Awaken Kindness, by DaRevsUSA: Recent Episodes
Penny & Bill Company, dba Center to Awaken Kindness
Original episodes of Awaken Kindness by DaRevsUSA, the Rev. Dr Penny L. Taylor and Rev. Dr. Bill Ressl.
Take action today – reach out, share love, invite people to be part of the great social movement that started over 2,000 years ago, a movement of compassion, empathy, healing, peace, and love to everyone. The time is now. Imagine a world filled with love – a love that fills people physically and spiritually. Penny looks at Jesus’ agenda – grounded in the movement of social justice and love. Yes, Jesus’ ministry was one of social justice, sharing love, and empowering people to stop social oppression while joining together to grow in love and justice. Come explore the possibilities.
Join DaRevsUSA, Penny and Bill, as they explore and reflect on Jesus feeding 5000 plus in the Gospel of Matthew, Chapter 14, verses 13-21, share in the Lord’s prayer, and join in singing Take My Life.
Awaken Kindness by DaRevsUSA, a podcast. A theologically progressive podcast looking at the stories of the Bible that enhance self-care and wellness. Hosted by DaRevsUSA, Rev Dr Penny Taylor and Rev Dr Bill Ressl. Simple (grounded in Christ’s love), fun (sharing some time together), yet profound (grounded in a progressive theological lens).
LISTEN: On your favorite podcast app.
SUBSCRIBE: Discover Premium commercial free early listening on Podbean
For all the mindful contemplative possibilities, visit CenterToAwakenKindness.com
Please note:
At times, scripture contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children, therefore parental discretion is advised.
Share Love? For sure! We have a choice. Penny explores the sacred reality of God’s profound love. Share love and be an instrument of God’s peace and love – or share violence and anger? It’s a choice here and now. Experience something new – experience profound love… the sacred reality of God’s love that is very real and alive here and now. Share the power of love made visible in Jesus’ baptism. Share love. It’s not hard to do. It is possible. Start today. Come explore the possibilities.
Join DaRevsUSA, Penny and Bill, as they explore and reflect on Jesus being baptized in the Gospel of Mark, Chapter 1, verses 4-11, share in the Lord’s prayer, and join in singing God Be With You Till We Meet Again.
Awaken Kindness by DaRevsUSA, a podcast. A theologically progressive podcast looking at the stories of the Bible that enhance self-care and wellness. Hosted by DaRevsUSA, Rev Dr Penny Taylor and Rev Dr Bill Ressl. Simple (grounded in Christ’s love), fun (sharing some time together), yet profound (grounded in a progressive theological lens).
LISTEN: On your favorite podcast app.
SUBSCRIBE: Discover Premium commercial free early listening on Podbean
For all the mindful contemplative possibilities, visit CenterToAwakenKindness.com
Please note:
At times, scripture contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children, therefore parental discretion is advised.
Believe it! Join Penny and explore Jesus as the Good Shepherd - our Ultimate Concern, who knows us by name. Who is Jesus? Jesus is the Good Shepherd who knows us. Jesus knows us by name, by voice… he knows each of us intimately. He knows our struggles and joys. Jesus knows the flock and each of us is already part of the flock – all we need do is accept it. Believe it! We are encouraged to have our ultimate concern as Jesus Christ. Believe and know that Jesus the Good Shepherd knows each of us by name and is present to provide for our needs now and into eternity. While we still have breath – let us continue to speak to the Good Shepherd. Let’s be more loving and focused on having a relationship with the Good Shepherd. Come explore the possibilities.
Join DaRevsUSA, Penny and Bill, as they explore and reflect on the Gospel of John, Chapter 10, verses 1-18, share in the Lord’s prayer, and join in singing God Be With You Till We Meet Again.
Awaken Kindness by DaRevsUSA, a podcast. A theologically progressive podcast looking at the stories of the Bible that enhance self-care and wellness. Hosted by DaRevsUSA, Rev Dr Penny Taylor and Rev Dr Bill Ressl. Simple (grounded in Christ’s love), fun (sharing some time together), yet profound (grounded in a progressive theological lens).
LISTEN: On your favorite podcast app.
SUBSCRIBE: Discover Premium commercial free early listening on Podbean
For all the mindful contemplative possibilities, visit CenterToAwakenKindness.com
Please note:
At times, scripture contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children, therefore parental discretion is advised.
Penny delves into courage to do it differently. Do we dare to be and do life differently? Penny suggests the church is more than a building. It is us and it is being reborn here and now in each of us. Pentecost Sunday is known as the birth of the church. It is the day in the church calendar where we remember when the disciples were given the gift of the Holy Spirit. That gift of the Holy Spirit is still alive deep within each of us. Penny delves deep into the birth of the church challenging us to be and do church new here and now. What does it mean that we are in a time of rebirth? A new something is emerging. What does it mean for the church to be reborn? What does it mean that we, not the building or doctrines, are the church? Come explore the possibilities.
Join DaRevsUSA, Penny and Bill, as they explore and reflect on Acts chapter 21, verses 1-21, share in the Lord’s prayer, and join in singing a classic oldie, Love and Help Each Other.
Awaken Kindness by DaRevsUSA, a podcast. A theologically progressive podcast looking at the stories of the Bible that enhance self-care and wellness. Hosted by DaRevsUSA, Rev Dr Penny Taylor and Rev Dr Bill Ressl. Simple (grounded in Christ’s love), fun (sharing some time together), yet profound (grounded in a progressive theological lens).
LISTEN: On your favorite podcast app.
SUBSCRIBE: Discover Premium commercial free early listening on Podbean
For all the mindful contemplative possibilities, visit CenterToAwakenKindness.com
Please note:
At times, scripture contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children, therefore parental discretion is advised.
Penny examines inviting God to be present as we mix it up sharing simple gifts of peace and love. It’s about gratefulness - believing and sharing it forward. Discover God’s peace through sharing simple gifts with one another, such as sharing peace and love in unity together. Share the gifts God has given for the glory of God in all the diversity of life. We are each unique, with unique gifts to share and to use for the common good. Use all your gifts – talents, skills, and capacities – here and now. Be a blessing today and in every way.
Join DaRevsUSA, Penny and Bill, as they explore and reflect on the Gospel of John, Chapter 17, verses 1-11, share in the Lord’s prayer, and join in singing All Creatures of Our God and King.
Awaken Kindness by DaRevsUSA, a podcast. A theologically progressive podcast looking at the stories of the Bible that enhance self-care and wellness. Hosted by DaRevsUSA, Rev Dr Penny Taylor and Rev Dr Bill Ressl. Simple (grounded in Christ’s love), fun (sharing some time together), yet profound (grounded in a progressive theological lens).
LISTEN: On your favorite podcast app.
SUBSCRIBE: Discover Premium commercial free early listening on Podbean
For all the mindful contemplative possibilities, visit CenterToAwakenKindness.com
Please note:
At times, scripture contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children, therefore parental discretion is advised.
Bill dives deep into renewal in this season of Eastertide. Why now? It’s Eastertide! Let's explore… A new reality has begun – it is here. How do we live into this new time? What does it look like? Do we doubt like Doubting Thomas? Do we simply return to what we did in the past – or do we look beyond and live into today’s new possibility? Enjoy this most unique moment in time and make this new moment a life changing experience filled with Christ’s love. Then share it forward each day. Celebrate the new reality in front of us – and remember, yes it can be hard… but great things can become visible in new ways and it can be very good.
Join DaRevsUSA, Penny and Bill, as they explore and reflect on 2 Corinthians, chapter 4, verses 16-18, share in the Lord’s prayer, and join Bill in singing How Powerful that Gift to the tune of Amazing Grace.
Awaken Kindness by DaRevsUSA, a podcast. A theologically progressive podcast looking at the stories of the Bible that enhance self-care and wellness. Hosted by DaRevsUSA, Rev Dr Penny Taylor and Rev Dr Bill Ressl. Simple (grounded in Christ’s love), fun (sharing some time together), yet profound (grounded in a progressive theological lens).
LISTEN: On your favorite podcast app.
SUBSCRIBE: Discover Premium commercial free early listening on Podbean
For all the mindful contemplative possibilities, visit CenterToAwakenKindness.com
Please note:
At times, scripture contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children, therefore parental discretion is advised.
Penny talks about a special guest. The crowd is wild. Jesus is walking by. Let us share the story. It is time to celebrate our relationship with God. We are in a time of turmoil – and like the days of old we are invited to tell the story so each generation can hear it, share it, and live Christ’s love. Come, let your light shine!
Join DaRevsUSA, Penny and Bill, as they explore and reflect on the Gospel of Matthew, Chapter 21, verses 1-11, share in the Lord’s prayer, and join in singing Tell Me The Stories of Jesus.
Awaken Kindness by DaRevsUSA, a podcast. A progressive podcast looking at the stories of the Bible that enhance self-care and wellness. Hosted by DaRevsUSA, Rev Dr Penny Taylor and Rev Dr Bill Ressl. Simple (grounded in Christ’s love), fun (sharing some time together), yet profound (grounded in a progressive theological lens).
LISTEN: On your favorite podcast app.
SUBSCRIBE: Discover Premium commercial free early listening on Podbean
For all the mindful contemplative possibilities, visit CenterToAwakenKindness.com
Please note:
At times, scripture contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children, therefore parental discretion is advised.
Penny delves into life’s reality – it’s a choice… be bad or good. Each of us can do either. What would a Good Shepherd do? What does civility look like? What type of world do we wish to live in… to create… to leave to a future generation? Do we follow the model of the Good Shepherd or ??? Come – let’s explore. Let your life shine as an example of the Good Shepherd. Be present with Christ here and how – let your light, your love, the radical power of Jesus Christ deep within shine in your life… and share it.
Join DaRevsUSA, Penny and Bill, as they explore and reflect on the Gospel of John, Chapter 10, verses 1-10, share in the Lord’s prayer, and join in singing God Be With You Till We Meet Again.
Awaken Kindness by DaRevsUSA, a podcast. A progressive podcast looking at the stories of the Bible that enhance self-care and wellness. Hosted by DaRevsUSA, Rev Dr Penny Taylor and Rev Dr Bill Ressl. Simple (grounded in Christ’s love), fun (sharing some time together), yet profound (grounded in a progressive theological lens).
LISTEN: On your favorite podcast app.
SUBSCRIBE: Discover Premium commercial free early listening on Podbean
For all the mindful contemplative possibilities, visit CenterToAwakenKindness.com
Please note:
At times, scripture contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children, therefore parental discretion is advised.
Do you see? Penny examines blindness as Jesus heals a man born blind with mud made from his spit. Imagine seeing the world for the first time by breaking the barriers of blindness. The local community questions what is happening – who did it – why? They knew the blind man as a beggar, not part of their community - although he knew them. He lived with them, heard their stories, and had always been very present in the community. The community responded and drove him out. Jesus found him and asked: “Do you believe?” He said: “Lord, I believe.” The blind man had always been and was part of God’s spiritual community, although at times he was challenged by society. Let Christ be present with you here and how – let your light, your love, the radical power of Jesus Christ deep within shine in your life… and share it.
Join DaRevsUSA, Penny and Bill, as they explore and reflect on the Gospel of John, Chapter 9, verses 1-12, and 35-41, share in the Lord’s prayer, and join in singing one verse of Amazing Grace.
Awaken Kindness by DaRevsUSA, a podcast. A progressive podcast looking at the stories of the Bible that enhance self-care and wellness. Hosted by DaRevsUSA, Rev Dr Penny Taylor and Rev Dr Bill Ressl. Simple (grounded in Christ’s love), fun (sharing some time together), yet profound (grounded in a progressive theological lens).
LISTEN: On your favorite podcast app.
SUBSCRIBE: Discover Premium commercial free early listening on Podbean
For all the mindful contemplative possibilities, visit CenterToAwakenKindness.com
Please note:
At times, scripture contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children, therefore parental discretion is advised.
“Peace be with you.” Penny explores the peace that healed the disciples who were in lockdown, paralyzed by doubt and fear. Have you ever experienced that type of fear and the peace that heals? The disciples were hiding in fear. Jesus had died on the cross. Doubt and fear filled their hearts - so they hid. Jesus appeared to them and said: “Peace be with you.” He was not angry. He was not filled with hatred that he had been betrayed by some, dismissed by others, and that all were paralyzed in fear not living in the love he had encouraged. Rather, he shared his peace. Find peace. Experience God’s peace that heals. It’s free and all around us – be open to God’s free gift of peace and love.
Join DaRevsUSA, Penny and Bill, as they explore and reflect on the Gospel of John, Chapter 20, verses 19-31, share in the Lord’s prayer, and join in singing Go Tell It On the Mountain.
Awaken Kindness by DaRevsUSA, a podcast. A progressive podcast looking at the stories of the Bible that enhance self-care and wellness. Hosted by DaRevsUSA, Rev Dr Penny Taylor and Rev Dr Bill Ressl. Simple (grounded in Christ’s love), fun (sharing some time together), yet profound (grounded in a progressive theological lens).
For all the mindful contemplative possibilities, visit CenterToAwakenKindness.com
Please note:
At times, scripture contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children, therefore parental discretion is advised.
Jesus is dead. His body is gone! At times gratefulness can be hard. Penny explores Mary’s gratefulness at the empty tomb of Jesus. …It was a dark morning. Jesus was dead. Mary visits the tomb and discovers it empty. Jesus’ body is gone! Who took it? Mary runs back to tell the other disciples. They run to the tomb. Upon entering the tomb, indeed Jesus’ body is gone. The disciples return home. Mary stays at the tomb. Weeps. Two angels and a gardener appear – then Jesus makes himself known and says: “Mary!” Mary responds… come, listen, discover the rest of the story… gratefulness in uncertain times. Join DaRevsUSA, Penny and Bill, as they explore and reflect on the Gospel of John, Chapter 20, verses 1-18, share in the Lord’s prayer, and join in singing Immortal, Invisible, God only Wise.
Awaken Kindness by DaRevsUSA, a podcast. A progressive podcast looking at the stories of the Bible that enhance self-care and wellness. Hosted by DaRevsUSA, Rev Dr Penny Taylor and Rev Dr Bill Ressl. Simple (grounded in Christ’s love), fun (sharing some time together), yet profound (grounded in a progressive theological lens).
LISTEN: On your favorite podcast app.
SUBSCRIBE: Discover Premium commercial free early listening on Podbean
For all the mindful contemplative possibilities, visit CenterToAwakenKindness.com
Please note:
At times, scripture contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children, therefore parental discretion is advised.
DRVS newscasters Penny and Bill report Breaking News, Jesus is alive after having been crucified. Not the traditional Easter/Resurrection Sunday story, this story examines the struggle that Jesus’ resurrection created for those who knew him personally including Doubting Thomas. Join the journey as Penny and Bill share the story of Jesus appearing after his death as told through the gospel of John and our reporter on the street Pastor Penny. Pastor Penny interviews eyewitness Ellie, that is Ellie the elephant from the Zoo (yes, our hometown Brookfield, IL has the world famous Zoo). Join in singing one verse of Amazing Grace, How Powerful that Gift by Bill Ressl. Come join the journey, be grateful for the gift that is the resurrection and transformation… and see what God has planned.
Awaken Kindness by DaRevsUSA, a podcast. A progressive podcast looking at the stories of the Bible that enhance self-care and wellness. Hosted by DaRevsUSA, Rev Dr Penny Taylor and Rev Dr Bill Ressl. Simple (grounded in Christ’s love), fun (sharing some time together), yet profound (grounded in a progressive theological lens).
LISTEN: On your favorite podcast app.
SUBSCRIBE: Discover Premium commercial free early listening on Podbean
For all the mindful contemplative possibilities, visit CenterToAwakenKindness.com
Please note:
At times, scripture contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children, therefore parental discretion is advised.
DRVS newscasters Penny and Bill report Breaking News, the story of Good Friday, Jesus is dead. Delve deep into the story of Good Friday through reports from four reporters who are on the street reporting the events as they unfold… Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. Jesus is dead. It is finished. Or is it? Come see what God has planned. We’ll hear the stories of Good Friday from the four gospels, pray, and sing On that Same Day to the tune of Amazing Grace written by Bill Ressl. Come join the journey and see what God has planned.
Awaken Kindness by DaRevsUSA, a podcast. A progressive podcast looking at the stories of the Bible that enhance self-care and wellness. Hosted by DaRevsUSA, Rev Dr Penny Taylor and Rev Dr Bill Ressl. Simple (grounded in Christ’s love), fun (sharing some time together), yet profound (grounded in a progressive theological lens).
LISTEN: On your favorite podcast app.
SUBSCRIBE: Discover Premium commercial free early listening on Podbean
For all the mindful contemplative possibilities, visit CenterToAwakenKindness.com
Please note:
At times, scripture contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children, therefore parental discretion is advised.
Penny and Bill share the story of Good Friday through prayer, singing, and scripture. Good Friday commemorates the day Jesus died. It is a time to reflect as well as imagine the complexities of that moment in time for those who unlike us did not yet know the rest of the story… that Jesus would raise from the dead a few days later. Join the journey as Penny and Bill share the story of Jesus’ last hours as told through the gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. Pray and enjoy listening to new lyrics for the hymn Amazing Grace known as On that Same Day by Bill Ressl, that brings the story alive in new ways. Come join the journey, be grateful for the gift that is Good Friday, and see what God has planned.
Awaken Kindness by DaRevsUSA, a podcast. A progressive podcast looking at the stories of the Bible that enhance self-care and wellness. Hosted by DaRevsUSA, Rev Dr Penny Taylor and Rev Dr Bill Ressl. Simple (grounded in Christ’s love), fun (sharing some time together), yet profound (grounded in a progressive theological lens).
LISTEN: On your favorite podcast app.
SUBSCRIBE: Discover Premium commercial free early listening on Podbean
For all the mindful contemplative possibilities, visit CenterToAwakenKindness.com
Please note:
At times, scripture contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children, therefore parental discretion is advised.
Bill looks at free will, the choices we make that become our destiny, the legacy we leave behind. What we do or don’t do has consequences. What impact do our actions have for our life and those around us – destroy or nurture? Today we look at the story of a barren fig tree, the gardener, and the landowner. The landowner wants the barren fig tree cut down - the gardener suggests giving it one more year, one more chance. What happens? Do we make informed choices or do not? What does it mean to have freedom? What does it mean that our choices inform our destiny and the destiny of others – the legacy of our actions?
Together we’ll share and reflect on scripture from Luke 13:1-9, pray, and join in the song singing Our People are Dying, a reflective ballad Bill wrote in August 2020. Come join the journey and see what God has planned.
Awaken Kindness by DaRevsUSA, a podcast. A progressive podcast looking at the stories of the Bible that enhance self-care and wellness. Hosted by DaRevsUSA, Rev Dr Penny Taylor and Rev Dr Bill Ressl. Simple (grounded in Christ’s love), fun (sharing some time together), yet profound (grounded in a progressive theological lens).
LISTEN: On your favorite podcast app.
SUBSCRIBE: Discover Premium commercial free early listening on Podbean
For all the mindful contemplative possibilities, visit CenterToAwakenKindness.com
Please note:
At times, scripture contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children, therefore parental discretion is advised.
Bill examines the dynamics and forms of life leading to growth or destruction – which do we value? Today we meet Mary, Martha, Lazarus, and Judas who questions Mary’s actions of “wasting” expensive perfume on Jesus’ feet. Mary had an intentionality to her actions – focused on love and Jesus that at times can seem a bit strange to the forms of society then and now. Together we’ll share and reflect on scripture John 12:1-8, pray, and join in the song singing Take My Life. Come, let us explore the potentials of vitality and growth as well as all the possibilities around us.
Simple (grounded in Christ’s love), fun (sharing some time together), yet profound (grounded in a progressive theological lens). Begin to see the sacramental reality of life. Come join the journey and see what God has planned.
Discover Premium commercial free listening, subscribe on Podbean
For all the mindful contemplative possibilities, visit CenterToAwakenKindness.com
Please note:
At times, scripture contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children, therefore parental discretion is advised.
Bill talks about the choices we make in life - how we are an individual in life and how we participate with others. Bill unpacks understandings of individuation and participation through the Parable of the Prodigal and His Brother offered by Jesus in Luke 15:1-3 and 11b-32. Courage from deep within opens possibilities of new life. Love offers a path of understanding through the most difficult moments. Renewal is possible. Come let us explore how even the smallest amount of courage can be life changing. Together we’ll share and reflect on scripture Luke 15:1-3 and 11b-32, pray, and join in the song Amazing Grace, How Powerful that Gift by Bill Ressl.
Simple (grounded in Christ’s love), fun (sharing some time together), yet profound (grounded in a progressive theological lens). Begin to see the sacramental reality of life. Come join the journey and see what God has planned.
Discover Premium commercial free listening, subscribe on Podbean
For all the mindful contemplative possibilities, visit CenterToAwakenKindness.com
Please note:
At times, scripture contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children, therefore parental discretion is advised.
Penny takes a trip on the wild side exploring life’s wild adventures and how God is always with us – we are not alone. Penny enjoys hiking and having adventures. It can be pretty wild out there when walking in nature. Like the time at Glacier National Park when Penny and Bill went off the pathway to see the snow field that was still melting down the mountain. What did Bill see? Tan in color… a mountain lion? Hear Penny explain how when fear sets in you can get lost in the wilderness of life and how the pathways of life are often filled with wild adventures. She’ll also look at an adventure from long-ago in Luke 24:13-35 when two men were walking on the road to Emmaus. They had a pretty wild journey – one that they could have never anticipated. Come let’s explore taking a trip on the wild side. Together we’ll share and reflect on scripture Luke 24:13-35, pray, and sing the hymn God Be With You Till We Meet Again.
Simple (grounded in Christ’s love), fun (sharing some time together), yet profound (grounded in a progressive theological lens). Begin to see the sacramental reality of life. Come join the journey!
Discover Premium commercial free listening, subscribe on Podbean
For all the mindful contemplative possibilities, visit CenterToAwakenKindness.com
Please note:
At times, scripture contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children, therefore parental discretion is advised.
Penny and Bill explore taking time to smell the flowers – taking time to be with God. Do we take time for God? Jesus did. Take Time to smell the flowers, aka sabbath time. Explore the amazing story of Jesus taking some time to be with God and reading from the scroll of Isaiah. Learn how God’s grace is all around if we open our eyes. Let’s take some time for God. Together we’ll share and reflect on scripture Luke 4:14-21, pray, and sing the hymn What a Friend We Have in Jesus.
Simple (grounded in Christ’s love), fun (sharing some time together), yet profound (grounded in a progressive theological lens). Begin to see the sacramental reality of life. Come join the journey!
Discover commercial free listening, subscribe on AwakenKindness.com
For all the mindful contemplative possibilities, visit CenterToAwakenKindness.com
Please note:
At times, scripture contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children, therefore parental discretion is advised.
Penny and Bill delve deep into wine – Jesus’ first miracle changing water into wine at the wedding at Cana. Concerns can often arise at a wedding – and it did at a wedding at Cana that Jesus was at when the wine ran out. At first, he simply wanted to continue enjoying the wedding, but his mother encouraged him to create some wine. Jesus made the finest wine out of water. Feeling a little low – and who doesn’t once in a while? Be filled with God’s grace. Know that God can fill you with grace – accept it – believe it and enjoy the amazing journey… and live it. Come, explore ~ join DaRevsUSA, Penny & Bill, as they reflect on turning water into wine from John 2:1-11. Together we’ll share scripture, pray, and sing Leaning on the Everlasting Arms.
Simple (grounded in Christ’s love), fun (sharing some time together), yet profound (grounded in a progressive theological lens). Begin to see the sacramental reality of life. Come join the journey!
Discover commercial free listening, subscribe on AwakenKindness.com
For all the mindful contemplative possibilities, visit CenterToAwakenKindness.com
Please note:
At times, scripture contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children, therefore parental discretion is advised.
Bill focuses on the painful daily struggle… do we corrupt another day or work toward healing? Every day every person has a choice… do we continue to expand the ills of otherness made visible in the world through oppression, disenfranchisement, and disempowerment - or do we spend the next 24 hours working toward loving one another – our self, our family and friends, and our enemies. A new day is possible here and now – if we desire. We’ll take a look at John 10:1-10 that warns us to be aware of the thief who comes to steal and kill and destroy… are we that person or do we follow in Christ’s love? We’ll take time to pray and sing I Come to the Garden – fitting as our world is a garden, our garden to love or destroy. Simple, fun, yet profound. Begin to see the sacramental reality of life. Come join the journey!
Discover commercial free listening, subscribe on AwakenKindness.com
For all the mindful contemplative possibilities, visit CenterToAwakenKindness.com
Please note:
At times, scripture contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children, therefore parental discretion is advised.
Bill delves deep into solitude, the cousin of loneliness, recognizing that we are never alone. Loneliness can destroy us – solitude holds us together. For where two or three are gathered Christ is present – but how can that be if we are all alone? Bill looks to scripture for an answer… the Advocate is ever present with us. So what? Bill unpacks the Good News – in solitude Christ is present. Come join the journey exploring scripture… Matthew 18:20, Verses from John 14:15-16 and 26, and Romans 8:31, 35, 37-39. We’ll join in prayer and in singing Take My Life. Simple, fun, yet profound. Begin to see the sacramental reality of life. Come join the journey!
Discover commercial free listening, subscribe on AwakenKindness.com
For all the mindful contemplative possibilities, visit CenterToAwakenKindness.com
Please note:
At times, scripture contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children, therefore parental discretion is advised.
Penny highlights that doubt and anxiety messes with us. Don’t let it stand in the way of experiencing God’s peace and love. Today Penny looks at living in fear being filled with profound doubt and anxiety through the story of Doubting Thomas from the Gospel of John 20:19-31. Thomas, one of the disciples, was in deep doubt and filled with fear. See how peace and doubt inner connect and how God’s divine reassurance that is deep inside can become peace known as shalom. Our hope is that this podcast begins to refresh and renew you with peace and love. Join us as we take a leap of faith reading and exploring scripture, praying, and joining together in song… I’ve God Peace Like a River. Don’t let doubt and anxiety win – find shalom, peace. Simple, fun, yet profound. Begin to see the sacramental reality of life. Come join the journey!
Discover commercial free listening, subscribe on AwakenKindness.com or AwakenKindnessNetwork.com
For all the mindful contemplative possibilities, visit CenterToAwakenKindness.com
Please note:
At times, scripture contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children, therefore parental discretion is advised.
Loneliness is very real. It can strip us of our humanness. Bill shares his thoughts on changing loneliness into solitude – a choice? Is it possible? Is there a difference? Expanding upon the theological thought of systematic theologian Paul Tillich, Bill looks at the difference between these two experiences and looks back to a story of an old Christian Brother from high school. Loneliness can take us down into places that destroy our humanness – the other, solitude the cousin of loneliness, can turn loneliness into something else that holds us through the hardest of times. Come join the journey expanding upon Romans 8:31, 35, and 37. Join DaRevsUSA in prayer and singing God Be With You Till We Meet Again. Take a leap of faith. Delve deep exploring the difference between loneliness and solitude – and choose solitude. Simple, fun, yet profound. Begin to see the sacramental reality of life. Come join the journey!
Discover commercial free listening, subscribe on AwakenKindness.com
For all the mindful contemplative possibilities, visit CenterToAwakenKindness.com
Please note:
At times, scripture contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children, therefore parental discretion is advised.
Death is painful. Penny focuses on where to find strength and support in difficult times, especially in the painful experience of the death of a bestie. Penny reflects on how Jesus shared time, had empathy, and consoled his besties – Mary and Martha. All were distraught at Lazarus’ death. Jesus reminds his besties that if you believe you need not worry about anything – then Jesus tells Lazarus: “Come out!” Lazarus rises from the dead and many believed for the first time in their life. Join Penny as she reflects on the story of Lazarus rising from the dead in John 11:17-45. Join DaRevsUSA in prayer and singing In the Garden. Take a leap of faith – delve deep. Share some time with a bestie ~ share kindness and empathy so faith can grow and blossom. Simple, fun, yet profound. Begin to see the sacramental reality of life. Come join the journey!
Discover commercial free listening, subscribe on AwakenKindness.com
For all the mindful contemplative possibilities, visit CenterToAwakenKindness.com
Please note:
At times, scripture contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children, therefore parental discretion is advised.
Penny asks: “Have you ever asked someone you don’t know for a drink?” Jesus did. Faith blossomed. Jesus was thirsty and asked a Samaritan woman for a drink of water, breaking the cultural codes of his day. Jesus’ conversation with the woman about “living water” opened her eyes and the eyes of those in her community. “Living water” minimizes thirst and has the capacity to plant seeds of faith and create relationships across differences.
Join Penny as she reflects on the story of the Samaritan woman at the well from John 4:5-15; 25-26. Join DaRevsUSA in prayer and singing Peace Like a River. Take a leap of faith. Share some “living water” with others today ~ plant the seeds of faith that can grow and blossom in others. Simple, fun, yet profound. Begin to see the sacramental reality of life. Come join the journey!
Discover commercial free listening, subscribe on AwakenKindness.com
For all the mindful contemplative possibilities, visit CenterToAwakenKindness.com
Please note:
At times, scripture contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children, therefore parental discretion is advised.
Penny highlights the mystery of doing extraordinary things, growing in faith, and believing in miracles. Fear can stop us from sharing or it can compel us to do extraordinary things, to grow in faith, and believe. Don’t let fear win. Penny reflects on John 6:1-21 and the extraordinary things that can occur especially when fear is overcome. We’ll read a scripture story, share some reflections, pray, and sing a song ~ Love Divine, All Loves Excelling. Simple, fun, yet profound. Begin to see the sacramental reality of life. Come join the journey!
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For all the mindful contemplative possibilities, visit CenterToAwakenKindness.com
Please note:
At times, scripture contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children, therefore parental discretion is advised.
Frozen in fear? Give them a mission? Transformation? What? Today Penny reflects on the angel, the woman, and the tomb. What did the angel tell the women who went to visit Jesus at the tomb? Will they remain frozen in fear? Will awareness, freedom and courage take hold? Listen and see how God provides in the most unusual ways. Be transformed. We’ll read from Mark 16:1-8, share some reflections, pray, and sing a song ~ Crown Him With Many Crowns. Simple, fun, yet profound. Begin to see the sacramental reality of life. Come join the journey!
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For all the mindful contemplative possibilities, visit CenterToAwakenKindness.com
Please note:
At times, scripture contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children, therefore parental discretion is advised.
Bill explores every generation has a choice ~ continue or stand against abuse, violence, oppression, and disenfranchisement. Do we wish to remain weary, carrying heavy burdens with no rest? There is another way. Bill looks at Christ’s yoke of love that encourages individual and social responsibility in relation to the world in Jesus’ time, at the time of the American Revolution, and today with police brutality, domestic violence, and the realities of Covid-19. Bill reflects on Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30 suggesting Jesus encourages us to come to him, take his yoke, and learn from him ~ stand against abuse, violence, oppression, and disenfranchisement. We’ll share in prayer and join in singing the Battle Hymn of the Republic. Simple, fun, yet profound. Begin to see the sacramental reality of life. Come join the journey!
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For all the mindful contemplative possibilities, visit CenterToAwakenKindness.com
Please note:
At times, scripture contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children, therefore parental discretion is advised.
Penny highlights the mysterious role that we are all called to be ambassadors of God’s divine love. Each of us is called to do great things like the great architects that built Notre-Dame cathedral in Paris, France. Built in honor of God and named for Our Lady, Mary the Mother of Jesus, the builders used all their talents and skills to build a magnificent building – a space others have celebrated through the centuries. In this episode Penny explores how each of us is called to do great things. We’ll read from scripture John 14:1-14, share some reflections, pray, and sing a song ~ Take My Life. Simple, fun, yet profound. Begin to see the sacramental reality of life. Come join the journey!
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For all the mindful contemplative possibilities, visit CenterToAwakenKindness.com
Please note:
At times, scripture contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children, therefore parental discretion is advised.
Penny and Bill look at the dramatic story of God opening the sky. Imagine ~ the sky opened! Why did God open the sky? Was God happy or mad? Did God say anything? Explore the amazing story of Jesus’ baptism when the sky opened, a dove appeared, and a voice spoke from the heavens saying: “I am well pleased.” Why was God pleased? Is God pleased with us today? Join Penny and Bill as they reflect on what God said at Jesus’ baptism and what it may mean for life today. We’ll take time to read scripture, Luke 3:15-17 & 21-22, share some reflections, pray, and sing a song ~ Peace Like a River. Simple, fun, yet profound. Begin to see the sacramental reality of life. Come join the journey!
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For all the mindful contemplative possibilities, visit CenterToAwakenKindness.com
Please note:
At times, scripture contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children, therefore parental discretion is advised.
What star do you follow? What treasures do you share? Penny and Bill explore how following the star, God’s call for your life, invites sharing your treasures with the world. Examine the story of the Magi, the 3 Kings, the Wise Ones, who followed their star and shared their gifts. What if they had given up or not shared their gifts? We’ll read Matthew 2:1-12, share some reflections, pray, and sing ~ you guessed it, join along singing We Three Kings. Simple, fun, yet profound. Begin to see the sacramental reality of life. Come join the journey!
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For all the mindful contemplative possibilities, visit CenterToAwakenKindness.com
Please note:
At times, scripture contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children, therefore parental discretion is advised.
Penny and Bill dive deep exploring the light within that overcomes life’s anxieties. Discover God’s grace and see the light of Christ’s love alive in the world. Reflect on John 1:1-18 and discover that darkness can seem to be all around, but light overtakes darkness ~ and that light is God’s grace that is deep within each of us. Join in the prayer Jesus taught us to pray and then sing-a-long ~ you guessed it, the first verse of Amazing Grace. Come join the journey!
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For all the mindful contemplative possibilities, visit CenterToAwakenKindness.com
Please note:
At times, scripture contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children, therefore parental discretion is advised.
This first podcast begins the journey. Discover more about DaRevsUSA, the Rev Dr Penny Taylor LCSW and the Rev Dr Bill Ressl LCSW, as they map out who they are and what they offer. Today, Penny and Bill share what’s behind the name DaRevsUSA. Discover what to expect by exploring a brief introduction to The Gifts You Give episode that looks at Matthew 2:1-12 through commentary, prayer, and song (you guessed it, join along singing We Three Kings). Simple, fun, yet profound. Begin to see the sacramental reality of life.
Discover commercial free listening, subscribe on AwakenKindness.com
For all the mindful contemplative possibilities, visit CenterToAwakenKindness.com
Please note:
At times, scripture contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children, therefore parental discretion is advised.