Read Together UMCNA: Recent Episodes
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Rev. Carol Gullatt finds that reflecting on leadership using this week's Gospel lesson is fitting for the times we are living in.
Rev. Steve West walks us through Jacob's wrestling match using a hymn by Charles Wesley.
We're all sinners and saints, says Rev. Donna Godwin. We're all good guys and bad guys. We can't separate the wheat from the weeds—we have to let God do that.
Rev. Delaney Holloway contemplates what it is about children that is so admirable to Jesus that he challenges us to be childlike.
In this week's reading that includes the story of two pilgrims walking to Emmaus, says Rev. Holly Woodall, Jesus teaches us how to do church on the road.
Do you think "Doubting Thomas" gets a bad rap? Listen to Rev. Will Etheridge share why he thinks so.
Rev. Matt Andrews says that one of the lessons the women who visited the tomb teaches us is that it takes courage to hope.
Rev. Judy Shepherd teaches us about the temptation of Christ and how it can teach us to respond when we are tempted.
Rev. Dr. Clinton Hubbard talks about the story of Joseph and how his actions in time of crisis are an example of good character.
As Rev. Sherill Clontz finds in this week's Isaiah text, God is always doing new things.
Rev. Steve West invites us to compare similar Gospel stories, like the Sermon and the Mount and the Sermon on the Plain.
When we open ourselves in prayer, says Rev. Amy Parsons Vaughn, God is at work to transform us.
As we consider the story of the Good Samaritan, Becky Walker asks us to consider who we are walking past.
Rev. Michael Bowman reminds us that the Fruits of the Spirit are fruit that will last in a life that abides in Jesus.
Rev. Malinda Weaver reminds us of the heart of today's Gospel message is that Jesus came to calm the storms of our lives.
God wants a right relationship with us, says Joey Butler, and opens the door for us to enter into it.
Rev. Carrie Jones challenges us to tap into one of the gifts the Holy Spirit brought on Pentecost—the power to prophesy.
Rev. Steve West invites us to look deeper into the story of Lydia and to acknowledge the importance of women called into ministry.
As we read this week's scripture, Rev Donna Godwin thinks we need to ask ourselves, "Where is the love?"
Rev. Roger Short walks us through this week's readings, which remind us that the Lamb is the Shepherd.
Becky Walker focuses on Isaiah 55, where we are reminded that God's ways are higher than our ways.
Rev. Josh Hickman finds significance in the metaphors Jesus used in this week's Gospel lesson.
Mike Stedham reminds us that the practice of giving something up for Lent relates to the temptation of Christ in the wilderness.
Rev. Leslie Williams points out that one of the lessons of the Transfiguration story is that the order in which we do things has meaning.
Rev. Steve West notes that in a story of unhealthy family dynamics, Joseph is able to see the bigger picture.
How can we face the problems we face in today's world? Rev Dale Clem shares some ideas.
Rev. Robbins Sims invites us to listen—to others and especially to what God is saying to us.
Every week, we hear the Scripture read and the Word proclaimed. Rev. Donna Godwin asks, "Are we really listening?"
Does your faith bring you joy and delight? Rev. John Fleischauer reminds us that it should.
In the most difficult of days, Rev. Donna Godwin reminds us, loving each other is the main thing.
Rev. Steve West identifies three core values of the early church that the world found offensive and encourages us to relentlessly live into them.
One of the things about reading Acts, says Stephanie Sparks, is that it allows us to see the continuing work of the Holy Spirit.
Rev. Dr. Bill Morgan talks about the "then and now" statements we find in the book of Matthew.
The prophets who told of dire consequences long ago are also speaking to us, says Rev. Eric Bagwell. Are we listening?
As we journey together, Rev. John Baldwin reminds us to be intentional and considerate as we share the gifts God has given each of us.
Reading the prophets is a reminder that people don't always listen to God's messages. Still, says Rev. Delaney Holloway, we must speak when God calls us to.
Rev. Donna Godwin points out that reading Lamentations reminds us that it's OK to be brutally honest with God.
Psalm 112 reminds Rev. Tony Campbell of taking pleasure in reading and studying Scripture.
Rev. Kaite Allred points out that sometimes the smallest acts of love and compassion are helpful in ways we can't imagine.
Rev. Christy Noren-Hentz talks about the context of the book of Isaiah, then hones in on responding to injustice.
Stephanie Sparks shares that reading favorite, familiar Scripture—even when you realize you have changed since you last read it and still find meaning in it—is a balm for the soul.
Reading Scripture brings us life and joy—but sometimes makes us cringe. Rev. Dorothy Ann Webster addresses some cringe-worthy passages in this week's reading.
A lesson from this week's readings shared by Rev. Emily Freeman Penfield is this: just because we can doesn't mean we should.
A lesson from this week's readings shared by Rev. Emily Freeman Penfield is this: just because we can doesn't mean we should.
No matter what we're going through, no, matter what's going on in the world, God is always at work. That's the message Rev. Wayne Hicks shares from Psalm 75.
Lessons of patience and commitment for Elijah are also lessons for us, Rev. Patsy Carlberg reminds us.
Rev Steve West sees this week's readings as a move from hostility to a new home to a new hope.
Life seems unfair sometimes, says Andy Rickles. Psalm 49 reminds us to build up things of eternal and not earthly value.
Old Testament verses can be hard to read. Rev. Dorothy Ann Webster reminds us that these words are not the final words.
Sabbath, as we read about in Exodus, is a pattern of living the requires one to depend completely on God. It was radical then, says Rev. Marian Royston, and it's radical now.
Fear drives us to make some bad decisions, says Rev. Megan Barber, and sometimes our actions bring about the very thing we fear.
Rev. Steve West explores the family dynamics and themes of anxiety, forgiveness and reconciliation passed through the generations.
Do you ever think about your inheritance and all the family drama that might be attached? We can be grateful, says Stephanie Sparks, that God is our true inheritance.
Bishop Debra Wallace-Padgett welcomes readers to the 2024 Read Together initiative and reminds us why it's important to read daily.
Rev. Terry Goodman reminds us that God is still at work in the world and in our lives. Are you listening?
Haleigh Davis and Whitney Winston ponder the Scripture from Isaiah in this week's Lectionary reading list, and wonder—are we letting this passage be a guiding light for our actions?
No matter what is causing darkness in our lives, says Rev. Leah Burns, Advent hope is for everyone.
Where is Jesus amidst the chaos of Christmas? As we're searching, Rev. Jane Taylor says, we should stop and remember that he is already here.
Rev. Sarah Slack reminds us to look for Jesus in others and treat them as we would treat him.
We know time is in God's hands, but sometimes in the busy-ness of life we forget. Renni Morris reminds us in this week's episode.
Carolyn Kidd reminds us of the responsibility we all have to keep the stories of the Bible alive for the generations that follow.
Kerry McShea asks us to remember our mentors on the faith journey, and to pay it forward whenever we can.
Our eyes are opened to new ways of seeing things every time we read familiar Scripture, says Stephanie Sparks.
Kerry McShea found this week's reading list filled with reminders of who God is, and believes we can use this information to be the Body of Christ.
Context is important, Stephanie Sparks says in this week's podcast. It opens our eye to new meaning in familiar passages.
As you listen to Rev. Steve West share his thoughts on this week's reading list, think about what you are seeking.
Using the Parable of the Sower, Tina Hardy shares the importance of planting seeds to offer Christ every day.
The Gospel message in Matthew this week, says Rev. Emily Freeman Penfield, calls us to bold discipleship.
Joey Butler ties Psalm 100, a short but powerful reminder to praise God's goodness, to the other texts in the reading list that point to God's goodness.
In this week's reading list, Rev. Godwin finds stories of hospitality. Is your church known for radical welcoming?
Rev. Ross Furio talks about the creation story in Genesis 1 and asks us to consider letting God continue to be the one who calls things good, while we partner with him to create and share the Gospel.
Once we get outside our own bubbles, says Rev. Andy Yarnell, the Holy Spirit shows us amazing things.
One of the takeaways Rev. Chris Cone finds in the story of Christ's ascension is that we need to be questioned.
For the church to move forward, it's helpful to know your theological task. Listen as Rev. Robert Mercer outlines ours as United Methodists.
Rev. James Haskins reflects on the relationship the shepherd has with the sheep, a metaphor used many times in Scripture.
Rev. Tim Tatum shares how using Anglican prayer beads can enrich your prayer time with God.
Rev. Todd Noren-Hentz ponders how Scene I and Scene II of the road to Emmaus story come together into one Act and become part of the big picture of God's full story.
Hope is a God thing, says Rev. Roger Thompson, and it's for both the here and now as well as the future.
Rev. Donald Smith encourages us to seek to recognize the living Christ in the eternal now.
In reading the Liturgy of the Passion, are you struck by Jesus' silence? As Rev. Vicki Cater points out, it speaks volumes.
As Rev. Jeff Davis says, the story of Lazarus teaches us that Jesus brings life in the face of death.
Rev. Donna Godwin has learned that we don't pray in order to change God, but rather we pray to be transformed by God.
Rev. Sherill Clontz learned this in her faith journey: God's love, presence and provision are not something we look for in the future; they are with now.
In an overview of the Lectionary reading list for this week, Rev. Sherri Reynolds finds the comforting reassurance of God's presence always being with us.
Psalm 32 tells us God puts a song in our hearts. Rev Tom Parrish wonders, when will the song come to our lips in praise?
Rev. Jason Gattis shares how the Transfiguration of Jesus was to help the disciples—and us—understand his purpose.
It's good to have a routine. It's also good, says Rev. Wayne Hicks, to be open to shaking up your routine.
Rev. Kelsey Grissom points to the ways Jesus gave us examples of how to live out the blessings of the Beatitudes.
Who is the suffering servant we read about in Isaiah? Rev. Patsy Carlberg makes a case that it may be us, the Church.
Kelly Price helps us imagine the story of Jesus' baptism in today's context. What if you had seen or heard it on social media?
According to Faith Hooper, Advent is the perfect time to praise God. Reading Psalm 148 would help you get started.
What does it mean to love? Rev. Matt Andrews says that John 2 defines love for Christ-followers better than a dictionary.
Rev. Megan Barber makes a beautiful connection between the love story in Song of Solomon and the Advent season.
Are you finding Malachi challenging? Rev. Griffen Cope says that Malachi is a book that calls us out. Have a listen.
After months of the pandemic keeping us out of our buildings, we can relate to the Israelites in this week's Scripture as they re-enter the Temple. But, as Rev. Will Shelton reminds us, we don't need a building to find God.
Have you ever considered reading Ecclesiastes as an answer to Proverbs? Rev. Tyler Christiansen tells us why we should.
Rev. Jake Herron gleans lessons on perseverance and prayer from James 1. Have a listen.
As you listen to Rev. Delaney Wray and think about the witnesses who have helped shaped you faith, have your journal or pen and paper ready!
When we feel overwhelmed by the work God calls us to, Rev. Robert Sturdivant encourages to look for that one person we can help.
Rev. Tyler Cantrell identifies with Jonah's all-too human response to God's call. How about you?
The readings from Acts this week remind Rev. Susan Groseclose that Jesus called his disciples—including us—to start in our own circle and go out and out and out until we reach the ends of the earth. How far are we willing to go?
Listen as Rachel McKelvy Boggs shares her thoughts on Amos 5, which has as important a message for the people of God in today's world as it did centuries ago.
As a United Methodist pastor, Rev. Paige Wimberly connected with verses in this week's list. In believing we know God's desires more than someone else does, do we put more emphasis on being right than on making disciples?
After reading John 13-15, Rev. Kevin Payne reminds us of the messages Jesus emphasizes in the Farewell Discourse.
Rev. Jow Riddle provides context about Jesus' references to light in our reading this week.
Son of God. Son of Man. Using John 5-6, Rev. John Grimm tells us how Jesus has the authority to claim these titles.
Sometimes one verse in a list of Scripture says so much. Rev. Tim Jones focuses on John 1:14, when Jesus changed "was" to "is" for all of us.
Rev. Donna Godwin reviews the book What If Jesus Was Serious About Prayer by Skye Jethani.
Rev. Zac Langer's take on this week's readings from Ezekiel is that our lives are never too far gone for God to work in them.
Rev. Ron Schultz walks us through the reading list for this week with a reminder that God is in control of all things, and God has a part for you to play.
Rev. Jeff Armbrester takes us through this week's reading list, acknowledging that some verses are not so easy to read.
Rev. Wade Langer has an important reminder from the story of Elijah—practice self-care to be more effective in your ministry work.
We are all different. We are each unique. But, as Rev. Donna Godwin reminds us, the important things are to love God and to love one another.
Leslie Norris Williams reflects on the Psalms we read this week—how raw and honest they are, and how lament circles back to gratitude and praise.
As Rev. Jane Taylor points out, exercising the fruits of the Spirit leads to life, bears fruit and spreads the Gospel.
Rev. Steve Strange tackles some tough, thought-provoking subjects in this week's podcast.
Using verses from Luke 6, Charlotte Garrett-Williams focuses on helping us be more aware of how we judge others.
Rev. Kevin Thomas explores how God's words to Job remind us of the wonder and mystery of faith.
Rev. Ann Robbins asks calls our attention to the risen Christ we worship. Where do you look for Jesus?
Rev. Patrick Cooley helps us see that remaining faithful in difficult times requires us to understand God's character.
Do you find it difficult to wait? Lectio Divina could help you be still and develop an attitude of waitful patience. Rev. Savannah Gross guides listeners through basic Lectio Divina using Psalm 46.
Rev. Jeff Wright reminds us what the Pharisees call unclean is different from what Jesus teaches us is unclean.
Rev. Nancy Hornsby reminds us that time is a gift we can't buy, but we can control how we use it.
Focusing on this week's reading from Job and the time we are now living through, Rev. Reed Shell notes that we can choose a path of darkness or a path of light.
Rev. Kim Goddard reminds us that the hands of the Almighty are often found at the ends of our arms.
Context is so important when studying Scripture. This week Holston Conference Lay Leader Becky G. Hall helps us understand a bit of context in our reading list, offers a synopsis of each day and takes a deeper look at the Psalms.
Rev. Jason Gattis ponders the constant struggle between faith and reason in this week's episode.
A Psalm can remind us to seek God's glory in many ways. Seminary student Kim Furlow reminds us to just look around.
Rev. Steve West finds a recurring theme of inclusiveness in this week's reading list—prompting us to remind ourselves, all means all.
Rev. Emily Nelms Chastain got a feeling of new beginnings from reading this week's Scripture, and a renewed sense of the importance of listening to God's call.
Bishop Debra Wallace-Padgett finds this week's reading list appropriate to the new year, as they point to new beginnings.
Rev. Donna Godwin finds lots of meaning in our reading list this week, from looking for Jesus to clothing ourselves with kindness and compassion.
Rev. Ron Schultz believes that the swaddling of the baby Jesus was an important sign showing us how we are all, as children of God, wrapped in God's love.
Lisa Keys-Mathews sees a mentoring relationship between Mary and Elizabeth, and challenges us to find mentors as well as being mentors to others.
We hear a Gospel message every week. Rev. Adlene Kufarimai wants to know... what are we moved to do upon hearing it?
As we enter Advent, Rev. Suzanne Katschke has an important question: Will we continue to be faithful in the most challenging of times?
As Rev. Claudia Lewis points out, Jesus understood the assignment. Do we understand ours?
Danny Norman walks us through this week's Scripture list with a special reminder to listen closely to God and to follow Jesus' lead.
Rev. Rodney Shamry has an important question for us this week, based on the story of Bartimaeus.
Kelley Clegg Neal has a great reminder for us this week about being a servant for Jesus.
Simply following the law isn't so simple. Rev. Corey Railey reminds us that loving Jesus is the main point.
Anne Jolly talks about the emotions that the Psalms bring out in us. This week's reading of Psalm 19 is an especially good example.
Using the reading from Psalm 116, Rev. Kelsey Barnes encourages us to take comfort in knowing the character of God, which we have learned through relationship with God.
Rev. R.G. Lyons ponders the different opinions shared in letters of the early church about faith with and without works, and how people of faith are called to respond to people living in poverty.
Rev. Brittany Camp ponders Paul's advice in Ephesians and asks, are we reflecting God's glory to trying to shine on our own?
Rev. Bill Crosby walks us through some of the DOs and DON'Ts Paul writes about in Ephesians.
When Elijah was in despair he cried out to God from the beneath the broom tree. Rev. Richard Stryker asks us about times of despair in our lives. Have you found yourself in such a situation? Did you cry out to God?
Rev. John Fleischauer encourages us to identify our spiritual gifts and learn to use them for the good of the Kingdom.
Bob Bentley points out that God endows his chosen with power but the power must be used for God's will, not our own.
Joey Butler ties a variety of themes in this week's reading into a loving message of finding your home in God.
Listen to Rev. Andy Curtis as he describes the ministry that offers life-giving banquets to the world.
Whatever cause you are part of shapes you and changes the world. Rev. Patrick Cooley advises us to examine who chooses our cause—ourselves or God?
Using our reading from Lamentations, Suzanne Freeman reminds us of the hope we have in all circumstances because of God's abiding love.
Rev. Carrie Jones reminds us to look for the "mustard seed moments" when something seemingly small and insignificant can grow into something really important in our lives.
This week we read one of the most oft-quoted passages in Scripture. Considering John 3:16, Katie Gilbert asks: Are we prepared to let love be our rhythm?
Tina Hardy talks about the importance of the Holy Spirit in the lives of those who follow Christ.
Rev. Jimelvia Martin shares a message about the gift of the Holy Spirit, which is for all people.
Joey Butler reminds us that as followers of Jesus, we must be ready to be led by the Spirit to witness anytime in any place.
The sun continues to rise, and so we can have hope. Rev. Kelly Clem shares her Easter story.
Rev. Rick Owen shares thoughts about covenants kept, covenants broken and covenants renewed.
God's love and blessing are freely given and not earned, Rev. Sherri Reynolds reminds us this week.
Using the words of Psalm 19, Rev. Tom Parrish encourages us to look for God all around us.
Rev. Sherill takes us through this week's verses from Psalm 22, where we find hope interspersed with lament.
Rev. Mary Henley reminds us that there are times we need to be still and listen. As we enter Lent, you can choose listening as a spiritual discipline.
Rev. Josh Hickman dives into focuses on 1 Corinthians 9:19-23 and how we are being called to try to connect with people.
Rev. Carol Gullatt focuses on the authority of Jesus as we read Mark's version of Jesus healing the man with an unclean spirit in Capernaum.
Rev. Jeremy Auvil reminds us that God's knowing us in every way, as described in Psalm 139:1-6, is a wonderful thing.
Do you believe God has a plan for your life? If you do, then do you trust God with your past, your present, your future? And do your words and actions bear out this belief and trust? Rev. Robin Scott has some encouraging words for you at the start of a new year.
As Read Together 2020 draws to a close, Bishop Debra Wallace-Padgett reminds us of the hope to be found in the book of Revelation and indeed in all of Scripture.
Elizabeth Crosby points out that 2020 was a big year of "whys" and who we should place our trust in for answers and understanding.
Becky Walker ponders the items Paul asked to be brought to his prison cell. What items would be important to you?
Rev. Paula Calhoun talks about finding joy during Advent, even in the most challenging of times.
Mickey Starling guides us through the Beatitudes as a way of living our lives as followers of Jesus Christ.
Rev. Dorothy Ann Webster reminds to seek wisdom and understanding as gifts from the Holy Spirit, not something to achieve on our own.
Rev. Megan Barber guides us through the 23rd chapter of Job and reminds us that even in the darkest times, God is with us.
Rev. Patrick Cooley ties the readings from Job, Acts and Mark together in this week's podcast.
Using the story of Job, Rev. Jeff Armbrester helps us understand the suffering we all face at some point in our lives.
Does the story of Nehemiah offer hope and encouragement for us today? Rev. Lana Johnson tells us how it does.
Ever get bogged down in the details? As Ruth Hallstead reminds us, details are important—but don't miss the big picture, which is the glory of the Lord.
Based on our reading in Ezekiel this week, Rev. Keith Elder offers the top ten reasons why the watchman might not sound the alarm.
Rev. Judy Shepherd reminds us to give ourselves to prayer in a meaningful way every day.
Becky Fearon reminds us that no matter what emotions you're experiencing, you can choose to be joyful. It's a great message for our current situation.
Rev. Byron Vance leads us through an examination of our emotions and encourages us to be aware of our feelings.
Reading the Gospel of John should remind us, says Rev. John Fleischauer, that our ministry should be incarnational.
If you feel like the world is upside down right now, listen to Rev. Amy Parsons Vaughn read comforting verses from Isaiah.
Rev. Tammy Jackson focuses on the book of James, and how the fact that he changed his mind about Jesus helped advance the early church.
Rev. Jeanet Berruecos Xicohtencatl focuses on Micah 6:8 and reminds us to listen for God. This podcast is also available in Spanish.
La pastora Jeanet Berruecos nos habla sobre la importancia de escuchar a Dios. Esta reflexión esta basada en la lectura de Miqueas 6:1-8.
Lyn Cosby shares about the woes Isaiah writes about, and how we should seek to examine ourselves in light of the prophet's warnings.
Rev. Randy Allen reminds us that when times are hard, we should examine our hearts and discern how we need to repent.
Inspired by this week's Scripture, Rev. Richard Hunter encourages us to pray for others.
Rev. Kelly Clem guides us through some of the lessons to b learned from the story of Elijah.
Rev. Ron Schultz focuses on Romans 12 in our current context, and the directive to not think more of ourselves than we should.
Mike Stedham guides us through the week's reading list, especially Paul's words about hope.
During a troubling time, Rev. Melissa Self Patrick helps us find comfort in the Psalms.
Rev. Woody Woodin finds hope and comfort from this week's reading as we navigate the challenges we face due to COVID-19.
Sonya Hendricks challenges us to use the story of David moving the Ark of the Covenant to let God be the guide for our lives.
Jesus said his yoke is light. What does that mean? Rev. Robert Lancaster gives his take on Matthew 11:28 and other verses from this week's reading list.
Using the faith stories of David and Peter, Rev. Rich Patsios encourages us to answer God's call to act in spite of our shortcomings.
In 2 Corinthians 3, Paul says "where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom." What is that freedom like? What are we freed to be or do? Rev. Ryan Karr and Rev. Drew Clayton discuss this passage.
Rev. Joshua Allison talks about what he's learned from children who love Communion, and the anticipation of being together for worship and the Lord's Supper again.
Fear not! It's one of the most common expression in the Bible. Rev. Lucy Morales gives us her take on the "fear nots" found in the book of Joshua.
How do you define success? Maybe not the same way God defines it, according to Rev. Donald Smith.
Joey Butler ties our Old and New Testament readings together through the Shema—hear, O Israel, the Lord is God is One.
Gerald Ensley talks about trusting God and working on increasing our faith to enable us to trust God more fully.
Rev. Mike Densmore studies the attitudes of the Israelites and how they lived out their faithfulness in the light of God's promises.
Rev. Nancy Cole encourages us to share our stories of conversion and faith and reminds us that while not all conversions are as dramatic as Paul's, they are all of use to bring others to Christ.