Mere Christians

Ruth Chou Simons, an insightful author on contentment and personal growth, shares her wisdom on balancing the desire for progress with appreciation for the present. She discusses the four reflective questions that help align her views with a faith-based perspective. Ruth opens up about navigating the slowdown in her business, framing challenges as opportunities for growth. Listeners will find inspiration in her thoughts on patience, restlessness as a creative force, and the importance of small steps towards fulfilling aspirations.

Stephen Bargatze, a talented magician and father of comedian Nate Bargatze, delves into the enchanting intersection of magic and faith. He shares how magic can evoke awe that fosters belief in God and reflects on his mother's gospel-centered transformation on her deathbed. The conversation also traverses the challenges of balancing a touring career with family, emphasizing the significance of being present for loved ones. Through humor and storytelling, Stephen illustrates his personal journey of empowerment, resilience, and the profound ties of family.

Mike Sharrow, the CEO of C12, dives into the rich intersection of faith and business. He challenges the culture of giving in the Church and discusses how Christian peer groups might have looked in the early Church. The importance of 'mini Bema Seat moments' for self-reflection before divine judgment is highlighted. Mike shares personal insights on navigating faith in the workplace and the vital role of mentorship among Christian leaders. He also emphasizes the need for purpose in leadership and explores transformative reads for personal growth.

Julianna Rubio Slager, the artistic director of Ballet 5:8, specializes in creating ballets that convey messages of faith. She shares how ballet serves as a powerful medium for spiritual expression and can connect with non-Christians. The discussion touches on the transformative nature of beauty in art, illustrated by Messiaen's work during adversity. Julianna also emphasizes integrating faith into leadership, fostering an environment of love and grace while maintaining artistic excellence. Expect insights on faith's impact in everyday life and leadership.

Jenna Barrett, the manager of brand advertising and marketing at Choice Hotels, shares insights on blending faith with professional growth. She discusses the significance of humility in the hospitality industry and how acknowledging weaknesses fosters blessings. Jenna reflects on the challenges of managing major advertising campaigns and the importance of mentorship. The conversation also encourages integrating faith into work, emphasizing that every role can contribute to a larger narrative of redemption and community connection.

5 practices for ensuring your work doesn’t become an idol, why “gratitude is the on-ramp to adoration” of God, and why Jesus said he is the “bread of life” and not the “grain of life.”Links Mentioned:Joe RigneyJoe Rigney on XJoe Rigney on LinkedInStrangely BrightLive Like A Narnian: Christian Discipleship in Lewis's ChroniclesThe Sacredness of Secular WorkLeaf by Niggle‘Mythopoeia’The Great DivorceLetters to MalcolmJordan Raynor

What Jen envisions her work looking like on the New Earth, how the “dangerous light” in you makes every Christian’s work sacred, and why it’s significant that gold will be trampled on for eternity.Links Mentioned:Jen WilkinJen Wilkin on InstagramJen Wilkin on XRevelation - Bible Study Book with Video Access: Eternal King, Everlasting KingdomJen Wilkin BooksAndy CrouchThe Sacredness of Secular WorkArt and Faith: A Theology of MakingThe Knowledge of the HolyThe Holiness of GodJordan Raynor

How Christ redeemed Anne after horrific trauma and abuse, how her trauma gave her purpose and ambition for Auntie Anne’s, and how to stop overcomplicating the presence of God.This episode originally aired on August 23, 2023. Because you all loved it so much, we are re-releasing it as a part of our Fan Fave Flashbacks series this summer! Would you like to be a guest on the Mere Christians podcast when we begin new episodes this fall? Share your story with our producers at jordanraynor.com/mcLinks Mentioned:Auntie Anne Beiler on InstagramAuntie Anne BeilerAuntie Anne’sTwist of FaithHe Will Hold Me Fast on YouTubeEmerge Counseling MinistriesCome to the TableDisciplines for the Inner LifeOvercome and LeadJordan Raynor

What the “dirty jobs” of God mean for you and me, the power of dwelling on what God has saved you from, and how to “choose joy” in a job you don’t love.This episode originally aired on July 19, 2023. Because you all loved it so much, we are re-releasing it as a part of our Fan Fave Flashbacks series this summer! Would you like to be a guest on the Mere Christians podcast when we begin new episodes this fall? Share your story with our producers at jordanraynor.com/mcLinks Mentioned:Janitor JoshThe Adventures of Janitor Josh on AmazonThe Power of a Praying WifeJordan Raynor

How the truth that “God’s will is much more a way than a thing” leads to a radical freedom in life and work, the difference between “justifying your legitimacy” and “expressing your belovedness” through your work, and the most brilliant interpretation of Ecclesiastes I’ve ever heard.This episode originally aired on July 5, 2023. Because you all loved it so much, we are re-releasing it as a part of our Fan Fave Flashbacks series this summer! Would you like to be a guest on the Mere Christians podcast when we begin new episodes this fall? Share your story with our producers at jordanraynor.com/mcLinks Mentioned:Dave Evans on LinkedInDave Evans on TwitterDesigning Your LifeDesigning Your LifeElectronic ArtsStanford UniversityStanford Life Design LabChristian Companion to Designing Your LifeBill Burnett on LinkedInTrip HawkinsGuy KawasakiThe Will of God as a Way of LifeA Grace DisguisedAbandonment to Divine ProvidenceThomas MertonTod Bolsinger on LinkedInEcclesiastesWay of the HeartLet Your Life SpeakMindsightBryan Stevenson on LinkedInThe Creator in YouJordan Raynor