Two Edge Talk

Thank God I'm a Country Girl!

Deacon Tim longs for my lifestyle.  He's a city mouse; I'm a country mouse.  Somehow, he doesn't think that it's a problem that gorgonzola cheese and kalamata olives are a 30 minute drive away.  Oh, and it would be easier to find a John Deere tractor to drive than a BMW. 

Somehow, in this podcast he's made me grateful for my crumbling sidewalks - he's even convinced that they are an integral part of my spiritual journey - I know, I know - he's pretty convincing!  Are you a country mouse or a city mouse?  Tell us your thoughts on this podcast!

To listen now, click HERE

To download for your iPod, save this link:Download 046_thank_god_im_a_country_girl0001.mp3

The Paradox of Christmas

It's not uncommon for people to feel a little letdown after Christmas, a feeling of, "Is this all there is?"  Perhaps the gifts weren't just right, or maybe there was family tension or financial stress, or just plain fatigue. If you felt that Christmas was a sacrifice, perhaps you've accidentally hit upon the true meaning of Christmas.  Though we celebrate the gift of Jesus' birth, his life was marked by sacrifice.  In the sacrifice, though, you will find grace. We hope this week's podcast will begin that flow of grace. 

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A Call to Faith and Family

Tis the Season, right?  Is our every action preparing for the Savior's birth?  Or, are we just filling the manger with useless junk?  Deacon Tim and I have had some unusual experiences this week (yes, you're just going to have to listen!), but they point to the same thing:  the value of family traditions and rituals, especially those traditions which point us to God.  Peace be with you this week!

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To download save this link to your computer:  Download a_call_to_faith_and_family.mp3

Born of a Virgin

It's that time of the year when we drag out the Nativity set and dust off the Blessed Virgin.  I'm betting it's the only time a non-Catholic gives Mary a second thought.  For a Catholic, however, we hang with Mary throughout the year.   Why?  Because that's what Jesus did, and we want to be like Him in all ways.  He was a nice Jewish boy, raised on the commandment to honor his mother and father, so we think He'd like it if we honored his mom.  So we do. 

That's the simple explanation.  There is a compelling theological argument to explain Mary's role in salvation history.  That's where Deacon Tim comes in - I'm okay with the simple "because that's what Jesus did" argument. :) 

If you are Protestant and tempted not to listen to this podcast, come on - it's a great time of year to learn more about the mother of our Lord!  How can you resist a woman who said "yes" to that unfathomable message from the angel Gabriel?

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To save for loading on your mp3 player, right-click and save this link:Download 043_born_of_a_virgin.mp3

Rachel's Vineyard

When the podcast topic is abortion, you might be tempted not to listen, thinking it either depressing or not applicable to your life.  Instead, Deacon Tim manages to highlight God's grace in the midst of this ugly topic.  First, he shows us that the effects of abortion are insidious and pervasive, crippling to the women involved and the people who love them.  But there is hope.  An amazing organization, Rachel's Vineyard, offers healing after an abortion, even years later, to women, men, grandparents, whomever.  Here's their website: Rachel's Vineyard.  I hope you'll send this podcast to someone you know who has participated in an abortion, or if you don't know anyone, please pray that this podcast will be sent to those who need it.  Please pray for the ministry of Rachel's Vineyard, and even consider a charitable contribution to this ministry of hope!

To listen now on your computer, click HERE

To download save this link: Download 042_rachels_vineyard.mp3