Become New with John Ortberg

Dive into the true meaning of gratitude this Thanksgiving! Discover the fascinating origin of the cornucopia and its ties to Greek mythology. Explore a biblical vision of abundance that contrasts with our everyday negativity bias. John delves into the importance of practicing gratitude and outlines four key facets of thanksgiving. Listeners are invited to reflect on gifts from creation, the beauty of everyday blessings, and the profound spiritual gifts that shape our lives. Wrap it all up with a guided prayer to express heartfelt thanks!

In this engaging discussion, Dr. Rick Blackmon, a psychologist and counselor specializing in relationships, dives into the complexities of honesty. He explains why honesty is crucial for building intimacy and trust while revealing how dishonesty can fracture relationships. They explore five forms of dishonesty and share real-life examples from therapy. Additionally, listeners are challenged to practice telling a loved one a meaningful truth. This insightful conversation offers practical tips to cultivate honesty in everyday life.

This episode shares a touching true story from Burundi, highlighting the extraordinary courage of a Hutu teacher known as 'Little Bird.' In a time of conflict, he chose to pray for his executioners and led his fellow condemned in a powerful hymn of surrender. Discover how his final act became a beacon of hope, transforming soldiers' hearts and lives. The discussion emphasizes the profound concept of Christian hope during life's darkest moments, urging listeners to practice gratitude and trust.

Laura Turner, a gifted conversational partner and enthusiast of gratitude, joins her father, John Ortberg, to delve into the importance of appreciating the ordinary. They explore gratitude as a practice, how comparison can distort our perspective, and reflect on transformative moments from scripture. Laura shares her personal journey toward cultivating gratitude and reads a poignant poem by W.S. Merwin. This enlightening discussion encourages listeners to notice life's small marvels and actively express thanks.

Finding gratitude can feel impossible in tough times, but John offers two enlightening perspectives to shift your mindset. He introduces the idea that it could always be worse, helping to highlight life's small mercies. He shares powerful reflections from Elie Wiesel on how suffering can deepen gratitude. Additionally, John emphasizes how Jesus' journey allows for enduring thankfulness, even amid despair. Ultimately, he encourages listeners to daily count their blessings and remember the hope that gratitude brings.

Barbara Harrison, John Ortberg's sister, shares her thoughtful insights on gratitude and spiritual formation. They dive into how gratitude truly begins when we fully savor life's moments, rather than just acknowledging them. Barbara emphasizes the importance of receiving rather than producing gratitude, highlighting how we often notice blessings only when they're gone. Reflecting on joy from everyday experiences, they encourage listeners to practice savoring people and moments, fostering a deeper sense of appreciation.

Celebrate a milestone and discover how a journey born from confusion and loss can yield unexpected grace. The intertwining of suffering and gratitude takes center stage, with reflections on the Pilgrims' hardships and Jesus' surprising thanks at the Last Supper. Explore the idea of practicing gratitude as a conscious choice, while recalling the times God was present in our pain. Hope shines through as we look toward redemption, urging us to cultivate a spirit of thankfulness amidst life’s challenges.

This discussion reveals how gratitude can become self-centered and distorted. Featuring insights from notable thinkers, it highlights the dangers of narcissism and performative thankfulness. The parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector illustrates the contrast between false pride and true humility. By recognizing our own unworthiness, we cultivate authentic thankfulness. Ultimately, the conversation encourages listeners to practice genuine gratitude and restore their spiritual connection.

Discover the surprising importance of gratitude at this very moment, regardless of life's ups and downs. Explore insights from Paul’s letters on presenting worries with thanksgiving and learn why gratitude should be practiced now, not just during good times. John interweaves powerful reflections from Karl Barth and Kate Bowler, emphasizing trust amid uncertainty. Plus, enjoy a guided practice to appreciate the small blessings in everyday life. This discussion will inspire you to embrace gratitude as a constant companion on your journey.

Join a reflective journey through a cemetery to discover how contemplating mortality enhances our appreciation for life. Learn why meditating on death can sift out the trivial and reveal what truly matters. Hear fascinating stories, including a poignant memento mori watch and a woman's hopeful request for a fork in her casket. Embrace gratitude and consider the legacy you want to leave behind. This exploration encourages you to cherish daily gifts and foster a deeper connection with loved ones.