Christmas is over, but we remain an Advent people—rooted in Christ's first coming and alert for His coming again. In this episode, Brian Myers and Derrick Scott III welcome Will Clark to explore what it means to live faithfully in the "already and not yet" of God's kingdom. Together, they discuss where we see God's kingdom breaking through today, where we feel the ache of what's still to come, and how holy expectation can fuel our ordinary days. This conversation offers practical wisdom for scheduling our lives around Jesus and staying awake to grace as we enter a new year.

Show Notes

03:23 - Understanding the "already and not yet" of God's kingdom

06:50 - Where do you see the kingdom already at work today?

14:38 - Where do you feel the ache of the not yet?

19:51 - How anticipation of Christ's return changes our priorities

24:52 - Small faithful steps instead of grand New Year's resolutions

29:18 - Final words: A compass for living between the Advents

For more information on the year-long Awaken to Grace series, visit awakenedtograce.org.

Produced by Wesley's Revival, a ministry of Studio Wesley. Original music by the Institute for Modern Worship.

In this special Christmas episode, hosts Brian Myers and Jenn Stiles Williams are joined by Bishop Tom Berlin to explore the profound mystery of the Incarnation—God becoming flesh and dwelling among us. They discuss what it means that God chose to enter the world as a vulnerable baby, how "Emmanuel" (God with us) shapes our daily lives, and why wonder is an essential spiritual practice. From the humility of the manger to the call to embody Christ's love in ordinary moments, this conversation invites us to experience Christmas not just as a story from 2000 years ago, but as God's ongoing presence breaking into our neighborhoods today. Enjoy!

Show Notes

00:12 - Introduction to the Incarnation and welcoming Bishop Tom Berlin

02:11 - Bishop Berlin explains what the Incarnation means and how the Gospels present it differently

08:41 - Discussion of "God with us" (Emmanuel) and what that means in our current moment

19:13 - How the Incarnation shapes our everyday bodies, work, and tasks

25:07 - Wonder as a neglected spiritual practice and keeping humility in view

34:13 - Final thoughts: Finding moments of stillness, peace, and practicing eyes-wide-open wonder

For more information on the year-long Awaken to Grace series, visit awakenedtograce.org.

Produced by Wesley's Revival, a ministry of Studio Wesley. Original music by the Institute for Modern Worship.

In this episode of Awaken to Grace, hosts Brian Myers and Jenn Stiles Williams are joined by Rev. Will Clark from Isle Faith United Methodist Church in Jacksonville to explore incarnate love during the fourth week of Advent. They discuss how Advent love differs from sentiment—it's God's concrete, costly decision to be with us and for us in Jesus. Jenn offers her "controversial take" that love should precede joy because fierce, radical love produces joy rooted in God's strength. Drawing on John 3:16-17, Joseph's obedient love, and reflections on reconciliation, they examine how love is active presence, protection, and truthful companionship. The conversation includes personal stories of courageous presence—Jenn accepting a new conference role, Will trusting God to love his daughter from afar, and Brian stepping into podcast ministry. They discuss practical ways to embody Christ's love through daily reflection, "holy ears," healthy boundaries, and the call for laity to carry incarnate love into public spaces. They conclude with reflections on how Joseph gave his whole life to this story and a prayer for lighting the fourth Advent candle.

Show Notes:

• [0:05] Introduction: The Incarnate Love of Advent - The Reason for It All
• [3:39] Jenn's Controversial Take: Love Before Joy
• [7:16] Courageous Presence: Where Has God's Love Moved You?
• [14:52] John 3:16 for Weary Hearts: God Came Not to Judge but to Save
• [20:53] Living Out Love: Daily Obedience and "Dear God...Amen"
• [31:07] Joseph's Obedient Love: Giving His Name and His Whole Life

For more information on the year-long Awaken to Grace series, visit awakenedtograce.org.

Produced by Wesley's Revival, a ministry of Studio Wesley. Original music by the Institute for Modern Worship.