Embrace What Matters: With Author and Speaker, John Michalak

(Note: This is an encore of John’s interview with Arthur from the previous episode, including only Arthur’s discussion of his newest book, Shattered: A Son Picks Up the Pieces of His Father's Rage.) The word, "temper" can be understood in different ways. Our first thought is usually related to anger, or the effects of anger. But something can also be tempered when it's been made stronger or more stable by things like pressure, heat, or the passage of time. Both understandings are closely linked with the formation of writer, priest, and pastor, Arthur Boers. In John's fifth interview in the Unto Life series—Arthur shares how his life-experience and the influence of God have shaped him into who he is today. In his earliest years, Arthur was the victim of his father's temper. In his newest book, Shattered, Arthur interweaves this trauma—along with stories of his Dutch immigrant heritage and faith formation—with the metaphor of glass. The way glass shatters when broken. The way glass—through exposure to pressure, heat, and time—can be formed, or tempered, into something strong and beautiful. And so, while sometimes still brittle along the edges, the center of Arthur's life is well-tempered. Out of severe family trauma, he has discovered understanding and healing. Arthur's hope is that through his story and wisdom, others might strengthen their center, too. (Music courtesy of Coma-Media and Ashot-Danielyan from Pixabay.) ***** ARTHUR BOERS INFO: Pre-order Arthur's new book (releasing May 2023): Shattered: A Son Picks Up the Pieces of His Father’s Rage Learn more about Arthur and purchase his other books: arthurboers.com ***** LINKS TO OTHER EPISODES, JOHN'S SERMONS, BOOKS, & WEBSITE: linktr.ee/johnmichalak GET JOHN’S NEW BOOK, UNTO LIFE SUBSCRIBE TO JOHN'S PODCAST SUBSCRIBE TO JOHN'S NEWSLETTER

The word, "temper" can be understood in different ways. Our first thought is usually related to anger, or the effects of anger. But something can also be tempered when it's been made stronger or more stable by things like pressure, heat, or the passage of time. Both understandings are closely linked with the formation of writer, priest, and pastor, Arthur Boers. In John's fifth interview in the Unto Life series—Arthur shares how his life-experience and the influence of God have shaped him into who he is today. In Part One, Arthur shares thoughts from his book, Living Into Focus, on ways he has strengthened his center by focusing on what's most central to life. He says we can find more stability, contentment, and truth by turning away from the virtual and returning to what's real and true. In Part Two (minute 51:30), Arthur explores themes from his newest book, Shattered: A Son Picks Up the Pieces of His Father's Rage. In his earliest years, Arthur was the victim of his father's temper. He interweaves this trauma—along with stories of his Dutch immigrant heritage and faith formation—with the metaphor of glass. The way glass shatters when broken. The way glass—through exposure to pressure, heat, and time—can be formed, or tempered, into something strong and beautiful. And so, while sometimes still brittle along the edges, the center of Arthur's life is well-tempered. Out of the lure of the virtual, he has found contentment. Out of severe family trauma, he has discovered understanding and healing. Arthur's hope is that through his story and wisdom, others might strengthen their center, too. (Music courtesy of Coma-Media and Ashot-Danielyan from Pixabay.) ***** ARTHUR BOERS INFO: Pre-order Arthur's new book: Shattered: A Son Picks Up the Pieces of His Father’s Rage Learn more about Arthur and purchase his other books: arthurboers.com ***** LINKS TO OTHER EPISODES, JOHN'S SERMONS, BOOKS, & WEBSITE: linktr.ee/johnmichalak SUBSCRIBE TO JOHN'S PODCAST SUBSCRIBE TO JOHN'S NEWSLETTER

(John shares his next spiritual meditation based on thoughts from his upcoming book: UNTO LIFE: Reflections on Both the Journey and the Destination.) What is the secret to contentment? This is an age-old question. Many of us have made important decisions based on our pursuit of happiness. But it so often feels like a mirage, an illusion, where our fulfillment is always just out of reach. Some have given up on careers, relationships, even life itself, because the've never discovered the answer or experienced the happiness they've always desired. There is an answer to this question, but it's not one we may immediately like or accept. What's the secret to contentment? Here's a hint: It's to give up what you've wanted most in life to live for what you most deeply need. (Music courtesy of Coma-Media and Ashot-Danielyan from Pixabay.) ***** JOHN MICHALAK'S NEWSLETTER, WEBSITE, BOOK, AND OTHER WRITINGS: http://linktr.ee/johnmichalak

Spiritual growth should be the goal of every Christian. As God's children we are, like any child, supposed to grow up into maturity and take hold of this new life that has taken hold of us. But unlike physical change, spiritual growth isn't always that simple. We'll have growth spurts as Christians, but then our change may stop in its tracks or even regress. We want to be mature, but our desires and weaknesses so often get in the way. Few people understand this better than Curt Campbell. As the Program Director of the groundbreaking Nashville Tennessee prison ministry, Men of Valor, Curt has seen both the joys and sorrows involved in pursuing change. His ministry equips the incarcerated and ex-offenders with what they can do to change. But fundamentally, it shows them how to surrender their lives to the God of change--the God who calls us into his family and invites us to grow up in him. Join John for his fourth interview in the Unto Life series—a conversation with Curt Campbell about the God who makes the impossible, possible. The God who works this miracle of transformation on anyone who will give their lives to him. (Music courtesy of Coma-Media and Stock Studio from Pixabay.) ***** To find out more about Men of Valor and see how you can get involved or support prison ministry: Visit their website: https://men-of-valor.org Visit their YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/c/MenOfValorNashville For information on Curt's marriage ministry, "Love Your Wife": Get the book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09Y4Y8RS4/ Visit their website: https://www.loveyourwife.net Visit their Youtube page: https://tinyurl.com/5a8bbn4r ***** JOHN MICHALAK'S NEWSLETTER, WEBSITE, BOOK, AND OTHER WRITINGS: http://linktr.ee/johnmichalak

(John shares his next spiritual meditation based on thoughts from his upcoming book: UNTO LIFE: Reflections on Both the Journey and the Destination.) Christianity is about change. We are born again of God's Spirit as a new creation. We then, by God's grace, pursue spiritual change and transformation. But for most of us, that change feels like a monumental task. First, it's so difficult to believe we're now something different. Our doubt and insecurity prevents our change. Second, we often fail as often as we succeed. So it's difficult to live out this change promised to us in Scripture. But the key to spiritual transformation isn't a manic focus on self-improvement or always making the right choices. The foundation of our faith isn't moral, it's believing in the power of miracles. It's believing that only God can change us, and while we are active participants, God must do more than simply shift our motives or thinking. He must raise us from the dead. While you may look forward to heaven and the promise of future resurrection, part of the good news of Christianity is that your resurrection begins now. (Music courtesy of Coma-Media and ZakharValaha from Pixabay.) ***** JOHN MICHALAK'S NEWSLETTER, WEBSITE, BOOK, AND OTHER WRITINGS: http://linktr.ee/johnmichalak

In so much of life, we feel adrift. Bounced left and right by the chaos of our world, pummeled by the anxiety of just making it through the day. We need a stable shore, a place of shelter and solace to know we're safe and that there's hope for life beyond the things of earth and frail humanity. The sacred beauty in Fernando Ortega's music gives us this hope. It awakens in us a desire for something more and empowers us to believe we can experience that something in the here-and-now. Join John for his third interview in the Unto Life series—a conversation with Christian singer-songwriter Fernando Ortega about his upbringing amid the high terrain of New Mexico, his approach to quiet and worshipful songwriting, his love for nature and other mediums of art, and his belief that God can use both sacred and secular art to draw us to him, calm our souls, and offer us peace under the shadow of his wings. (Music courtesy of Fernando Ortega and Coma-Media from Pixabay.) To purchase Fernando's music, his photography book, and bring him to your church or event, please visit http://fernandoortega.com. Fernando's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fernandoortegafanpage Fernando's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fernandoortegamusic/ Fernando's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtS40WlTv34MHg6hmgDMeSw ***** JOHN MICHALAK'S NEWSLETTER, WEBSITE, BOOK, AND OTHER WRITINGS: http://linktr.ee/johnmichalak

(John shares his next spiritual meditation based on thoughts from his upcoming book: UNTO LIFE: Reflections on Both the Journey and the Destination.) God is first-and-foremost a Creator. And as our Creator, he is also the world's first artist. As discussed in a previous meditation, the beauty we see in the natural world exists because it is a reflection of God's beautiful eternal nature. In the same way, when human beings who are made in God's image create works of art, it is possible for those works to have the mark of eternity, too. This meditation encourages you to consider how art creates a longing for God, helping you live and move and have your being in the God who made you. (Music courtesy of Coma-Media and ZakharValaha from Pixabay.) ***** JOHN MICHALAK'S NEWSLETTER, WEBSITE, BOOK, AND OTHER WRITINGS: http://linktr.ee/johnmichalak

In this second Unto Life Interview, John speaks with Ukrainian Orthodox priest, Father Anthony Perkins. Father Anthony has led a fascinating life, living as a political scientist, military intelligence specialist, college and seminary professor, and in his most recent years, as an Orthodox priest and pastor. On the other side of the more simple ways we can experience God, Father Anthony dives deep into the waters of theology and mystery. He seeks to recognize eternity within the rituals of worship, through the use of imagination, within social relations and politics, in music, literature, nature, and so on. He says we should join God in his work to restore harmony in a world that is so often discordant and broken. In this interview, you'll learn how to better nurture God's presence and holiness in most every corner of your life. Only by doing so will you ever discover the patterns of perfection that lie just under the surface of the world in which we live. (Music courtesy of Father Archimandrite Sergius and Coma-Media from Pixabay.) To explore Father Anthony's extensive online presence, listen to his podcasts, and watch his YouTube channel, look through the "My Outlets/Content" box on his website, orthoanalytika.org.  ***** JOHN MICHALAK'S NEWSLETTER, WEBSITE, BOOK, AND OTHER WRITINGS: http://linktr.ee/johnmichalak

(John shares his next spiritual meditation based on thoughts from his upcoming book: UNTO LIFE: Reflections on Both the Journey and the Destination.) Romans says that "since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made." In this way, our opportunity to worship God spans far beyond the four walls of the church building. When you step outside, the filter between you and God is removed, and God's divine nature is clearly seen. (Music and sound effects courtesy of Coma-Media, Lesfm, JuliusH, Conleec, Lynmakeren, and Cobratronik from Pixabay.) ***** JOHN MICHALAK'S NEWSLETTER, WEBSITE, BOOK, AND OTHER WRITINGS: http://linktr.ee/johnmichalak

The classic book Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis finds its power in showing us a simple faith. A plain faith. One that leaves an immense impact without a lot of noise and fanfare. That's one way to describe Nashville singer-songwriter, Andy Gullahorn. Andy's music and life are purposely quiet and understated, but they are no less powerful. He speaks to us as a close friend. One who helps us relax. To laugh. To feel the joy of community and counsel. But he also shows us a way to discover holiness in the most common, everyday things, broadening our view of how to live eternally in the here-and-now. Join us for this first in a series of Unto Life Interviews: an in-depth conversation with Andy Gullahorn on his life, focus, and mission. (Music courtesy of Andy Gullahorn and Coma-Media from Pixabay.) Andy's Website, Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. Andy's Patreon Support Page  ***** JOHN MICHALAK'S NEWSLETTER, WEBSITE, BOOK, AND OTHER WRITINGS: http://linktr.ee/johnmichalak

(The podcast launches its brand-new format with John's first spiritual meditation based on thoughts from his upcoming book: UNTO LIFE: Reflections on Both the Journey and the Destination.) When does eternal life begin? When we die and go to heaven? If God is now with us and the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand, eternal life begins now. (Music courtesy of Coma-Media and Dream-Protocol from Pixabay.) ***** JOHN MICHALAK'S NEWSLETTER, WEBSITE, BOOK, AND OTHER WRITINGS: http://linktr.ee/johnmichalak

John announces a shift in format for the podcast from past sermons to new spiritual meditations and guest interviews. (music by Dream-Protocol from Pixabay) ***** JOHN MICHALAK'S NEWSLETTER, WEBSITE, BOOK, AND OTHER WRITINGS: http://linktr.ee/johnmichalak

Part 23 of 23 in the series, "Belonging to Him." It may seem odd to imagine that we're called to have a "divine romance" with God. But the human marriage and intimacy with God have many parallels, seen especially in the Garden of Eden and in Revelation's Marriage Supper of the Lamb. In the time in-between, Jesus serves as our mediator, calling us to healing and restoration with God. And Jesus serves as our Suitor, the bridegroom who sacrificed himself so we could live with God happily ever after. There's no greater romance than that (sermon recorded in 2019).

Part 22 of 23 in the series, "Belonging to Him." People like John-the-Baptist, Paul, and Jesus became "less" so that people could see more of God and ultimately, so they could belong to God. John modeled this in his words: "He must increase, but I must decrease." Becoming less doesn't belittle our self-worth. Rather, it's the path to finding our true self-worth and identity and genuinely sharing this quality of life with others. It's the best way to show others a love that comes from above, a love that invites us to belong to him and each other in the here-and-now (sermon recorded in 2019).

Part 21 of 23 in the series, "Belonging to Him." Unconditional love feels unreachable. But not when we belong to God. God's love for us can transform how well we love one another. And the second commandment to love is like the first. Loving others affects how well we belong to him (sermon recorded in 2019).

Part 20 of 23 in the series, "Belonging to Him." How do I relate to worship? Is it just about making it to church each Sunday? Is it just singing songs and hymns? Is it just something you’re supposed to do, but I rarely feel connected to God when I do it? Worship should be a chief focus in nurturing divine intimacy. But if we limit it to just Sunday morning or devotional time, we can miss the power of God's presence in all areas of life. Practicing the presence of God in everything we do will empower us to better glorify him, enjoy him...and belong to him (sermon recorded in 2019).

Part 19 of 23 in the series, "Belonging to Him." How do I relate to prayer? Is it just a way to get what I want? Is it something I just do, but doubt it ever really works? While God desires to meet our daily needs, he also wants us to understand our ultimate need: to belong to him. Prayer should be the avenue we use to nurture connection, intimacy, and oneness with God. If that's our first and main focus, then the answers to our prayers will be abundant...while perhaps looking a bit different than our imaginings (sermon recorded in 2019).

Part 18 of 23 in the series, "Belonging to Him." How do you relate to the Bible? Is it just a textbook or rulebook? Is it just required reading to become a good person or go to heaven? Or is it also the very essence of God himself? If the Bible is truly the "Word made flesh," then its benefits will surpass simply becoming wiser or a better person. It can be a way to relate to God in the most personal way imaginable (sermon recorded in 2019.)

Part 17 of 23 in the series, "Belonging to Him". Jesus once asked his disciples, "Who do you say that I am?" In our encounters with Jesus, we should also answer this question, but then we should ask, "Who does God say that I am?" Understanding and claiming our identity in Christ should be a foundational and constant confession of faith. Because who we are is shaped by who we're with. And who we are in Christ will define what we have in him and how we then choose to live (recorded in 2019.)

Part 16 of 23 in the series, "Belonging to Him." To "fear God" is a recurring commandment in Scripture. But does it sound strange to your ears that we're likewise called fear Jesus? This sermon takes a look at the Jesus of the Gospels and demonstrates that people didn't just encounter the gentle, humble shepherd, but also the Lord of all creation, a person who regularly incited awe, astonishment, amazement...and reverential fear. How well we fear Jesus will affect the quality of our personal relationship with him, and whether or not we'll live in fear of everything else life throws at us from day to day (sermon recorded in 2019.)