The Parable Podcast with Danielle Zapchenk

Have you realized the pieces of your broken life have now been transformed into something beautiful. Today you are going to meet Keren Calero who is a worship leader and future graduated psychology major. Keren shares with us about how she is continuing to heal from childhood trauma and now is dreaming of what is to come. She emphasizes the role of faith in her healing process and how she has learned to embrace her worthiness. Keren's story serves as a beacon of hope for those facing similar challenges, encouraging listeners to seek help and find healing through faith and professional support. We do discuss child sexual abuse, if you suffered through abuse as a child or even still today, here is a list of resources. Please take a lesson from Keren, there is a never a wrong time to ask for help. Grateful for Keren's willingness to step out in bravery and share her journey with us.Sound Bites"God has really healed me and continues to heal me.""It's okay to ask for help."Reflection Questions:What hidden or broken parts of your life have you not given over to God?I would love it if you would write a note or a full letter about how worthy you are to god to release any false lies you may have holding on to your lifeConnect with Keren | InstagramKeywords: mental health, childhood trauma, psychology, healing, faith, self-worth, personal growth, therapy, empowerment, the parable podcastHow to support The Parable Podcast: #1 Subscribe or Follow the show so you don't miss the next episode of The Parable Podcast through your favorite podcast app (i.e. iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher). #2 Share this show with a friend, this is a perfect opportunity to start your own Parable Conversation together.#3 Are you in need of a speaker for your Church, Women's Group, or event? Contact Danielle to learn more.

Have you held something broken in your hands and felt like it wasn’t worth keeping? Joining me is ministry leader, author, speaker, Jess Basson. She shares about how God repeatedly washes over us with kindness and goodness. Originally from South Africa, Jess lives in Colorado with her husband and two sons. With twenty years of experience, Jess is an international speaker and preacher. She speaks with humor, passion, and humility. Jess approaches the depths of Scripture with a lens for reaching outsiders and inspiring followers of Jesus to live with greater love and service. We discuss healing and transformation in our lives. Plus, our conversation delves into the role of the church and emphasizing the significance of support and understanding in the healing process.Reflection QuestionsJess talked about being in a forced "materinity leave" - a holding pattern if you will.   If you are feeling like that today, ask God to continually provide patience and direction on his Next steps for you.What broken piece are you holding onto, hoping for change and God may be saying I am just not done with that yet?Connect with JessWebsite | Instagram | Her BooksKeywords: Jess Basson, South Africa, identity, community, rites of passage, healing, church, ADHD, transformationHow to support The Parable Podcast: #1 Subscribe or Follow the show so you don't miss the next episode of The Parable Podcast through your favorite podcast app (i.e. iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher). #2 Share this show with a friend, this is a perfect opportunity to start your own Parable Conversation together.#3 Are you in need of a speaker for your Church, Women's Group, or event? Contact Danielle to learn more.

Have you felt like you are in the middle of your parable story? Joining me is Brian Utter, the director of World Mission Broadcast and Executive director of Olive Media Group, shares his passion for media and missions. He discusses his background in journalism and how he transitioned to broadcast communications. He emphasizes the importance of authentic and compelling content that connects with people and points them to Jesus. He shares about how he and his wife continue to love and advocate for their son highlighting the challenges and rewards of raising a child with trauma and special needs. He discusses the difficulties of finding appropriate schools and services for his son, as well as the challenges of managing his son's outbursts. Brian emphasizes the importance of faith, community support, and self-care in navigating the journey of advocating for a child with special needs. He encourages parents to seek resources, join support groups, and share their stories to build a network of support. Grateful for Brian sharing his parable story so we can better understand and navigate those we love in this world.TakeawaysMedia has the power to connect people and point them to Jesus.Authenticity and compelling content are crucial in capturing and maintaining audience attention.Raising a child with trauma and special needs requires a dedicated support system and access to appropriate resources. Finding appropriate schools and services for children with mental health and behavioral challenges can be extremely difficult and frustrating.Self-care is essential for parents advocating for their children, and seeking therapy and joining support groups can provide much-needed support.Sound Bites"Within the first six seconds is how you capture the audience.""Our society is in a loneliness epidemic.""Because of his autism for a long time, the only emotion he could show us was rage."Reflection QuestionsWhat are some ways to release the tension in your life?Isolation is very real and pretty easy to fall into. What is one way you can reach out to a friend to continue to strengthen your community baseConnect with Brian | XWorld Mission Broadcastkeywords: media, missions, journalism, broadcast communications, authenticity, foster care, adoption, trauma, special needs, parenting, mental health, behavioral challenges, advocacy, faith, community support, self-care, resources, support groupsHow to support The Parable Podcast: #1 Subscribe or Follow the show so you don't miss the next episode of The Parable Podcast through your favorite podcast app (i.e. iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher). #2 Share this show with a friend, this is a perfect opportunity to start your own Parable Conversation together.#3 Are you in need of a speaker for your Church, Women's Group, or event? Contact Danielle to learn more.

Have you lost the art of connection in your life? Software developer Alan Snyder is joining me today. he shares candidly about how God used him throughout his faith journey. Alan shares his journey of faith and the impact of planting seeds in people's lives. He talks about the importance of being aware of how God can use us and not sabotaging our faith. He emphasizes the value of showing up and being part of a church or small group. Alan also talks about his passion for connecting people in the workplace through his organization, Connecting Congregations.TakeawaysBe aware of how God can use you in your life and don't sabotage your faith by thinking you're not capable.God's love has the power to transform lives. Showing up and being part of a church or small group is critical for spiritual growth.Incorporating faith into marriage involves praying together and being an example to your spouse.Connecting with other Christians in the workplace can strengthen both personal and professional relationships.Being involved in a marriage ministry and connecting with other married couples can improve the quality of a marriage.Practicing what you preach and being a good spouse is important for setting a positive example for your children.Sound Bites"If God calls you to do something, just be aware that you're worthy of that calling.""Good leaders teach other people how to lead.""It's critical to have relationships in your life with other Christians that you can admire."Connect with Alan | EmailConnecting CongregationsNu FrontiersAlan Snyder Musickeywords: faith, planting seeds, awareness, prioritizing God, involvement, community, transformative power, faith journey, connecting with other Christians, showing up, church, small group, marriage, incorporating faith, praying together, supporting each other, workplace, Connecting CongregationsHow to support The Parable Podcast: #1 Subscribe or Follow the show so you don't miss the next episode of The Parable Podcast through your favorite podcast app (i.e. iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher). #2 Share this show with a friend, this is a perfect opportunity to start your own Parable Conversation together.#3 Are you in need of a speaker for your Church, Women's Group, or event? Contact Danielle to learn more.

Have you ever asked yourself the question what is standing in my way? Joining me today is Sarah Cochran pastor and Director of Advocacy at Destiny Rescue. We discuss Sarah's journey as a pastor, and the highlights and setbacks of traveling and pastoring together. She shares the challenges of building adult friendships and Sarah's personal story of infertility and how it has shaped her ministry. Sarah shares how she felt called to ministry and the struggle of comparing herself to others. She discusses the struggles, the emotions, and the process of finding hope and purpose in the midst of infertility. Sarah also talks about her work with Destiny Rescue, an organization that helps survivors of human trafficking, and how it has taught her about healing and forgiveness. She shares the importance of having a strong support system and the power of using our voices to make a difference.Sound Bites"What I have experienced and learned is it's okay to ask somebody, 'Can we be friends?'""What is standing in your way? Why do you flinch every time somebody calls you pastor?""Sarah, will you just take care of my kids? I have kids and I'm calling you to take care of my kids.""But actually I might have something really awesome for you if you would just be willing to step in to taking care of my kids."Reflection Questions1. What is Standing in your way right now? Is there a boulder in your path or have you just not had the courage to go forward?2. From this conversation, the question came up - Sarah, will you just take care of my kids?  Who is God asking you to take care of today for him?Connect with SarahDestiny Rescue | Instagram | E-mailSarah and I mentioned Women Speakers Collective Bootcamp. If you are interested in speaking and feel called to lean into that - CLICK HERE. Happy to answer any questions too!keywords: pastor's wife, pastoring, adult friendships, infertility, ministry, purpose, relationship, God, struggles, hope, purpose, Destiny Rescue, healing, forgiveness, support system, voices, empowermentHow to support The Parable Podcast: #1 Subscribe or Follow the show so you don't miss the next episode of The Parable Podcast through your favorite podcast app (i.e. iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher). #2 Share this show with a friend, this is a perfect opportunity to start your own Parable Conversation together.#3 Are you in need of a speaker for your Church, Women's Group, or event? Contact Danielle to learn more.

Have you ever wondered if you are going to see the end of the story? Will there be grace up ahead? Tiffany Bluhm is a speaker and the author of The Women We’ve Been Waiting For, Prey Tell, and other books and studies. With over 15 years of experience in ministry and nonprofit leadership, she speaks, writes, and leads at the intersection of justice, women’s issues, and faith for conferences, churches, and companies. Her work has been featured in Publisher’s Weekly, the YouVersion Bible app, Sojourners, Propel Ecclesia, and more. She lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband and two sons. In this engaging conversation, Tiffany shares her journey from a young girl with a passion for writing to now becoming a published author and advocate for women's empowerment. She reflects on her own life experiences with poverty, cultural identity, and the importance of self-care and community. Tiffany discusses her new devotional, 'The Women We've Been Waiting For,' emphasizing the significance of women's roles in scripture and the need for a holistic approach to self-care that connects to social justice. I so much enjoyed Tiffany's personal stories, combined with her wisdom that she brings to the table.TakeawaysTiffany's experiences with poverty shaped her understanding of resilience.Cultural identity plays a crucial role in Tiffany's faith journey.The story of her adoption highlights the importance of connection.Tiffany emphasizes the concept of retroactive grace in her life.Adoption brings both challenges and blessings in understanding identity.Her new devotional aims to empower women through shared stories.Self-care is about recognizing one's worth beyond accomplishments.Reflection Questions:(Taken from Tiffany's new book) How do you define self-care?  And maybe after reviewing this episode, is time to make an adjustment?How can you invite holy imagination into your prayer time and conversations with God today?Connect with TiffanyInstagram The Women We've Been Waiting For: A 40-Day Devotional for Self-Care, Resilience, and Communal Flourishing#thewomenwevebeenwaitingfor Keywords: Tiffany Bluhm, writing, adoption, faith, women's empowerment, self-care, cultural identity, retroactive grace, community, devotionalHow to support The Parable Podcast: #1 Subscribe or Follow the show so you don't miss the next episode of The Parable Podcast through your favorite podcast app (i.e. iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher). #2 Share this show with a friend, this is a perfect opportunity to start your own Parable Conversation together.#3 Are you in need of a speaker for your Church, Women's Group, or event? Contact Danielle to learn more.

Have you ever felt like your life is a bit rough around the edges? If so this episode is for you! This is our final Fall Collaboration installment with The Baton Pass.  They empower women to share their stories in a powerful way that brings hope, healing, and radical restoration.  I have had our guest on my radar for some time so I am so excited to introduce to you speaker, writer, coach, and upcoming Baton Pass Arizona Event speaker Bri Johns who shares about what happens when we love people where they are.In this engaging conversation, we explore themes of authenticity, the evolution of friendships, and the importance of creating safe spaces for women. In between plenty of laughs, we also discuss the role of worship in personal growth and the need for bravery in embracing one's true self. I truly hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did.Sound Bites"Authenticity breeds real deeper connection.""We all go through messy moments."Reflection QuestionsWhat rough edges do you have to let go of and just start embracing about yourself?How can you be more brave in the way you view yourself and your relationship with God?Brave Enough - Phoenix - Join us for Brave Enough, an inspiring women's event designed to empower you to step into your full potential by embracing authenticity and courage. This is your opportunity to connect with like-minded women in a safe, supportive environment where you can hear the stories of others. We invite you to be brave enough to show up, seek meaningful connections, and discover the strength that comes from authentic and vulnerable conversations. Don't miss out on this transformative experience—register now to be a part of a community that uplifts, encourages, and walks alongside you on your journey to true empowerment.PURCHASE TICKETS FOR BRAVE ENOUGHConnect with the Baton PassWebsite | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube Our Baton Pass Collaboration PlaylistConnect with Bri | Wild and Be | Instagramkeywords: authenticity, friendships, community, women empowerment, personal growth, safe spaces, worship, parable stories, bravery, connectionHow to support The Parable Podcast: #1 Subscribe or Follow the show so you don't miss the next episode of The Parable Podcast through your favorite podcast app (i.e. iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher). #2 Share this show with a friend, this is a perfect opportunity to start your own Parable Conversation together.#3 Are you in need of a speaker for your Church, Women's Group, or event? Contact Danielle to learn more.

Janelle Hermann is the owner of the Gathering Place in Central Illinois and today she shares her journey of starting the venue and her heart for hospitality. Janelle also talks about the impact of stories and the need for community and support, which led her into her connection with the Baton Pass. She shares her personal story of miscarriages and the emotional challenges she faced, highlighting the importance of seeking help and finding hope in God's control. Janelle shares her journey of experiencing miscarriages and struggling with infertility. She talks about the emotional toll it took on her and how she sought counseling to work through her grief and trauma. Janelle also discusses the importance of finding her identity in Christ and not defining herself solely by her ability to have children. She emphasizes the need for patience, trust, and faith in God's plan, even when it doesn't align with our desires. Janelle highlights the significance of community and having a support system during difficult times. Sound Bites"I wish that I had something like that to go to. And I wish I had heard other people's stories.""I think we need to work on your identity first.""What happens in our life when we don't get the desires of our heart?""My identity is in Christ. He's the one that's sustaining us, not kids."Reflection QuestionsSometimes our identity can get wrapped up in the dos and dont's.  What are a few of those unsaid things in your life that it is time to let go of?The desires of your heart matter to God, but how can you release them to him and seek his understanding as a place to find comfort.Brave Enough - Central Illinois - Join us for Brave Enough, an inspiring women's event designed to empower you to step into your full potential by embracing authenticity and courage.PURCHASE TICKETS FOR BRAVE ENOUGHConnect with the Baton PassWebsite | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube Connect with Janelle | Email | InstagramThe Gathering Place | Instagramkeywords: hospitality, events, weddings, community, support, miscarriage, hope, God's control, infertility, grief, trauma, counseling, identity, faith, trust, supportHow to support The Parable Podcast: #1 Subscribe or Follow the show so you don't miss the next episode of The Parable Podcast through your favorite podcast app (i.e. iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher). #2 Share this show with a friend, this is a perfect opportunity to start your own Parable Conversation together.#3 Are you in need of a speaker for your Church, Women's Group, or event? Contact Danielle to learn more.

Has there been a person in your life that provided support in a challenging season? This is our second week collaborating again with The Baton Pass as they head into their Fall Event season called Brave Enough.  If you haven’t heard about the Baton Pass before they exist to empower women to overcome through events, workshops and so much more.  Today we are going to dive into where courage meets connection with the Baton Pass Hospitality Coordinator Julie Thomas who shares about what happened after the diagnosis shook her world. We explore the importance of sharing personal stories, the journey through life's challenges, particularly cancer, and the strength found in community and vulnerability. They emphasize the significance of being brave and open in the face of adversity. Julie shares her transformative journey with breast cancer and how it has impacted her faith and relationships, encouraging others to embrace their stories and connect with the Baton Pass community."We want our stories to be shared." - Julie ThomasTakeawaysWe all have stories that need to be shared.Community support is vital during challenging times.Vulnerability can be a source of strength.Sharing experiences can empower others.Bravery is not the absence of fear, but action despite it.Every woman's journey is unique and valuable.The Baton Pass community fosters support and encouragement.Reflection Questions How can you choose bravery today?  Sharing your story,  acknowledging certain aspects that need to change, making  a tough decision -  you decideReflect on someone who you can now realize was your Susan when you needed them the most.Brave Enough - Chicagoland - Join us for Brave Enough, an inspiring women's event designed to empower you to step into your full potential by embracing authenticity and courage. This is your opportunity to connect with like-minded women in a safe, supportive environment where you can hear the stories of others. We invite you to be brave enough to show up, seek meaningful connections, and discover the strength that comes from authentic and vulnerable conversations. Don't miss out on this transformative experience—register now to be a part of a community that uplifts, encourages, and walks alongside you on your journey to true empowerment.Grab your tickets now Connect with the Baton PassWebsite | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube Connect with Julie | E-mailHow to support The Parable Podcast: #1 Subscribe or Follow the show so you don't miss the next episode of The Parable Podcast through your favorite podcast app (i.e. iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher). #2 Share this show with a friend, this is a perfect opportunity to start your own Parable Conversation together.#3 Are you in need of a speaker for your Church, Women's Group, or event? Contact Danielle to learn more.

Have you spent years making sure the buried secrets of your life stay buried? We are thrilled to collaborate again with The Baton Pass as they head into their Fall Event season called Brave Enough. If you haven’t heard about The Baton Pass before they exist to:EMPOWER OVERCOMERS TO SHARE THEIR STORIES IN A POWERFUL WAY THAT BRINGS HOPE, HEALING, AND RADICAL RESTORATION. This mission connects to what The Parable Podcast is all about and for the past few years I have hosted some of their events, am on their Leadership team, and seen the impact of what is happening in the hearts of so many women. Joining me today is one of their Arizona team members Amanda Bates who shares about what happens when buried secrets come to the surface. You are not going to want the miss the hope that came to fruition out of what we feel is the messy.Sound Bites"God whispered so tenderly to my heart, I am Elroi. And I was like, oh gosh, okay, I am Elroi. Elroi, the God who sees me.""Healing is uprooting the weeds in our lives to keep us from the beauty that God has in our story.""In our lowest moments, God sees us. That was sobering for me. God saw my pain. He saw my cries and he was never unaware of anything that I was going through.""God mended a lot of different relationships because my prayer after everything exploded was God, mend the relationships that need to be mended.Reflection Questions 1. What have you lost in the past,(job, relationship, family, church) that you can now be grateful it happened.2. In your heart of hearts, what have you buried that you don’t want anyone to know? Isolation is Satan’s greatest tactic and so the first step in speaking it out.Brave Enough - Phoenix - Join us for Brave Enough, an inspiring women's event designed to empower you to step into your full potential by embracing authenticity and courage. This is your opportunity to connect with like-minded women in a safe, supportive environment where you can hear the stories of others. We invite you to be brave enough to show up, seek meaningful connections, and discover the strength that comes from authentic and vulnerable conversations. Don't miss out on this transformative experience—register now to be a part of a community that uplifts, encourages, and walks alongside you on your journey to true empowerment.Connect with the Baton PassWebsite | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube Connect with AmandaInstagram | E-mail | BlogSurvivors of WarHow to support The Parable Podcast: #1 Subscribe or Follow the show so you don't miss the next episode of The Parable Podcast through your favorite podcast app (i.e. iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher). #2 Share this show with a friend, this is a perfect opportunity to start your own Parable Conversation together.#3 Are you in need of a speaker for your Church, Women's Group, or event? Contact Danielle to learn more.

Have you been struggling with not feeling a sense of peace in your soul? Joining me today is my friend Jenna Holmes she shares candidly about what God did with her doubt and the overwhelming peace that he provided her.Jenna is a mentor, writer, speaker, and sister in Christ, who is a passionate ministry leader with over a decade of experience of leading and teaching in the local church. Jenna draws from a wellspring of biblical truth and real-world wisdom, with an academic background in spiritual formation, theology, and exegesis.Through personal testimony of turmoil, single motherhood, bold faith, and a resurrected life, Jenna invites others to believe in God for more than they can ask or imagine, and reminds us that we serve a good and gracious God. Jenna’s God given calling is to lead a new generation of believers into a spiritually formed life that is made complete by the abundant love that God has for them, despite who they have been or what they have done.Sound Bites:"Blessed are those who believe without seeing me.""That same power that raised Jesus from the dead can breathe life into the dead things in our life.""He saw this when I didn't see it. And he's really bringing me through, he's really saving me through the midst of this turmoil."Reflection Questions:Journal through, does my inside world match my outside world?  Are you hiding your authentic self because you don’t want others to see it.If doubt has been racking your brain - be honest like Jenna said, ask him - talk to him and seek what he has in store for you.Connect with Jenna | Instagram#theparablepodcast #yourstorymatters #christianpodcast #hope #whatIlearned #faith #womenspeakerscollective #divorce #singlemotherhood #singlemomjourney #abundantloveofGodHow to support The Parable Podcast: #1 Subscribe or Follow the show so you don't miss the next episode of The Parable Podcast through your favorite podcast app (i.e. iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher). #2 Share this show with a friend, this is a perfect opportunity to start your own Parable Conversation together.#3 Are you in need of a speaker for your Church, Women's Group, or event? Contact Danielle to learn more.

Feeling a bit congested in your relationship with God? Today I would love to share one of my recent messages from our home church. We are walking through a series called "Sensing God" and I really jumped wholeheartedly into smell.  Please enjoy this message wherever it may find you today.Sermon NotesDo you think it is possible to sense God's presence through smell, and if so, are you embodying the aroma of His presence in your life? Yet I am so thankful to God, who always marches us to victory under the banner of the Anointed One; and through us He spreads the beautiful fragrance of His knowledge to every corner of the earth. 2 Corinthians 2:14 The VoiceLongevity - lasting scentSillage - How far a scent travelsComplexity - layered notesBe strong and courageous. Never be afraid or discouraged because I am your God, the Eternal One, and I will remain with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9 In a turbulent world where people are either dying or being rescued, we are the sweet smell of the Anointed to God our Father. To those who are dying, they smell the stench of death in us. And to those being rescued, we are the unmistakable scent of life. Who is worthy of this calling? 2 Corinthians 2:15-16 The VoiceWhen we embody Jesus we are the unmistakable scent of life worthy of his calling.Reflection Questions1. If you had to smell the aroma of your life, what do you feel like it smells like on your best day and your worst day?2. What one scent to use to ground your time or connect with Jesus? That way when you smell it, you are reminded of him.Connect with Danielle | Instagram #theparablepodcast #yourstorymatters #christianpodcast #hope #whatIlearned #faith #christianity #scent #humansenses #sensinggod #holyaroma #aromaHow to support The Parable Podcast: #1 Subscribe or Follow the show so you don't miss the next episode of The Parable Podcast through your favorite podcast app (i.e. iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher). #2 Share this show with a friend, this is a perfect opportunity to start your own Parable Conversation together.#3 Are you in need of a speaker for your Church, Women's Group, or event? Contact Danielle to learn more.

Have you ever wrestled with God about doubt in Him? Joining me today is TV Producer, Editor, and Podcaster Mikayla Nembhard who shares how her doubt shaped her relationship with God. Mikayla brings vibrant creativity as a Television Producer for On The Path on Yes TV Canada and Pioneer Network. She’s a passionate content creator for Love is Moving and Chasing Justice, while co-hosting The Brave Girls Podcast for Brave Global, inspiring and empowering young women and girls worldwide. She is a joy to listen to but also opens up about the challenges she walked through when dealing with doubt in her faith. There are lessons in finding our identity in him and taking the leap of faith into obedience. Please enjoy this episode wherever it finds you today.Reflection QuestionsMikayla said she is about to turn 25, think back to that age for you.  How can see God’s faithfulness in your life since then?What are you currently wrestling with God about, doubt / identity?  Journal about what is truly on your heart, don’t worry He can take it.Connect with MikaylaInstagram | LinktreeThe Brave Girls PodcastOn The Path PodcastHow to support The Parable Podcast: #1 Subscribe or Follow the show so you don't miss the next episode of The Parable Podcast through your favorite podcast app (i.e. iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher). #2 Share this show with a friend, this is a perfect opportunity to start your own Parable Conversation together.#3 Are you in need of a speaker for your Church, Women's Group, or event? Contact Danielle to learn more.

Joining me is rest champion Jennifer Axcell. She shares how an adventure-filled jump led her to a place of surrender. Jennifer shares her journey of overcoming burnout and discovering the importance of rest and dependence on God. She emphasizes the unhealthy relationship with rest in our hustle culture and the need for boundaries and self-discovery. The parable story begins with the loss of her beloved dog and the theme of surrender and God's closeness in difficult times. She discusses the importance of feeling and processing emotions, particularly grief, to fully embrace new experiences. Jennifer emphasizes the posture of surrender, letting go of control, and trusting in God's plan. She suggests practices such as burning ceremonies and focusing on who God is to cultivate a surrendered heart. TakeawaysRecognize the importance of rest and prioritize it in your lifeEmbrace self-discovery and understand your body's signals for restPractice surrender and trust in God's presence in difficult timesFeeling and processing emotions, including grief, is essential for embracing new experiences and finding excitement in life.Cultivating a posture of surrender involves recognizing who God is and trusting in His timing and provision.Embracing change and stepping out of our comfort zones can lead to a deeper understanding of ourselves and God's purpose for our lives.Sound Bites"We just have a very unhealthy relationship with rest and believers are no different.""Look what you can do when you trust and surrender. Now imagine what I will do through you if you will trust and surrender to me.""Jumping out of a plane was easier than leaving the comfort of the familiar."Reflection QuestionsHow can you discover and champion rest for yourself today?In what areas this week can you choose a posture of surrender and live open-handed?Connect with JenniferInstagram | Loto Wellness | Websitekeywords: rest, burnout, dependence on God, boundaries, self-discovery, hustle culture, adventure, travel, surrender, God's closeness, surrender, fear, skydiving, life changes, emotions, grief, control, trust, God's plan, burning ceremonies, posture of surrender How to support The Parable Podcast: #1 Subscribe or Follow the show so you don't miss the next episode of The Parable Podcast through your favorite podcast app (i.e. iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher). #2 Share this show with a friend, this is a perfect opportunity to start your own Parable Conversation together.#3 Are you in need of a speaker for your Church, Women's Group, or event? Contact Danielle to learn more.

Have you ever wrestled with God about your identity? Joining me is my new friend Angela Lam who works with Boundless and Hagar’s Voice. Ang shares a parable about meeting God and realizing her limited understanding of God's nature. In this conversation, we discuss the unraveling of traditional beliefs and the freedom found in thinking outside the box. Plus, explore the concept of God's will and how it is not limited to one path but is a co-creation between God and individuals. Ang also discusses the importance of imagination in faith practices and prayer life. The conversation encourages listeners to reconsider their understanding of God and to embrace the hope and freedom that comes with unraveling beliefs. TakeawaysMeeting God can involve a shift in understanding and a realization of the limitations of our previous beliefs God's will is not limited to one path but is a co-creation between God and individuals.Imagination plays a crucial role in faith practices and prayer life, allowing for a deeper and more personal connection with God.Transitioning from traditional beliefs and roles can lead to a greater sense of freedom and a fuller expression of oneself.Embracing the unraveling of traditional beliefs opens up new possibilities and a deeper understanding of God.Sound Bites"The best partnerships are based on influence, mutuality, and affection""There's so many of us that either have grown up in our family's faith, who have just because this is just what we do. This is how you understood this. And so I'll understand it in the same way.""God was not in front of me, God was behind me. And God basically what has begun to birth out of that is this image of co-creation."Reflection QuestionsSpend some time in prayer and imagine yourself in your safe space. What does it look like? Ang talked about how the Father, Son and Holy Spirit are just our friends. What game do they want to play with you? What do you want to ask them?What can you do to think out of the box?  What voices are you listening to, do they sound or look the same? Connect with AngInstagram | FaceBookBoundlessHagar's VoiceCanine CompanionsKinbraceKeywords: cold plunges, Vancouver, transitional community, refugee claimants, meeting God, unraveling, traditional beliefs, freedom, thinking outside the box, God's will, co-creation, imagination, faith practices, prayer lifeHow to support The Parable Podcast: #1 Subscribe or Follow the show so you don't miss the next episode of The Parable Podcast through your favorite podcast app (i.e. iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher). #2 Share this show with a friend, this is a perfect opportunity to start your own Parable Conversation together.#3 Are you in need of a speaker for your Church, Women's Group, or event? Contact Danielle to learn more.

I would love to share one of my recent messages from our home church as we take a little summer break here at the Parable Podcast.  Please enjoy this message wherever it may find you today.Sermon Notes:Our Father Who art in Heaven Hallowed be your name. Now let Us conceive a new creation -humanity—made in Our image, fashioned according to Our likeness. And let Us grant them authority over all the earth. Genesis 1:26 The VoiceGod does not call us to live impure lives, but to seek holiness and purity.1 Thessalonians 4:7 The VoiceKeep it Simple Don’t get caught up into the same game. Don’t forget the HolyConnect with Danielle | Instagram How to support The Parable Podcast#1 Subscribe or Follow the show so you don't miss the next episode of The Parable Podcast through your favorite podcast app (i.e. iTunes, Spotify).#2 Share this show with a friend, this is a perfect opportunity to start your own Parable Conversation together.#3 Are you in need of a speaker for your Church, Women's Group, or event? Contact Danielle to learn more.#theparablepodcast #yourstorymatters #christianpodcast #hope #whatIlearned #faith #christianity  #thelordsprayer #matthew25 #sermononthemountHow to support The Parable Podcast: #1 Subscribe or Follow the show so you don't miss the next episode of The Parable Podcast through your favorite podcast app (i.e. iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher). #2 Share this show with a friend, this is a perfect opportunity to start your own Parable Conversation together.#3 Are you in need of a speaker for your Church, Women's Group, or event? Contact Danielle to learn more.

Ever been blindsided and then tossed into a spiral of what is my identity? Joining me today is pastor, speaker, and cold plunge enthusiast Ryan Guerra.  Ryan shares his experience of being fired from his position as a lead pastor and the challenges he faced in the aftermath. He emphasizes the importance of relying on God's grace and finding hope amid difficult circumstances. In this conversation, He discusses the intertwining of personal identity with the role of a pastor and the difficulty of separating the two when faced with a sudden loss. Ryan encourages listeners to remember that they are not alone in their struggles and that their calling is not defined by the opinions or actions of others.TakeawaysWitnessing others go through challenging situations can prepare us for our trials.Relying on God's grace and seeking hope can help navigate difficult circumstances.Questioning one's identity and purpose is a natural response to unexpected challenges.Developing a robust theology of suffering is crucial for navigating difficult seasons and finding joy and growth amid trials.Remember that you are not alone in your struggles, and your calling is not defined by the opinions or actions of others.Sound Bites"Preparation in our life allows us to see God's providence.""God was so generous and gracious to us to let us see how this has played out in other people's lives.""Why was I so blind to all the ways I think God tries to prepare us for the trials?""When one of those gets fiercely ejected from your life, it's really hard for the calling to not get destroyed with it."Reflection QuestionsRemember a time you were blindsided - what have you learned about yourself, your faith, and your identity since then?In what ways can you create a robust theology of suffering for your own life? So that when a season comes you can pull from it.Keywords: fired, lead pastor, challenges, preparation, pain, uncertainty, grace, hope, pastor, identity, firing, trust, suffering, callingHow to support The Parable Podcast: #1 Subscribe or Follow the show so you don't miss the next episode of The Parable Podcast through your favorite podcast app (i.e. iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher). #2 Share this show with a friend, this is a perfect opportunity to start your own Parable Conversation together.#3 Are you in need of a speaker for your Church, Women's Group, or event? Contact Danielle to learn more.

Have you ever asked how did my emotional heart form the way it did? Joining me is Senior Director of Strategic Operations for TENx10 Lisette Fraser and she shares how one moment from summer camp changed her perspective on Justice. We also explore the meaning of justice from a faith perspective and the importance of taking responsibility and doing better. In this conversation, Lisette shares her experiences of exclusion and the impact it had on her. She talks about the importance of making room for everyone and the need to be better. She reflects on her journey of forgiveness and the realization that some people may not have room for others in their hearts. Lisette opens up about her relationship with her father and the challenges she faced growing up. She shares how her faith in Jesus became more meaningful after her mom got remarried and they started going to church. Lisette emphasizes the ongoing trust journey and the importance of checking the receipts of God's faithfulness. TakeawaysJustice, from a faith perspective, means intentionally seeing and including marginalized and oppressed individuals.Taking responsibility and doing better is essential for creating a more inclusive and just society. It is important to make room for everyone and strive to be betterForgiveness is a journey that takes time and healingOur relationship with our earthly fathers can impact our understanding of God as our Heavenly FatherChecking the receipts of God's faithfulness can help us hold onto hope and trustSound Bites"It costs us something to make room for everyone.""Jesus really became alive to me because I needed the safety and comfort of someone who could see it all and understood it all."Reflection QuestionsWhat has god placed on your heart the most?  Justice, Serving, Kindness, Loving others well - what is that for you currently?Is there something right now that you need to trust God with and hand it over to Him?  Maybe you need to physically extend your hands as a prayerConnect with LisetteWebsite | InstagramTENx10How to support The Parable Podcast: #1 Subscribe or Follow the show so you don't miss the next episode of The Parable Podcast through your favorite podcast app (i.e. iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher). #2 Share this show with a friend, this is a perfect opportunity to start your own Parable Conversation together.#3 Are you in need of a speaker for your Church, Women's Group, or event? Contact Danielle to learn more.

Ever find it difficult to extend grace to others? Today I would love to share one of my recent messages from our home church (West Ridge), please enjoy this message wherever it may find you today.Message Notes:Extend Grace to others and not allow the junk to get to you.   We have cause to celebrate because the grace of God has appeared, offering the gift of salvation to all people. Titus 2:11 The Voice What can happen when we don’t deal grace to the challenging people in our life? Complete obstruction.  Choosing to stay, when you should be moving forward.  Is it time to let go? Grace arrives with its own instruction: run away from anything that leads us away from God; abandon the lusts and passions of this world; live life now in this age with awareness and self-control, doing the right thing and keeping yourselves holy. Titus 2:121.Ask if it is worth it?2.Set Boundaries 3.Repeated Prayer God our Savior and His overpowering love and kindness for humankind entered our world; He came to save us. It’s not that we earned it by doing good works or righteous deeds; He came because He is merciful. He brought us out of our old ways of living …and He made us completely new through the Holy Spirit, Titus 3:4-5 Reflection Questions:1.   Ask if is it worth it? – I am pretty sure this is the top phrase I ask my kids when they are in a fight or upset with each other.  Is whatever happened – worth holding onto anymore, is it worth thinking about?2.   Set Boundaries - Now I know some of these people are your family or co-workers and you can’t just not see them anymore.  But, you can choose to decide how much access they have to your life.  Connect with Danielle | Instagram#theparablepodcast #yourstorymatters #christianpodcast #hope #whatIlearned #faith #grace #extendinggrace # TitusHow to support The Parable Podcast: #1 Subscribe or Follow the show so you don't miss the next episode of The Parable Podcast through your favorite podcast app (i.e. iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher). #2 Share this show with a friend, this is a perfect opportunity to start your own Parable Conversation together.#3 Are you in need of a speaker for your Church, Women's Group, or event? Contact Danielle to learn more.

Do you feel like you are in a season ready to burnout? Joining me is Co-founder of Legacy Roots Co Kayla Cornish who shares about how a season of burnout left her depleted. Kayla is a devoted wife, mother of 6 littles, writer, speaker, coach, and the co-founder of Legacy Roots Co alongside her husband, Christian. She is passionate about equipping Believers to grow deeper roots in Christ, character, and family to be able to withstand life's storms and leave an eternal legacy. Legacy Roots Co. supports their students via coaching, in-person workshops, online courses, and digital resources to show them how to practically live out an everyday walk with Jesus, disciple their families, and produce fruit that impacts their local church, communities, businesses, and the world.Reflection Questions:Reflect on your last week, how have you been struggling with decision fatigue being a yes person, or pressure to show your worth? We want our hearts to be the good soil to have god grow deeper into our lives. To do that we have to deal with the hard things underneath, what is that for you?Connect with Kayla: Website | Instagram | Email Legacy Roots Co Instagram101 Unique Ideas to do on SabbathHear her husband's Christians' episode#theparablepodcast #yourstorymatters #christianpodcast #hope #whatIlearned #faith #FaithJourney  #sabbath #BurnoutRecovery #LegacyRootsCo #ChristianLiving #FamilyFirst #DeepRootsInChrist #CharacterBuilding #EternalLegacy #CoachingCommunity #DecisionFatigue #SelfWorthJourney #ReflectAndGrowHow to support The Parable Podcast: #1 Subscribe or Follow the show so you don't miss the next episode of The Parable Podcast through your favorite podcast app (i.e. iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher). #2 Share this show with a friend, this is a perfect opportunity to start your own Parable Conversation together.#3 Are you in need of a speaker for your Church, Women's Group, or event? Contact Danielle to learn more.