WIHS Ministry Roundtable

WIHS Network

Welcome to the WIHS Ministry Roundtable, a video podcast and radio program where we meet in-studio with local ministry leaders for an extended interview to discuss a variety of spiritual and practical topics from a biblical worldview that is both meaningful and engaging.

Episodes

  1. Feb 25

    The Gift of Presence: Rediscovering God in a Distracted World

    The WHS Ministry Roundtable podcast featured a discussion on "The Gift of Presence: Rediscovering God in a Distracted World" with host Jessica Chenery and three guests: Pastor Dr. Jahdiel Cruz from House of Praise and Worship in West Hartford, Evangelist Joshua Samuel from Herald the Gospel Ministry in Waterbury, and Pastor Joel Cruz, who serves as both senior pastor at House of Prayer and Worship and executive director of Urban Alliance in East Hartford.The conversation began by addressing how modern distractions diminish our awareness of God's presence. Joshua Samuel defined spiritual presence as maintaining receptivity to God despite worldly distractions, likening it to tuning into a radio frequency. He emphasized that worship extends beyond singing to include a constant heart posture of receptivity to God's voice throughout daily activities.Joel Cruz compared spiritual presence to the connection he feels with his wife when they're in the same room - a sense of being seen and acknowledged. He stressed the importance of including God in every aspect of life, from work challenges to household tasks, which keeps him grounded in his relationship with God.Jahdiel Cruz shared his practice of keeping God present in his mind at all times, consulting Him even for small matters like finding missing files at work or seeking strength for daily tasks. This constant communication helps him stay connected to God throughout his day.The participants identified several signs that distraction is affecting one's walk with God, including missing out on God's presence by trying to capture moments rather than experiencing them, diminished fruits of the Spirit (patience, self-control), becoming self-centered, and feeling empty or irritable. On navigating the tension between digital engagement and spiritual attentiveness, the guests advocated for balance while acknowledging the unique relationship one develops with a physical Bible compared to digital versions. They discussed how turning pages of a physical Bible carries weight and history that digital versions lack, though they recognized the benefits of digital tools for quick reference and study.Each guest offers encouragement for listeners seeking to rediscover God amid distraction. Joel Cruz encouraged persistence, emphasizing that God doesn't reject those who keep trying. Joshua Samuel referenced the biblical promise that if we draw near to God, He will draw near to us, adding that there are always deeper dimensions of relationship with God to discover. Jahdiel Cruz encouraged listeners to include God in everything, never assuming He's not interested in their daily concerns or challenges.

About

Welcome to the WIHS Ministry Roundtable, a video podcast and radio program where we meet in-studio with local ministry leaders for an extended interview to discuss a variety of spiritual and practical topics from a biblical worldview that is both meaningful and engaging.