Send The Parable Podcast a Text

Throughout this episode, I share about how our family welcomed a foreign exchange student into our home, the joys and challenges of parenting, and the need to make active choices in life. One of the ways emphasizes the significance of listening to others and embracing change as part of personal growth, encouraging listeners to reflect on their own lives and the stories they carry.

After 229 episodes I am choosing to press pause on continuing The Parable Podcast. I have beel so blessed to take the time to reflect on the joy of connecting with guests and listeners. This decision to step back is giving me some bandwith, rest and ensuring that this podcast content remains genuine and authentic. I encourage you as a listener to evaluate your own life, consider what brings you joy, and make choices that align with your heart.

So I thank you so much for listening, for being a part of the Parable Podcast. It has been such a blessing to my life. I've grown in so many ways and I am grateful. And I will say goodbye for now, stay in touch. I don't know what will come in the future, but I do want you to know and remember that your parable story matters. And that is how God consistently works in your life to grow you, to shape you, to become more like Him. Thank you so much. I love you!

Takeaways

• Welcoming a foreign exchange student can enrich your life.
• Parenting involves making family decisions together.
• We often get caught up in the busyness of life.
• Making plans helps us prioritize what matters.
• Busyness can cut off our connection to God and others.
• Choosing not to replace activities but to create space is essential.
• Community and listening to others strengthen our relationships.
• Embracing change is a part of personal growth.

Reflection Questions

1. What are the hard parts? Is it time to press pause? Is it time to end something? Or maybe it's time to start. What would that be for you?
2. And encouragement to look at whatever you're doing, if you're trying to find space, make sure you are not replacing it. ;)

Connect with Danielle
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The Lives We Actually Have by Kate Bowler and Jessica Richie

Keywords: The Parable Podcast, family stories, foreign exchange student, parenting, busyness, community, change, active choices, listening, personal growth

Support the show

Ways to Support The Parable Podcast

#1 Subscribe or Follow the podcast to ensure you catch every episode of The Parable Podcast on your preferred podcast platform (such as iTunes, Spotify).

#2 Recommend this podcast to a friend, providing a great chance to begin your own Parable Conversation.

#3 Looking for a speaker for your Church, Women's Group, or event? Contact Danielle to learn more.

Send The Parable Podcast a Text

Is it difficult for you to remember the last time you were fully present? If you enjoy hearing other stories and want to be encouraged about the ways God is working in their life, you found a home right here at The Parable Podcast. Joining me today is podcast host and artist Heather Winchell, who reflects on a pivotal moment that encapsulated her desire to be fully present. I hope this episode is a gentle reminder for you today to step into presence one step at a time, just like Heather did.

Reflection Questions

1. I'd like for you to journal about the current cry of your heart.
2. How can you step into participatory presence with just one person in your life today?

If something sparked within you in this episode, could you do me a favor and share Heather's episode with a friend or a family member who has recently told you, know I just don't feel connected to myself or God or those around me. Remember, your parable showcases how we never have to wonder about God's presence in our own lives.

Connect with Heather

Instagram | Thanks for Doing That Podcast | E-mail

Every Little Seed | Courtney Kendall's episode

Keywords: presence, mindfulness, emotional journey, personal growth, faith

Support the show

Ways to Support The Parable Podcast

#1 Subscribe or Follow the podcast to ensure you catch every episode of The Parable Podcast on your preferred podcast platform (such as iTunes, Spotify).

#2 Recommend this podcast to a friend, providing a great chance to begin your own Parable Conversation.

#3 Looking for a speaker for your Church, Women's Group, or event? Contact Danielle to learn more.

Send The Parable Podcast a Text

Is it hard for you to imagine the other possibilities of life? Joining me today is artist Mandy West, who paints the beauty in everyday life and shares about one of the seasons when she noticed she settled into negativity. She discusses the importance of embracing creativity, especially in challenging situations. Mandy also reflects on a personal experience with her father that inspired her to view life's challenges as opportunities for artistic expression and growth. I will definitely be thinking about her garden space (see below) and that hot doorknob, so relatable. Grateful for Mandy’s story.

Reflection Questions

1. Is there an area that you can now notice you have settled into negativity, and why?
2. When was the last time you saw a glimmer of hope in your life whether through people, likes Mandy’s dad or friend Lisa that sparked something in you?

Connect with Mandy

Instagram | Etsy

Every Little Seed | Courtney Kendall's episode

Glimmers of Hope

Support the show

Ways to Support The Parable Podcast

#1 Subscribe or Follow the podcast to ensure you catch every episode of The Parable Podcast on your preferred podcast platform (such as iTunes, Spotify).

#2 Recommend this podcast to a friend, providing a great chance to begin your own Parable Conversation.

#3 Looking for a speaker for your Church, Women's Group, or event? Contact Danielle to learn more.