Show Notes 

In this bonus episode, Josh, Beth, and Corrie explore the challenges of bitterness and resentment in military marriages, highlighting the influence of faith, perspective shifts, and community support. They discuss the importance of diverse friendships, flexibility in family life, and seeking counseling. Emphasizing teamwork, Beth and Corrie share strategies for balancing responsibilities and overcoming feelings of isolation and resentment.  

Beth introduces insights from her new book for military spouses called “Another Move, God?: 30 Encouragements to Embrace Your Life as a Military Wife,” while Corrie shares about her dynamic Instagram platform, @ajoyfulmilspouse, that celebrates military life. Together, they stress that community and shared experiences can strengthen relationships amid military life’s unique challenges. 

In the course of this conversation, we also reference Beth’s list of 10 ways to overcome bitterness and resentment, which you can view here.  

If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to [email protected]. https://www.ocfusa.org/podcastguest/ 

Takeaways 

• The person most affected by bitterness is often the one holding onto it. 
• Military spouses often feel bitterness due to the challenges of military life. 
• Community support is crucial for military spouses to overcome feelings of isolation. 
• Engaging in activities outside of the marriage can help alleviate pressure on the spouse. 
• Maintaining connections with friends, even if they are far away, is important. 
• Perspective shifts can help in dealing with feelings of loss and resentment. 
• Faith and reliance on God can transform bitterness into growth. 
• Assuming the best in your spouse fosters a healthier relationship. 
• God has a purpose for every assignment in life. 

Points to Ponder  

As you listen to this conversation with Beth and Corrie, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor: 

1. How does unresolved bitterness affect not only the individual experiencing it but also their relationships with family, friends, and community members? How can someone recognize when bitterness is taking a toll on their life and relationships? 
2. In what ways can military spouses balance the demands of military life with self-care and maintaining friendships, even with distance involved? How might maintaining these connections positively impact their mental health and family life? 
3. How can a change in perspective help military spouses navigate feelings of loss, resentment, or inequality in responsibilities? What strategies can help shift perspective from bitterness to personal growth? 
4. Why is community support so crucial for military families, and what are some effective ways to build a support network? How can this support network contribute to overcoming isolation and fostering resilience? 

OCF MINISTRY NEWS 

• New Bible study available: Visit ocfusa.org/suffering to access this newest study, A Faithful Approach to Hardship and Suffering, on our website. 

• GivingTuesday fundraiser: Give the gift of Christlike leadership this GivingTuesday (3 Dec.) by visiting ocfusa.org/givingtuesday and donating now. 

• Job opening at WSS: If you would like more information and/or an application for this ministry opportunity, contact the WSS Center Director Paul Robyn ([email protected]) or the WSS Director of Hospitality Susanne Pappal ([email protected]), or call the main office via 814-623-5583. Visit ocfusa.org/job-openings to learn more about or to apply for the new facilities director position at White Sulphur Springs in Pennsylvania. 

• Winter Retreats at OCF Conference Centers: Visit whitesulphursprings.org/winter-retreat to register for one of White Sulphur Springs’ Winter Retreat sessions, or visit springcanyon.org/winter-retreat to register for one of Spring Canyon’s Winter Retreat sessions. 

• Ministry update from MMI OCF: Visit ocfusa.org/directory to learn more about and connect with local fellowships like the one at MMI in Alabama. 

ASK OCF 

Lt Col Larry Sherbondy, USAF (Ret.), who serves as the OCF Director of ROTC Ministry, answered this question from another OCFer: How much time might be involved in participating in or starting an ROTC OCF group? 

Many resources and opportunities await those interested in plugging into ROTC ministry. Visit ocfusa.org/rotc to get in touch with Larry, check out upcoming ROTC events, and more. 

If you have a question that you want us to consider for a future “Ask OCF” segment, send an email to [email protected]. 

GUEST SPOTLIGHT 

Today’s guest spotlight features two military spouses: Beth Runkle and Corrie Reeter. Beth and her husband currently serve with Cru Military, and she recently published a book called “Another Move, God?: 30 Encouragements to Embrace Your Life as a Military Wife.” Corrie is a blogger with a dynamic following on Instagram as @ajoyfulmilspouse, where she and her followers celebrate the uniqueness, blessings, and adventures of military marriage and family life. 

Speaking from their experiences as military spouses, Beth and Corrie discuss the bitterness that may arise for some military spouses as they experience deployments, moves, and more. In the course of this conversation, we reference Beth’s list of 10 ways to overcome bitterness and resentment, which you can view here.  

If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to [email protected]. 

POINTS TO PONDER 

As you listen to this conversation with Beth and Corrie, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor: 

1. When was a time you personally experienced bitterness in your life as a military service member and/or spouse?  

1. How did you overcome that bitterness? 

1. In what ways is the military life a sanctifying one? 

1. What is the value of counting your blessings, entrusting everything to the Lord, and maintaining an eternal perspective? 

Show Notes

OCF MINISTRY NEWS 

• Job opening at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy: Contact PK Carlton ([email protected]) or Marci Morris ([email protected]) for more info, or visit ocfusa.org/job-openings to learn more about and apply for the opening at USCGA. Applications are open until 31 Oct.  

• In His Service Retreat for women in uniform: Visit events.navigators.org/women-in-uniform-in-his-service-retreat-2024 for more details about this retreat coming up in Jefferson, Texas. 

• OCF Mid-Atlantic & Northeast Fall Retreat: Visit whitesulphursprings.org/events to learn more and register, and email any questions to the Chiaravallottis at [email protected].    

• Winter Retreats at OCF Conference Centers: Visit whitesulphursprings.org/winter-retreat to register for one of White Sulphur Springs’ Winter Retreat sessions, or visit springcanyon.org/winter-retreat to register for one of Spring Canyon’s Winter Retreat sessions. 

ASK OCF 

LTC Ryan Wainwright, USA (Ret.), who serves as the Assistant Director of Field Operations, answered this question from another OCFer: Is our membership expanding or contracting? 

OCF isn’t just for military officers—anyone sincerely able to sign the Statement of Faith and Participation and agree with the OCF Biblical Guidelines for Member Conduct can become a member of OCF. To become a member, first acknowledge your agreement with the Statement of Faith, then visit ocfusa.org/join to fill out the form.  

If you have a question that you want us to consider for a future “Ask OCF” segment, send an email to [email protected]. 

GUEST SPOTLIGHT 

Today’s guest spotlight features Col PK Carlton, USAF (Ret.), who currently serves as OCF's Director of Field Staff. In this role, he focuses on the care and engagement for our Field Staff at the four Service Academies and our Gateway ministries at Leavenworth and Maxwell.  

PK and his wife Lindsey have served as Local Leaders across their Air Force career, later serving as Ministry Team at USAFA that led to them leading the USAFA ministry for two years. They love having cadets over and mentoring young officers and have a heart for the Field Staff and their families that serve our key ministries. 

Earlier this year, PK led a retreat session for USAFA cadets at Spring Canyon (springcanyon.org) to unpack this frequently asked question in OCF circles: “How do I evangelize in uniform?” PK joined us on Crosspoint to share some of the encouragement he gave those cadets and to share his own testimony as well. 

If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to [email protected]. 

POINTS TO PONDER 

As you listen to this conversation with PK, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor: 

1. How do you feel about evangelism, and what experiences have shaped your impression?  

1. Why is it important to keep Matthew 5:16 and Romans 10:14 in mind when thinking about sharing your faith? 

1. Who might be able to mentor you in evangelism? 

1. What techniques have you found work well for sharing your own testimony? 

In this episode, COL Andy MacLean, USA (Ret.), the coordinator for Latin America at the Association for Christian Conferences, Teaching and Services (ACCTS (https://accts.org/)), discusses the mission of ACCTS and its work in developing Christian leaders in the armed forces worldwide.  

He shares his experiences working with military communities in Latin America and the challenges and opportunities he encounters. Andy also highlights the upcoming AMCF World Conference and the need for financial support and prayer for the conference's success. 

Andy then shares his testimony and the five fingerprints of God in his life. He discusses his journey from being a missionary kid to a military officer and the unexpected opportunities and doors that God opened for him. He emphasizes the importance of being a good steward of what God has entrusted to us and thinking strategically about where God has placed us.  

He encourages Christians in the military to use their credentials and experiences to make an impact for the kingdom of God and to be mindful of the bigger picture in their actions and decisions. 

Andy mentions a few resources in this interview: OCF small groups (https://www.ocfusa.org/directory/), Rocky Mountain High (https://www.springcanyon.org/rocky-mountain-high/), and the AMCF World Conference (https://www.worldconferenceamcf.com/en).  

Takeaways  

• ACCTS' mission is to assist in the development of Christian leaders in the armed forces worldwide and establish military Christian fellowships. 

• Andy works as the coordinator for Latin America, supporting military Christian fellowships in 20 countries. 

• The AMCF World Conference aims to encourage and equip military Christians from around the world and provide a vision for their mission. 

• Financial support and prayer are needed for the success of the conference and the ongoing work of ACCTS. 

• There is a need for more people to get involved in ACCTS and support military Christian communities globally. 

• Be a good steward of what God has entrusted to you. 

• Think strategically about where God has placed you. 

• Use your credentials and experiences to make an impact for the kingdom of God. 

• Be mindful of the bigger picture in your actions and decisions.  

Points to Ponder 

1. Andy talks about the Lord using his military career to prepare him for his role with ACCTS. How have you seen God use an experience in your life for another? 

1. When have you seen hardship bear fruit? 

1. Andy shares about connections and networking being a way to further the gospel elsewhere. What do his anecdotes remind us of when it comes to the Lord and His church? 

1. Thinking of the theme for this year’s AMCF World Conference, what does it mean to you to “arise and shine” (Isaiah 60:1)? 

1. How are you stewarding what God has given you? 

OCF MINISTRY NEWS 

• Fort Knox OCF update: Continue praying for the ROTC cadets as they’ve returned to their campuses and begun new semesters. To learn more about and/or get involved with OCF’s ROTC ministry, visit ocfusa.org/rotc 

• Connected print newsletters: If you don’t receive this biannual piece in your mailbox this fall, be sure to update your info via ocfusa.org/update so that we don’t miss you next spring. This fall’s newsletter will also be available online at ocfusa.org/connected 

• Ted & Beverly Kaiser: Contact this newest couple on the OCF team by emailing [email protected] 

• OCF Mid-Atlantic & Northeast Fall Retreat: Visit whitesulphursprings.org/events to learn more and register, and email any questions to the Chiaravallottis at [email protected].    

• The Bowens’ Fort Carson OCF group: Visit ocfusa.org/directory to connect with groups like the Bowens’, and visit ocfusa.org/list-me to start your own group wherever you are. 

ASK OCF 

COL Steve & Miriam Shambach, USA (Ret.), who serve as the OCF Mountain Central Regional Coordinator couple, answered this question from another OCFer: Retired, I don't live near a military base, no local OCF folks near me...what opportunity is there for fellowship/training through Zoom? 

In case you missed the Shambachs’ article in the spring 2024 issue of Connected print newsletter, you can find it here: From Service to Support: How Veterans Can Stay Engaged in OCF. 

If you have a question that you want us to consider for a future “Ask OCF” segment, send an email to [email protected]. 

GUEST SPOTLIGHT 

COL Andy MacLean, USA (Ret.), graduated from the U.S. Military Academy in 1995 and later returned there to be a professor. After retiring in 2019, he joined the Association for Christian Conferences, Teaching, and Services (ACCTS), a sister ministry of OCF. He currently serves as the ACCTS coordinator for Latin America. 

Whether discussing the origin story of ACCTS, the countries he works with as an ACCTS staffer, or his own life, Andy’s passion for sharing how God works in the details is clear. He talks about the upcoming AMCF World Conference, approaching this October in Brazil, which you can support by attending, praying for the gathering, and/or contributing to a scholarship for other guests. 

If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to [email protected]. 

POINTS TO PONDER 

As you listen to this conversation with Andy, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor: 

1. How can you engage in the international ministry ACCTS does? 

1. When have you seen God work through hard situations, whether in your own life or in events across the world? 

1. Why is it important to discuss how God is working in other nation’s military communities? 

Show Notes 

In this bonus episode of OCF Crosspoint, podcast host Josh Jackson continues his discussion with CH(CPT) Michael Will, USA (Ret.), focusing on the theme of hardship and suffering. 

The conversation delves into defining suffering, recognizing its various sources—such as persecution, sin, and the actions of others—and understanding its impact. They address the dangers of comparison, which can undermine endurance, and emphasize the importance of acknowledging our lack of control as a starting point for discovering God's purpose in suffering. 

The episode offers practical advice for navigating hardship, including perseverance and concentrating on what we can control. It also explores the purpose behind suffering, such as being shaped into the image of Christ and learning obedience. The conversation touches on the challenging yet transformative concept of rejoicing in suffering and finding hope amidst adversity. Silence and listening to God are highlighted as crucial practices in these times, along with the importance of seeking God's will through prayer. 

Additionally, the discussion covers the role of discipline and training in preparing for suffering, encouraging believers to embrace it with a mindset of rejoicing. By viewing suffering as something appointed by God rather than accidental, believers can appreciate the transformative work God accomplishes through these hardships. 

Points to Ponder 

As you listen to this conversation with CH Will, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:  

1. What personal experiences have shaped your definition of suffering?
2. How have you seen God use suffering in your own life and in the lives of others?
3. What Bible verses encourage you in the midst of hardship?
4. Michael talks about prayer as “the most effective tool” in his toolkit. What additional tools can you use when facing hard times?

Show Notes 

OCF MINISTRY NEWS 

New hires; jobs still available on OCF team: While couples have stepped forward to fill open positions at USMA and USCGA on an interim basis, the application window at both West Point and the Coast Guard Academy is now extended to 31 October with an expected start date in the summer of 2025. To learn more and apply, visit our job openings page.  

Fall programs await at Spring Canyon and White Sulphur Springs:  

Caleb Challenge Career Transition Strategies Workshop, 13-15 September, at WSS: Jump-start your career transition with a weekend of interactive work, group discussions, and personal exercises, all facilitated by retired military leaders with over 200 years of combined leadership and life-coaching experience.  

Climb Together, September 2024, at SC: This three-day wilderness experience, complete with outdoor activities, campfires, spectacular mountain vistas and events, is tailored to meet the needs of busy families who yearn to “Reconnect in the Rockies.”

Parent-Youth Adventure Weekends, October-November 2024, at WSS: Designed for one parent and one child, these weekends are an opportunity to build memories that will last a lifetime.

ASK OCF 

TSgt Ryan Padgett, USAF (Ret.), answered the FAQ: Is OCF only for officers? Ryan shares about his own experience with joining OCF and encourages other enlisted service members to get involved, too. 

Interested in getting involved in OCF? Fill out our membership form and/or find an OCF study near you. 

If you have a question that you want us to consider for a future “Ask OCF” segment, send an email to [email protected]. 

GUEST SPOTLIGHT 

CH(CAPT) Michael Will, USA (Ret.), spoke on this month’s episode about hardship and suffering, topics which also served as his focus while he was the speaker for a week of Summer R&R at White Sulphur Springs last month.  

Having enlisted in 1992 and later commissioned as a chaplain, Michael has also pastored churches in Ohio and Canada. He currently serves as the associate pastor for discipleship at Grace Evangelical Congregational Church in Knox, Pa.  

If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to [email protected]. 

POINTS TO PONDER 

As you listen to this conversation with Michael, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor: 

1. What personal experiences have shaped your definition of suffering? 
2. How have you seen God use suffering in your own life and in the lives of others? 
3. What Bible verses encourage you in the midst of hardship? 
4. Michael talks about prayer as “the most effective tool” in his toolkit. What additional tools can you use when facing hard times?

Show Notes

OCF MINISTRY NEWS 

• OCF purchased a new staff home at Spring Canyon: To contribute to OCF's purchase of this house, make an online donation to the Refreshing the Canyon Fund.  
• OCF is expanding efforts in ROTC ministry with a new job opening at The Citadel: To learn more about the Council’s approval of this opportunity and/or find the link to apply, click here. 
• July marks the halfway point of OCF’s conference center ministry: Visit our conference center webpage to learn more about programs and opportunities available later this summer and fall.  
• The AMCF World Conference 2024 in Brazil is coming up: This transformative opportunity to connect with other military communities around the world is scheduled for 16-20 October. Click here to learn more and register. Can't attend? Donate to this fund that will provide financial scholarships to other attendees. 
• OCF small group spotlight: OCF Field Staffer Paul Homan shared one of several questions posed during the OCF at USAFA spring retreat and spiritual commissioning. What’s your small group studying? What questions are you wrestling with? Let Courtney know by emailing her at [email protected]. 

ASK OCF 

CH(COL) Douglas H. Ball, USA answered the FAQ: What are the challenges that our Christian Military Chaplains are facing? His three-part answer mentions busy schedules, role expansion, and cultural change. 

Interested in learning more about resources for chaplains and ways to support your chaplains? Check out Chapter 17 of the OCF Handbook.  

If you have a question that you want us to consider for a future “Ask OCF” segment, send an email to [email protected]. 

GUEST SPOTLIGHT 

This month, Josh sat down with Brig Gen Jeff H. Hurlbert, USAF (Ret.), who retired from the Air Force in 2023 after 32 years of service. He's currently the chief security officer for Applied Materials, a global leader in the semiconductor, display, and solar panel industries.  

Jeff is also a longtime OCF member and current member of the OCF Council. This month, Jeff is speaking at Spring Canyon during the sixth week of Summer Celebration on the topic of humility, and he discusses that same topic here in today’s episode of Crosspoint.  

Inspired by an OCF Bible study he participated in 15 years ago in Germany and having seen the impact of humility in his own life and career, Jeff addresses several questions such as why humility matters to the military leader, what it is and what it isn’t, and more. 

If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to [email protected]. 

POINTS TO PONDER 

As you listen to this conversation with Jeff, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor: 

1. How would you define humility? 
2. What’s a personal example of humility making a difference, whether you were the one displaying humility or observing someone observing humility? 
3. How does Christ’s example encourage you to lead and live humbly? 
4. What gifts has God given you that you can use to serve others for His glory? 

Crosspoint Show Notes, June 2024: 

Today’s episode introduces a new format for the OCF Crosspoint podcast. Moving forward, each monthly episode will consist of three segments: OCF ministry news, an “Ask OCF” segment, and an interview with a guest about a particular topic or personal story. 

Read on for links and details from each of these three segments for June 2024. 

OCF MINISTRY NEWS 

• Volunteers needed for Fort Knox CST ministry: If interested in leading small groups for cadets during summer training at Fort Knox, particularly in July, reach out to Bob Deckard via [email protected] or to Larry Sherbondy via [email protected].    

• Conference Center summer programs begin: Visit ocfusa.org/experience to watch our newest video about opportunities at OCF’s two Conference Centers—White Sulphur Springs in Manns Choice, Pa., and Spring Canyon in Buena Vista, Colo. From there, check out each Conference Center’s website to learn more about summer programs and discounts available to first-time guests, active-duty military, and OCF Local Leaders.  

• SkillBridge opportunities now available at OCF: Visit ocfusa.org/skillbridge to check out OCF’s newest webpage about our new opportunities available through SkillBridge.  

• OCF small group spotlight: Maj Nathan Flack, USAF, serves as the Local Leader for Barksdale AFB OCF and shared what question his group wrestled with recently. What’s your small group studying? What questions are you wrestling with? Let Courtney know by emailing her at [email protected]. 

ASK OCF 

OCF Council President Col Dale Holland, USAF (Ret.), answered some FAQs about Local Leaders and mentioned resources available online. Visit ocfusa.org/toolkit to access these resources. If you’d like to become a Local Leader or if you’ve not yet listed yourself on our online directory, visit ocfusa.org/list-me to do so.  

If you have a question that you want us to consider for a future “Ask OCF” segment, send an email to [email protected]. 

GUEST SPOTLIGHT 

Have you thought about what that next season of life might look like after military service?  What does it look like to have a Biblical approach when it comes to a career transition? And what does your identity have to do with this? 

This month, Josh sat down with Maj Gen Pete Peterson, USAF (Ret.) to discuss these questions. Pete is a co-founder of Caleb Challenge, an organization that uses Biblical principles to help men and women transition from military service to the next season that God has planned for them.  

Having experienced a career transition himself after 34 years of service in the Air Force, Pete shares his own lessons learned, Biblical principles for a career change, and details about Caleb Challenge. Caleb Challenge is hosting its next workshop at OCF’s White Sulphur Springs in Manns Choice, Pa., later this fall. Visit WSS’ website to learn more and register for this valuable 13-15 September workshop.  

If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to [email protected]. 

POINTS TO PONDER 

As you listen to this conversation with Pete, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor: 

1. Consider Pete’s big question for those who will eventually transition out of a military career: What’s your real focus? 

1. How can you start preparing for your own career transition now? 

1. What does it mean to you to “include God in the process”? 

1. Why is our identity in Christ important to consider when going through a big life change like a career transition? 

In this special episode of OCF Crosspoint, you’re going to hear audio from the inaugural OCF Global Town Hall, which was broadcasted live on 10 February from the new Home Office in Colorado Springs, Colo.

The first voice that you’re going to hear is OCF Council President Col Dale Holland, USAF (Ret.). He and OCF’s CEO / Executive Director, Col Scott Fisher, USAF (Ret.), started by discussing the impactful journey and future visions for OCF. After their opening remarks, the remaining hour or so was used as a Q&A time.

During the Q&A portion, you’ll also hear the voice of LTC Colin Wooten, USA (Ret.), who helped moderate and also posed a mix of both real-time questions from the event and questions submitted ahead of time.

The questions covered in this episode centered on these 12 topics:

1. Local Leader training and information.
2. Balancing OCF involvement with commitment to the local church.
3. Starting an OCF ROTC group at a university that does not have one.
4. Opportunities for retired ex-military to get involved with OCF.
5. Creating more awareness about OCF.
6. Challenges that our Christian military chaplains are facing.
7. OCF funding shortfalls.
8. Focusing on the National Guard and Reserves.
9. Reaching out beyond U.S. membership.
10. Pursuing GRACE relations amid a divisive and dismissive culture.
11. Regional training conferences.
12. Two to three things that both Dale and Scott are excited about in the upcoming year.

If you’d rather watch a video of the Global Town Hall, visit ocfusa.org/townhall. On that page, there’s also a form you can fill out if you have questions, comments, or feedback, or send an email to [email protected]. We’ll make sure your message is sent to the appropriate person.