In this episode we begin looking at the sixth and final foundational question of the spiritual life, the "how" question. It's the application question, the one that moves theory into practice--the inevitable question that expresses our hunger for God in terms of behavior. Today's episode provides an overview of the "how" question, a look we will offer in more detail in upcoming episodes.

In this episode I offer the paradigm, the "big picture" that I am using to move the series along...and...I connect the series to the larger Oboedire ministry of spiritual formation that I launched in 2010.

The present moment is the only real time we have, so spirituality is reality. It is the time for cultivating faith, fullness, and formation.

In this episode we explore the connection between spirituality and location, focusing on six places that foster growth in the spiritual life.

Turning to the "Who" question, we discover the spiritual life is for everyone and everything. This episode explores both of those aspects, with the aim of showing the attractiveness and attainability of the spiritual life.

The spiritual life is important because it cultivates virtue: inward character, outward conduct, and healthy community. We thrive when these three qualities define and direct our lives.

The spiritual life is important because it gives us vision--the vision that we are God's beloved children, and that we have a place in God's plan. We look at these two things in this episode.

The spiritual life is important because it increases our sense of "aliveness." In this episode we look at vitality from the vantage points of expansion, wholeness, and hope.

This episode begins a new round of visits in which we will explore the significance of the spiritual life--looking at its importance in relation to intentionality and growth.

Periodically, I will step out of the thematic flow of the podcast and interact with you about things I am hearing from you. Today, I respond to inquiries about the vision which gives rise to "Heart Sounds," the brevity of the episodes, and the sharing of resources that give us a big-picture look at the spiritual life.