Unlocking the mystery of dyslexia and revealing the transformative power of specialized instruction, this episode takes listeners deep into the world of neurodiversity through the lens of Ben Lippen School's innovative program, The Ridge.

Mrs. Sarah Beth Helsley and Mrs. Sara Smithson, experts in Orton-Gillingham methodology, break down the complex realities of dyslexia with clarity and compassion. They offer a powerful analogy comparing the dyslexic reading experience to navigating a highway filled with potholes and detours – a vivid illustration that helps parents, educators, and community members understand the daily challenges these students face.

The conversation dismantles harmful myths that have long surrounded dyslexia. Letters aren't actually "flipping" or "dancing" on the page, and most crucially, dyslexia has absolutely nothing to do with intelligence. In fact, many individuals with dyslexia possess extraordinary cognitive abilities and unique strengths, with approximately 35% of entrepreneurs identifying as dyslexic, including visionaries like Steve Jobs and Albert Einstein.

What sets this discussion apart is its integration of faith and specialized education. The Ridge program stands as a testament to what's possible when schools embrace neurodiversity while maintaining their core values. Students can receive the specialized instruction they need without leaving their school community or sacrificing their faith-based education. As Smithson shares from her dual perspective as both an educator and mother of a child with dyslexia, "It's been a huge answer to prayer for my family."

Whether you're a parent concerned about your child's reading development, an educator seeking to better support diverse learners, or simply someone interested in how schools can become more inclusive while staying true to their mission, this episode offers both practical insights and inspirational possibilities. Join us as we celebrate how each child is "fearfully and wonderfully made".

Dr. Ben Mathew returns to conclude our five-part series on racial reconciliation with a powerful synthesis of biblical teaching and practical wisdom. Rather than diving into political talking points, we ground our conversation in scripture's grand narrative—from creation to revelation—exploring how God's design for a diverse human family unfolds.

The journey begins with the Imago Dei, establishing our primary identity as image-bearers before any racial or ethnic distinction. Through the lens of Genesis 11 and Acts 2, we witness God's judgment through language division at Babel contrasted with his redemptive work through language unification at Pentecost. Most significantly, Revelation reveals Christ's sacrifice specifically ransomed people "from every tribe, language, people and nation"—diversity that brings God glory like a symphony of distinct instruments playing in harmony.

When discussing evangelical unity, Dr. Mathew emphasizes holding core Gospel truths with conviction while approaching secondary matters with charity. His practical advice for building cross-cultural relationships starts simply: "Ask people to tell their stories." This human connection builds relational equity that can eventually support more challenging conversations about race.

Perhaps most thought-provoking is the biblical evidence for both individual and systemic expressions of sin. Through examples like Achan's family punishment, Daniel's national repentance, and Adam's sin affecting all humanity, scripture acknowledges community responsibility alongside personal accountability—a balanced perspective that challenges our cultural extremes.

As our community grows increasingly diverse, Dr. Mathew leaves us with this guiding principle: "The Gospel creates soft hearts and thick skin." Our secure identity in Christ gives us both the compassion and resilience needed to engage difficult conversations with grace, humility, and hope.

Unlock the profound connection between biblical identity and racial reality in our latest episode with Dr. Ben Mathew from Columbia International University. Join us as we explore how prioritizing our faith can help us transcend biases and foster unity within the Ben Lippin School community. Dr. Mathew guides us through the complexities of maintaining our identity in Christ while embracing our diverse backgrounds. Discover how this perspective aligns with the gospel's message of love and redemption, offering a pathway to reconcile differences and build a stronger, more inclusive community.

Get ready for an engaging conversation as Dr. Mathew shares his insights on addressing cultural misunderstandings and hurtful comments with compassion and scriptural wisdom. We tackle the challenges of "colorblindness" and "color essentialism," advocating for a balanced approach where our faith informs our views on race and culture without overshadowing our unique identities. Drawing lessons from the unity between Jews and Gentiles in Ephesians, we aim to inspire honest dialogue and understanding. Don't miss the opportunity to connect with Dr. Mathew for further exploration of these vital topics, as he offers his contact information for those eager to continue the conversation.

Click here to submit your questions for Dr. Mathew to review.