Episodes

  • Guest: Kristin Dysart, M.Ed., MS and US Guidance Counselor, PCA North

    PCA isn’t just a “college prep” educational institution - the Biblical worldview and academic rigor of PCA is designed to equip students for success in life, which includes college for those who desire to attend.

    Kristin references a Christianity Today article that differentiates between the “price” of a college education and the “cost” - which dives into the cost of young people being indoctrinated in a worldview that is contrary to solid and orthodox Biblical teaching. In the article, Dr. Henderson points to a “strong link between a young person’s choice of a college and their short-term and long-term commitment to Christian faith.” Here is a summary of that article.

    To learn more about Hope College’s “Hope Forward” initiative featured on Malcolm Gladwell’s Revisionist History podcast, click here.

    What should parents instill in their children as they mature on their journey at PCA - here are some recommendations:

    Allow your children to fail and to learn from their mistakesStain your children with the Word of GodGround your children’s identity in ChristA connection to you as a parent is more important to your child’s development than connections to their peersTrain your children to be responsible for their actionsBe intentional about the conversations you’re having with your children.

    Good resource as you consider where your son/daughter should attend college:

    Where You God Is Not Who You’ll Be: An Antidote to the College Admissions Mania by Frank Bruni

    Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

  • Guest: Matt Shaheen, Texas State Representative, District 66

    State Representative Matt Shaheen led the efforts in the last legislative session to pass laws requiring age verification for access to “adult” [porn] websites (for more information, see House Bill 1181). The law requires that users verify that they are over 18 years old. A couple of months ago, the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals upheld a challenge to the Texas age verification requirement. Responding to that decision, several porn sites have blocked all uses from Texas. Several other states are passing similar legislation in efforts to protect children from sexually explicit material.

    Common Sense Media released valuable research called “Teens and Pornography” which found that 73% of teens aged 13 to 17 who participated in the survey have watched pornography online and more than half (54%) reported that their first exposure to pornography occurred around the age of 13. The report also revealed that a majority of teens who indicated that they’ve viewed online pornography have been exposed to what has been labeled aggressive and/or violent forms of pornography.

    And remember that this year is a Presidential Election and the General Election is coming up this November. Christians Engaged is a wonderful organization to help you get informed and engaged as a Christian citizen in our great country.

    Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

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  • Guest: Erin Williams, LPC, PCA US Counselor

    Erin recommends Jess Connolly’s book Breaking Free from Body Shame: Dare to Reclaim What God Has Named Good as a good resource and launching point for conversations about body image, God’s design, God’s goodness in our lives, and our struggles to embrace God’s best for us when it conflicts with the world’s narrative

    Another good resource for wrestling with body image issues from a biblical perspective includes the work and writings of Heather Creekmore made available on her website Compared to Who?

    Scripture refers to our bodies as temples…and tents…both are important to understand - temples meaning that our bodies are important, valuable - we actually carry the Holy Spirit with us - and tents meaning that our bodies are temporary and should be held in the proper perspective of eternal things…as Christians we have this tension between this world…and the next - we are citizens of both!

    Our bodies are “good” - but aren’t they also “broken” and flawed because of the curse of sin - and working to “better” our bodies doesn’t always have to be trying to beat the curse…can’t it also be just working to better what’s broken?

    Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

  • Guests: Michael Perron, Minister over Life Recovery, and Tim Matthews, Minimester to Adults, at Prestonwood Baptist Church

    Dr. Jack Graham - Don’t just curse the darkness; light a candle.

    James 1:27 - Religion that is pure and undefiled before God the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world.

    Prestonwood is hosting The Chosen Conference on Saturday, April 13, 2024 from 8:30 am - 7:00 pm. Speakers at this conference include Sadie Robertson Huff, Korie Robertson, Texas Governor Greg Abbott, Scott Turner, Gregg Matte, and Shane and Kasi Pruitt. The conference will highlight the needs relating to adoption and foster care as well as give practical ideas how you can make a difference on this front.

    Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

  • 18 destinations (10 international, 8 domestic) plus local missions across two campuses sending thousands of students and faculty across the globe and right next door to share the Good News that Jesus Christ came, lived, died, and rose again and that there is life eternal by grace through faith in Him. Students serving as the hands and feet of Jesus, packing food for the needy, collecting items for the homeless, offering coffee and a smile just for the opportunity to tell one more person that Jesus loves them - Minimester 2024 is in the books and the stories of God’s goodness, His provision, His protection, His providence are what motivate PCA to continue this program year after year. Minimester is more than a week-long mission/service opportunity; it’s a year-long, campus-wide effort to equip students to be bold witnesses and faithful servants.

    Thank you to the students and faculty for sharing their stories and perspectives on the importance of PCA’s Minimester program. We pray that we never take for granted God working in and through the PCA community to impact the world for His glory.

    Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

  • Guest: June Hunt

    Bonding with Your Teens Through Boundaries by June Hunt. Discover a balanced, biblical way to set appropriate boundaries that will prepare your teen to live an independent, self-controlled, successful life. JUNE HUNT, one of the world's leading Christian counselors, shows you how. Using scores of tough real-life scenarios, June helps you learn to use boundaries--each linked to specific repercussions and rewards--to guide your teen through four critical areas of life: home, school, personal, and social. Each scenario is followed by concrete advice on what to do and what to say.Once you communicate the boundaries, your teen has a choice: Cross them or stay inside. At that point, the teenager--not you, the parent--chooses to receive the repercussion or reward. Behavior becomes linked to consequences, building maturity, trust and security. Practical and realistic in its tone, June's biblical guidance helps you win--not a war, but a relationship of mutual respect.

    The Hope Center houses 64 different ministries in this one facility, which is an incredible stewardship opportunity for these ministries.

    Hope for the Heart is a worldwide biblical resource ministry, founded by June Hunt, that offers biblical hope and practical wisdom on over one hundred relevant topics facing individuals, families, and the church today! The different elements of June’s ministry include the following:

    Keys for Living LibraryShort helpful books with clear answers from God’s answer and concise, practical guidance on life’s challenges.Lifeline to HopeA suite of video-based courses on lay caregiving designed to equip people to provide support, encouragement, and spiritual care to those in need.International Christian Coaching Institute (ICCI)A global network of like-minded Christian coaches with online courses, credentialing, and certifications – bringing life and living into focus.Radio BroadcastHope in the Night is a live, one-hour, call-in counseling program with June Hunt sharing biblical guidance to real callers facing real challenges.June’s PlaceHelpful books, Bible studies, music, and more from Hope for the Heart Founder, June Hunt.Counseling ServicesHopeWorks Counseling provides professional counseling (in-person and teletherapy) for individuals, couples, families, and groups.Free DownloadsFind quick answers and biblical guidance to everyday problems with our free, downloadable life guides.Social MediaFollow Hope for the Heart on Facebook to receive encouraging posts from God’s Word, blog articles to help you grow in your faith, and discounts on our biblical resources and training courses. You can also follow June Hunt on Facebook here!

    Also, check out the incredible Mental Health & The Church conference with June Hunt, George Barna, Greg Stier, Haley Scully, and Dr. Eric Scalise on Saturday, June 22, 2024 at the Plano Event Center from 9am-5pm. This event is for anyone called to care for those around them…including parents, youth pastors, coaches, and teachers.

    Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

  • Guest: Hope Harris

    Hope is a former “loud and proud” lesbian activist from Seattle who surrendered her life and sexuality to Christ about fifteen years ago. Her spiritual journey with Christ began when a friend asked Hope what she really wanted in life and when Hope responded with “peace,” her friend showed Hope the peace with God made possible by the work of Jesus Christ on the cross - see John 14:27.

    The verse in Scripture that jumped off the page to Hope was found in 1 Corinthians 6:9-11, which reads:

    Or do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor men who practice homosexuality, nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.

    God’s intended design is what is best for each person. God does not withhold what is best. His design for gender and sexuality gives healthy boundaries and relationships that help us know what is best, healthy, and beneficial to human flourishing.

    Because God is relational, we as human beings created in the image of God are designed to be relational as well. We are designed to be in community and to live lives with purpose and meaning beyond what feels best for our own self-interest.

    “You are” messages translate into “I am” concepts in the minds of many young people. Be very careful what you say to others - words have power. Part of parenting is to model what healthy gender and sexuality really are for others to see.

    Fighting back against the lies of this world is really a discipleship issue. Are you discipling your children, grounding them in the Word of God, and building them up to be the men and women that God has created and designed for them to be? Remember that people, even if we disagree with them, are not our enemies. Scripture reminds us that our “battle isn’t against flesh and blood, but against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places” (Ephesians 6:12).

    Hope’s Recommended Resources:

    Homosexuality and the Christian: A Guide for Parents, Pastors, and Friends by Mark Yarhouse

    Talking to Kids about Gender Identity: A Roadmap for Christian Compassion, Civility, and Conviction by Mark Yarhouse

    Feelings are real, but they are not reliable. Also, parents, we need to discuss God’s design for gender and sexuality - if they aren’t hearing the truth from us, they are learning lies from the world.

    Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

  • Guests: Leanne Jamison, Alana Campbell, Whitney Freeman, and Dalton McGaha

    The work and ministry of the Prestonwood Pregnancy Center is vital and as important as ever, even after the overturning of Roe v. Wade by the recent Dobbs decision, saving the lives of the unborn and helping families in crisis is an incredible opportunity to be the hands and feet of Jesus to those who are in need of love and care. But the pregnancy center needs YOU to help - to volunteer, to serve, to ministry, to give. Listen to this moving and powerful powerful podcast featuring some PCA parents just like you as they tell about how they got involved and the difference their time and energies make in the lives of others!

    And then connect with the Prestonwood Pregnancy Center - set up a diaper drive, donate items on their Amazon wish list, volunteer some of your time, and give some of your resources to help continue their incredible work!

    Also remember the Chosen conference is just around the corner on Saturday, April 13th. This conference is a national gathering of life-affirming leaders and organizations providing information, resources, and support about adoption and foster care. Dynamic keynote speakers who have a passion for the sanctity of life and a heart for children in desperate need of a “forever home” include Gregg Matte, Sadie Robertson Huff, Korie Robertson, and Shane & Kasi Pruitt.

    Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

  • Guest: Dr. Leo (Jake) Hebert III, Research Scientist, Institute for Creation Research (ICR)

    April 8th will feature a total eclipse and Dallas, TX is in the path of totality. To learn more about the path of totality and what you need to do to prepare, visit NASA’s site here. You can also pay attention to our friends at Day 4 Astronomy.

    You will need some special glasses to view the eclipse - lots of places are selling them, make sure they are NASA certified.

    The solar system is remarkable for how young it appears and new research continues to support a young universe. Check out the latest articles at ICR that point toward evidence for a young universe.

    To read more about how blue stars point to a young universe, check out this article at ICR. Evolution has a problem with their origin story for the creation of stars.

    Check out Dr. Hebert’s latest article on the ice sheets and how they demonstrate a young earth.

    Check our Dr. Hebert’s article on delayed maturation and extreme longevity in the pre-flood era.

    Check out the ICR Discovery Center for Science and Earth History.

    Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

  • Guest: Dr. Tim Clarey, Director of Research, Institute for Creation Research (ICR)

    What’s new in the world of science - plate tectonics! The movement of the sea floor had a dramatic impact on the impact of the Flood - and the more recent discoveries give more evidence for a worldwide and catastrophic Flood. Dr. John Baumgardner has done some amazing research in this area - you can read more about this here.

    Dr. Clarey’s research shows evidence for a “progressive” and worldwide flood as well as deposits of marine fossils in places where water just shouldn’t be unless there was a worldwide flood.

    To learn more about the fossil record and how scientists use this for dating strata, check out these resources at ICR.

    You’ll want to check out The Discovery Center at ICR - here’s what you can expect there:

    Planetarium showsEngaging exhibits that teach the origin of the universe and how science affirms the BibleAnimatronic creatures, special effects, and a chilly Ice Age theaterFascinating facts about DNA and human ancestry, fossils and rocks, dinosaurs, and astronomyDevelopment and application of critical thinking skills while discovering the latest scientific researchA Bible-based journey through Earth's history, highlighting scientific discoveries along the waySpecial events will include live presentations by scientists and scholarsA resource store full of creation-based science resources and educational kits

    Read more about the latest discoveries related to “feathered dinosaurs” and the Biblical narrative that God created animals according to their kind. Also read more about the six biological evidences for a young earth by ICR.

    Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

  • Guest: Ben Quine, Vice President of Christians Engaged

    Christians Engaged is encouraging and equipping Christians to PRAY, VOTE, and ENGAGE the culture for Christ!

    1 Timothy 2:2 - Paul calls for Christians to pray “for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way.”

    The Primary Election date is Tuesday, March 5th - and Early Voting is from Feb. 20th to March 1st

    The runoff for the primary election will be May 28th

    The General Election is Tuesday, November 5th

    To learn more about the Party Platforms and their positions on important issues of our day, get this Biblical Roadmap to the Party Platforms.

    Mike Johnson’s 7 Core Principles of Conservativism

    Individual Freedom Limited Government The Rule of Law Peace through Strength Fiscal Responsibility Free Markets Human Dignity

    In preparation for Easter, check out this Living Hope Devotional - a 5 week journey into the powerful story of the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ - our “living hope.” The first four weeks of the book will strengthen your heart, soul, and mind by working through a different spiritual discipline each week. Those disciplines will set the table for week five - Holy Week. Cost is $10. Order yours now to get it in time for you to start five weeks before Easter!

    Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

  • Guests: Megan Rogers, Senior Director of Development and Stewardship and Lauren Aulenbach, Director of Annual Funds

    Check out the PCA Alumni podcast called LifeTalk

    The Zig Ziglar Servant Leadership Award Banquet will be held at 6 pm on Sunday, April 21st at The Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, TX

    The attire for the event is “western” - so put on the boots and jeans and come on out!

    This year’s award recipient is John C. Maxwell, known for his Maxwell Leadership training and resources.

    To sponsor a table, visit the Zig Ziglar Servant Leadership website.

    PCA alumni, when you donate, all of the dollars that you give go toward the PCA Alunni Endowment Fund that helps PCA alumni financially afford PCA.

    Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

  • Guests: Coleman Bales (North campus, junior), Trinity Elliot (North campus, senior), Katelyn Teague (Plano campus, senior), and Campbell Panetti (Plano campus, junior)

    Freedom Weekend at Prestonwood is February 2-4, 7 at both the Prestonwood Plano and North campuses. To find out more about Freedom Weekend, MDWK (MidWeek) Bible studies, LifeGroups on Sunday, Lead Team, Beach Camp, Parent Resources, and other ways to connect with Prestonwood as a student or parent, check out www.prestonwoodstudents.org

    Parents, there is also a parent training opportunity on Sunday morning, February 4th at the Plano campus with Lisa Clark in Room A112 at 9:30 am.

    To join in praying for Freedom Weekend text PRAY4FREEDOM to 74788.

    To learn more about the student choir mission trips, check out www.prestonwoodstudentworship.org. Students are able to get involved in additional opportunities like Fall Follies and the Gift of Christmas (GOC) as well.

    Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

  • Guests: Johnny Farr and Nick Bellamy

    As we look to equip you as parents for meaningful and intentional spiritual training, pointing you to good resources and books is a practical way to prepare you to better train your children “in the fear and admonition of the Lord” (Ephesians 6:4). We will also look to address other media avenues, such as movies, to help equip you, the parents, for those quality conversations around the dinner table or on your drive to and from school.

    Our first resource that we are reviewing and strongly recommending is Parenting: 14 Gospel Principles That Can Radically Change Your Family by Paul David Tripp.

    From the book Parenting:

    Introduction

    Good parents don’t always produce good kids, and parents should constantly be asking themselves where they get the set of values that tell them whether they have “good” kids or not.

    Chapter 1 Calling

    Principle: Nothing is more important in your life than being one of God’s tools to form a human soul.

    Chapter 2 Grace

    Here’s the humbling conclusion that God, in grace, led me to: I am more like my children than unlike them - and so are you!

    Chapter 4 Inability

    Parenting is not about exercising power for change in your children. Parenting is about your humble faithfulness in being willing to participate in God’s work of change for the sake of your children.

    Chapter 5 Identity

    Principle: If you are not resting as a parent in your identity in Christ, you will look for identity in your children.

    How do you know if you’re putting your identity on the shoulders of your children?

    Too much focus on success.Too much concern about reputation.Too great a desire for control.Too much emphasis on doing rather than being.Too much temptation to make it personal.

    Chapter 6 Process

    Principle: You must be committed as a parent to long-view parenting because change is a process and not an event.

    Chapter 8 Authority

    Do you humbly own the rebellion of your own heart as you deal with the rebellion of your children in a way that causes you to exercise authority with patience and grace?

    Chapter 9 Foolishness

    Principle: The foolishness inside your children is more dangerous to them than the temptation outside of them. Only God’s grace has the power to rescue fools.

    Chapter 12 Control

    Principle: The goal of parenting is not control of behavior, but rather heart and life change.

    Chapter 14 Mercy

    Principle: No parent gives mercy better than one who is convinced that he desperately needs it himself.

    Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

  • Guests: PCA Alumni Pateel Toranian (‘23), Isabelle Simpson (‘20), and Hunter Hall (‘20)

    What a blessing it was to hear from Pateel Toranian (Class of 2023, currently at the University of Texas - Austin), Isabelle Simpson (Class of 2020, currently at Texas Tech University), and Hunter Hall (Class of 2020, currently at Texas A&M University) - they shared some practical wisdom with our US students at chapel and I was able to catch them before they returned to college to have their share about the impact that PCA has and is making in their lives and spiritual journeys.

    All three of these students had parents who were involved in their spiritual development as well as the other “legs of the stool” - involvement in a good Bible-teaching church and the Christ-centered, Biblical worldview intensive aspects of Prestonwood Christian Academy. The Biblical worldview training that a student receives at PCA is not only foundational for success at PCA and in college, but also for a “successful and prosperous” life as defined by God’s economy (see Joshua 1:8). All three of these students are continuing their spiritual maturity while in college - they are all plugged into a solid church and Christian community and continuing their own personal spiritual growth!

    When we talk about The Portrait of a PCA Graduate, the concepts that are important are a reverence for God, an eternal perspective, humility, a rigorous academic learning process, and high expectations and accountability. Each of these students embody those characteristics of a PCA Graduate!

    How much do you have to hate someone - statement from magician Penn Jillette following a situation where a man shared about the life-transforming power of Jesus Christ.

    The students also shared about the incredible and eternal impact of PCA’s Minimester program - coming up again in March - be praying for our students who will be traveling across the globe to share the love of Jesus!

    Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

  • Guests: Angie Gray, Chief Enrollment and Marketing Officer for PCA, and Emery Petroff, PCA’s Ambassador Board member, Finance and Operations committee

    PCA’s re-enrollment begins on January 15 and concludes on January 31 for existing PCA families. At that time, spots will be open for those looking to enroll their students in PCA for the next school year who are not currently enrolled at PCA. Re-enrollment is a vital component of maintaining the spirit and vibrancy of the PCA community and over the years more than 90% of families at PCA chose to re-enroll their students for the following year, which is a remarkable achievement. Part of the decision-making process for families considering PCA is the tuition and each year that tuition amount is determined by key leadership personnel at PCA and approved by the FiOps committee, and then the entire Ambassador Board at PCA. Dr. Goddard recently sent out an email informing parents of the minimal increase of 2% for the 2024-25 school year and the conversation with Angie Gray and Emery Petroff will hopefully help you understand how this decision was reached. As Dr. Goddard wrote in his email, “We realize and appreciate the sacrifice you [parents/families] make each year to provide your children with a Kingdom education. We are grateful for the privilege of partnering with you to provide a Kingdom education for your student. Together we will continue our mission, establishing students for life and building Faith-Filled Lions.”

    If you have any questions about re-enrollment as a current PCA family or wish to learn more about enrolling your child(ren) at PCA in the future, please contact Angie Gray, Chief Enrollment and Marketing Officer at 972-930-4007 or via email at [email protected]

    Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

  • Guests: Coach Shawn Purcell, Tucker Richardson, Jackson McAdams, Reid Thornberry, and Mason Purcell

    Tucker Richardson is a senior at PCA North and played linebacker and receiver. Tucker earned 1st team All-State honors as a receiver and 2nd team All-State honors as a linebacker.

    Jackson McAdams is a senior at PCA North and played defensive line. Jackson earned 2nd team All-State honors for that position.

    Reid Thornberry is a junior at PCA North and played tight end and defensive line. Reid earned 1st team All-State honors for both positions.

    Mason Purcell is a junior at PCA North and played safety. Mason earned 1st team All-State honors for that position.

    Coach Shawn Purcell has been coaching football at PCA North for four seasons (26 seasons all together) and this championship is Coach Purcell’s first state championship!

    The expectations that Coach Purcell set for his team were taken up by the captains and implemented into all facets of the team. One example was that the team cleaned their buses and locker rooms after they were finished - leaving things better than they found them!

    The 2023 team finished the season with an 11-1 record outsourcing their opponents 668 to 195 over these games. PCA North Lions captured the first team state championship in its history beating Baytown Christian 70-22 for the TAPPS Division III six-man title.

    Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

  • Guest: Karol Ladd

    Known as “the Positive Lady,” Karol Ladd inspires men and women around the world with a message of lasting hope and Biblical truth. Karol is open, honest and real in both her speaking and her writing. Formerly a teacher, Karol is the best-selling author of over 35 books including The Power of a Positive Mom, Positive Leadership Principles for Women and her newest book, Becoming a Woman of the Word

    Wisdom for parents with children in Lower School:

    This can be one of the most difficult times in life - you are stretched thin, tired, and have so many things tugging at you! But at those times when you’re at your weakest, we need to lean into God - when we are weak, He is strong. Remember that you don’t have to “do everything” - look to the Lord for guidance and prudence!Psalm 145:14 - The Lord upholds all who are falling and raises up all who are bowed down.

    Wisdom for parents with children in Middle School:

    Important time for parents to be “present” - offer emotional strength and patience as your child adjusts to all the hormonal changes happening in their bodies. Before reacting, ask the Lord for discernment - to see the heart of your child, not just the outside “prickliness.” Middle School students are not a finished product! Great time to listen to the heart of your child - dinner time conversations!

    Wisdom for parents with children in Upper School:

    Good to guide your children toward activities that help use their God-given giftings. Pay close attention to their “friends” - who is influencing your child? Be hospitable, have those friends in your home to influence them as well. Your children are watching you - model an authentic walk with and love for the Lord!The Gospel Comes with a House Key: Practicing Radically Ordinary Hospitality in Our Post-Christian World by Rosaria Butterfield

    Encouragement for grandparents:

    Psalm 145:4 - One generation shall commend your works to another, and shall declare your mighty acts.Grandparents, now is the time to share that wisdom and experience with the generations coming up! Goal - to do more ministry in your final “lap” than all your years up to this point! Check out Gun Lap: Staying in the Race with Purpose by Robert WohlgemuthLooking for a great place to take your grandkids - check out the Institute for Creation Research (ICR) Discovery Center right here in Dallas!Marco Polo app - a video chat app “that brings you closer to the people who matter most without asking you to compromise on trust”

    Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

  • Guest: Dr. Jeremiah Johnston, Dean of Spiritual Development at PCA and Associate Pastor of Apologetics & Cultural Engagement at Prestonwood Baptist Church

    To learn more about the impact of the Dobbs decision, check out this article from The Ethics and Religious Liberties Commission of the Southern Baptist Commission called “What Christians Should Know About Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization.”

    The Faith Integration Planner is part of the PCA faculty training initiative to train our instructional staff how to integrate their faith and God’s Word into their lessons plans from PreK-12th grade and in every subject and activity!

    Faith training begins in the home. Parents need to lead the way by modeling a vibrant and growing faith setting the example for children to follow. PCA is committed to equipping and empowering parents to live out their dynamic and authentic faith and pass on their legacy of faith from generation to generation! Faith integration is most powerful when all three legs of the proverbial stool - the home, the church, and the school - are working together, creating a synergy of faith and a concert of Christian voices speaking truth and encouragement to students.

    Dr. Johnston has some recommendations for parents:

    Listen to and share The Journey podcast each week - share it with other parents at PCA and with parents who don’t have kids at PCA - they need to be equipped with the truth as well!Get connected and involved with as many things happening at PCA and the life of your students. Middle School parents especially should be looking to connect with their students during the Pride of Brothers and Society of Sisters opportunities. Also, ask your students about chapel topics, what they learned, and how you as a family can integrate those biblical truths into your family!

    Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!

  • Guests: Sherry Smith, Tricia Panetti, and Emery Petrof

    Emery - research from the Mayo Clinic - expressing gratitude is associated with a host of mental and physical benefits - studies have shown that feeling thankful can improve sleep, mood, and immunity in today’s world. Gratitude can decrease depression, anxiety, difficulties with chronic pain and disease. If a pill could do this, everybody would take it! Furthermore, a person can not feel both gratitude and anxiety at the same time.

    Sherry - the most important factor in developing gratitude in my children is modeling it for them to see!

    Tricia - the attitude of gratitude starts with me - we can’t expect others to have something that we don’t. Gratitude starts with being aware of your surroundings - the world doesn’t revolve around you!

    Emery - we start every prayer with gratitude - and just because we can, doesn’t mean that we should. We also look for opportunities to give back to others.

    Sherry - a heart of gratitude is developed through hands that serve.

    Tricia - learning to verbalize gratitude/appreciation/thankfulness is vital for our kids. Time in the car can be a great training opportunity with your kids!

    Looking for an opportunity to serve the Lord and your community, connect with the incredible ministries of GraceBridge and Operation Christmas Child. Also appreciate what God is doing in and through the lives of our PCA students/community through Minimester collections, service opportunities, and evangelistic outreach.

    What Bible verses/stories come to mind when you talk about gratitude with your family?

    1 Thessalonians 5:16 - Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.Proverbs 12:25 - Anxiety in a man’s heart weighs him down, but a good word makes him glad.Philippians 4:6 - Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.

    Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!