In this episode, we discuss relational wellness as part of a broader wellness focus, reflecting on loneliness and theneed for three kinds of connection: an intimate relationship, close friends, and a community of belonging. Derek shares how his closest friendships formed through proximity and shared interests, but were sustained by trust,reciprocity, and meaningful conversation, including examples of long-term friends showing up in hardship. They explore why deeper friendships often require vulnerability over time, why church and school communities create opportunities but don’t guarantee close relationships, and how large communities face limits like Dunbar’s number. Practically, they encourage taking bold action—inviting someone to dinner or coffee, immersing yourself in community, and establishing regular conversations—to create space for deeper connection, care, and living out faith together.

00:00 Welcome and Updates

01:24 Wellness Wheel Overview

03:17 Relational Wellness Focus

04:19 Loneliness and Three Connections

06:00 Derek on Best Friends

07:36 Friendship Stories and Support

10:57 What Makes Friendships Deep

15:42 Conversation and Reciprocity

21:10 Commitment and Church Community

24:30 Limits of Closeness

26:26 Church as Connection

29:50 Created for Relationship

32:51 Practical Friendship Steps

33:54 Invite and Share Time

36:58 Bold Moves Matter

41:16 Vulnerability Over Time

44:20 Immerse in Community

47:45 Meals and Incarnation

49:54 Small Words Big Impact

50:54 Final Takeaway and Wrap

Thank you for joining us today! Be sure to check back every Friday to hear the latest from 'Desert Well'! You can also watch on YouTube https://youtu.be/j5ervcnVh20. You can listen on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/desert-well/id1823028492.

Today we return with another ‘Desert Well’ conversation around Jesus, reflecting on the humbling start of Lent after Ash Wednesday. We will connect the topic to widespread anxiety in both youth and adults, then discuss a Concordia Journal transcript from Concordia Seminary St. Louis’ “Tangible” podcast featuring Dr. Rick Mars and his work on Christ-centered Christian counseling. We explore common perceptions that meditation is mainly an Eastern/Buddhist practice, contrast inward-focused transcendental meditation with Christians meditating on Scripture, and explain “first article” (creation) gifts like breathing and muscle awareness as practical tools for anxiety without fear of adopting another religion. We will highlight research on how anxiety affects breathing and how calming techniques can help. The episode then turns to Martin Luther’s approach—Oratio, Meditatio, and Tentatio (prayer, meditation, and testing/struggle)—and describes meditation as “chewing the cud” on God’s external Word rather than seeking answers within. We discuss how spiritual attacks and life’s struggles can drive believers back to prayer and Scripture, and emphasize mutual consolation and bearing one another’s burdens, not leaving care only to pastors or trained ministers. Practical examples include pausing between petitions of the Lord’s Prayer to reflect and pray, an eight-step devotional practice (relaxation, imagery, breath, compassion, protection, intercession, offering anxieties to God, and closing), and noting the existence of Christian meditation apps while cautioning about doctrinal soundness.

We have included the article we referenced in today's episode https://drive.google.com/file/d/1u6ag1G6XxSPCkVt_1QU5WW9GcvPp71nl/view?usp=sharing.

00:00 Desert Well Welcome

00:42 Lent Humility

01:23 Anxiety Is for Everyone

02:06 Podcast Article Setup

04:56 Christian Views on Meditation

07:51 Meditation as Scripture Focus

14:25 First Article Gifts and Breathing

20:15 Luther Letters and Soul Care

25:07 Looking Outside Ourselves

26:40 Luther Method Oratio Meditatio Tentatio

27:50 Luther Prayer Cycle

29:08 Redefining Meditation

31:22 Chewing the Word

35:53 Temptation and Attacks

39:21 Counseling and Consolation

43:58 Practical Meditation Methods

45:49 Devotional Steps and Apps

50:34 Wrap Up and Thanks

Thank you for listening, we sure do appreciate your support! Be sure to check back every Friday for the latest from 'Desert Well'! You can also watch on YouTube https://youtu.be/dICh5eaNcOg. You can listen on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/desert-well/id1823028492.

In this episode, we gather around the well of Jesus to discussimportant matters of faith, ministry, and mental health. Joined by Ryan Strehlow, an eighth-grade counselor at Faith Lutheran Middle School in Las Vegas, we delve into his unique journey from being a Director of Christian Education to a school counselor. Ryan shares his inspiring and challengingexperiences, the evolving role of school counselors, the significant impact of technology on youth mental health, and practical advice for parents navigating their children's digital lives. This heartfelt conversation is a blend of faith, practical wisdom, and real-life challenges, offering valuable insightsfor church communities and families alike.

00:00 Welcome and Introduction

00:33 Meet Ryan Strehlow

04:08 Ryan's Journey to Counseling

21:59 The Role of a School Counselor

26:40 Challenges Faced by Today's Youth

33:22 Advice for Parents and the Church

41:55 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Thank you for joining us! Be sure to tune in every Friday to hear the latest from 'Desert Well'! You can also watch on YouTube https://youtu.be/jhm4-JGY5MU. You can listen on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/desert-well/id1823028492.

Join us as we gather around the well for another heartfeltdiscussion. This episode dives deep into the significance of Lent, exploring its history, traditions, and personal practices. We reflect on how Lent prepares us for Easter by fostering a spirit of repentance, self-denial, and spiritual growth. We also share some creative ways to observe Lent and answerquestions on fasting and its purpose. Whether you're familiar with Lent or new to the concept, this conversation offers insights and reflections to enrich your spiritual journey. We have linked the article we have referenced in today's episode

https://witness.lcms.org/2008/keeping-a-holy-lent-2-2008/#:~:text=Perhaps%20that%20seems%20an%20inappropriate,from%20it%20life%20and%20hope.%E2%80%9D.

00:00 Welcome and Introduction

00:36 Understanding Lent: What, Why, and How

05:50 The Importance of Preparation for Easter

13:44 Living Out Lent: Traditions and Practices

21:08 Fasting and Self-Denial During Lent

28:42 Giving Up Soda for Lent

29:15 The Strangest Things Given Up for Lent

29:42 The Beauty of Lenten Hymns

32:03 The Contrast Between Lenten and Easter Hymns

33:49 Reflecting on Personal Lenten Traditions

35:47 The Significance of Lent and Easter

36:57 Visualizing the Passion of Christ

38:22 Family Traditions During Lent

40:32 The Realness of Jesus' Sacrifice

42:22 Hopes for the Lenten Season

45:27 Lenten Practices and Worship

51:25 Upcoming Events and Final Thoughts

Thank you for joining us! Be sure to tune in every Friday to catch the latest from 'Desert Well'! You can also watch this week's episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/Ir07PqtHwRw. You can listen on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/desert-well/id1823028492.

In this episode of the Desert Well Podcast, we explore theintersection of faith and technology. Join us as we gather around the well that is Jesus to discuss how Christians can think about and use technology in their daily lives. We delve into the historical context of technology in the church,talk about digital media consumption, and consider how technology can both positively and negatively influence our lives. We also share personal stories and insights on making intentional choices when it comes to technology use.Whether you're tech-savvy or tech-cautious, this episode offers thoughtful perspectives on how to navigate our digital world with faith and wisdom.

00:00 Welcome and Introduction

00:51 Today's Topic: Technology and Faith

01:34 Celebrating Baptisms and Community

06:46 Engaging with Technology in Daily Life

11:43 Historical Perspectives on Technology

18:39 Technology as a Tool for Ministry

25:00 Intentional Use of Technology

26:14 Introduction to Neil Postman's Ideas

26:57 The Influence of Cable News

27:57 Television's Impact on Daily Life

28:56 Technology's Role in Shaping Desires

30:51 Personal Experiences with TV

35:43 Curating Media Consumption

37:33 The Power of Stories

44:57 Redeeming Technology Through Faith

53:21 Conclusion and Reflections

Thank you for joining us! Be sure to check back every Friday to hear the latest from 'Desert Well'! You can also watch on YouTube https://youtu.be/2pk3WoaLBnE and listen on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/desert-well/id1823028492.

In this episode of the Desert Well Podcast, we discuss the importance of gathering around Jesus and drinking deeply from His good news. We cover a range of topics, starting with the recent voters meeting where strategic planning for the years 2026 and beyond was discussed. We delveinto the concepts of viability and opportunity, sharing insights from ministry executive Jim Henkel. Our conversation also explores the distinctions between outreach events, relational events, and witnessing, while emphasizing the valueof asking 'why' in all planning endeavors. Join us as we reflect on the importance of relationship-building within the church and school community and the exciting future plans for our congregation.

00:00 Welcome to the Desert Well Podcast

00:26 Discussing Purpose and Planning

01:02 Strategic Planning Insights

03:29 Viability vs. Opportunity

05:05 The Importance of Asking Why

06:34 Balancing Risk and Opportunity

16:42 Outreach vs. Witness

21:18 The Importance of Outreach Events

22:12 Relational Outreach: Building Community

24:55 Witnessing: Sharing Your Faith

28:12 Strategic Planning for the Future

32:46 The Role of Trust in Strategic Planning

39:35 Conclusion and Future Plans

Thank you for joining us! Be sure to check back every Friday for the latest from 'Desert Well'! You can also watch on Spotify . You can listen on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/desert-well/id1823028492 .

Join us as we celebrate National Lutheran Schools Week in this special episode! Discover the rich heritage and unique activities that make this event a highlight for students and teachers alike. We'll explore the joy of free dress days, daily devotion times, and a grand baptism chapel. Learnabout the historical importance of Lutheran schools, and hear from Mr. Derek Blessing about how our schools unite in teaching about Jesus to students worldwide. With themes rooted in Psalm 98, this week is filled with praise, worship, service, and community, culminating in a joyful celebration of our faith in education.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:37 National Lutheran Schools Week Overview

01:10 Excitement and Activities for Students

05:29 Historical Context of Lutheran Schools

08:51 Lutheran Schools Across the World

15:36 District Support and Resources

18:42 Celebrating Lutheran Schools Week

23:24 Splashing Water and Setting the Scene

23:42 Introducing the Theme: Make a Joyful Noise

23:56 Reading and Reflecting on Psalm 98

26:04 The Importance of Context in Scripture

31:33 Daily Themes for the Week

37:32 Gospel Adventures: Learning from Mongolia

39:56 Concluding Thoughts and Reflections

Thank you for joining us! Be sure to tune in every Friday for the latest from 'Desert Well'! You can also watch on YouTube https://youtu.be/F__28viNiBQ. You can listen on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/desert-well/id1823028492.

In this episode, we dive into the concept of planning in faith, discussing the balance between God's sovereignty and our personal agency. We explore the hidden and revealed will of God, single vs. double predestination, and how these theological concepts impact our everyday decisions and long-term planning. Reflecting on personal stories, from financial stewardship to family planning, we take a realistic look at how we can plan faithfully in various aspects of life while trusting in God's ultimate plan.00:00 Welcome Back and Introduction00:44 Reflecting on High School and God's Plan02:42 The Importance of Planning04:32 Balancing Personal and Professional Planning11:29 Faith and Planning: A Delicate Balance25:10 The Power of the Holy Spirit25:36 Understanding Predestination26:37 Single vs. Double Predestination28:50 Theological Implications of Predestination30:21 Faith and Assurance in Christianity33:22 Practical Faith: Baptism and Beyond42:29 Planning in Faith48:21 Concluding Thoughts and ReflectionsThank you for joining us! Be sure to catch the latest from 'Desert Well' every Friday! You can also watch this week's episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/LloevmfiRdI. You can listen on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/desert-well/id1823028492.

Welcome back to the Desert Well! As we start the new year of 2026, join us as we dive deep into the concept of true transformation in Christ with a discussion on the article 'New Year, Same You' by Ryan Couch, published by Lutheran publishing house 1517. This episode explores the idea that while New Year's resolutions can bring surface-level changes, only Christ can bring true transformation at the core of our being. We discuss the powerful message that we are simultaneously sinners and perfected in Christ, and the importance of recognizing that earthly achievements cannot fulfill our deepest needs. This conversation is an invitation to experience the grace of the gospel and the unchanging love of Jesus, no matter where you are in your journey. We have also included the article we discussed, "New Year, Same You", by Ryan Couch https://www.1517.org/articles/new-year-same-you.

00:00 Welcome and Introduction

00:41 Reflecting on New Year's Resolutions

01:13 Reading 'New Year, Same You' by Ryan Couch

02:54 Discussion on Human Nature and Change

05:20 The Role of Christ in Transformation

11:09 Balancing Law and Gospel

28:11 Personal Reflections and Takeaways

30:52 Conclusion and Invitation to Engage

Thank you for joining us, be sure to tune in every week for the latest from "Desert Well'! You can also watch on YouTube https://youtu.be/6Hpc46saYvo and Spotify. You can listen on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/desert-well/id1823028492.

Welcome back to Desert Well! Today we explore the deeper meaning behind setting New Year's resolutions from a faith-focused perspective. Reflecting on an article titled 'A Toast to the End of Ourselves,' by Luke Kjolhaug, we discuss how to reframe our goals to reflect selflessness, humility, and spiritual growth. Join us as we dive into the concept of dying to ourselves and living through the teachings of Jesus. Perfect for anyone looking to start 2026 with a fresh, spiritually fulfilling outlook. Raise a toast with us to the end of self-reliance and the beginning of living in Christ!Here is the article we referenced in today's episode https://www.1517.org/articles/a-toast-to-the-end-of-ourselves .

00:00 Introduction to Desert Well

01:04 New Year Reflections and Ugly Sweaters

01:36 Introducing Long Reads Friday

04:23 A Toast to the End of Ourselves

12:33 Reflecting on the Article

32:07 Closing Thoughts and Looking Ahead

Thank you for joining us! Be sure to check back every Friday for the latest episode from 'Desert Well'! You can also watch on YouTube https://youtu.be/CsVM5LxoPG8 . You can listen on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/desert-well/id1823028492 .