Uncommon Purpose

In this episode, the hosts reflect on the themes of Advent, focusing on God's love as revealed through the story of Jesus' birth. They discuss the significance of Mary's reflections, the shepherds' journey, and the unpredictable nature of God's love. The conversation emphasizes the importance of personalizing God's love, embodying it in our lives, and extending love to others, especially those who are difficult to love. The hosts explore how hope, peace, joy, and love interconnect during the Advent season, culminating in the celebration of love's embodiment in Christ.

Takeaways

Mary's reflection on God's love is profound and personal.

The shepherds' immediate response to the angel's message is inspiring.

God's love is often revealed in unexpected ways.

Personalizing God's love can be a challenging but rewarding journey.

Receiving God's love requires us to let go of feelings of unworthiness.

Embodying Christ's love means showing gentleness and kindness to others.

Loving the unlovable is a true reflection of Christ's love.

Hope, peace, joy, and love are interconnected themes of Advent.

The culmination of Advent is a celebration of love's embodiment in Christ.

Love is the ultimate message of the Christmas season.

In this week’s Uncommon Purpose Podcast, Mandy and Stephanie dive into the third week of Advent — Joy — exploring what it means to find joy that lasts beyond fleeting happiness. As the pink candle is lit, they reflect on how true joy often follows the hard work of hope and peace.

Together, they talk about the difference between joy and happiness, the way God’s presence produces lasting joy, and how family traditions, even in seasons of grief, can become sacred reminders of God’s goodness. From Mariah Carey singalongs and Christmas lights to tears of gratitude and the reminder that “joy isn’t fragile,” this episode invites listeners to slow down, notice joy, and name it with gratitude.

✨ Whether your holiday feels bustling or bittersweet, you’ll be reminded that joy grows deep roots in the soil of faithfulness and gratitude.

Scripture References:

• Psalm 30:5 – “Joy comes in the morning.”
• Galatians 6:9 – “Let us not become weary in doing good… for at the proper time we will reap a harvest.”
• Psalm 16:11 – “In Your presence there is fullness of joy.”
• Luke 2:10–11 – The shepherds and the good news of great joy.

Names of God Mentioned:

• Messiah — The Anointed One who has come
• Jehovah Rapha — The Lord who heals

Practical Notes to Add:

• Mention of Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas Is You” (music reference)
• Traditions discussed: Christmas Eve pajamas + Christmas lights drive
• Reflection practice: “Name what brings you joy this week and give thanks.”
• Tag @uncommonpurposepodcast on Instagram when you share their joy moments on your social media

In this Uncommon Purpose conversation, Mandy and Stephanie unpack Advent’s second candle—Peace—as shalom: wholeness, restoration, and right relationship with God and others. They wrestle honestly with hurry, rest, and why “peace” isn’t just the absence of conflict. You’ll hear practical rhythms (a weekly 24-hour Sabbath, breathwork, keeping Advent simple and consistent), tender stories (a mentor who reminded us Jesus already gave you peace), and a theology that moves toward redemptive, restorative living—owning our part, reconciling, and carrying God’s peace into chaotic rooms.

They revisit Jesus’ way of peace (John 14:27), talk about being peacemakers in real relationships, and offer small seasonal practices—from breathing prayers to cutting December errands—that help you access the peace you already have in Christ.

Scripture mentioned or clearly alluded to

• John 14:27 — “My peace I give you…”
• Matthew 5:9 — “Blessed are the peacemakers…”
• Isaiah 9:6 — “Prince of Peace”
• ( Numbers 6:24–26 (Priestly Blessing), Colossians 1:19–20 (reconciliation)

Names of God referenced

• Jehovah Shalom — “The Lord is Peace” (Judges 6:24)
• El Roi (spelled this way) — “The God Who Sees Me” (Genesis 16)

Resources & cultural references

• BEMA Discipleship Podcast with Marty Solomon (Sabbath “rules”: no work, all play; we rest; God loves us; trust the story)
• The Chosen — Mary reflecting on Jesus’ birth (“He needed me.”)
• Breathwork — breathing prayer as a restorative practice (physiological reset)
• Advent practices: keeping a consistent, simple routine; lighting the Peace candle; nature/creation as a peace pathway
• Holiday logistics that reduce chaos: front-loading shopping; avoiding crowded stores; blessing delivery drivers

Practical prompts to include

• “Light the Peace candle. Take three slow, deep breaths. Ask the Spirit to remind you of the peace you already have.”
• “Peacemaking practice: own your side of the street, apologize quickly, pursue reconciliation.”
• “Nature prompt: spend five minutes noticing creation (even through a window) and thank God for what you see.”

In this Uncommon Purpose episode, Mandy and Stephanie open Advent with Hope—not wishful thinking or “hope in people,” but biblical hope rooted in God’s character and promises. They reflect on the long silence before Christ’s birth, Mary and Joseph’s steadfast obedience, and how generational preparation forms a hopeful posture. Practically, they share simple Advent rhythms: lighting the first candle, keeping devotions un-fussy, using a family Jesse Tree, and weaving Scripture into ordinary pauses with the YouVersion Bible app.

You’ll hear why remembering past faithfulness fuels present hope (Romans 15:13), how to start small if you’re late to Advent (“no shame”), and names of God that anchor hope—El Shaddai (All-Sufficient God) and Jehovah Jireh (The Lord Will Provide). Expect a warm nudge to journal specific memories of God’s faithfulness and tuck that journal into your Christmas box to revisit each year—because His faithfulness before is evidence of His promises going forward.

Scripture

• Romans 15:13 — “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace…”
• Advent context: Intertestamental silence & Messianic prophecy (e.g., Luke 1–2, Isaiah 7:14; 9:2,6–7)
• Obedience/faithfulness themes: Matthew 1:18–25 (Joseph), Luke 1:26–38 (Mary), Luke 1:46–55 (Magnificat)

Resources the episode names

• Advent devotional: “Shadows and Light” —
• Jenni Keller — “Love Comes Near”
• YouVersion Bible App
• Jesse Tree

Practical prompts for listeners

• “Light the Hope candle. Spend five minutes remembering a time God was faithful; write it down.”
• “Start small: one Advent moment this week is better than a perfect plan you never use.”
• “Create a Hope Journal and store it with your Christmas decor to revisit each year.”

In this Uncommon Purpose Advent kickoff, Mandy and Stephanie reframe December from “do it all” to intentional celebration. They unpack what Advent means (“coming”)—both the first coming of Jesus and His promised return—and why the season is a spiritual preparation that helps us practice presence in a hurry-prone month. You’ll hear honest reflections on waiting (trusting God’s timing), simple ways to build anticipation (lighting candles, short daily readings, breath prayers), and how to choose traditions that point to Christ rather than “more stuff.” The hosts outline a four-week mini-series on Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love, and invite listeners to use the extra time from these shorter episodes to actually practice Advent.

Scripture referenced / alluded to

• Revelation 22:20 — “Come, Lord Jesus.”
• Isaiah 9:2,6–7 — Light in the darkness; Prince of Peace (Advent prophecy)
• Matthew 1:18–25; Luke 1–2 — Nativity accounts (hope/obedience in waiting)
• John 8:12 — Jesus, Light of the World (fits the candle imagery)

Names of God mentioned

• Emmanuel — “God with us”
• Alpha and Omega — beginning and end
• Messiah — the Anointed One
• Light of the World

Practices & resources discussed

• Advent candles (weekly or daily lighting; colors optional—use what you have)
• Short daily devotion + breath prayer (presence over perfection)
• Traditions that build anticipation (versus “just more presents”)
• Jenny Keller — Love Comes Near (family-friendly Advent devotional)
• Optional: Advent spiral/wreath tools for daily counting (Mandy mentions a movable spiral; add a generic link to an Advent spiral product or note “pictured on socials”)

Helpful clarifications for your listeners

• Advent = “coming” (both first coming of Jesus and His return)
• 12 Days of Christmas run Dec 25–Jan 5, concluding with Epiphany (Jan 6)
• Many put magi in nativity sets, but historically their visit is associated with Epiphany (a fun “did you know?” you raise in the episode)

Practical prompts to add

• “Name what you’re waiting for this Advent. Write it on a card and place it beside your candle.”
• “Trade one December task for ten minutes of quiet with Scripture (YouVersion plan, one psalm, or Luke 1–2).”
• “Breathe: 4 in / 4 hold / 6 out while praying, ‘Come, Lord Jesus.’”

Cultural references worth noting

• Advent calendars (Lego/socks/chocolate) as means of anticipation—great if they point to Christ

National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation advent-calendar gag (lighthearted nod)

In this cozy Thanksgiving week episode of the Uncommon Purpose Podcast, hosts Mandy and Stephanie gather around the mic (and the imaginary table) to talk about the beauty and complexity of gratitude. From family dynamics and cultural traditions to pie debates and Black Friday chaos, the two friends invite listeners to slow down, savor the moment, and intentionally choose joy and gentleness this season.

They share stories of Persian-American Thanksgiving traditions, grieving with gratitude, and how cultivating a thankful heart can transform even the hardest moments. This episode is filled with laughter, warmth, and reflection—a reminder that gratitude is not just a feeling but a spiritual discipline that draws us closer to God.

🙏 Devotional Companion: “Lingering at the Table”

Scripture:

“Enter his gates with thanksgiving; go into his courts with praise. Give thanks to him and praise his name.” — Psalm 100:4 (NLT)

Reflection: Thanksgiving isn’t just a meal—it’s a mindset. Between the noise of family chatter, the football game humming in the background, and the to-do list that never ends, it’s easy to miss the sacred in the ordinary.

Mandy and Stephanie remind us that gratitude is more than a seasonal sentiment—it’s a posture of the heart that changes how we experience both joy and ache. True thanksgiving happens when we pause long enough to name what we’re grateful for, linger in conversation, and notice God’s presence in the midst of it all.

Practice:

• Before you sit down to eat, whisper one quiet thank-you to God for something only you and He know.
• Speak one word of blessing over someone at your table.
• Choose gentleness—with your words, your expectations, and yourself.

Prayer: Lord, thank You for the people, memories, and even the imperfections that make this season beautiful. Help me linger longer at the table, love deeper in the tension, and see Your goodness woven through it all. Teach me to live a life that overflows with gratitude—not just in November, but every day. Amen.

It’s that funny little space between pumpkins and poinsettias—when the candy’s gone, the turkey’s still frozen, and the first twinkle lights are starting to glow. In this warm and reflective episode, Mandy and Stephanie explore the in-between—those mid-November days where gratitude meets anticipation.

They talk about the tension between peaceful preparation and holiday pressure, how to practice presence when life speeds up, and what it means to find contentment in the middle. The conversation moves from coffee cups and Christmas trees to deep reflections on trust, boundaries, and emotional health. Together, they remind listeners that the sacred often hides in the quiet spaces between.

Listen for:

☕ Mandy’s reflections on preparation vs. planning

🎄 Stephanie’s take on gratitude, simplicity, and slowing down

🧘 The difference between anticipation and anxiety

💬 How to hold boundaries while believing the best in others

🕯️ Finding contentment and trust in life’s “in-betweens”

💭 Key Themes

• The In-Between Season: How to find peace and meaning between fall and Christmas
• Anticipation vs. Anxiety: How excitement can shift when we rush instead of rest
• Gratitude and Enough: Learning that abundance isn’t about more—it’s about fulfilled
• Boundaries and Trust: Navigating complicated relationships during the holidays
• Embodied Peace: Paying attention to what your body is holding in stress and stillness
• Presence as Preparation: How rest, coffee, and quiet mornings ready our hearts for joy

🙏 Scriptures & Spiritual Anchors

• Psalm 46:10 – “Be still and know that I am God.”
• Philippians 4:11–13 – Learning to be content in all circumstances.
• John 10:10 – “I have come that they may have life, and have it abundantly.”
• Ephesians 3:20 – “Immeasurably more than we can ask or imagine.”

☕ Practical Practices Mentioned

• Morning Rituals: Walks, sunlight, coffee, silence, and Lectio 365 app for morning prayer
• Red Light Therapy: Slowing the body to signal calm
• Gratitude Practice: Pausing daily to name three simple good things
• “Enough” Reflection: Asking what feels like too much, not enough, or just enough
• Breathwork + Stillness: Releasing tension to make room for tenderness
• Contentment Challenge: Find joy in needing less instead of acquiring more

💡 Listener Reflection Prompts

• What does your in-between look like right now?
• Where is anticipation turning into anxiety?
• What rhythms help you begin your day with peace instead of rush?
• How might you practice trust—in God, in others, or in yourself—this season?
• What would “enough” look like for you this month?

🪞 Mentioned Resources

• Lectio 365 App (daily prayer rhythms)
• Ephesians 3:20 reflection Mandy mentioned
• Red Light Therapy for grounding + calm mornings

The holidays aren’t merry for everyone—and that’s okay. In this heartfelt and deeply relatable episode, Mandy and Stephanie talk honestly about the grief, loneliness, pressure, and expectations that surface between Thanksgiving and Christmas.

From infertility and loss to fractured families and financial strain, they remind listeners that joy and sorrow can coexist. Through vulnerable storytelling, Scripture-rooted wisdom, and practical reflection, the hosts explore how to hold space for the beauty in the hard—without pretending everything is perfect.

They unpack how to manage expectations, navigate grief, practice emotional maturity, and find comfort through honesty, vulnerability, and faith. This conversation is equal parts therapy and theology, offering compassion for anyone walking through a heavy season.

Listen for:

💔 The myth of holiday perfection—and how to release it

🎄 Grieving loved ones while creating new traditions

🤍 The courage to have hard conversations with family

💬 Why clarity is kindness (and how to communicate expectations)

🕯️ Spiritual practices to settle your heart when the season feels heavy

🙏 Scriptures & Faith Anchors

• Matthew 11:28-29 – “Come to Me, all who are weary…”
• Psalm 34:18 – “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted.”
• Romans 15:13 – “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace…”
• John 16:33 – “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart…”

🧩 Practical Tips & Reflections

• Journal your “heart inventory” for the season—what feels heavy and what feels hopeful
• Use the Dwell App or Lectio 365 to play Scripture or guided prayer throughout your day
• When disappointment rises, ask: What did I expect—and did I communicate it?
• Honor loved ones by telling stories, keeping one small tradition, or creating a new one
• Practice self-compassion: identify one thing that comforts your heart and make time for it

💬 Mentions & Links for Show Notes

• Dwell App (Audio Bible)
• Lectio 365 App (Daily guided prayer)
• YouVersion Bible App
• Previous episode: Holiday Prepping & Planning
• Related reading: Emotionally Healthy Spirituality by Peter Scazzero

🪞 Reflection Prompts

• What expectations am I holding for this holiday—and which ones can I release?
• Who or what am I grieving this season?
• Where do I feel unseen or disconnected—and how can I name it before God?
• What is one practice that helps me feel grounded in hope?

It’s officially Christmas preseason—and Mandy and Stephanie are diving in! From November 1st on, the holidays arrive fast, and this conversation helps listeners trade stress for sacred preparation.

Together they unpack how to plan your home, heart, and calendar with intention—without losing sight of joy or Jesus. Stephanie shares her beloved “holiday planner” system (and her famous stocking traditions), while Mandy reflects on evolving family rhythms, new gift ideas, and holding space for both celebration and grief.

They talk trees, playlists, budgeting, Advent, and the tension between being organized and being present. You’ll hear practical tips for planning gifts and gatherings, as well as encouragement for those entering the season feeling lonely or overwhelmed.

Whether you’re an over-prepper, a spontaneous spirit, or somewhere in between, this episode will help you create a holiday that reflects your values—not your to-do list.

Listen for:

🎄 Mandy’s take on the “Christmas preseason”

🎁 Stephanie’s system for stocking stuffers that mean something

🕯️ How to plan with presence and purpose

💡 Why values—not pressure—should shape your holiday

❤️ Encouragement for those feeling lonely or overextended

🎄 Practical Planning Topics

• Gift-Giving Framework: one thing you want, one thing you need, one thing to wear, one thing to read (and why their families are evolving that!)
• Holiday Planner: Stephanie’s early-season checklist (decor, menus, shopping, experiences)
• Holiday “Big Rocks” Principle: prioritizing what matters most before adding the extras
• Intentional Advent Practice: how both hosts keep Jesus at the center
• Stocking Stuffers vs. Gifts: creating small, personal touches that feel meaningful
• Traditions & Trees: how multi-tree households became a thing 😉
• Music & Atmosphere: swapping playlists, sharing favorite classics + modern mixes

💡 Faith & Reflection

• Advent as a rhythm of spiritual preparation
• Planning rest and Sabbath amid celebration
• How intentionality helps cultivate gratitude and joy
• Inviting others in: reaching out to those who may feel lonely or disconnected
• Living “on purpose and for a purpose” through the holiday season

🎁 Things to Include in Show Notes (Mentions)

Mandy & Stephanie’s Holiday Playlists

Stephanie’s: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1ESUiIf67qzypkP6VQeWsu?si=o2t1HvXgSWazL22sf0zgzw&pi=-420hi46SPeoK

Mandy’s: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5qq0umg7ZExBmzmNGBgJFp?si=V7X2pwWpT6WDiljDJ5s1OQ

Mandy and Stephanie dive into one of the most debated topics in Christian circles: Halloween. Is it harmless fun or spiritual compromise? In this candid and grace-filled conversation, they unpack how believers can approach October 31 with both conviction and compassion.

From childhood candy traditions to neighborly connections, they remind listeners that the night can become an opportunity to show up with light rather than hide from darkness. Mandy shares how living in the country made her miss trick-or-treat community life, while Stephanie describes how she sits curbside with full-size candy bars and open arms. Together they discuss discernment, boundaries, redemption, and why it’s “hard to hate up close.”

The result is a thoughtful, sometimes funny, always Christ-centered dialogue about holiness, humility, and the art of neighboring—complete with pumpkin-shaped pizzas, banana Laffy Taffy, and one unforgettable “Great Pumpkin” confession.

Listen for:

• How to be “in the world but not of it” on Halloween night
• Why holiness ≠ judgment and love ≠ compromise
• Redemption and agency: bringing light into dark spaces
• The difference between conviction, temptation, and condemnation

Scriptures & Themes

• Proverbs 6:16-19 – What God hates (pride, deceit, violence, stirring conflict)
• 1 John 4:4 – “He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.”
• Matthew 5:14-16 – “You are the light of the world.”
• Romans 12:2 – In the world, not of it.
• Themes: holiness vs. self-righteousness, redemptive theology, boundaries without judgment, neighbor love, discernment and agency, light over fear

Hot Topics & Stories

• Why both hosts choose to show up in love rather than withdraw in fear
• “Hu Bars” and healthy candy banter 😂
• The “Great Pumpkin” tradition (Mandy’s confession & repentance!)
• Banana Laffy Taffy and the return of neighbor kids with treats = a “harvest of joy”
• How to teach kids discernment without fear
• Salem trip reflections — what the witch trials teach us about fear, power, and the church’s treatment of women

Resources & Mentions

• John Crist’s Halloween bit
• Christy McLelland – Jesus and Women study
• Jen Wilkin quote: “For them and for then first, then for us.”
• It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown – family tradition favorite

Practical Ideas for Listeners

• Neighboring Challenge: Sit outside on Oct 31 with light on and kindness ready.
• Discernment Exercise: Pray through what’s “good for us” vs. “judgment of others.”
• Reflection Prompt: Where am I called to bring light instead of withdrawing in fear?
• Family Tradition Idea: Share a meal or treat with neighbors before trick-or-treat.

Calls to Action

• Follow @uncommonpurposepodcast on Instagram and Facebook for more faith + fun seasonal episodes.
• Share your Halloween tradition or neighbor story in the comments of our episode post.
• Subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or Amazon Music so you don’t miss our upcoming Advent series!