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Host Matt McChlery speaks with Christian author Tanya Marlow about *Treasures in Straw: Exploring the Griefs and Gifts of the Christmas Story*, an Advent devotional that looks beyond a sentimental Nativity to grief, danger, and hope. Marlow connects the Christmas story to disability, trauma, refugee experience, communal discipleship, and the promise that suffering will not have the final word. Links Help keep this podcast on the web by simply buying me a coffee https://www.buymeacoffee.com/mattmcchlery Sponsor an episode of this podcast Click for Advertising info Visit Matt McChlery's website mattmcchlery.com Visit Tanya Marlow's website tanyamarlow.com Key  Topics Marlow explains how Christmas celebrations can intensify grief and isolation when people feel expected to be happy. Her devotional removes the sentimental sheen from the Nativity and considers its real themes of danger, loss, and uncertainty. Marlow reflects on chronic illness and disability, and on finding spiritual treasure within ordinary and painful circumstances. Joseph's quiet support for Mary becomes an example of masculinity rooted in service rather than taking center stage. The family's flight from Herod reframes the Christmas story through the experience of refugees fleeing danger today. Discipleship for people in suffering may mean receiving God's love and help, while those who are more comfortable are challenged by the social implications of Mary's Magnificat. The incarnation offers a God who understands human pain through lived experience, not simply a distant God who observes it. The devotional runs through Epiphany and invites readers to name both a grief and a gift, making room for lament as well as praise. Marlow discusses spiritual direction, anti-racism, trauma, and how churches can support people whose sense of self has been shattered. The Big Church Read offers small groups a video and discussion guide; Marlow encourages readers to support Christian bookshops. Takeaways “Christmas is a loud speaker where the joys are accentuated, but also your pain is accentuated.” “What if we could actually just take off some of that sheen and saccharine sentimentality?” “Where might we find spiritual treasure?” “It was about supporting Mary.” “Discipleship for people who are suffering through hard times often looks like receiving.” “There is a social element to this good news.” “I have a God who understands, I have a God who empathizes.” “It means he's come down from the stands and become a player.” “We can take lament to God, raw lament that has no silver lining, no happy ending.” “In the meantime, we have God's presence and we have God's people and both are needed.”  Sound  Bites "Christmas is a loud speaker" "a clarion call for our age" "grief and gift together" Chapters 00:00 Introducing Tanya Marlow and her Advent book 01:23 Why Christmas can magnify grief 05:40 Finding treasure in illness and ordinary life 07:02 Joseph's example of quiet, supportive masculinity 09:08 The Nativity, Herod, and the experience of refugees 10:32 Receiving help and embracing communal discipleship 14:11 How the incarnation meets people in pain 16:14 A devotional practice of naming grief and gift 17:43 Hope, waiting, and God's presence 19:24 Marlow's life, disability, and spiritual direction 23:36 Anti-racism, trauma, and the church 25:05 The Big Church Read and supporting bookshops

Vaneetha Rendell Reisner shares her journey through divorce, the spiritual lessons learned, and practical advice for those facing similar challenges. This episode explores authentic faith, healing, and trusting God's plan amid life's unexpected turns. Links Help keep this podcast on the web by simply buying me a coffee https://www.buymeacoffee.com/mattmcchlery Sponsor an episode of this podcast Click for Advertising info Visit Matt McChlery's website mattmcchlery.com Visit Vaneetha Rendell Rsiner's website vaneetha.com Key  Topics Vanita's personal journey through divorce The importance of authenticity and vulnerability in writing Practical steps for supporting someone through divorce The role of forgiveness in healing Theological reflections on suffering and God's goodness  Sound  Bites "This is not the end of your story." "God is writing a good story with your life." "God uses suffering to refine us." Chapters 00:00  Intro and guest introduction 00:43 Vaneetha Rendell Risner and This Was Never the Plan 01:14 “This is not the end of your story” 02:17  Why honest writing matters 04:26 Christian writing: transformation, not just information 05:10 Single parenting and managing finances 07:08 Church questions, rumours, and public scrutiny 08:47 How to support someone going through divorce 12:11 Moving from bitterness toward forgiveness 15:15 Wrestling with God over suffering and shame 18:24 Lament, trust, and God’s presence in crisis 19:43 Finding hope in the story God is writing 21:22 Getting to know Vaneetha: life in Raleigh 23:48 Mountains, painting, and coffee with friends 24:46 Favourite coffee orders 26:03 Thai food and Chilean sea bass 27:15 The delight of God in us 29:11 Where to find Vaneetha and her books 30:14 Closing thanks and podcast outro

In this episode, Christian author and evangelism expert Andrew Steier shares insights from his book 'Always Going: The Joyful Overflow of Everyday Evangelism.' Discover how to integrate evangelism into daily life as a joyful, natural overflow of your relationship with Christ, rather than a task or obligation. Links Help keep this podcast on the web by simply buying me a coffee https://www.buymeacoffee.com/mattmcchlery Sponsor an episode of this podcast Click for Advertising info Visit Matt McChlery's website mattmcchlery.com Visit Andrew Steer's Website alwaysgoing.org Key Topics Evangelism as a worldview, not just a task The importance of identity and rhythms in evangelism Using everyday opportunities for gospel conversations The role of spiritual gifts in evangelism Planting, watering, and harvesting in spiritual growth The team effort in evangelism and prayer Takeaways Evangelism is a worldview, not just a task. Everyday conversations can be eternity-changing. Calibrating your heart daily keeps evangelism natural. Success in evangelism is faithfulness, not immediate results. Evangelism is a team sport, not a solo effort.  Sound Bites "Call it overflow, not obligation." "God gave us gifts to share Jesus, uniquely." "Learn their story, love them where they are." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Andrew Steier and his book 02:26 The essence of evangelism as a lifestyle 04:28 Evangelism as an overflow, not obligation 06:41 Shifting mindset from obligation to overflow 09:02 Using spiritual gifts for evangelism 12:24 The importance of community and listening in evangelism 16:36 Planting seeds and trusting God's timing 18:02 Measuring success as faithfulness, not results 21:12 Joy in evangelism and living out faith 23:28 Resources and where to find Andrew's book

Hannah Seymour discusses her book 'Everyday Spiritual Habits,' emphasising the importance of small, consistent spiritual practices over perfection. She shares insights on habits, joy, prayer, and overcoming shame in spiritual growth. Links Help keep this podcast on the web by simply buying me a coffee https://www.buymeacoffee.com/mattmcchlery Sponsor an episode of this podcast Click for Advertising info Visit Matt McChlery's website mattmcchlery.com Visit Hanna Seymour's Website hannaseymour.com  Key  Topics The difference between habits and disciplines The role of joy and celebration in faith Overcoming shame and guilt in spiritual practice The importance of consistency over intensity Practical tips for forming small, manageable habits The impact of environment on habit formation The significance of joy as a fruit of righteousness  Sound  Bites "Spiritual growth is about connection, not perfection" "The kingdom of God is joy and peace" "Joy is knowing God is in control, even in trials" Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Hannah Seymour and her book 01:31 Why habits instead of disciplines? 03:10 Spiritual growth is about connection, not perfection 04:44 Habits as automatic behaviours 05:41 Small habits shape our lives 06:11 The science of habit formation 07:07 Shame versus guilt in spiritual practice 08:35 The power of small, consistent habits 11:18 Making spiritual habits easy and accessible 12:31 The value of consistency over intensity 17:46 Barriers to consistency: shame and time poverty 20:41 Living intentionally in all circumstances 21:22 Celebration and joy as spiritual disciplines 23:54 Joy versus happiness in faith 26:02 God's desire for us to grow through discomfort 27:26 One seed habit to start today 35:05 Connecting with Hannah Seymour and resources

In this episode, Sheela Aston discusses her novel In Between Girl, exploring themes of faith, identity, and community within the Amish tradition. She shares insights into her inspiration, research process, and the importance of community in Christian life. Links Help keep this podcast on the web by simply buying me a coffee https://www.buymeacoffee.com/mattmcchlery Sponsor an episode of this podcast Click for Advertising info Visit Matt McChlery's website mattmcchlery.com Visit Sheelagh Aston's website sheelaghaston.com Key  Topics Inspiration behind In Between Girl Research process for Amish community depiction Themes of identity and faith in the novel The role of community in Christian life Sheila Aston’s faith journey and writing process The significance of Rumspringer in the story Cultural diversity and Christian unity The importance of authentic research in fiction Sheila Aston’s personal hobbies and interests How community shapes faith and identity  Sound  Bites "Never apologize for your faith." "Community is essential for Christian identity." "Choices about identity are part of our spiritual journey." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Sheila Aston and In Between Girl 01:54 Inspiration behind the series and faith journey 03:47 Research process and depiction of Amish community 07:59 Themes of identity, change, and faith in the story 11:56 Use of Rumspringer as a storytelling device 16:01 Authenticity and moral compass of the protagonist 19:07 Community’s role in faith and belonging 22:07 Author’s personal hobbies and travel experiences 27:11 How to connect with Sheila Aston online 31:00 Where to buy Sheila Aston’s books

In this episode, Michele Guinness shares the fascinating history of her family, the Guinness family, and how their faith shaped their lives and legacy. Discover inspiring stories of faith, social action, and the impact of Christian values across generations.   Links Help keep this podcast on the web by simply buying me a coffee https://www.buymeacoffee.com/mattmcchlery Sponsor an episode of this podcast Click for Advertising info Visit Matt McChlery's website mattmcchlery.com Michele Guinness' website https://www.micheleguinness.co.uk/   Key  Topics The Christian faith of the Guinness family across generations Stories of missionary work and social justice in the family The influence of faith on family traditions and legacy Historical anecdotes about Henry Grattan Guinness and others The role of faith in shaping social and community work Takeaways Faith and social action are deeply intertwined in the Guinness family history. Family traditions of prayer and community service have been passed down through generations. Personal stories highlight the impact of faith on individual lives and family legacy. The importance of modeling faith and service from a young age. Historical figures like Henry Grattan Guinness exemplify courage and conviction in faith.  Sound  Bites "It's like being with the Kennedys in New York." "A stranger from nowhere saved him from the mob." "He fell backwards off the stage and was spared."   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Michelle Guinness and her family history 02:03 The structure of the family saga and storytelling approach 03:52 The power of the Guinness name and personal stories in Dublin 05:46 Family history's influence on personal identity and faith 10:59 Henry Grattan Guinness and his bold preaching in Ireland 14:54 The Christian faith passing through generations in the Guinness family 17:02 The impact of social action and community service 20:03 The role of family traditions and modelling faith 22:52 The influence of Wesleyan and other Christian traditions 24:59 Michelle Guinness's personal life, hobbies, and current work 32:04 Michelle's writing projects and autobiographical journey 34:00 Where to find and buy the book Guinness: The Untold Adventures 35:10 Closing remarks and encouragement to explore faith stories

In this episode, Christian author and speaker Chris Kandiah discusses his book 'God is Stranger,' exploring the biblical call to hospitality, refugee support, and the countercultural nature of Christian faith. Discover practical ways to live out these principles today. Links Help keep this podcast on the web by simply buying me a coffee https://www.buymeacoffee.com/mattmcchlery Sponsor an episode of this podcast Click for Advertising info Visit Matt McChlery's website mattmcchlery.com Visit Krish Kandiah's website sanctuaryfoundation.org.uk Key  Topics Biblical hospitality and its modern application The biblical view of refugees, strangers, and vulnerable groups The importance of wrestling with difficult biblical passages How Christian faith challenges cultural norms on immigration The role of the church in supporting refugees and fostering community The significance of sacrificial love and boundaries in hospitality The impact of family and community in character formation Practical ways to live out biblical hospitality today  Sound  Bites "We are called to be light in the darkness." "Biblical hospitality is sacrificial and costly." "Supporting refugees and fostering children transforms discipleship." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Chris Kandiah and his book 'God is Stranger' 01:56 The biblical basis for welcoming the stranger and refugee support 03:49 The biblical language of strangers, widows, and orphans 06:03 Countercultural nature of biblical teachings on hospitality 07:46 Wrestling with difficult and unsettling biblical passages 10:00 True biblical hospitality as sacrificial and costly 11:51 Balancing boundaries and sacrificial love in hospitality 13:59 How supporting refugees and fostering children shapes discipleship 15:53 Practical steps for living out biblical hospitality today 18:08 The importance of community, family, and character in faith 19:51 Where to find Chris Kandiah and his book 'God is Stranger'

In this episode, Christian author Jane Walters shares insights from her book 'Bless the Work of Our Hands,' exploring the intersection of faith and creativity, overcoming creative blocks, and balancing artistic pursuits with daily life. Links Help keep this podcast on the web by simply buying me a coffee https://www.buymeacoffee.com/mattmcchlery Sponsor an episode of this podcast Click for Advertising info Visit Matt McChlery's website mattmcchlery.com Visit Andy Robinson's website thebigcinme.org Key  Topics Faith and creativity integration Handling creative blocks through prayer Balancing professional and hobbyist creativity The importance of rest and play in creative life The role of the Holy Spirit in creative work Takeaways Creativity is rooted in being made in God's image. Prayer and honesty are vital during creative struggles. Balancing work and play enhances overall creativity. The 'messy middle' is a natural part of the creative process. Supporting fellow creatives fosters community and growth.  Sound  Bites "God is interested in every area of our life." "Joy is in the doing, not just the result." "The Holy Spirit is stirring new things in us." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Creativity and Faith 03:02 Bridging Faith and Creativity 05:55 The Messy Middle of Creative Projects 08:49 Creativity Under Pressure 11:56 Reframing Failure in Creativity 15:00 Finding Joy in the Creative Process 18:03 The Role of Prayer in Creativity 20:49 Community and Support for Creatives 23:58 Personal Insights and Reflections 26:52 Conclusion and Call to Action

In this episode, Andy Robinson shares his powerful journey with stage four cancer, exploring how faith, hope, and living boldly can transform even the darkest moments. Discover practical insights on living with purpose, supporting loved ones, and finding hope amidst life's challenges. Links Help keep this podcast on the web by simply buying me a coffee https://www.buymeacoffee.com/mattmcchlery Sponsor an episode of this podcast Click for Advertising info Visit Matt McChlery's website mattmcchlery.com Visit Andy Robinson's website thebigcinme.org Key Topics The meaning behind 'The Big C in Me' and faith in adversity Living boldly and intentionally when facing terminal illness The role of peace and hope in cancer treatment Supporting loved ones through cancer and chemo The intersection of medicine, faith, and healing Building community for those affected by cancer The importance of honest conversations about faith and healing Practical ways to support someone with cancer The impact of living as if each day is precious Andy Robinson's personal journey and faith story Sound Bites "Christ in me is the big C in me" "Peace that passes understanding is a gift from Jesus" "Why not me? is a powerful question" Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Journey of Faith and Cancer 03:09 Understanding 'The Big C' and Living Boldly 05:56 The Role of Peace in Facing Terminal Illness 09:06 The Importance of Community and Support 11:54 Navigating Medical and Spiritual Healing 15:04 The Online Community: The Big C in Me 18:04 Practical Support for Loved Ones Facing Cancer 20:58 Personal Reflections and Life Beyond Cancer 23:55 Conclusion and Encouragement for the Journey

In this heartfelt interview, Christian author David Oliver shares insights from his book 'All About Grief,' exploring the biblical perspective on death, dying well, and how to support those who mourn. Discover practical advice, personal stories, and spiritual guidance to navigate grief with faith and hope. Links Help keep this podcast on the web by simply buying me a coffee https://www.buymeacoffee.com/mattmcchlery Sponsor an episode of this podcast Click for Advertising info Visit Matt McChlery's website mattmcchlery.com Visit David Oliver's website davidoliverbooks.com Key Topics Biblical perspective on death and grief How to die well as a Christian Supporting those who mourn from a biblical view Key Frameworks Biblical Theology of Death Dying Well Framework Action Items Validate the pain of those grieving Pray for guidance when supporting mourners Be present and listen without trying to fix  Sound Bites "Where is my son now?" "Death is the doorway to the greatest adventure" "He heals the broken-hearted and binds up their wounds" Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Grief and Faith 03:09 The Journey of Grief: Personal Experiences 06:05 The Importance of Discussing Grief 08:52 Dying Well: A New Perspective 12:14 God's Promises in Grief 14:54 Finding Comfort in Scripture 18:05 Practical Advice for Supporting the Grieving 27:03 The Author's Personal Journey and Hobbies

In this episode, Christian author Sue Donaldson discusses her book 'Never Alone,' exploring themes of loneliness, community, and hospitality from a biblical perspective. She shares personal stories, practical tips for building authentic connections, and insights on how faith can transform loneliness into community. Links Help keep this podcast on the web by simply buying me a coffee https://www.buymeacoffee.com/mattmcchlery Sponsor an episode of this podcast Click for Advertising info Visit Matt McChlery's website mattmcchlery.com Visit Sue Donaldson's website welcomeheart.com Key Topics Loneliness and its spiritual significance The role of hospitality in Christian life Practical ways to build authentic community Biblical foundations for community and connection  Sound  Bites "God allows loneliness to draw us to Himself" "Community shows God's love and helps us grow" "Stories and simple questions can open hearts" Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Community and Hospitality 01:12 The Concept of Loneliness and Connection 04:22 Understanding Loneliness in the Christian Context 08:51 The Impact of COVID-19 on Loneliness 12:17 The Importance of Authentic Connections 15:22 The Role of Community in Spiritual Growth 18:49 Target Audience of 'Never Alone' 20:33 Practical Steps to Build Community

Join host Matt McChlery as he interviews Jemima Wright about her book 'Never Beyond Hope,' the extraordinary story of Shepherd Pani, a South African drug mule who found Christ. Discover the behind-the-scenes of writing a compelling testimony, the power of faith, and how stories of hope can inspire us all. Links Help keep this podcast on the web by simply buying me a coffee https://www.buymeacoffee.com/mattmcchlery Sponsor an episode of this podcast Click for Advertising info Visit Matt McChlery's website mattmcchlery.com Visit Jemimah Wright on instagram @jemimah_a_wright Key  Topics Shepherd Panny’s life story and testimony The process of writing a biography based on oral stories The power of faith and hope in transformation The role of community and faith in rehabilitation The impact of personal stories on discipleship  Sound  Bites "God’s grace in Shepherd’s prison journey" "Demons recognize the power of God's word" "Trust in God's bigger plan, even in chaos" Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Christian Book Blurb 00:53 The Extraordinary Testimony of Shepherd Pani 05:21 The Writing Journey of 'Never Beyond Hope' 11:00 Shepherd's Transformation and Current Life 16:21 The Impact of Testimonies on Faith 21:47 Getting to Know Jemima Wright 24:43 Conclusion and Encouragement

In this insightful interview, Christian author Emily Owen discusses her new book 'You Say,' her personal journey with faith and health challenges, and the importance of identity in Christ. Discover her writing process, life stories, and spiritual insights that inspire believers to stay rooted in God's truth.   Links Help keep this podcast on the web by simply buying me a coffee https://www.buymeacoffee.com/mattmcchlery Sponsor an episode of this podcast Click for Advertising info Visit Matt McChlery's website mattmcchlery.com Visit Emily Owen's website emily-owen.com   Key Topics Identity in Christ Personal Faith Journey Devotional Writing Process    Sound Bites "Our identity in Christ is so important." "Life can turn upside down, but Jesus still sees us." "Living Proverbs 3:26 by giving God my heart."   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Christian Book Blurb 01:00 Exploring Identity in Christ 05:06 The Evolution of Emily's Writing Style 10:02 Personal Journey and Health Challenges 16:49 Diving into Fiction and Other Works 21:03 Fun and Personal Insights 30:55 Faith and Current Challenges 34:02 Conclusion and Where to Find Emily

Explore the transformative power of prayer spaces in schools with author Phil Sokell-Miles. Discover how simple activities like sticky notes can foster spiritual encounters, reconciliation, and community engagement among young people. Links Help keep this podcast on the web by simply buying me a coffee https://www.buymeacoffee.com/mattmcchlery Sponsor an episode of this podcast Click for Advertising info Visit Matt McChlery's website mattmcchlery.com Visit the Prayer Spaces in School website prayerspacesinschools.com Key Topics The origin of prayer spaces in schools Activities used in prayer spaces and their impact The role of the church in community outreach Sound Bites "Sticky notes reveal children’s honest feelings" "God’s love meets children in prayer spaces" "Removing prayers can silence a child’s voice" Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Sticky Note Prayers 04:49 The Birth of Prayer Spaces in Schools 10:12 Understanding Prayer Spaces: Activities and Engagement 15:06 Prayer Spaces: A Community Outreach 20:04 The Impact on the Whole School Community 24:46 Sticky Notes: A Window into Young Hearts 26:57 The Power of Prayer Spaces 31:19 Exploring Personal Connections and Hobbies 42:10 The Ministry of Reconciliation

In this episode of the Christian Book Blurb Show, host Matt McChlery speaks with author Shelby Abbott about his book 'Why We're Feeling Lonely.' They explore the epidemic of loneliness, particularly among younger generations, and discuss the impact of technology on human connection. Shelby emphasizes the importance of empathy, humility, and spiritual engagement in addressing loneliness and building meaningful relationships. The conversation also touches on practical steps for fostering gospel friendships and the role of the Holy Spirit in personal growth. Links Help keep this podcast on the web by simply buying me a coffee https://www.buymeacoffee.com/mattmcchlery Sponsor an episode of this podcast Click for Advertising info Visit Matt McChlery's website mattmcchlery.com Visit Shelby Abbott's website shelbyabbott.com  Takeaways Loneliness is a universal experience that many face. Feeling lonely does not mean you are alone in your experience. Empathy involves understanding others' perspectives and feelings. God calls us to love even those we disagree with. Humility is essential in building relationships and community. Spiritual engagement can help combat anxiety and depression. Intentionality is key in forming genuine friendships. Asking God for friendships can lead to meaningful connections. The Holy Spirit works in our lives to reveal areas for growth. Building relationships requires stepping out of comfort zones  Sound  Bites "Loneliness is a universal experience." "Don't feel alone in your loneliness." "God calls us to love our enemies." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Shelby Abbott and His Book 00:56 The Core Message of 'Why We're Feeling Lonely' 02:04 Why Loneliness Feels More Intense Today 04:00 Defining Loneliness in the Modern Context 06:20 Common Misconceptions About Loneliness 08:48 The Role of Empathy and Humility in Relationships 11:32 Approaching Others with Christlike Love 16:31 The Significance of Spiritual Engagement 17:11 How Faith Addresses Anxiety, Depression, and Loneliness 22:49 Practical Steps to Grow Gospel Friendships 26:08 Shelby Abbott’s Personal Journey and Hobbies 34:43 The Holy Spirit’s Work in Shelby’s Life 37:02 Where to Find Shelby Abbott and Connect