Chad sits down with his long-time friend, Sammy Gondola, to explore the profound journey of faith, identity, and cultural transition. From the vivid memories of growing up in Panama to leaving his home to follow Jesus's heart, Sammy shares his experiences as a pastor, immigrant, and peacemaker. Join us for an inspiring conversation about listening to Jesus, embracing the beauty of the diverse body of Christ, understanding and learning from history, and living as ambassadors of the Kingdom of God.

Chapters

(00:00) The Power of Friendship and Faith

(01:56) A Night of Chaos: The Invasion of Panama

(07:44) Understanding the Historical Context of the US Invasion of Panama

(10:40) The Aftermath: Changes in Panama Post-Invasion

(13:37) Personal Journey: From a Pastor's Kid to a Faithful Follower

(18:31) Cultural Shifts: Worship and Expression in Different Contexts

(28:36) A Call to Missions: Leaving Panama for the U.S.

(32:17) Hearing from the Lord

(37:15) Identifying with Joseph and Moses

(39:48) Citizenship and Identity in Christ

(45:21) Navigating American History and Personal Identity

(50:54) Peacemaking in a Divided Society

(56:22) Ambassadors of the Kingdom of God

This week we surprise each other with 5 questions each and we don't hold back. Topics include: the struggle of the Western church and Christian, Israel, and Palestine, Writing Books, End Times Living, Loving those who are losing their faith, Depression and living in the shadows, Favorite Biblical Characters and more. Come and listen. We're Unfinished People and like to celebrate the reality that we are all just limping along with Jesus... but we're with Jesus!

Links mentioned:

Truth Unites - Gavin Ortlund - Christians supporting Israel.

https://youtu.be/glqMDrA1dE8?si=XGhSLAj7cv7j104c

We all have them. It's that place in you where Jesus keeps poking and nudging you forward. Yet our instinct is to stay put, to resist, to avoid the discomfort. We're talking about spiritual growth edges. And when we talk about growth, it usually means resistance, discomfort, and probably a little pain.

In today's episode, we both share a few of those rough spots. We hope it encourages you as you grow closer to Jesus.

Have you ever been awakened in the middle of the night thinking you are seeing some sort of spiritual presence in the corner of the room? We have! What is spiritual warfare? And if Jesus has already won the battle, then how are we supposed to engage? On today's episode we share our absolute discomfort with the subject, but also our very real experience of what the Bible describes as our warfare. Come join us as we grow together in this topic.

In Luke's Gospel, Jesus tells a story about inviting people to a great feast, asking us to get out there and compel people to come to his table. So how are we doing with this mission?

If you haven't noticed, we aren't doing a very good job. In fact, many would say that the only message they are getting from Christians is that they're angry.

Today we hold up a mirror to ourselves and the church to see what kind of ugly we've been sharing. How can we reflect the beauty of Jesus? What needs to change in our hearts, words, and actions? Join us on today's episode to find out.

If you have ever tried to keep doubt below the surface, it's a little like attempting to keep a beachball submerged in the ocean. It rises often and doesn't quite work as a life preserver either. But can it be a good thing? Or should you pop that monstrosity? Today we are tackling this subject again because doubt is on the rise in our culture. And in us at times! Some are even saying it's a virtue and should be celebrated. How should we talk about this? And yes, we know we've already done a couple of episodes on this. So let's welcome back our frequent guest, Doubt.

We love the New Year and are suckers for setting resolutions and (most likely) breaking them. How does Jesus see the times and seasons of our lives? What new thing might he be planning for you this year? And what old thing has he been working in you before the beginning of time? Our sovereign and eternal God has good plans for our present here and now and somehow fit into his plan for an eternal Kingdom. What a thought!

Brandon and Chad are eager to find out what is in store. Our prayer is that you are filled with hope and expectation for this new year.

Brandon and Chad had the privilege of interviewing Dr. Amy Orr-Ewing. She is an incredible follower of Jesus whom we cannot wait for you to meet.

She is an international author, speaker and theologian who addresses the deep questions of our day with meaningful answers found in the Christian Faith. She is the author of multiple books including ‘Where is God in All the Suffering?’ (runner up Michael Ramsay Prize, 2023), bestselling ‘Why Trust the Bible?’ and ‘Mary’s Voice: Advent Reflections to Contemplate the Coming of Christ.’

Over the last twenty five years, Amy has given talks and answered questions on university campuses around the world. She has also addressed Parliamentarians in the Speakers Rooms and Chapel at the UK Parliament and staffers on Capitol Hill, and at the West Wing of The White House. She regularly responds to invitations to speak in banks, businesses, and consultancy firms as well as churches and conferences and enjoys broadcasting in the media and giving public lectures.

Amy is interested in the intersection of questions of meaning and faith within the marketplace, education and policymaking. Amy holds a doctorate (DPhil) in Theology from the University of Oxford, and serves as Honorary Lecturer in Divinity at the University Aberdeen.

In recent years Amy Orr-Ewing has advocated significantly for transparency and justice working alongside and representing survivors of abuse and mistreatment. Her significant contribution was recognized by the Church of England in June 2023 at the Annual Lambeth Awards, where Orr-Ewing was awarded the Alphege Award for Evangelism and Witness, for exceptional dedication, skill and insight in her advocacy work.

We were so challenged and blessed to be able to interview her on today's episode. Enjoy!

• Amy Orr-Ewing.com
• Do not be afraid. Luke 12:22-32
• The Rage of Identity Politics VS The Beautiful Art of Forgiveness
• Why Trust the Bible?
• Where Is God in All the Suffering?
• Mary's Voice: Advent Reflections to Contemplate the Coming of Christ