Episode 50 - Formed by Books, Anchored in Peace – with Pastor Santosh Ninan

In this milestone 50th episode of Peaceable and Kind, host Derek Vreeland welcomes his longtime friend, Pastor Santosh Ninan of Ebenezer Baptist Church in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. Together, they reflect on decades of friendship, shared spiritual formation, and the quiet influence of Eugene Peterson on their pastoral callings. Santosh shares his journey from India to Canada, his calling to ministry at age 17, and the role reading plays in his life—highlighting how habits of daily reading, immersion in literature and theology, and staying rooted in the Sermon on the Mount have shaped him as a leader and disciple. As the conversation turns toward peacemaking in an era of political and cultural polarization, Derek and Santosh unpack why understanding others' stories is a key to transcending outrage culture and reclaiming Christlike kindness. They explore practical ways for Christians to embody peace and resist echo chambers, while holding fast to kingdom values that rise above nationalism and partisanship. Whether you’re a pastor, teacher, or a curious follower of Jesus, this episode offers wisdom for leading, listening, and living peaceably in a noisy world. Key Takeaways Eugene Peterson teaches us how to lead with integrity, not ego. Daily reading builds spiritual depth and helps Christians grow in wisdom. The Sermon on the Mount is a practical guide for living out the way of Jesus. Real peace starts by listening to people outside your echo chamber. Christians are called to reject outrage and live for the kingdom. Spiritual formation means facing hard truths while staying grounded in Scripture. Books mentioned in this podcast: A Long Obedience in the Same Direction by Eugene Peterson Under the Unpredictable Plant by Eugene Peterson Working the Angles by Eugene Peterson Answering God by Eugene Peterson A Burning in My Bones by Winn Collier Jesus Changes Everything by Stanley Hauerwas The Kingdom, the Power, and the Glory by Tim Alberta Preorder Derek's new book, Incarnation: 8 Lessons on How God Meets Us here: https://amzn.to/42jSZAs Did you find this episode helpful on your spiritual journey? Consider helping us out! Leave a review Share it with your friends Give us a 5-Star rating on your podcast app of choice Get to know the host: https://derekvreeland.com Interact with Derek on Instagram, Twitter, Bluesky, or FacebookEpisode Website