Faith Conversations Podcast

Is God speaking to us today? And if so—how does God communicate?

In this solo episode of Faith Conversations, Jessica Cabrera explores a powerful truth: God is expressive. He is not silent, distant, or detached. He communicates clearly, personally, and purposefully.

From the Trinity to creation, from Scripture to Jesus Christ, from the Holy Spirit to the Church—God has made Himself known in unmistakable ways. If you’ve ever wondered how to hear from God or questioned whether He is speaking at all, this episode offers biblical clarity and encouragement.

This episode explores six distinct ways God communicates:
• Through His identity as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit
• Through creation and humanity made in His image
• Through the written Word of God
• Through Jesus Christ—the Word made flesh
• Through the Holy Spirit working in believers
• Through the Church as the living body of Christ

God reveals Himself so that we may truly know Him. If the living God has something to say—don’t you want to hear it?

John 1:1–3 (NASB)

John 1:14 (NASB)

John 1:18 (NASB)

Psalm 19:1 (NASB)

2 Timothy 3:16–17 (NASB)

1 Corinthians 12:12 (NASB)

Jeremiah 29:13 (NASB)

Read the Gospel of John

If you have never made the choice to accept Jesus’ offer—a gift, not by works—to be restored to the original design for your life, which is a relationship with God (on earth and in heaven after physical death), now is the time.

There is an article in Jessica’s Engage Faith column that will help you understand who He is, who you are, what choice you have, and what happens when you make the decision.

Read the message of God’s good news for mankind and find a sample prayer you can pray today.

All listeners are encouraged to engage in a local church community to learn more about Jesus, the Bible, and to experience God through community. Listeners from the Northern Virginia area are welcomed at Burke Community Church, and anyone seeking an online church service can find one there as well.

We are not designed to be alone—we’re designed for a community of faith.

Follow the show on Instagram @faithconversationspodcast and sign up for Jessica’s Engage Faith communications here for updates and inspiration.

Where do you turn when you’re searching for the answers to life?

In this episode of the Faith Conversations Podcast, Pastor Marty Baker, Senior Pastor of Burke Community Church, shares his remarkable testimony and lifelong conviction that the answers to life are found in the Word of God.

Growing up in a Christian home, Marty recalls the moment as a child when he truly understood his need for Jesus—sparked by a conversation with his mom about an image of Christ knocking at the door of the heart. After choosing to open that door, Pastor Marty experienced a miraculous transformation that changed the trajectory of his life, including an unexplainable academic breakthrough that set him on a path of learning, biblical study, and pastoral leadership.

From an early age, Marty developed an insatiable hunger for Scripture driven by a desire not only to know the truth, but to defend it. Looking back, he sees how God was sovereignly guiding his life through moments of uncertainty and statistically impossible circumstances, reminding us that God's leadership is always perfect and he will do great things through his providential hand.

This conversation is an invitation for anyone searching for truth to consider where the answers to life are truly found, and to discover the unmatched joy of knowing Jesus.

This conversation encourages listeners to distinguish between having honest questions and questioning God Himself, and it invites anyone feeling God’s gentle pull to discover the unmatched joy of knowing Him.

Psalm 119:105 (NASB) - Your word is a lamp to my feet And a light to my path.

John 14:6 (NASB) - Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father except through Me.”

2 Timothy 3:16–17 (NASB) - All Scripture is inspired by God and beneficial for teaching, for rebuke, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man or woman of God may be fully capable, equipped for every good work.

Isaiah 55:8–9 (NASB) – “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways,” declares the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways And My thoughts than your thoughts.

Read the Gospel of John

If you have never made the choice to accept Jesus’ offer—a gift, not by works—to be restored to the original design for your life, which is a relationship with God (on earth and in heaven after physical death), now is the time.

There is an article in Jessica’s Engage Faith column that will help you understand who He is, who you are, what choice you have, and what happens when you make the decision.

Read the message of God’s good news for mankind and find a sample prayer you can pray today.

All listeners are encouraged to engage in a local church community to learn more about Jesus, the Bible, and to experience God through community. Listeners from the Northern Virginia area are welcomed at Burke Community Church, and anyone seeking an online church service can find one there as well.

We are not designed to be alone—we’re designed for a community of faith.

Follow the show on Instagram @faithconversationspodcast and sign up for Jessica’s Engage Faith communications here for updates and inspiration.

What happens when God pursues you—even when you don’t yet know Him?

In this episode of the Faith Conversations Podcast, Lydia Van Zandt, Director of Kids Ministry at Burke Community Church, shares her powerful testimony of being rescued by God and discovering the freedom, peace, and purpose she had been searching for in all the wrong places.

Growing up without a Christian foundation and moving frequently as a child, Lydia found herself seeking belonging and fulfillment through unhealthy relationships and behaviors. Everything changed when two friends from school invited her to youth group—her first experience with church, worship, and biblical teaching.

On Valentine’s Day during a church event, Lydia realized she didn’t know Jesus and decided she wanted to get to know Him. Through discipleship, surrender, and God’s loving redirection, her life began to take a completely new form.

Looking back, Lydia now sees God as her Rescuer—faithfully guiding her through college decisions, a difficult breakup, life as a military spouse, motherhood, and ultimately ministry leadership. Her story is a reminder of the power of being courageous enough to be the light for others.

Isaiah 61:1– God rescues and restores those who are broken

John 1:5– The light shines in the darkness

Psalm 40:1–3– God lifts us out of the pit

Matthew 5:14–16– Called to be the light for others

Read the Gospel of John

If you have never made the choice to accept Jesus’ offer—a gift, not by works—to be restored to the original design for your life, which is a relationship with God (on earth and in heaven after physical death), now is the time.

There is an article in Jessica’s Engage Faith column that will help you understand who He is, who you are, what choice you have, and what happens when you make the decision.

Read the message of God’s good news for mankind and find a sample prayer you can pray today.

All listeners are encouraged to engage in a local church community to learn more about Jesus, the Bible, and to experience God through community. Listeners from the Northern Virginia area are welcomed at Burke Community Church, and anyone seeking an online church service can find one there as well.

We are not designed to be alone—we’re designed for a community of faith.

Follow the show on Instagram @faithconversationspodcast and sign up for Jessica’s Engage Faith communications here for updates and inspiration.

When life feels uncertain and the world around us is anything but settled, where does true peace come from?

In this episode of the Faith Conversations Podcast, Pastor Bob Thornton—Pastor of Marriage and Counseling at Burke Community Church—shares his deeply personal faith journey and how God became a steady, unchanging presence through seasons of transition, isolation, military service, and spiritual growth.

From navigating adolescence in a new environment to serving overseas in the U.S. Army, Bob reflects on how God’s faithfulness remained constant no matter the circumstances. He shares how discovering a personal, daily relationship with God shaped his understanding of peace—not as the absence of chaos, but as confidence in a God who never changes.

Drawing from Psalm 139, this conversation invites listeners to consider how peace is found not in control or stability, but in the intimate, faithful presence of God—yesterday, today, and forever.

·        Psalm 139

·        Hebrews 13:8 - Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.

·        Isaiah 26:3 - You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.

·        John 14:27 - Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

Read the Gospel of John

If you have never made the choice to accept Jesus’ offer—a gift, not by works—to be restored to the original design for your life, which is a relationship with God (on earth and in heaven after physical death), now is the time.

There is an article in Jessica’s Engage Faith column that will help you understand who He is, who you are, what choice you have, and what happens when you make the decision.

Read the message of God’s good news for mankind and find a sample prayer you can pray today.

All listeners are encouraged to engage in a local church community to learn more about Jesus, the Bible, and to experience God through community. Listeners from the Northern Virginia area are welcomed at Burke Community Church, and anyone seeking an online church service can find one there as well.

We are not designed to be alone—we’re designed for a community of faith.

Follow the show on Instagram @faithconversationspodcast and sign up for Jessica’s Engage Faith communications here for updates and inspiration.

What happens when you realize the life you’re living isn’t the life you were made for?

In this episode of Faith Conversations, Matt Sims, Pastor of Kids Ministry at Burke Community Church, shares his powerful journey of drifting from faith, searching for meaning, and ultimately discovering a life fully surrendered to Jesus.

Growing up in the UK, Matt was deeply involved in the Salvation Army church. But during his teenage and college years, he walked away, choosing to live life on his own terms—only to find himself, in his own words, “a full-blown mess.” As he searched for something more, Matt traveled to the United States to serve as a summer camp counselor, where he encountered Christian fellowship unlike anything he had experienced before.

It was through listening to children share stories of broken homes and absent parents that God got Matt’s attention in a profound way. Faced with the realization that his own future children could one day tell a similar story, Matt made the decision at 22 years old to place his faith and trust in Jesus—not just in belief, but in how he lived his life.

Matt’s journey wasn’t instant or easy. From years of ministry with the Salvation Army, to unexpected job loss, seminary, driving for Uber, and wrestling with God’s direction, Matt learned what it means to live not for himself, but for God. Today, he serves in kids ministry—his true calling—helping children discover biblical truth, grow in their understanding of Jesus, and walk confidently in their faith.

- Jeremiah 29:13 - You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.

- Psalm 34:8 - Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him.

- Romans 12:2 - Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.

New to the Bible? Read the Gospel of John

Do you want a relationship with God too?
If you have never made the choice to accept Jesus' offer – a gift, not by works – to be restored to the original design for your life, which is a relationship with God (on earth and in heaven after physical death), now is the time. There is an article in Jessica's Engage Faith Column that will help you understand who He is, who you are, what choice you have, and what happens when you make the decision.

Visit this article to read the message of God's good news for mankind and to find a sample prayer that you can pray today.

To stay connected: Follow the show on Instagram @faithconversationspodcast and

sign up for Jessica's Engage Faith communications at jessicacabrera.org/sign-up

What happens when the version of the “good life” you’re chasing leaves you empty?

In this episode of Faith Conversations, Matt Rampey shares his honest journey from chasing pleasure, popularity, and freedom on his own terms to discovering the true freedom found in Jesus Christ. Matt's life was shaped by partying, unhealthy addictions, and a relentless pursuit of approval—until everything came crashing down.

After losing his girlfriend, his best friend, and having a hidden addiction exposed, Matt hit rock bottom and began asking the deeper questions: Who am I? What am I chasing? Is there more to life than this? In that place of brokenness, Matt picked up a Bible his dad had given him and began seeking truth—exploring multiple world religions while testing the claims of the Bible.

Over time, Matt became convinced that Jesus is real, that the God of the Bible is the one true God, and that God’s definition of the good life leads to freedom that is not temporary, but eternal. Today, Matt’s story is a powerful reminder of God’s steadfast love, grace, and faithfulness—and the promise that if you seek Him, you will find Him.

Jeremiah 29:12-13 - Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.

Psalm 34:8 - Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him.

John 8:36 - So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.

Proverbs 30:5 - Every word of God proves true;

John 1:17 - For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus

New to the Bible? Read the Gospel of John.

Do you want a relationship with God too?
If you have never made the choice to accept Jesus' offer – a gift, not by works – to be restored to the original design for your life, which is a relationship with God (on earth and in heaven after physical death), now is the time. There is an article in Jessica's Engage Faith Column that will help you understand who He is, who you are, what choice you have, and what happens when you make the decision.

Visit jessicacabrera.org/column/what-is-the-message-of-the-gospel to read the message of God's good news for mankind and to find a sample prayer that you can pray today.

The importance of a Biblical faith community:
All listeners are encouraged to engage in a local church community to learn more about Jesus, the Bible, and to experience God through community. Listeners from the Northern Virginia area are welcomed at Burke Community Church and anyone seeking an online church service can find one here. We are not designed to be alone; we’re designed for a community of faith.

To stay connected:
Follow the show on Instagram @faithconversationspodcast and sign up for Jessica's Engage Faith communications jessicacabrera.org/sign-up for updates and inspiration.

In this episode of the Faith Conversations Podcast, Monica Bacheler shares her story of moving from a place of fear and performance to a life of freedom rooted in God’s grace. Monica reflects on how a distorted view of God left her feeling afraid and unseen for many years. But as she began to understand the truth of who God is—a loving Father who pursues, sees, and extends grace—everything changed. Monica’s journey is a beautiful reminder that freedom doesn’t come from striving; it comes from surrendering to the God who already loves us. Tune in to hear how God's grace broke through fear and striving to change Monica’s life.

Bible Verses:

New to the Bible? Read the Gospel of John.

Do you want a relationship with God too?

If you have never made the choice to accept Jesus' offer – a gift, not by works – to be restored to the original design for your life, which is a relationship with God (on earth and in heaven after physical death), now is the time. There is an article in Jessica's Engage Faith Column that will help you understand who He is, who you are, what choice you have, and what happens when you make the decision. Visit https://www.jessicacabrera.org/column/what-is-the-message-of-the-gospel to read the message of God's good news for mankind and to find a sample prayer that you can pray today. 

The importance of a Biblical faith community:

All listeners are encouraged to engage in a local church community to learn more about Jesus, the Bible, and to experience God through community. Listeners from the Northern Virginia area are welcomed at Burke Community Church and anyone seeking an online church service can find one here. We are not designed to be alone; we’re designed for a community of faith. 

To stay connected: Follow the show on Instagram @faithconversationspodcast and sign up for Jessica's Engage Faith communications https://www.jessicacabrera.org/sign-up for updates and inspiration. 

Alec Zacaroli, Pastor of Outward Ministries at Burke Community Church, shares his incredible journey from skepticism to surrender. Raised in a non-religious household in South Africa, Alec spent years chasing success as a journalist and later as a big firm attorney, until life’s challenges led him to cry out to God and seek something more. Then, one day, on his porch with his wife, in a moment of clarity and gratitude, Alec fully surrendered to Jesus. In this powerful episode, hear how God’s extravagant grace and love met Alec in his brokenness, and how faith stories from a prison inmate and spirit-filled moments in South Africa have influenced his life. Whether you're skeptical or seeking, his message is clear: suspend disbelief and give Jesus a chance to change your life.

Romans 5:8 – But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

Ephesians 2:8-9 - For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9 not by works, so that no one can boast.

2 Corinthians 5:17 - Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come:[a] The old has gone, the new is here!

John 3:16 - For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

Luke 15:20 – So he got up and went to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him.

New to the Bible? Read the Gospel of John.

Check out BCC Outward Ministries and God's work all around the world: Beyond Our Walls videos

Do you want a relationship with God too?

If you have never made the choice to accept Jesus' offer – a gift, not by works – to be restored to the original design for your life, which is a relationship with God (on earth and in heaven after physical death), now is the time. There is an article in Jessica's Engage Faith Column that will help you understand who He is, who you are, what choice you have, and what happens when you make the decision. Visit https://www.jessicacabrera.org/column/what-is-the-message-of-the-gospel to read "What is the Message of the Gospel?" and hear God's good news for mankind along with a sample prayer that you can pray today. 

The importance of a Biblical faith community:

All listeners are encouraged to engage in a local church community to learn more about Jesus, the Bible, and to experience God through community. Listeners from the Northern Virginia area are welcomed at Burke Community Church and anyone seeking an online church service can find one here. We are not designed to be alone; we’re designed for a community of faith. 

To stay connected: Follow the show on Instagram @faithconversationspodcast and sign up for Jessica's Engage Faith communications https://www.jessicacabrera.org/sign-up for updates and inspiration. 

Greg Triplett, Pastor of Communications at Burke Community Church, shares his faith journey in this episode of the Faith Conversations Podcast. Raised in a home where faith was not just professed but practiced, Greg witnessed his parents’ trust in God through all circumstances. This solid foundation laid the groundwork for his own walk with Christ.

As a college student participating in and leading student ministry, Greg began to share the gospel and mentor others in their faith. It was in these moments—where he felt in over his head and had to rely completely on God—that he experienced the deepest growth in his relationship with Jesus. Sharing his faith became the space where trust, surrender, and awe of God were formed.

Greg reflects on the beautiful mystery of God: all-powerful and deeply personal. He encourages listeners to recognize how God meets us in every season—in the chaos of daily life, in our marriages, our parenting, and our work. Faith is not just formed on the mountaintop but in everyday surrender. It just takes one step—the next step—to grow in relationship with a God who is far greater than we can imagine.

New to the Bible? Read the Gospel of John.

Check out the list Greg mentions in the episode!

Most influential in forming me as a disciple of Jesus:

1.     Mission trips

2.     People who have invested in discipling me

3.     My parents

4.     Personal devotion and spiritual practice

5.     Marriage & fatherhood

6.     Being in vocational ministry and leading teams

7.     Small groups

8.     Sharing my faith with others

9.     Retreats & Conferences

10.  New staff training with Campus Crusade for Christ

11.  Books I have read

12.  Seminary

13.  Sermons I have heard

Do you want a relationship with God too?

If you have never made the choice to accept Jesus' offer – a gift, not by works – to be restored to the original design for your life, which is a relationship with God (on earth and in heaven after physical death), now is the time. There is an article in Jessica's Engage Faith Column that will help you understand who He is, who you are, what choice you have, and what happens when you make the decision. Visit https://www.jessicacabrera.org/column/what-is-the-message-of-the-gospel to read the message of God's good news for mankind and to find a sample prayer that you can pray today. 

The importance of a Biblical faith community:

All listeners are encouraged to engage in a local church community to learn more about Jesus, the Bible, and to experience God through community. Listeners from the Northern Virginia area are welcomed at Burke Community Church and anyone seeking an online church service can find one here. We are not designed to be alone; we’re designed for a community of faith. 

To stay connected: Follow the show on Instagram @faithconversationspodcast and sign up for Jessica's Engage Faith communications https://www.jessicacabrera.org/sign-up for updates and inspiration. 

In this episode of the Faith Conversations Podcast, Pastor Jim Powell, Discipleship Pastor at Burke Community Church, shares how a simple prayer at a Young Life retreat sparked a lifelong journey of awe-inspired faith. Growing up without much knowledge of Jesus, Jim’s life began to change when he witnessed the transformation of his older brothers. A single prayer opened the door to a deep and ongoing relationship with a God who is both all-powerful and deeply personal. Jim reflects on the wonder of God’s character, the strength found in community, and the freedom that comes from sharing our struggles with others.

Bible Verses:

New to the Bible? Read the Gospel of John.

Do you want a relationship with God too?

If you have never made the choice to accept Jesus' offer – a gift, not by works – to be restored to the original design for your life, which is a relationship with God (on earth and in heaven after physical death), now is the time. There is an article in Jessica's Engage Faith Column that will help you understand who He is, who you are, what choice you have, and what happens when you make the decision. Visit https://www.jessicacabrera.org/column/what-is-the-message-of-the-gospel to read the message of God's good news for mankind and to find a sample prayer that you can pray today. 

The importance of a Biblical faith community:

All listeners are encouraged to engage in a local church community to learn more about Jesus, the Bible, and to experience God through community. Listeners from the Northern Virginia area are welcomed at Burke Community Church and anyone seeking an online church service can find one here. We are not designed to be alone; we’re designed for a community of faith. 

To stay connected: Follow the show on Instagram @faithconversationspodcast and sign up for Jessica's Engage Faith communications https://www.jessicacabrera.org/sign-up for updates and inspiration.