pursuit "It's okay to be alone until you find where you belong." "Until." "Hold on to it. Remind yourself until."

The conversation explores the topic of learning and growing, specifically focusing on the journey to belonging and building bridges through community. The hosts discuss the parable of the lost sheep and the idea of sheep as a posture and title. They also talk about hearing the voice of Jesus and how it can be experienced in different ways. The conversation then shifts to the role of Christian community in facilitating growth and understanding, with a focus on small groups and discipleship. The hosts share personal experiences and lessons learned in their own journeys of growth. The conversation concludes with excitement for an upcoming event and a lighthearted discussion about a community member. Keywordslearning, growing, journey to belonging, building bridges, community, parable of the lost sheep, sheep as a posture, hearing the voice of Jesus, Christian community, small groups, discipleship, growth, understanding Takeaways The journey to belonging and building bridges through community is an important aspect of learning and growing. Hearing the voice of Jesus can be experienced in different ways, such as through other people or in nature. Christian community, particularly through small groups and discipleship, plays a crucial role in facilitating growth and understanding. Expectations and perfectionism can hinder growth, and it is important to trust in the Holy Spirit's work. Discipleship involves both a human element and the presence of Jesus, who mediates conversations and guides the process of growth. Hearing the Voice of Jesus in Different Ways "How often, just like sheep, how often dumb we are and how good the shepherd is that goes and finds us wherever our dumbness has gotten us." "Where do you most often sense the company of Jesus? I think one is when I'm alone and when I'm going through something." "Does your Christian community expect people to grow in understanding? And how does it help that to happen?"

In this episode of the Catalyst Podcast, Eric Davis interviews Dasani Hill and Elise Stringer, two transfer students at the Wesley at Southern Miss. They discuss the challenges of being a Christian in college, finding their faith, and the importance of community. Dasani and Elise share their experiences of feeling torn between two lifestyles and the pressure to fit in. They also talk about the impact of having mentors who met them where they were and normalized their struggles. The conversation highlights the need for college students to make practical choices, such as seeking community and not being lukewarm in their faith. The hosts emphasize the importance of showing up and loving both God and others. They also address common problems faced by college students, such as the pressure to have life figured out and the fear of losing friends. The episode concludes with words of encouragement to enjoy college, find community, and take the next step in one's faith journey. Takeaways Being a Christian in college can be challenging, especially when trying to balance two lifestyles and fit in with friends who may have different values. Having mentors who meet you where you are and normalize your struggles can be instrumental in finding and strengthening your faith. Practical choices, such as seeking community and not being lukewarm in your faith, can help college students navigate the challenges they face. It's important to show up and be present in your faith journey, trusting that good things will happen when you do. Common problems faced by college students include the pressure to have life figured out and the fear of losing friends. Enjoying college, finding community, and taking the next step in your faith journey are key to finding grace and hope along the way.

Join us on this heartfelt episode of "Light in the Valley," where we explore the theme of finding hope in the midst of life's difficulties. Life's journey can be a roller coaster, filled with unexpected twists and turns, and sometimes we find ourselves navigating through dark valleys. In this episode, we share stories and insights on discovering sources of joy and light even in the most challenging moments. Tune in for a comforting and uplifting conversation that reminds us there's always a glimmer of hope, no matter how tough the journey may seem. Find inspiration and encouragement as we navigate life's roller coaster together.

🎙️ Podcast Invitation: “All the Ways You Can” Embark on a transformative journey with our podcast, “All the Ways You Can,” where we explore the profound impact of doing all the good you can in every conceivable way. We believe that small actions, big initiatives, and everything in between can make a difference.

Explore the transformative power of relationships in this inspiring message. Learn how acknowledging our individual limits isn't an excuse but a reality that can lead to collective empowerment. Drawing inspiration from Nehemiah's story in the Old Testament, discover the profound impact of linking together to accomplish good. The speaker shares personal experiences of facing limits and emphasizes the joy that comes from doing good together. Join the call to action, inviting listeners to reflect on their own limits and the possibilities that arise when we unite to make a positive impact. Embrace the strength found in community, where limits are shared, and good is accomplished through all available means.

Join us for an inspiring journey as we delve into the heart and soul of service and compassion in our latest video and podcast, "Do All The Good You Can" featuring the insightful Rev. Eric Davis. As a seasoned spiritual leader, Rev. Davis shares profound insights and personal anecdotes that illuminate the transformative power of doing good in our communities. In this uplifting conversation, we explore the essence of the timeless quote, "Do all the good you can, by all the means you can," and how it serves as a guiding principle in Rev. Davis's life and ministry. From practical tips on fostering a spirit of generosity to stories of impactful community outreach, this video and podcast are a wellspring of inspiration for those seeking to make a positive difference in the world. Rev. Eric Davis's warm and engaging storytelling, coupled with his deep spiritual wisdom, creates a compelling narrative that resonates with individuals from all walks of life. Whether you're looking for actionable insights or a dose of motivation, "Do All The Good You Can" is a must-watch and must-listen that encourages us to embrace the transformative power of kindness and service. Tune in and embark on a journey of goodwill with Rev. Eric Davis!

As we continue our journey we talk about the boldness in Christ that Paul calls us all to.

In this episode we explore the idea of Jesus being the one that quench’s our thirst in our inner most life.

Join us for a recap and encouragement of taking God into everyone phase of life.

Enjoy today’s episode and recap of Blake’s teaching on Hollow Christianity.

Enjoy this episode. Keep an eye for other special episodes.

In this week’s episode, we are in the final part of our series. Are you ready, willing, and able?