Gospel Spice | Awaken Delight in God through faith in Jesus Christ

Bonjour, and welcome to Gospel Spice! I'm your host, Stephanie Rousselle, and today I am inviting you into my personal story of coming to faith from intellectual atheism. Through my story, I invite you to see how God can redeem past regrets and use our unique characteristics and experiences to offer guidance to others. Join me on this highly personal episode as we navigate the importance of language, cultural influences, and the significance of surrendering to God's call. So, grab your favorite cup of coffee (or tea! Or anything hot!). I hope you will be inspired by God’s kindness and grace, and how His tender fatherliness is the key to unshakable faith. Welcome to Gospel Spice!MORE DETAILS ABOUT THIS UNUSUAL EPISODEMuch to my surprise, I discovered that being a Christian doesn't require checking one's brains at the door. Instead, we are called to engage in deep conversations, rooted in love, and grow in our understanding of God. God promises to redeem past regrets so that we can eventually share our experiences with others.Our unique minds and personalities, with our individual interests, dislikes, and stressors, combine to make us who we are. God has intentionally hand-woven each one of us, creating us with purpose and value.My God-given journey from intellectual atheism to Biblical Christianity is a powerful testament to His transformative power—much in spite of me! Having lived in multiple countries and immersed myself in different cultures and languages, God allowed me to gain a deep understanding of faith. And now, my goal is to be that spice of the gospel to the world around us, transforming lives through the love and truth of the gospel.I encourage you to listen to reflect on your own journey of redemption. Have you experienced moments of doubt, arrogance, or a thirst for knowledge? Can you relate to feeling broken on the inside, despite appearing confident on the outside? If so, I humbly hope that my story will inspire you to seek God's approval alone and embrace His transforming love. My story isn’t about me, it is about Him at the deepest levels.Thank you for being a part of the Gospel Spice community. Our mission is to point people to Jesus and draw them deeper into Him. We invite you to join us in embodying the Gospel and becoming an irresistible spice that attracts others to the good news. Our hope is that through our personal stories and experiences, you will find a unique flavor that resonates with you. Let's journey together and spice up the world with the fragrance of the Gospel!Have you ever wondered what it would be like to sit alongside Jesus and his initial audience? To experience the fresh spiritual flavors that the Messianic Jewish culture weaves into the four gospels? Well, that's exactly what we here aim to do through this original series, JESUS RABBI AND LORD. Stephanie invites you to dig deep into Scripture, unearthing raw diamonds that may need a little cleaning up, but will ultimately shine brightly.So get ready to embark on this enlightening and transformative journey with Gospel Spice. Prepare to encounter Jesus in a way that resonates with our modern world and discover the richness of the gospel through the lens of Jewish culture. Let's dig deep, uncover the hidden spices, and experience the beauty of the Scriptures together. Welcome to Gospel Spice!Grab your headphones, hit play, and let Gospel Spice be the catalyst for encountering Jesus in a way you've never experienced before!Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog Do you enjoy Gospel Spice? Then let's deepen our relationship! There are 4 very simple ways to do that, and it would truly mean the world to us. 1- If you’ve enjoyed this episode, you will love receiving our newsletter. It contains value-packed free gifts and rich content each month. It’s at gospelspice.com/signup. There is always something new and exciting happening around here, and I don’t want you to miss out! Sign up at Gospelspice.com/signup2- Did you know Gospel Spice has a YouTube Channel? There’s exclusive content there too. So, join Gospel Spice on YouTube! It's at https://www.youtube.com/gospelspice 3- Also please give us a star rating and a comment on your podcast listening app. Your reviews actually really do make a difference to help others discover and experience Gospel Spice. You would be surprised how helpful these are! So please leave a star rating and a review of a sentence or two. Thank you!4- As always, we are praying for you! You can confidentially email us your prayer requests and praise items at the email address contact@gospelspice.com. It is our privilege to pray for you!So, would you please invest 3 to 5 minutes of your time, maybe even right now, to do one (or more!) of the following suggestions:1-      signup on our website for our newsletter to receive gifts you’re going to love - at Gospelspice.com/signup 2-      find us on YouTube, and see what content we’ve put together to help you grow closer to Jesus - at https://www.youtube.com/gospelspice3-      rate Gospel Spice on your listening app – it’s one of the easiest ways to share the gospel!4-      and finally, tell us how we can pray for you!Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blogBonjour! Gospel Spice exists to inspire our generation to delight in God. We do this through the podcast, online Bible studies, leadership trainings, and more. We want to serve Christ-followers who seek to live a life spiced with the gospel. We want to love God, because He first loved us. We want to experience the fullness of life with Him—and not be content with stale, boring, leftover faith. Jesus tells us that the most important thing is to love the Lord our God, so we take Him seriously. He adds that we are to love our neighbor as ourselves. Now, there are many ways to do that, but I have always personally felt deep compassion for victims of human trafficking – it is modern day slavery, and it revolts the heart of God. And so, they are our particular neighbors here at Gospel Spice. We want to play our part in raising awareness and then financially supporting those who fight this great evil.  Now we would love to invite you to join the team in one of three ways:1, pray Gospel Spice forward – pray for our guests, our listeners and participants, and for us too!2, play Gospel Spice forward by telling your friends about us, and by please leaving positive reviews and comments on your podcast listening app;and 3rd, PAY GospelSpice forward. Less than 1% of our listeners are supporting us financially. We need your help! Please pay Gospel Spice forward today. It can be a one-time donation, or a monthly one, for the amount of your choice. Your donation is fully tax-deductible in the US. Plus, once we cover our costs, a significant portion of your donation will be given back to Christian organizations that fight human trafficking, and that we vet thoroughly. So, you can know that every dime you give is used for the Kingdom of God. Every little bit helps. So, be part of the spice of the gospel by becoming a financial partner today!What matters to us here at Gospel Spice is to create a place where people who seek deeper intimacy with Jesus, will find Him. We want a warm, welcoming atmosphere to journey ever deeper into the heart of God. We believe it is the ultimate calling of the Christian life, and I like to summarize it with my motto, God’s glory, our delight. That is why we invite you to “taste and see” that the Lord is good. And we have been doing this every day since 2019. We need YOU to keep Gospel Spice alive and growing.  Financially speaking, we rely on people who understand this vision and who understand that we cannot function without a minimum budget. We run an extremely tight budget. For example, I work full time but don’t draw a salary. And yet, we have expenses – for example, the equipment and technology we use, and also the wonderfully gifted staff who make it possible to deliver high quality content all around the globe, and then the necessary occasional promotional budget to make it possible to be discovered by those who seek to live a life spiced with the gospel of Jesus Christ. We need your help.  So we would love for you to consider if this ministry is blessing you to pay gospel spice forward. You can partner with us monthly with 10, 25, 50, 100, a month, or you can make one donation, once.And because we are a register nonprofit organization in the United States under the status of a 501c3 charity, it means that the amount that you pay to gospel spice is fully tax deductible. Completely tax deductible. So you're even saving money as you invest in gospel spice ministries. It is an eternal investment, and we are very grateful to you for it.Now it's very important to us that we give back as much as possible from what you give us. And so we commit to giving the majority of what we receive, once all of our administrative costs are paid, to organizations that fight human trafficking on the front line. There are many worthwhile causes in the world, so why this one? Because I have always personally felt deep compassion for victims of human trafficking – maybe because I have never been its victim myself, so I feel a responsibility to help those less fortunate than me. Also, because Jesus tells us to love our neighbor. Human trafficking is modern day slavery, and that is something that revolts the heart of God. We want to play our part in raising awareness and then financially supporting those who fight this great evil.  So, we do some due diligence. We pick organizations who have proven themselves trustworthy of our support. And then we give money to these Christians organizations that fight human trafficking.So would you consider paying us forward at gospelspice.com/payitforward?Your hard-earned money is always well used at Gospel Spice. Ultimately, you are giving back to the Kingdom, a portion of what Jesus has given you. We are well aware of the privilege to steward your partnership. And my prayer is always that you will find your own life spiced with the gospel as you partner with us to flavor the lives of those around us, near and far, with the spice of the gospel. Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

We are replaying our most popular interview of 2023 as we end this year. It is more relevant than ever! Enjoy!Naomi Zacharias joins Stephanie again on Gospel Spice to provide insights on the global fight against human trafficking and towards the restoration of dignity—one life at a time. She also shares how her faith has allowed her to make it through the last couple of years.Make sure to watch the live recording of this conversation and to subscribe to our YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/yuSfxAnzoUw?feature=oembed Naomi starts by sharing the stories of her ministry, Third Ladder, to serve the abandoned, the unloved, the forgotten of this world. In her incomparably gentle way, Naomi also draws our attention to the importance of little acts of kindness as we share the light of Christ with a world in need, one person at a time, one next-door neighbor at a time. Gospel Spice is proud to partner with Third Ladder financially.In the second half of the conversation, Naomi transparently shares how her family is doing after a couple of years of unparalleled struggles. She shares her perspective on living in the deserted valley, remembering what really matters. She shares how hard this has been, and how the Lord has been holding on to her. Naomi says, “I believe He is real, and He is who He says He is. I do believe He is faithful and good and true. When you are in the middle of the valley, you have to come back to what you know to be true.”Naomi says, “it is not faith if it all makes sense. Real is not always smooth and easy, but it’s deep and it’s got roots.” This deeply inspiring, raw conversation will draw you in, to give you hope in darkness, hopelessness, and loneliness. Naomi reminds us that the things that flatten us, break us, shred us are the perfect setting for God to use us. “This life will break us, and we will not have all the answers we long for. But He actually told us that, He gave us that foresight. He is faithful, and He doesn’t leave. He will sit with us through it, and this is not the end of the story.” Naomi reminds us that our stories matter especially when they are not (yet) tied up with a pretty bow and ending. We live most of our lives in the middle of the unresolved stories. And the places that don’t make sense force us to believe that faith matters in the middle of the darkness, the desert, the valley. Naomi reminds us of the importance of the body of Christ, and also that church hurt is real. We need community, and we have a deep desire to right the wrongs of this world. We also have so much at our fingertips to bring healing to the ones right around us.MORE ABOUT NAOMI ZACHARIASNaomi Zacharias received a BA in Business/Economics from Wheaton College. Her first job out of college was in Brand Development for Chick Fil A and she soon transitioned to Sales for The Coca-Cola Company to accept what was her perceived dream job. It was fantastic training under a superb manager, but a restlessness remained. She moved into the non-profit sector, seeking to apply herself to a cause she believed in. Following an internship in the Office of Public Liaison at the White House where she helped to organize presidential briefings for constituency groups, Naomi considered staying in Washington DC to focus on international justice issues. Instead, in a decision that surprised herself, she declined an opportunity at the US Department of Justice to return to Atlanta in 2004 to develop and launch a humanitarian initiative with a robust application process to evaluate international grant requests and distribute approximately 16M USD in grant funding over 16 years for rehabilitation for victims of human trafficking, healthcare, education, poverty-related issues, war-related issues, support for victims of domestic violence and gender-based violence, refugee aid and issues related to child welfare and orphan care in approximately 17 countries. This work led her into refugee and displacement camps in Africa and the Middle East, brothels in Southeast Asia and Europe, women’s prisons in Africa, medical clinics for HIV care, hospitals for patients with leprosy in Asia, and children’s homes around the world to witness significant realities of human tragedy as well as resources, programs, and people affecting redemptive and restorative change. In 2021, together with her team, Naomi launched a new grant making entity, Third Ladder, where she now serves as Executive Director.Naomi has loved seeing parts of the world, savoring cultures, foods, and human connection. She is an introvert who loves being with her family and small circle of close friends. Her primary purpose is to love her children and niece fiercely with a desire to help them uncover beauty in a complicated world and discover who they were intended to be. Through her company, The Anonymous Society Fine Storytellers, she provides editing services for authors looking to find their voice and tell their stories, loves eating out, watching movies, listening to music, a beautiful view, and creating a safe haven at home with her four children.MORE ABOUT THIRD LADDERhttps://thirdladder.org/Third Ladder provides a modern approach to charitable giving. Grounded in the belief that every life holds intrinsic value and that responsible investment can change the world around us, we facilitate a process that enables donors to be involved and intentional in their giving to create maximum impact for a wide reach of human need. At full operational capacity, we intend to provide optional online portfolio access to help donors reach their personalized goals.With inspired donors, we equip our network of vetted grassroots humanitarian efforts with financial grants. Support services enable programs to reach the standard of excellence they have for their mission by implementing processes and reporting that serve to provide measurable impact for donors and assist each program in achieving their goals.“It is an equalizer among us that each one of us can be a ladder as much as each one of us needs one at times to lift us out of the broken into the beautiful.”Traditionally, a repetition of three invites one into something significant.It is used for emphasis to describe the intensity of something. It symbolizes harmony, new life, and completeness.Third Ladder invites you into practical and purposeful opportunity to participate in a community that actively restores – infrastructure, opportunity, justice, and living. What it means to be human is to know pain. But it also offers the opportunity to be a part of a redemptive call to action. It is an equalizer among us that each one of us can be a ladder as much as each one of us needs one at times to lift us out of the broken into the beautiful.We are here to serve you with an experienced team dedicated to help you maximize positive impact and inspiring legacy.Simply make your donations or choose to develop a personalized plan for your charitable contributions with our team committed to helping you maximize your giving to the causes you choose. Inspired by basic principles commonly applied to financial investment, our mission empowers you to direct the impact of your investments in humanity. We are available to serve you today with planning and reporting even as we continue to grow our website with interactive client tools for your convenience and an enhanced donor experience.Find out more at https://thirdladder.org/We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with.Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blogIdentity in the battle | Ephesianshttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/372022/link/Malachi: Messenger to Messiahhttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/356130/link/Wisdom from the Book of Proverbshttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/324347/link/Come to the Table | The Feasts Jesus celebratedhttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/309956/link/The perfect gift for everyone - apparel, drinkware, stickers and more for all the women, men and kids in your life!https://www.gospelspice.com/merchGo to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blogSupport us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

We pick up where we left off last week with the second half of Stephanie’s deep-dive into the Christmas story from the perspective of Mary. We were joking that Joseph, through Matthew, gave us a very concise version of Jesus’ birth, while Mary, like most moms, has a lot more details to share! And indeed – it took one episode to cover Josepha’s account, and two episodes to cover Mary’s memories of the birth of her first born Son, Jesus our Messiah.Don't forget! Go to gospelspice.com/Christmas for a LOT of FREE and beautiful inspirations to make this Christmas your most Christ-centered and Gospel-spiced one! And also, brand new line of Christmas merch at gospelspice.com/merch - don't miss out!One fascinating aspect we discuss is the meaning behind the name Jesus, which was commonly used at the time and carried deep significance. Stephanie also explores the mystery surrounding the exact date of Jesus' birth, leading to a discussion about the potential timing of his conception during the Passover season.The Tower of Eder, mentioned in Matthew's account of the murder of innocent babies in Bethlehem, becomes a thought-provoking symbol. This tower, associated with the raising of sacred sheep destined for sacrifice, offers a glimpse into the symbolism of Jesus as the ultimate sacrificial lamb.Stephanie invites you to experience the ceremonies of circumcision and the redemption presentation at the temple, shedding light on the profound significance of these ancient rituals and their connection to Passover.We invite you to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Christmas story and discover your own calling this holiday season. As always, we are grateful for your continued support and appreciate your engagement with our podcast. Stay tuned for more inspiring content, captivating discussions, and fascinating insights as we navigate the depths of Scripture together.Wishing you a blessed and joy-filled Christmas season!MORE DETAILSThe nature of God is revealed in humility and sacrifice. Jesus, who did not consider equality with God something to be used for his own advantage, made himself nothing, taking on the nature of a servant and being made in human likeness. Because of Jesus' humility and sacrifice, God exalted him to the highest place and gave him a name above every name. Every knee should bow and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father. Do you see the connection? Christmas, the incarnation of God on earth, is intricately linked to the cross and resurrection, leading us to the eternal reign of Christ. It's a powerful reminder of the ultimate gift we receive during this season.Let's dive deeper into Luke's account of Mary's encounter with an angel. She is called "highly favored," a phrase only used twice in Scripture. This echoes Ephesians 1:6, where it's mentioned that God chose us before the foundation of the world, according to his favor and will. The Greek word used to describe Mary's favor is the same word used to describe God's favor towards believers in Ephesians. It means that it gave God great pleasure. Can you believe you are being highly favored like Mary? You are!The tower near Bethlehem, where Jesus is born, is known as “tower of the flock,” or “tower of Eder.” It holds significant biblical connections: it is the place where sacred sheep were raised, destined for sacrifice. Jesus was born in the same place the lambs were readied to be killed on behalf of the people! And the famous Christmas shepherds were watching over THAT flock at night.Now, let's talk about the circumcision and presentation of Jesus at the temple. Both events were customary for Jewish families. They symbolize redemption and the giving of the child back to God. This mirrors the Passover, where the lamb was sacrificed to redeem the firstborn.The redemption ceremony also foreshadows Jesus' ultimate purpose: to buy humanity back for God. Just as Mary and Joseph bought Jesus back for the people, he will later buy humanity back for God through his sacrifice. This fulfillment of the Christmas story was predicted in Genesis 3:15, where God promises hostility between the serpent and the woman's seed. The incarnation and the cross are all part of God's ultimate plan for our salvation.We can't forget the unexpected encounter that occurred at the temple during Jesus' presentation. It connects to an awe-inspiring passage in Isaiah 6:1-4, where Isaiah sees the glory of the Lord. The greatness of Jesus, God himself, is beautifully portrayed in this depiction.We encounter the wise Simeon, who blesses Mary and foretells that Jesus will cause the rise and fall of many in Israel. He also mentions that a sword will pierce Mary's soul. Such powerful words that foreshadow the incredible journey ahead.As we celebrate this Christmas, let's not forget the true meaning behind it all. Mary's encounter with an angel and God's plan for her serves as a powerful reminder for all of us to discover our Christmas calling.Thank you for joining me on this incredible journey through the untold story of Christmas. May this episode inspire you and deepen your understanding of the miraculous birth of Jesus Christ. Remember, every Christmas holds a beautiful story, waiting to be told.Have you ever wondered what it would be like to sit alongside Jesus and his initial audience? To experience the fresh spiritual flavors that the Messianic Jewish culture weaves into the four gospels? Well, that's exactly what we here aim to do through this original series, JESUS RABBI AND LORD. Stephanie invites you to dig deep into Scripture, unearthing raw diamonds that may need a little cleaning up, but will ultimately shine brightly.So get ready to embark on this enlightening and transformative journey with Gospel Spice. Prepare to encounter Jesus in a way that resonates with our modern world and discover the richness of the gospel through the lens of Jewish culture. Let's dig deep, uncover the hidden spices, and experience the beauty of the Scriptures together. Welcome to Gospel Spice!Grab your headphones, hit play, and let Gospel Spice be the catalyst for encountering Jesus in a way you've never experienced before!Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog THERE ARE SEVERAL WAYS TO PARTNER WITH GOSPEL SPICE TODAY!First, PAY Gospel Spice Forward: Give a tax-deductible gift so others can experience our ministry for free, just like you! You can pay it forward with any debit, credit card, or via PayPal. See below for more details about your impact.Also, PLAY Gospel Spice Forward: SHARE the podcast and the studies with your friends and family. FOLLOW, RATE & REVIEW on your favorite podcast app (leave a comment + a star rating on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Pandora, IHeart, Google Podcast, etc…). It REALLY is the best way to help others find this content-rich podcast. And, last but not least, PRAY Gospel Spice Forward: We pray for you weekly. We covet your prayers for our ministry, the thousands we reach, and our team! Contact us to let us know you are praying for us!NEW!Another way to partner with us is to purchase our workbooks and online Bible studies. We keep them at the lowest possible cost, but they require a lot of work from us! For example, - a complete Bible Study requires an average of 500 man-hours. - a workbook for a series requires almost 100 man-hours.MORE ABOUT PARTNERING WITH US FINANCIALLY:Gospel Spice Ministries is a non-profit organization registered under the tax-exempt 501c3 status.Our goal is to provide in-depth, high-quality, free Bible resources for all. They are free, but expensive to create! We need your financial support to keep producing and distributing them. Please pay Gospel Spice forward today! For example, a podcast episode takes close to 10 hours of work (and we release 2 each week). They come to you completely free, but we would truly love your support.We want the money to go to those who really need it. Once our operating costs are paid, 100% of your donation is redistributed to our partners who fight human trafficking. Each year, we aim to give as much as we can. For example, Stephanie works more than full time for Gospel Spice, entirely for free. All board members and volunteers are donating time. We limit our operational expenses to the bare minimum.Your pay-it-forward donations are tax-deductible under IRS Section 170.We want to be the best possible stewards of your financial support. Thank you!Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blogWe offer high-quality, full color, gorgeous PDF downloadable workbooks to come alongside each episode of this original series of Gospel Spice, Jesus Rabbi and Lord. These workbooks allow you to build your library of in-depth Biblical studies and content to maximize your time in Scripture and amplify your intimacy with God. For each episode, we offer:- an episode summary- a listening guide- key takeaways from the episode- key quotes- Bible verses to enhance your experience- up to 10 questions per episode to take charge of your quiet time- topics for further research, based on the episode content.There are 3 workbooks, each containing over 10 episodes to cover the entire series. You can buy them separately, or as a bundle for an amazing price!Go now to https://www.gospelspice.com/jesus for the details and to purchase your Jesus Rabbi and Lord workbooks!Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

Hello! Stephanie here. Have you ever felt a calling to be a light in your community and beyond, but struggled to find your path? Join me as I recount an inspiring conversation with Brenda Tenison, a remarkable woman on a mission to make a generational difference in the lives of children at risk. We invite you into a heartfelt discussion about her involvement in providing education, food, and care to over 800 children globally. Brenda shared moving success stories, including girls graduating from university and becoming advocates against human trafficking. She also described the impact of faith and resources on the lives of these girls and highlighted the tangible change happening one person at a time.Brenda shared her journey of finding purpose and identity through her volunteer-driven organization, BBright, which serves children at risk for human trafficking in Kenya and Thailand. Despite not being able to have her own children, Brenda has found her purpose in helping hundreds of others! Her dedication and impact are truly awe-inspiring.BBright collaborates with Faith House in Thailand, a shelter for refugee girls vulnerable to human trafficking. Brenda shared powerful stories of girls pursuing education despite pressure to work, highlighting the impact of the program on individual lives. Their work is making a tangible difference. BBright also supports 11 girls in university in Thailand and recently took on a school in Kenya to provide education and support to families living in extreme poverty. It's incredible to witness the impact of these initiatives and the hope they bring to communities in need.Brenda emphasized the importance of staying informed about the positive impact of contributions on the children's lives. Small steps can make a tremendous generational difference. The kingdom impact of faith and resources on these children is truly inspiring.Brenda's story serves as a testament to the impact of individual dedication in making a positive change. It's a reminder that we each have the power to be part of something bigger than ourselves and to bring hope to those in need. What a beautiful journey of faith and purpose!So, join me in prayer for the safety and well-being of the children, the success of Brenda’s organization's mission, and God's provision in their work. It's a reminder of the transformative power of prayer and faith in action.MORE ABOUT BBRIGHTYou can also find more at https://www.bbright.org/ The idea for Bbright was born when our president, Brenda Tenison, was thunderstruck by a thought she had in 2019, during her first mission trip ever.The trip was to Thailand, to a place called Faith House that ministers to Burmese girls fleeing Myanmar.Brenda’s thought was, These girls are just like our girls in the U.S. They love their friends and cross-body purses and makeup and jeans.But if these girls weren’t here, they wouldn’t be at home or in school. Or at a friend’s house or shopping.They’d be trafficked.The truth of it made Brenda ill. Imagine, she thought, looking at a group of American schoolgirls and knowing they had barely evaded prostitution or a sweatshop. It was appalling.Brenda’s church, which sponsored the trip, was helping Faith House financially. But Brenda knew that the girls needed more and that Faith House could do more. She resolved to figure out what, and how.It took a few years of planning and prayer, but in 2021, Brenda and her husband, Dave, launched Bbright, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Our mission: is to help the world’s most vulnerable children meet basic needs, get an education, discover Jesus, and build a future they wouldn’t have otherwise.The name “Bbright” is a nod to all the ways Brenda envisioned bringing light to desperate young lives: through learning. Through Jesus. Through newfound hope.Bbright’s first partner was Faith House, of course. Its ministry model was already successful, and its leaders have already proven it. It just needed the fuel that Brenda was committed to providing and the partner network that she was determined to grow.In 2023 Bbright expanded with the acquisition of Welcome The Children, a U.S. ministry serving the impoverished children of Nairobi, Kenya. Friends and former colleagues of Brenda’s had been running WTC for years and wanted to breathe new life into the organization. At the same time, Brenda had always known that Bbright wouldn’t start and end with Thailand.So Bbright walked through the door that God had opened — we brought Africa into our mission. We continue to seek those open doors and walk through them according to God’s perfect timing.We’re just getting started, and we invite you to walk with us.KEY TAKEAWAYS🔹 Small contributions make a huge difference: Every little bit counts in making a generational impact on the lives of vulnerable children. From providing education to offering support, your contribution can change a life.🔹 One person at a time: BBright is changing the world one person at a time. Through faith, resources, and empowerment, we are making a kingdom impact and transforming the lives of these precious children.🔹 Embracing your calling: Brenda’s journey of self-discovery and finding purpose led her to start this incredible volunteer organization. She can truly say it is the best "job" she has ever had. Embracing your calling and being part of God's will, leads to fulfilling and impactful work.BONUS | QUESTIONS TO TAKE THE EPISODE DEEPER1. How has Brenda Tenison's personal journey influenced her dedication to serving children at risk for human trafficking in Kenya and Thailand?2. What impact has BBright had on the lives of the children it serves, and what success stories stand out to you from her discussion?3. Brenda discussed the importance of providing education, support, and empowerment to vulnerable girls in Thailand. How do you think education can be a tool in combating human trafficking?4. Brenda shared how her past identity was tied to job titles and money. How has her journey in finding purpose and identity shaped her approach to serving others today?5. BBright has supported 11 girls in university in Thailand and aims to make a generational impact in a 99% Buddhist country. What impact do you think education and leadership development can have in diverse cultural contexts?6. What spiritual and faith-based elements have played a role in Brenda's work with BBright, and how do you believe faith can impact the lives of vulnerable children?7. Stephanie emphasized the direct impact Faith House has on the lives of 40 girls and the broader community. How do you think this kind of targeted support can make a difference in communities at risk for human trafficking?8. Brenda described the new project with a school in Kenya to provide education and support to families living in extreme poverty. What challenges do you think such initiatives may face, and how might they be addressed?9. What are your thoughts on Brenda's emphasis on the importance of making a generational difference in the lives of the children she works with? How might such long-term thinking shape the approach to addressing human trafficking and extreme poverty?10. How does Brenda's work with BBright reflect the concept of being a steward of God's ministry, and what can individuals and communities learn from her approach to serving vulnerable populations?Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

Welcome back to another exciting episode of Gospel Spice, the podcast that adds a little extra flavor to your spiritual journey! I'm your host, Stephanie Rousselle, and today's episode is dedicated to diving deep into the fascinating Christmas chapters from Luke’s perspective. It's that time of year again, when we gather to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. But have you ever stopped to think about the incredible details behind this miraculous event? Let's dive into a Christmas story that will leave you in awe!Don't forget! Go to gospelspice.com/Christmas for a LOT of FREE and beautiful inspirations to make this Christmas your most Christ-centered and Gospel-spiced one! And also, brand new line of Christmas merch at gospelspice.com/merch - don't miss out!Now, you might be wondering when exactly Jesus was born. While the exact date remains unknown, December 25th has been widely accepted as a symbolic day to celebrate his birth. But here's an interesting thought - what if Jesus was conceived around Passover season?If we imagine Jesus being overshadowed by the Holy Spirit around Passover time, it adds another layer of significance to his birth. But what's even more intriguing is that Jesus wasn't born during a major Jewish festival like the Feast of Tabernacles.The lack of mention of a specific festival in the Bible indicates that Jesus was likely born when there was no major Jewish celebration. And personally, I absolutely love the idea of Jesus being born in late December, as it brings so much joy and hope to the Christmas season.We will, among other things, be exploring the contrast between the announcements of Zechariah and Mary. Join us as we unravel the significance of these encounters and discover the hidden gems that lie within. From the intimate setting of Mary's revelation to the timing of Jesus' birth, we'll explore the rich tapestry of the Christmas story and its profound implications for our lives today. So grab your favorite hot beverage, settle in, and get ready for a thought-provoking and faith-enriching episode of Gospel Spice!MORE DETAILSStephanie delves into the contrasting announcements of Zechariah and Mary. While Zechariah's proclamation takes place in the grandeur of the Jerusalem Temple, Mary's intimate encounter with the angel happens in a humble small town. We reflect on the significance of this juxtaposition and how it emphasizes the unpredictable nature of God's plan.The episode touches on the profound impact of the Christmas story and its connection to the cross and resurrection, ultimately leading to the eternal reign of Christ. It urges us to resist the temptation of seeking comfort and fulfillment in material possessions during the Christmas season and instead find true joy and purpose in the love of Jesus.The perspective of Mary will be explored through Luke's account, offering fresh insights into her journey of obedience and faith. Stephanie also dives deep into the angel's greeting to Mary, describing her as "highly favored." The Greek word used to describe Mary's favor is echoed in Ephesians 1:6, where it is revealed that believers are also highly favored by God according to His will. This delightful connection invites us to reflect on the incredible grace and favor extended to us through the birth of Jesus.The discussion concludes by exploring an unexpected encounter at the temple and how it ties back to Isaiah 6:1-4, emphasizing the glory and greatness of Jesus as God Himself.We invite you to join us next week as Stephanie concludes her teaching on the birth of Jesus from the perspective of Mary.Have you ever wondered what it would be like to sit alongside Jesus and his initial audience? To experience the fresh spiritual flavors that the Messianic Jewish culture weaves into the four gospels? Well, that's exactly what we here aim to do through this original series, JESUS RABBI AND LORD. Stephanie invites you to dig deep into Scripture, unearthing raw diamonds that may need a little cleaning up, but will ultimately shine brightly.So get ready to embark on this enlightening and transformative journey with Gospel Spice. Prepare to encounter Jesus in a way that resonates with our modern world and discover the richness of the gospel through the lens of Jewish culture. Let's dig deep, uncover the hidden spices, and experience the beauty of the Scriptures together. Welcome to Gospel Spice!Grab your headphones, hit play, and let Gospel Spice be the catalyst for encountering Jesus in a way you've never experienced before!Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog THERE ARE SEVERAL WAYS TO PARTNER WITH GOSPEL SPICE TODAY!First, PAY Gospel Spice Forward: Give a tax-deductible gift so others can experience our ministry for free, just like you! You can pay it forward with any debit, credit card, or via PayPal. See below for more details about your impact.Also, PLAY Gospel Spice Forward: SHARE the podcast and the studies with your friends and family. FOLLOW, RATE & REVIEW on your favorite podcast app (leave a comment + a star rating on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Pandora, IHeart, Google Podcast, etc…). It REALLY is the best way to help others find this content-rich podcast. And, last but not least, PRAY Gospel Spice Forward: We pray for you weekly. We covet your prayers for our ministry, the thousands we reach, and our team! Contact us to let us know you are praying for us!NEW!Another way to partner with us is to purchase our workbooks and online Bible studies. We keep them at the lowest possible cost, but they require a lot of work from us! For example, - a complete Bible Study requires an average of 500 man-hours. - a workbook for a series requires almost 100 man-hours.MORE ABOUT PARTNERING WITH US FINANCIALLY:Gospel Spice Ministries is a non-profit organization registered under the tax-exempt 501c3 status.Our goal is to provide in-depth, high-quality, free Bible resources for all. They are free, but expensive to create! We need your financial support to keep producing and distributing them. Please pay Gospel Spice forward today! For example, a podcast episode takes close to 10 hours of work (and we release 2 each week). They come to you completely free, but we would truly love your support.We want the money to go to those who really need it. Once our operating costs are paid, 100% of your donation is redistributed to our partners who fight human trafficking. Each year, we aim to give as much as we can. For example, Stephanie works more than full time for Gospel Spice, entirely for free. All board members and volunteers are donating time. We limit our operational expenses to the bare minimum.Your pay-it-forward donations are tax-deductible under IRS Section 170.We want to be the best possible stewards of your financial support. Thank you!Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blogDo you enjoy Gospel Spice? Then let's deepen our relationship! There are 4 very simple ways to do that, and it would truly mean the world to us. 1- If you’ve enjoyed this episode, you will love receiving our newsletter. It contains value-packed free gifts and rich content each month. It’s at gospelspice.com/signup. There is always something new and exciting happening around here, and I don’t want you to miss out! Sign up at Gospelspice.com/signup2- Did you know Gospel Spice has a YouTube Channel? There’s exclusive content there too. So, join Gospel Spice on YouTube! It's at https://www.youtube.com/gospelspice 3- Also please give us a star rating and a comment on your podcast listening app. Your reviews actually really do make a difference to help others discover and experience Gospel Spice. You would be surprised how helpful these are! So please leave a star rating and a review of a sentence or two. Thank you!4- As always, we are praying for you! You can confidentially email us your prayer requests and praise items at the email address contact@gospelspice.com. It is our privilege to pray for you!So, would you please invest 3 to 5 minutes of your time, maybe even right now, to do one (or more!) of the following suggestions:1-      signup on our website for our newsletter to receive gifts you’re going to love - at Gospelspice.com/signup 2-      find us on YouTube, and see what content we’ve put together to help you grow closer to Jesus - at https://www.youtube.com/gospelspice3-      rate Gospel Spice on your listening app – it’s one of the easiest ways to share the gospel!4-      and finally, tell us how we can pray for you!Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blogSupport us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

Bonjour! Stephanie here. I just finished reading a book called “27 Summers” by Ronald Olivier, and I'm still recovering from the shock of it. He shares his gripping journey of running the streets in Louisiana of life without parole at the Angola prison and then finding his way back home. 27 Summers, that's 27 years he spent in Angola prison.The first time that Ronald saw someone killed, he was 12 years old. Death was It's all around, and after running the New Orleans streets for several years selling drugs, stealing cars, he murdered a young man at age 16. And so he was sentenced to life in prison without parole. That is his story of how he lost his life, and he's going to tell us how, by God's grace, he found it again inside a prison cell in the worst prison in the states. He grew up in the eighth ward of New Orleans, and the streets were his playground. He played hard without many consequences until one ill-fated Christmas day when he pulled his gun, fired it, and killed someone. After waiting 2 years for trial, he was convicted a state of second-degree murder, and he was sentenced to life in prison without parole in Angola, the Louisiana state penitentiary which is America's most notoriously brutal prison.His memoir came out just a few weeks ago, 27 Summers. Ronald gives us an in-depth look into this mesmerizing story, his youth, he the Adrenaline filled highs, the utter lows, the near-3 decades of incarceration, and most of all, God's relentless love reaching into those dark depths. He details finding true freedom during the imprisonment. He details the miraculous release. The story continues to this day, and he tells us about it in today's episode.I've asked him why he wrote this book. And he said it's to be inspired by God's unrelenting love for all of us, his grace, his redemption, and they're on full display as Ronald finds abundant life in prison. He attends seminary. He finds forgiveness. He's going to tell us about that. All of this within the context of a life sentence.His motto gives me chills: “Don't tell me what God can't do.” It's the heartbeat behind this riveting story. It's a firsthand example of God's power to transform individuals, families, communities to this day.KEY TAKEAWAYS- Emphasizing the positive impact of rehabilitation, Ronald shares his journey from imprisonment to becoming the director of chaplaincy at the Mississippi State Penitentiary and his work with the Louisiana Parole Project, advocating for the reentry of long-term prisoners into society.- Olivier speaks about his coming to faith, the complete turnaround in prison, leading to his release and eventual parole, marking a turning point in his journey and a testament to the transformative power of God's grace.- Sharing about his book "27 Summers", Ronald Olivier's story touches global audiences, shedding light on the unjust conditions of the justice system and offering hope that trusting in God can bring about unfathomable change in the most challenging circumstances.MORE ABOUT RONALD OLIVIERRonald Olivier served twenty-seven summers in the notorious Louisiana State Penitentiary, known as Angola. He was released in 2018, and became a client of the Louisiana Parole Project. In 2020, less than two years after leaving Angola, Ronald was hired as the director of chaplaincy at the Mississippi State Penitentiary. In 2023 Ronald returned to the Louisiana Parole Project as a client advocate, using his experience to guide other formerly incarcerated people toward successful careers and lives. He lives in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, with his wife and son.MORE ABOUT 27 SUMMERSIn one of America's most notorious prisons, a young man sentenced to life without parole miraculously found faith, forgiveness, redemption, and restoration. In 27 Summers, Ronald Olivier shares his dramatic and powerful story and offers proof that God can bring healing and hope to even the darkest circumstances.As a teenager Ronald Olivier ran wild in the streets of New Orleans, selling drugs, stealing cars, and finally killing someone on what was supposed to be the happiest day of the year--Christmas Day. Facing the consequences of his crime, he remembered what his mother once said. "Baby, if you ever have real trouble, the kind that I can't get you out of, you can always call on Jesus." So he did.Ronnie was sentenced to life in prison without parole. Through the agony of solitary confinement and multiple transfers into increasingly dangerous prison environments, Ron kept seeking God for healing and hope. Finally, after being locked up for twenty-seven summers at the notorious Louisiana State Penitentiary--known as Angola--Ronald was miraculously released. Remarkably, he became the director of chaplains at Mississippi State Penitentiary. Today, he loves to combat hopelessness, wherever he finds it, by saying, "Don't tell me what God can't do!”Through his book, he invites you to-          learn new insights about faith and patience from a man who spent almost three decades in a cruel and violent environment;-          be encouraged, like Ron, to find grace and forgiveness to overcome the pain of their past; and-          find hope that God can redeem and restore anyone.Ronald's fascinating story brilliantly displays God's power to transform individuals, families, and communities, reminding us that there truly is nothing God can't do.REVIEWS27 Summers is an incredible journey into the power of redemption. Ronald Olivier's story takes us on a rollercoaster from his wild youth in the streets of New Orleans to the Louisiana State Penitentiary, where he finds salvation and solace through faith in God. This book is an inspiring tale that shows how even in our darkest moments, we can find hope, peace, and freedom if we choose to turn to God. Ronald is a great example to others that anyone seeking God and redemption can find his way out of the pits of hell-- from a life of crime and prison-- and into a life of helping others. 27 Summers is a must- read. -- Commissioner Burl Cain, Mississippi Department of Corrections Gritty, terrifying yet truly uplifting! -- Bear Grylls, adventurer and author of Never Give Up and Mud, Sweat, and Tears I first met Ronald Olivier in prison. An experience I thought I would never take part in. Since meeting Ronald and learning about his story, I've wanted nothing more than for the world to hear it and meet the man who inspired me. 27 Summers will change your perspective on life, faith, and love. Ronald did that for me. His story will do the same for you. I can't wait for you to read about Ronald and learn what I learned: that change is not only possible but also probable when you encounter Jesus. Thank you Slim, for sharing your story with the world. We need it. -- Sam Acho, author, speaker, and ESPN analyst Ronnie Slim is a living testimony to God's redemptive power. In the depths of one of America's most notorious prisons, he discovered unimaginable healing, hope, and God's purpose for his life. 27 Summers tells the story of God's abounding love, proving that even in the darkest of circumstances, He is with us and provides a way out. -- Len Vanden Bos, chaplain for the Buffalo Bills This inspiring, powerful, and important memoir is so timely as we continue to reckon with decades of over- incarceration and excessive punishment. Ron Olivier makes redemption accessible to us all. -- Bryan Stevenson, author of Just Mercy This inviting, encouraging, and inspiring book is the read you've been waiting for! Ronald Olivier's journey of flaws and failures led to a life of faith and unusual triumph. 27 Summers beckons you to step behind prison walls with Ronnie and experience freedom born of God's grace and mercy, proof that He never counts anyone out. -- Dr. Leslie Draper III, board certified senior clinical chaplain and mayor of Simmesport, Louisiana This is one of the most compelling comeback stories you will ever read. It will hold your attention on every page-- and ultimately lead you to your knees in wonder, love, and praise. Hugely recommended! -- Matt Redman, GRAMMY Award– winning worship leader and songwriter and authorSupport us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

In today's episode, we continue our exploration of the Christmas story through the eyes of Joseph. Last week, we discovered the significance of Jesus' genealogy and pondered the complexities of our own family histories. Today, we dive into the remainder of Joseph's account found in Matthew chapter 2. Join us as we uncover the remarkable journey of the wise men from the East and the extraordinary role they played in the divine unfolding of Christmas. And don't miss the fascinating connections between these wise men and historical figures like Daniel and Esther. Grab a cup of spice-infused coffee and join us as we uncover the hidden treasures of Matthew 2. Are you ready to spice up your understanding of the Christmas story? Let's get started.Don't forget! Go to gospelspice.com/Christmas for a LOT of FREE and beautiful inspirations to make this Christmas your most Christ-centered and Gospel-spiced one! And also, brand new line of Christmas merch at gospelspice.com/merch - don't miss out!MORE DETAILS | Stephanie begins the episode by reflecting on last week's exploration of the opening chapter of the Christmas story from the perspective of Matthew. She highlights the significance of genealogies and the complex emotions and stories they hold. Jesus' genealogy was no different, with both honorable and controversial figures making up his family tree.The focus then shifts to Joseph's perspective of the Christmas story. Stephanie ponders the likelihood of Joseph and Matthew knowing each other while living in Nazareth, and how this small-town connection adds a personal touch to the narrative. She continues by inviting listeners to close their eyes and immerse themselves in the richness of the story.Throughout the episode, Stephanie highlights the interactions between different characters and their roles in this pivotal moment. From the scholars who observed a special star in the eastern sky, to Herod's fearful response and his secret meeting with the wise men, every detail carries profound meaning. The journey of the wise men ultimately leads them to the house where Jesus, Joseph, and Mary reside, where they offer gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.Stephanie also reveals the significance of the wise men's origins, be it Babylon or Persia, and how their access to Jewish Old Testament scrolls would have shaped their understanding of the prophecies concerning the future king of the Jews. The star that guided them hints at the deep connection between astrology and astronomy in the ancient world.The episode concludes by emphasizing the unique perspectives Matthew and Luke bring to the Christmas story. While Matthew focuses on Joseph and the visit of the wise men, Luke most likely provides Mary's version, offering insights into the experiences of overbooked innkeepers, humble shepherds, Simeon, and Anna.We invite you to listen to this thought-provoking episode of Gospel Spice as Stephanie untangles the intricacies of the Christmas story with her trademark knowledge and passion. You won't want to miss it!As always, thank you for being a part of the Gospel Spice community. We appreciate your support, and we look forward to continuing serving you this Christmas!Have you ever wondered what it would be like to sit alongside Jesus and his initial audience? To experience the fresh spiritual flavors that the Messianic Jewish culture weaves into the four gospels? Well, that's exactly what we here aim to do through this original series, JESUS RABBI AND LORD. Stephanie invites you to dig deep into Scripture, unearthing raw diamonds that may need a little cleaning up, but will ultimately shine brightly.So get ready to embark on this enlightening and transformative journey with Gospel Spice. Prepare to encounter Jesus in a way that resonates with our modern world and discover the richness of the gospel through the lens of Jewish culture. Let's dig deep, uncover the hidden spices, and experience the beauty of the Scriptures together. Welcome to Gospel Spice!Grab your headphones, hit play, and let Gospel Spice be the catalyst for encountering Jesus in a way you've never experienced before!Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog The perfect gift for everyone - apparel, drinkware, stickers and more for all the women, men and kids in your life!https://www.gospelspice.com/merchGo to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blogDo you enjoy Gospel Spice? Then let's deepen our relationship! There are 4 very simple ways to do that, and it would truly mean the world to us. 1- If you’ve enjoyed this episode, you will love receiving our newsletter. It contains value-packed free gifts and rich content each month. It’s at gospelspice.com/signup. There is always something new and exciting happening around here, and I don’t want you to miss out! Sign up at Gospelspice.com/signup2- Did you know Gospel Spice has a YouTube Channel? There’s exclusive content there too. So, join Gospel Spice on YouTube! It's at https://www.youtube.com/gospelspice 3- Also please give us a star rating and a comment on your podcast listening app. Your reviews actually really do make a difference to help others discover and experience Gospel Spice. You would be surprised how helpful these are! So please leave a star rating and a review of a sentence or two. Thank you!4- As always, we are praying for you! You can confidentially email us your prayer requests and praise items at the email address contact@gospelspice.com. It is our privilege to pray for you!So, would you please invest 3 to 5 minutes of your time, maybe even right now, to do one (or more!) of the following suggestions:1-      signup on our website for our newsletter to receive gifts you’re going to love - at Gospelspice.com/signup 2-      find us on YouTube, and see what content we’ve put together to help you grow closer to Jesus - at https://www.youtube.com/gospelspice3-      rate Gospel Spice on your listening app – it’s one of the easiest ways to share the gospel!4-      and finally, tell us how we can pray for you!Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blogSupport us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

Stephanie here! I had the amazing opportunity to chat with Shauna Pilgreen, co-leader of EPIC Church in San Francisco and author of the powerful book "Translating Jesus." Shauna Pilgreen shares her background, experiences in San Francisco, and her insights on approaching evangelism in fresh, relatable ways. The episode also touches on the dynamics of holiday gatherings and the importance of sharing personal stories of faith, empathy, and understanding.We delved into the challenges of sharing faith in today's culture and the concept of being "bilingual" in understanding both our current culture and the culture of scripture and faith.Navigating holiday gatherings with diverse beliefs was a pivotal part of our discussion, emphasizing the importance of sharing and listening to personal faith stories at the table. Shauna's insights on becoming "bilingual" in evangelism and the global relevance of translating Jesus for all people in different contexts left me truly inspired.We highlighted the transformative power of listening in ministry and the need for Christians to remain culturally relevant while rooted in their faith. We also talked about how the Alpha course is transforming lives and providing non-threatening ways to share Christ and understand faith in today's world.Our conversation culminated with focusing on believers' faith, those uncertain about faith, and encouragement to be a light during the holiday season. I can't stress enough the value of Shauna's book "Translating Jesus." It's a must-read! Shauna Pilgreen's wisdom and essential book are celebrated, and I'm excited to see the impact of becoming bilingual in sharing Christ's love for all. What an enriching discussion!We invite you to tune in and gain wisdom from Shauna Pilgreen's experiences and insights. Be inspired to engage with others and share Christ's love and truth in creative, culturally relevant ways.Don't miss out on this transformative conversation! Subscribe now and listen to Shauna Pilgreen on Gospel Spice. Key Takeaways:- Becoming Bilingual in Sharing the Gospel: we emphasize the importance of understanding both the language of culture and the language of Scripture to effectively share Jesus with diverse audiences.- The Power of Listening in Ministry: We pondered the countercultural nature of genuinely listening to others before offering answers or advice, recognizing the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in the process.- Engaging with the Changing Culture: Our discussion underscored the need for Christians to be culturally relevant while remaining rooted in their faith, emphasizing the relevance of translating Jesus for all people in different contexts.CONNECT WITH SHAUNA PILGREENhttps://shaunapilgreen.com/Hi there! I’m Shauna and I’m so glad you stopped by. You being here matters to me. Chances are we know each other. But then again, some of you are new to me and me to you. I dwell in San Francisco. Not because I was born here or went to school here, but because my family and I said yes to the call of God to start a church here. It’s the hardest thing we’ve ever done. We had to make new friends (though we love our old ones). We moved far from family (nothing personal). We had no guarantee. We paid high rent. We brought three kids with us. And with all that was hard and scary and unknown, we believed God was in this and with us. The risk was worth it. And still is! Do you know why you are where you are? Can you see God’s purpose for you where you live? Wherever you live, wherever you are on the faith journey, I am discovering right alongside you how to weave together faith and culture. I am sharing my findings in my blog posts, each page you click is full of purpose – all so that you can pick up the story God is writing for your life and live it out too!for me, my roots can be found in texas, georgia, louisiana, alabama, missouri, and california. there’s no mistake on my journey, that if i’ve lived there, i made “home” as quick as possible to feel settled and sane. i’ve tried to leave a part of me in each place as my roots are uprooted, a part of me that left impact. though not always the story. each home contributes to the next home. suburbia feels normal until city living becomes the new normal. wherever you live...wherever you are on the faith journey...i am discovering right along with you how to weave together faith and home. I am sharing my story with each post, each page full of purpose and influence -- all so that you will pick up the story God is writing for your life and live it out too!BONUS | QUESTIONS TO TAKE THE CONVERSATION DEEPER1. How does Shauna Pilgreen characterize the changing dynamics of evangelism in today's culture? How do you see this playing out in your own context?2. What are some practical, foolproof ways you can think of to share Jesus with the current culture, especially during the holiday season?3. What are some insights you gained from Shauna Pilgreen's discussion about the concept of being bilingual in understanding both the culture we live in and the culture of scripture and faith?4. How have you seen the word "evangelism" misused or overused? What fresh approaches to evangelism have you found effective, and how could you implement them over the holidays?5. What are some practical ways to engage in conversations with people of different beliefs during the holidays, while still showing empathy and understanding?6. How can you relate to the importance of sharing and listening to personal stories of faith at the holiday table? What are some ways you could incorporate this into your own holiday gatherings?7. What was your biggest takeaway from the discussion about engaging with people who don't have faith in Jesus and the importance of prayer for non-believers?8. How can you apply the concept of looking at non-believers from Jesus's perspective and having hope that Jesus can draw them to himself, even despite their resistance, in your own interactions over the holidays?9. What struck you about Shauna Pilgreen's emphasis on humility, service, and the importance of engaging in meaningful conversations over the holidays? How could you practice this in your own interactions?10. How do you plan to approach the ideas of engaging in conversations with non-believers and giving the gift of time during the holiday season? Can you think of specific ways to implement these ideas in your own life?Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

Welcome back to another episode of Gospel Spice! Today, we have a special episode lined up, as Stephanie takes us on a journey through Matthew 1, exploring the fascinating genealogy of Jesus Christ, and the intriguing spices of memories that permeate His family tree.Don't forget! Go to gospelspice.com/Christmas for a LOT of FREE and beautiful inspirations to make this Christmas your most Christ-centered and Gospel-spiced one! And also, brand new line of Christmas merch at gospelspice.com/merch - don't miss out!Stephanie starts off by sharing her personal connection to the spice of nutmeg, which transports her back to her grandmother's kitchen and evokes both sweet and bitter memories. Just like Stephanie's bittersweet memory of nutmeg, Jesus' genealogy is also a mix of sweet and spicy family spices.Hold on, we know what you're thinking - genealogies can be a bit tedious and easy to skip over. But trust us, this is not your average list of names! Matthew, the gospel writer, begins by grounding Jesus in history by tracing His lineage back to Abraham, highlighting His Jewish heritage. But it doesn't end there; Matthew masterfully captures the attention of his original audience by presenting Jesus as the King of the Jews, linked to the great King David.Stephanie highlights how Matthew's genealogy is not just a boring list of names but a poetic and literary device to captivate the readers. Through three sets of 14 names, Matthew weaves a narrative that spans different periods of Jewish history, reminding his audience of the patriarchs, the judges, the kings, the Babylonian exile, and the silent years leading up to the birth of Jesus.However, it is in verses 11 and 12 that Matthew drops a cultural bomb, introducing some less savory characters into Jesus' family tree. Stephanie refers to these names as 'poisonous family fumes,' demonstrating that even the family tree of Jesus Christ is not immune to broken relationships, bad habits, and family shame. This revelation serves as a reminder that Jesus came into the world not just as a perfect Savior, but as the one who redeems and restores even the most broken aspects of our lives.As we explore Jesus' family tree, we'll uncover a spice-filled journey that reveals both the bittersweet memories and the cultural significance behind each name. Get ready for a roller coaster ride through history, culture, and the ultimate Jewish page-turner. So, grab your favorite Christmas beverage and join us as we unlock the profound significance of Jesus' genealogy in Matthew 1.We invite you to tune in to this eye-opening episode, as Stephanie explores the significance of each set of names and invites us to reflect on our own family memory spices. Just as Jesus embraced His entire lineage, spices and all, we are encouraged to acknowledge the complex blend of memories and experiences that have shaped us.Remember to subscribe to Gospel Spice on your favorite podcast platform so you won't miss an episode. Stay tuned for more engaging content that adds flavor and depth to your understanding of the Gospel.We are praying for a blessed day for you today, filled with the sweet and spicy flavors of life in this Christmas season.Have you ever wondered what it would be like to sit alongside Jesus and his initial audience? To experience the fresh spiritual flavors that the Messianic Jewish culture weaves into the four gospels? Well, that's exactly what we here aim to do through this original series, JESUS RABBI AND LORD. Stephanie invites you to dig deep into Scripture, unearthing raw diamonds that may need a little cleaning up, but will ultimately shine brightly.So get ready to embark on this enlightening and transformative journey with Gospel Spice. Prepare to encounter Jesus in a way that resonates with our modern world and discover the richness of the gospel through the lens of Jewish culture. Let's dig deep, uncover the hidden spices, and experience the beauty of the Scriptures together. Welcome to Gospel Spice!Grab your headphones, hit play, and let Gospel Spice be the catalyst for encountering Jesus in a way you've never experienced before!Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog THERE ARE SEVERAL WAYS TO PARTNER WITH GOSPEL SPICE TODAY!First, PAY Gospel Spice Forward: Give a tax-deductible gift so others can experience our ministry for free, just like you! You can pay it forward with any debit, credit card, or via PayPal. See below for more details about your impact.Also, PLAY Gospel Spice Forward: SHARE the podcast and the studies with your friends and family. FOLLOW, RATE & REVIEW on your favorite podcast app (leave a comment + a star rating on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Pandora, IHeart, Google Podcast, etc…). It REALLY is the best way to help others find this content-rich podcast. And, last but not least, PRAY Gospel Spice Forward: We pray for you weekly. We covet your prayers for our ministry, the thousands we reach, and our team! Contact us to let us know you are praying for us!NEW!Another way to partner with us is to purchase our workbooks and online Bible studies. We keep them at the lowest possible cost, but they require a lot of work from us! For example, - a complete Bible Study requires an average of 500 man-hours. - a workbook for a series requires almost 100 man-hours.MORE ABOUT PARTNERING WITH US FINANCIALLY:Gospel Spice Ministries is a non-profit organization registered under the tax-exempt 501c3 status.Our goal is to provide in-depth, high-quality, free Bible resources for all. They are free, but expensive to create! We need your financial support to keep producing and distributing them. Please pay Gospel Spice forward today! For example, a podcast episode takes close to 10 hours of work (and we release 2 each week). They come to you completely free, but we would truly love your support.We want the money to go to those who really need it. Once our operating costs are paid, 100% of your donation is redistributed to our partners who fight human trafficking. Each year, we aim to give as much as we can. For example, Stephanie works more than full time for Gospel Spice, entirely for free. All board members and volunteers are donating time. We limit our operational expenses to the bare minimum.Your pay-it-forward donations are tax-deductible under IRS Section 170.We want to be the best possible stewards of your financial support. Thank you!Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blogThe perfect gift for everyone - apparel, drinkware, stickers and more for all the women, men and kids in your life!https://www.gospelspice.com/merchGo to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blogSupport us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

Today we are talking about the pleasure of participating with God in His Kingdom building. He chose to invite us to participate. We cannot just be believers in Jesus, we need to be His followers. And it means involving every aspect of our lives. Our faith is about the delight to be where Jesus is. He invites us to love – to let Him love through us! And one of the best ways to love God, is to love others in His Name.So, my invitation to you today is to pray about it as you listen to Ros and me. Have a conversation with God about where He would have you focus your prayers, your time, and yes, your money. Listen to our vision and ask yourself if and how you want to be a part of it.My pastor says the same parting words each week at the end of the service at church. He says, “life is short, and we do not have much time to gladden the hearts of those who travel with us. So, be swift to love, and make haste to be kind.” It is a blessing that is inspired, originally, by the words of my French compatriot, Henri Frederic Amiel (1821-1881). This is what we are inviting you into.As we approach the end of another incredible year, we wanted to extend our deepest gratitude for your continued support and partnership in spreading the gospel message to countries all around the world. It is truly an honor to serve alongside each one of you!Don't forget! Go to gospelspice.com/Christmas for a LOT of FREE and beautiful inspirations to make this Christmas your most Christ-centered and Gospel-spiced one! And also, brand new line of Christmas merch at gospelspice.com/merch - don't miss out!In this special Giving Tuesday edition, we want to highlight the pleasure and privilege we have of participating with God in His kingdom building. God invites us to love others and to let Him love others through us.We heard the God-honoring, heartwarming story of a mother and son in Canada who have been faithfully listening to the podcast. Through the message of Gospel Spice, this young boy's faith has blossomed, and his relationship with God has become a source of hope and inspiration. It is stories like these that drive us to pour our hearts and souls into what we do.To continue expanding the impact of Gospel Spice, we have exciting plans for the future. We are committed to deepening personal intimacy with God and loving others as ourselves. We will continue producing impactful podcast episodes and engaging Bible studies, but we also have plans to develop new formats such as courses and expand our YouTube channel. Furthermore, we are laser-focused on combating human trafficking and supporting organizations that are making a difference in the lives of the most vulnerable.However, to achieve these goals and continue reaching even more lives, we need your support. There are several ways you can partner with us:PLAY GOSPEL SPICE FORWARD:1. Subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow us on social media: By doing so, you will stay connected with our latest content, receive inspiration, and be part of our growing community.YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/gospelspice Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gospelspiceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/gospelspicelife/2. Subscribe to our newsletter: Our newsletter includes exclusive content, free gifts, and updates on what God is doing through Gospel Spice. Don't miss out on these valuable resources!PRAY GOSPEL SPICE FORWARD:3. Prayer: We value your prayers immensely. Please pray for our ministry, our team, and all those touched by the Gospel Spice message. Let us know how we can pray for you as well. Prayer is a powerful way to make a difference!AND FINALLY, PAY GOSPEL SPICE FORWARD:4. Make a donation: Your financial contribution plays a vital role in sustaining and expanding the impact of Gospel Spice. Our platform relies on your generous gifts to deliver the message of the gospel to thousands of people worldwide. Your donation is tax-deductible in the US. Visit https://www.gospelspice.com/payitforward.We are excited to announce that a matching donor has come forward to encourage others to give generously to Gospel Spice. From now until December 31st, this generous donor will match all donations made during this period. Your gift has the potential to make double the impact!To make a donation, simply visit https://www.gospelspice.com/payitforward. We accept donations through PayPal, Venmo, and all major credit cards. Every dollar counts, and we sincerely appreciate both one-time and recurring monthly gifts. If you are able to make a recurring monthly gift, it helps us plan our resources more effectively.We also want to express our gratitude for the immense support we have received thus far. To show our appreciation, we have some exciting donor giveaways lined up for the end of the year. Ros is offering a set of her gorgeous, hand-made earrings; I have personally selected four inspiring books to give away to one lucky winner among our donors. As an extra special touch, we will also include a Gospel Spice tote bag. These tote bags were a hit at a recent conference and can be purchased on our website.Additionally, for those who donate $20 or more between now and Christmas, we have prepared a Jesse Tree, which allows you to journey through the Advent season with a Scripture verse and ornament for each day. It is our little way of saying thank you for your generous support.Please know that your donations are stewarded responsibly. Last year alone, Gospel Spice donated over $5,000 to these incredible causes. Our lean budget ensures that your contributions are utilized exclusively for spreading the gospel and making a tangible impact.As we look ahead to 2024, we humbly acknowledge that our ministry is a work in progress. We embrace the willingness to make mistakes and grow alongside those who desire a deeper intimacy with God. We are committed to coming alongside you, our Gospel Spice community, in this beautiful journey together.So, here is a reminder of how you can PLAY, PRAY, and PAY Gospel Spice forward today:✅ Subscribe to our YouTube channel, follow us on social media, and most importantly, sign up for our newsletter. By doing so, you'll stay connected with exclusive content, free gifts, and prayer support.✅ Make a donation to support our work. Gospel Spice is diligently stewarding funds to maximize our impact. All donations are tax-deductible in the US, and a matching donor will double your contribution made until December 31st! Go to https://www.gospelspice.com/payitforward ✅ Explore our newly developed digital workbooks and courses. These resources deepen your intimacy with God and equip you for a deeper walk of faith.Thank you once again for your unwavering support and partnership. We are truly grateful for the privilege of serving alongside each one of you!May God bless you abundantly as we celebrate this season of giving and contending for the Gospel together!THERE ARE SEVERAL WAYS TO PARTNER WITH GOSPEL SPICE TODAY!First, PAY Gospel Spice Forward: Give a tax-deductible gift so others can experience our ministry for free, just like you! You can pay it forward with any debit, credit card, or via PayPal. See below for more details about your impact.Also, PLAY Gospel Spice Forward: SHARE the podcast and the studies with your friends and family. FOLLOW, RATE & REVIEW on your favorite podcast app (leave a comment + a star rating on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Pandora, IHeart, Google Podcast, etc…). It REALLY is the best way to help others find this content-rich podcast. And, last but not least, PRAY Gospel Spice Forward: We pray for you weekly. We covet your prayers for our ministry, the thousands we reach, and our team! Contact us to let us know you are praying for us!NEW!Another way to partner with us is to purchase our workbooks and online Bible studies. We keep them at the lowest possible cost, but they require a lot of work from us! For example, - a complete Bible Study requires an average of 500 man-hours. - a workbook for a series requires almost 100 man-hours.MORE ABOUT PARTNERING WITH US FINANCIALLY:Gospel Spice Ministries is a non-profit organization registered under the tax-exempt 501c3 status.Our goal is to provide in-depth, high-quality, free Bible resources for all. They are free, but expensive to create! We need your financial support to keep producing and distributing them. Please pay Gospel Spice forward today! For example, a podcast episode takes close to 10 hours of work (and we release 2 each week). They come to you completely free, but we would truly love your support.We want the money to go to those who really need it. Once our operating costs are paid, 100% of your donation is redistributed to our partners who fight human trafficking. Each year, we aim to give as much as we can. For example, Stephanie works more than full time for Gospel Spice, entirely for free. All board members and volunteers are donating time. We limit our operational expenses to the bare minimum.Your pay-it-forward donations are tax-deductible under IRS Section 170.We want to be the best possible stewards of your financial support. Thank you!Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blogDo you enjoy Gospel Spice? Then let's deepen our relationship! There are 4 very simple ways to do that, and it would truly mean the world to us. 1- If you’ve enjoyed this episode, you will love receiving our newsletter. It contains value-packed free gifts and rich content each month. It’s at gospelspice.com/signup. There is always something new and exciting happening around here, and I don’t want you to miss out! Sign up at Gospelspice.com/signup2- Did you know Gospel Spice has a YouTube Channel? There’s exclusive content there too. So, join Gospel Spice on YouTube! It's at https://www.youtube.com/gospelspice 3- Also please give us a star rating and a comment on your podcast listening app. Your reviews actually really do make a difference to help others discover and experience Gospel Spice. You would be surprised how helpful these are! So please leave a star rating and a review of a sentence or two. Thank you!4- As always, we are praying for you! You can confidentially email us your prayer requests and praise items at the email address contact@gospelspice.com. It is our privilege to pray for you!So, would you please invest 3 to 5 minutes of your time, maybe even right now, to do one (or more!) of the following suggestions:1-      signup on our website for our newsletter to receive gifts you’re going to love - at Gospelspice.com/signup 2-      find us on YouTube, and see what content we’ve put together to help you grow closer to Jesus - at https://www.youtube.com/gospelspice3-      rate Gospel Spice on your listening app – it’s one of the easiest ways to share the gospel!4-      and finally, tell us how we can pray for you!Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blogWhat matters to us here at Gospel Spice is to create a place where people who seek deeper intimacy with Jesus, will find Him. We want a warm, welcoming atmosphere to journey ever deeper into the heart of God. We believe it is the ultimate calling of the Christian life, and I like to summarize it with my motto, God’s glory, our delight. That is why we invite you to “taste and see” that the Lord is good. And we have been doing this every day since 2019. We need YOU to keep Gospel Spice alive and growing.  Financially speaking, we rely on people who understand this vision and who understand that we cannot function without a minimum budget. We run an extremely tight budget. For example, I work full time but don’t draw a salary. And yet, we have expenses – for example, the equipment and technology we use, and also the wonderfully gifted staff who make it possible to deliver high quality content all around the globe, and then the necessary occasional promotional budget to make it possible to be discovered by those who seek to live a life spiced with the gospel of Jesus Christ. We need your help.  So we would love for you to consider if this ministry is blessing you to pay gospel spice forward. You can partner with us monthly with 10, 25, 50, 100, a month, or you can make one donation, once.And because we are a register nonprofit organization in the United States under the status of a 501c3 charity, it means that the amount that you pay to gospel spice is fully tax deductible. Completely tax deductible. So you're even saving money as you invest in gospel spice ministries. It is an eternal investment, and we are very grateful to you for it.Now it's very important to us that we give back as much as possible from what you give us. And so we commit to giving the majority of what we receive, once all of our administrative costs are paid, to organizations that fight human trafficking on the front line. There are many worthwhile causes in the world, so why this one? Because I have always personally felt deep compassion for victims of human trafficking – maybe because I have never been its victim myself, so I feel a responsibility to help those less fortunate than me. Also, because Jesus tells us to love our neighbor. Human trafficking is modern day slavery, and that is something that revolts the heart of God. We want to play our part in raising awareness and then financially supporting those who fight this great evil.  So, we do some due diligence. We pick organizations who have proven themselves trustworthy of our support. And then we give money to these Christians organizations that fight human trafficking.So would you consider paying us forward at gospelspice.com/payitforward?Your hard-earned money is always well used at Gospel Spice. Ultimately, you are giving back to the Kingdom, a portion of what Jesus has given you. We are well aware of the privilege to steward your partnership. And my prayer is always that you will find your own life spiced with the gospel as you partner with us to flavor the lives of those around us, near and far, with the spice of the gospel. Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!