Belay Church Podcast Belay

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.

Paul Durbin shares a message centered around the significance of sharing meals in the context of Christian faith and outreach. He discusses the concept of eating at three different 'tables': His table, Your table, and Their table.

At 'His table,' Durbin emphasizes the importance of communion and remembering Jesus’ sacrifice. This act symbolizes acceptance of Jesus’ healing and forgiveness, aligning oneself with Him.

When talking about 'Your table,' he encourages generosity and hospitality, sharing personal experiences of unexpected provision and highlighting how crucial moments of ministry can happen around our tables. He supports this by referencing several biblical instances where significant events occurred during meals.

'Their table' refers to engaging with others in their comfort zones, such as their homes or community spaces. Durbin shares a personal story of invitation from a non-Christian, which led to meaningful conversations and connections. He stresses the importance of being open to accepting invitations to others' tables as it facilitates deeper relationships and ministry opportunities.

Durbin concludes by reiterating the power and significance of sharing meals in fostering relationships, serving others, and advancing the mission of Jesus.

This episode is two messages. Paul Durbin spoke at our Sunrise Service and explored three phrases from Matthew 28, reflecting on Jesus's faithfulness ('Just as He said'), the commonality of doubt in faith ('But some doubted'), and Jesus's perpetual presence ('I am with you always'). Durbin weaves personal stories with biblical context to highlight Jesus's steadfastness despite human imperfections and doubts. The sermon encourages believers to find comfort and strength in Jesus's promises and presence.

Christian Braly spoke for our morning service. In his sermon 'Embracing the Dawn,' he emphasizes the transformative hope and new beginnings promised through Jesus's resurrection. He challenges believers to move beyond their past, embrace the living hope of Christ, and live a life reflective of the resurrection's power. Braly highlights the unique assurance and transformation Christianity offers, advocating a life of faith and purpose grounded in the reality of Jesus's resurrection.

Paul Durbin delivers a message exploring the essence of being a blessing in alignment with Jesus' teachings and mission. He highlights the transformative power of actively engaging in five key ways to bless others: through volunteer work, building relationships, financial generosity, giving gifts, and offering hospitality. Durbin emphasizes moving beyond ordinary generosity towards a lifestyle centered on blessing others, drawing inspiration from the Good Samaritan parable and promoting a culture of generosity and hospitality.

In this message, Paul Durbin discusses the concept of being 'on belay' in the context of rock climbing, and applies it to the idea of being attentive to helping people draw near to God. He emphasizes the importance of being on mission, using the acrostic 'YOU' to represent saying 'yes' to the mission, ‘owning’ the responsibility, and ‘understanding’ the cost. The sermon challenges listeners to embrace the responsibility of being on mission and engage in habits that help to fulfill this mission.