In a society where talking about death is deeply taboo, how do we move from a place of terrifying fear to one of absolute freedom?

In this powerful and deeply personal message, Pastor Michael reflects on his childhood dream of entering the funeral industry—a calling sparked by a mother's lessons in love at the casket side—and how confronting death firsthand revealed it to be a true ministry of peace. From the fear-based control tactics of the ancient Roman Empire to modern-day systems of anxiety, empires have always used the fear of death to keep us stuck, silent, and submissive.

But there is a greater truth. Diving into Paul’s letter to the chaotic city of Corinth, we explore the ultimate paradigm shift: because of the resurrected Christ, death has lost its sting and its power.

We often think of Jesus born into a quiet, sanitized nativity scene—but the truth is, he was born into a storm. In this powerful episode, we strip away the comfortable, polite version of religion to look at the real world Jesus entered: a world under the crushing military, economic, political, and ideological grip of the Roman Empire. From his very first breath, Jesus’s existence was an act of resistance against systems of violence and oppression.

Fast-forwarding to his trial before Pontius Pilate, we explore what it truly means when Jesus says his kingdom is "not from this world". It’s not that his kingdom doesn't matter here; it's that it refuses to use the empire's tools of fear, greed, and lies.

The empire didn’t die—it just changed clothes. Today, we see it alive and well where the poor are exploited, marginalized bodies are policed, and the church remains silent. This episode issues a urgent, radical challenge to every believer: Will you choose comfort or courage? Silence or truth? Empire or kingdom?

Stop admiring Jesus from a safe distance. Tune in to discover how to tap into resurrection power, disrupt modern injustices, and live out a gospel that actually sets people free.

In this moving exploration of the Easter story, we dive into the profound moment when grief meets glory at the empty tomb. This episode re-centers the narrative on Mary Magdalene, challenging historical misconceptions to highlight her true role as a faithful disciple, prophet, and the "apostle to the apostles".

Through a powerful retelling of the events of the third day, we witness the transition from the deep sorrow of the crucifixion to the overwhelming joy of the resurrection.

Have you ever felt a tug on your heart to do something big, terrifying, and completely outside your comfort zone? You aren’t alone. In this powerful episode, we dive into the discomfort, the running away, and the ultimate surrender that comes with discovering your divine purpose.

Drawing from the story of a young Prophet Jeremiah, Pastor Michael unpacks what it really means to be "called". From feeling entirely unqualified to facing the pushback of a community that refuses to see your growth, answering a higher purpose is rarely easy. But as we learn from Jeremiah's journey, when God calls you to speak up and stand out, He doesn't leave you empty-handed—He equips your lips and fuels your spirit with a fire you can't contain.

In this powerful and stir-ring episode, we dive deep into the mystery, wonder, and transformative power of the Holy Spirit. Often misunderstood, hidden, or even avoided, the Holy Spirit—our Advocate, Comforter, and Paraclete—is exactly who we need to navigate the world today.

Drawing from the Gospel of John, we explore the anxious moments when the disciples feared being left alone, only for Jesus to promise a "helper and a friend" who would never leave their side. We trace this divine, disruptive energy from the radical, room-shaking breakthrough of Pentecost all the way to the rich traditions of the Black Church, where the Spirit has long been known as a fire "shut up in our bones" and a powerful force for liberation.

But this isn’t just history—it’s a marching order for today. The same Spirit that gave the disciples the power to shake up the world is calling us to stand up for justice, protect the marginalized, and continue the work of liberation.

In this powerful and encouraging episode, we dive into the season that comes after the initial celebration. When you are standing in a period of transition, uncertainty, or deep suffering, it is easy to look toward heaven and ask: What's next?

Drawing from personal experiences of facing homelessness, rejection, and months of silence while chasing a dream, our speaker connects our modern-day waiting periods to the biblical story of Simeon. Found in the temple eight days after the birth of Jesus, Simeon is the ultimate example of "active waiting." He didn't stay in bed waiting for a sign; he showed up to the temple every single day, praying, praising, and trusting in God’s promise that he would not see death before witnessing the Messiah.

Through this lens, we explore what it truly means to hold onto hope when the answers haven't arrived yet—and how to prepare your heart for when they finally do. Because when God’s promises are fulfilled, they might just show up looking a lot different than you ever expected.

In this episode, we explore the foundational moment of Jesus’s earthly ministry as recorded in Luke 4:18–19. After facing temptation in the wilderness, Jesus returns to the synagogue with a clear sense of authority and a radical mandate that would change the world forever.

As you listen, ask yourself: "Am I living into the mission of Christ?". Whether you are just starting your journey or looking to rededicate yourself, today is the day to embrace your role as a change agent in the world.

"The spirit of the Lord is upon me... to bring sight to the blind, release to the captives, free the oppressed, and to bring the Lord’s favor."

Have you ever found yourself in a season of "exile"? A place where you’re stripped of the familiar, facing unexpected hardships, and wondering if God has forgotten you altogether?

In this powerful message, we dive deep into the Book of Jeremiah, chapter 29. Often known as the "crying prophet," Jeremiah bore witness to a people forced into a 70-year Babylonian timeout because they simply refused to listen. But right in the middle of their frustration, anger, and isolation, God gave them a surprising command: Build houses, plant gardens, and get comfortable—because I have a plan for you right here.

Drawing raw, honest parallels to personal seasons of job loss, financial uncertainty, and unexpected moves across the country, Speaker 1 reminds us that "exile" isn't always a punishment—sometimes, it’s a setup for an elevated faith. Even when the math isn't mathing and God feels silent, His promise remains: "I know the plans I have for you... plans to prosper you and not to harm you."

In this special episode, we welcome Pastor Michael on his very first Sunday! To help the congregation and our listeners get to know him on a deeper level, Pastor Jeff sits down with Michael for a fun, rapid-fire interview inspired by the classic Inside the Actor’s Studio questionnaire.

From his unexpected journey into ministry to his favorite creative outlets, Pastor Michael shares an open, honest, and often humorous look into his life, his faith, and his vision for the community.

Message by- Rev. Jeff Procter-Murphy

Ever feel like Jesus has been kidnapped by the Christian Right and discarded by the Secular Left? Saving Jesus Redux is total revision of Living the Question’s popular 12-session DVD-based small group exploration of a credible Jesus for the third millennium. New contributors including Brian McLaren, Diana Butler Bass, and Robin Meyers join Marcus Borg, Walter Brueggemann, John Dominic Crossan, Matthew Fox, Amy-Jill Levine, and a host of others for a conversation around the relevance of Jesus for today.