Belay Church Podcast Belay

Paul Durbin delivers a captivating message on becoming good soil based on the parable of the sower. He emphasizes the importance of eliminating non-soil elements, increasing the quantity of good soil through surrender, and purifying the quality of soil by shifting faith from worries and wealth to God. Paul connects the themes of stones and thorns to the crucifixion and resurrection, highlighting Jesus as the one who bore thorns and rolled stones away, offering a powerful message of transformation and growth.

Andrew Sisk shares a talk based on his book, “Trees Amongst Graves” — a powerful message about being alive in a world that is dying. He encourages us to endure hardships and insults by fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of our faith. He also emphasizes the importance of understanding forgiveness and the impact of sharing one's story of grace with others. Andrew affirms the idea that every individual, no matter how ordinary, can have a supernatural impact by shining the light of Jesus in dark places and bringing life to the spiritually dead.

In this talk, Andrew Sisk emphasizes the concept of being blessed by God and the importance of knowing one's identity as a child of God. He discusses the significance of Jesus as the blessed one who took on the curse for humanity. Andrew encourages the church to embrace their identity as blessed individuals and to reciprocate this blessing by honoring and worshiping God in all aspects of their lives.

In this talk, Paul Durbin discusses the power and importance of asking thoughtful questions to foster intentional conversations. He highlights this as part of the final message in a series titled 'On Belay,' emphasizing the concept of being on mission with Jesus through daily interactions. Durbin shares insights on starting with 'why' and progressing through a framework of blessing others, eating together, learning from Christ, and asking questions to deepen relationships. He draws on the story of Jesus conversing with two disciples after His resurrection to categorize conversations into surface, story, spiritual, and salvation. Durbin advises on engaging with others at each level to genuinely understand their hopes, fears, and spiritual journeys. The ultimate goal is to bring people closer to Jesus by showing curiosity, avoiding quick judgments, and inviting deeper discourse about faith and life.

Zoe Lee shares her deeply personal journey of faith, resilience, and growth, beginning with her childhood in Cincinnati as the daughter of a single, disabled mother. Despite financial hardship and her mother's protective yet emotionally unstable nature, Zoe finds solace and escape in her education and the vast world of books at her local library. Her story takes us through her struggles with isolation, bullying, and her mother's extreme protectiveness, which led to social challenges and a nomadic school experience.

Throughout her ordeal, Zoe’s faith played a central role, offering solace during times of vulnerability and hope during her darkest moments. She shares how, despite her mother's fluctuating support for religious engagement, her own spiritual journey was marked by moments of divine intervention and community support that guided her path.

Her narrative progresses to her high school and college years, where encounters with a diverse range of international students expand her world view and foster a keen interest in cultural exchange. Zoe’s resilience and determination shine as she navigates financial difficulties to attend the University of Cincinnati, thanks to the support of her teachers. College and subsequent opportunities allow her to travel, volunteer, and immerse herself in various cultures, significantly impacting her personal and spiritual growth.

Zoe's story transitions to her challenges in graduate school in Colorado, where isolation during COVID, roommate issues, and academic pressures test her mental health. The formation of meaningful connections, notably at a local farmer's market—where she discovered Belay—becomes a turning point, providing her with a renewed sense of community and belonging.

Amidst recounting her journey, Zoe reflects on her mother’s complicated legacy following her unexpected death. This event, while painful, prompts introspection and realignment with her core values and aspirations, particularly in relation to community service and creative self-expression.

Zoe's talk concludes on notes of gratitude for the love and support she has found, notably emphasizing the significant role her husband Christian has played in her life. Through sharing her story, Zoe illustrates the transformative power of faith, community, and self-discovery. Her narrative is a testament to the enduring human spirit, the depth of personal growth that arises from adversity, and the profound impact of divine love and human connection.

Paul Durbin discusses how we learn Christ —who was, is, and is to come.