Podcast by Lake Point Church
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Insights on the Bible
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Every month, Mark Stephenson from Harmony Toluca Lake sits down with a guest to discuss their journey of faith as a Christian from an inclusive, progressive point of view. Join us in listening to their unique experiences of faith, hope, and love. This is ... Our Story. Our Story: The Podcast is a part of The Harmony Podcast Network. Check out new episodes on the fourth Wednesday of every month
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In this special Short Stories episode of Our Story: The Podcast, Mark Stephenson sits down with Rev. Hannah Adair Bonner to talk about the importance of voting and how it can be a "prayer for the world we want to live in." #harmonytolucalake #harmonypodcastnetwork #HollywoodUMC #allthegood #getoutandvote Our Story: The Podcast is a part of the Harm…
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In this episode, Rev. Hannah Adair Bonner interviews Faith Hudson at Harmony Toluca Lake, and she shares about the adversity and joy that she's experienced in life. An inspiring tale of faith and love, she talks about her history with God and family, and how she found her way to Harmony Toluca Lake. Our Story: The Podcast is a part of the Harmony P…
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In this episode, Pastor Mark Stephenson and Rev. Jefferson Beeker have a brief conversation remembering 9/11 on the 23rd anniversary of the tragedy. Our Story: The Podcast and Short Stories are a part of the Harmony Podcast Network. Learn more about Harmony-Toluca Lake: IG @Harmony_TLC FB @HarmonyTL www.HarmonyTL.org…
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In this episode, Pastor Mark talks with Juan Carrillo about his life and faith journey. From growing up Latin and Catholic, to coming out, to finding his own path to being whole again - Juan takes us on a journey from closeted kid to the fabulous person he is today. Our Story: The Podcast is a part of the Harmony Podcast Network. Learn more about H…
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Short Stories | Mental Health and Wellness
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In this special Short Stories episode, Pastor Mark Stephenson has a conversation with Juan Carrillo about mental health and wellness, harm prevention, and stigma around getting help. Our Story: The Podcast and Short Stories are a part of the Harmony Podcast Network. Learn more about Harmony-Toluca Lake: IG @Harmony_TLC FB @HarmonyTL www.HarmonyTL.o…
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In this episode, Pastor Mark talks with Sandy Lee, an inspiring and multifaceted woman who has had an inspiring life of courage, adversity, and faith. She talks about her childhood in Korea, immigrating here and starting a family, as well as her grandfather, who started the first Christian church in Korea. Our Story: The Podcast is a part of the Ha…
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In this special Short Stories episode, Pastor Mark Stephenson and Rev. Jefferson Beeker discuss the danger of Christian Nationalism in its current and historical forms. Our Story: The Podcast is a part of the Harmony Podcast Network. Learn more about Harmony-Toluca Lake: IG @Harmony_TLC FB @HarmonyTL www.HarmonyTL.org…
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Mark chapter 7 shows an encounter with Jesus and a mother who had a major problem with a demon-possessed child. She begged Jesus for help. His reaction would seem disheartening towards her crisis. But what we learn is that sometimes the Lord will be quiet at our requests just to grow our faith. Pastor Frank Bennett shares 5 marks of a great faith.…
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In this Short Stories special episode, Pastor Mark Stephenson sits down with Donna Miller to talk about the recent trend of hateful anti-trans legislation and the effects of which are seen here and across the world. Our Story the Podcast is a part of the Harmony Podcast Network. Learn more about Harmony-Toluca Lake: IG @Harmony_TLC FB @HarmonyTL ww…
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In this message from our Gospel of Mark series, Pastor Frank Bennett shares the dangers of a divided heart as seen with how King Herod handled the beheading of John the Baptist. The picture of a divided heart is when we stand at the crossroads of who to believe. We are given the opportunity or choice to make that decision. But there's hope in the r…
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Jolley Gosnold: From Theater to Priesthood
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The latest episode of Our Story: The Podcast features a conversation between Pastor Mark and Jolley Gosnold. It covers Jolley's journey from the theater to the priesthood, his experiences with faith, and his work with the Church of England. It delves into the challenges and revelations of his spiritual path, as well as the inclusive and contemplati…
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Short Stories | LGBTQ Issues and the Church
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In this Short Stories episode, Pastor Mark and Jolly Gosnold discuss the Church of England's stance on LGBTQ issues, the challenges of being an inclusive faith community, and their hopes for the future. They also touch on the progress made by the United Methodist Church and the importance of standing with and supporting the LGBTQ community.…
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In this special Short Stories episode of the Our Story podcast, Pastor Mark sits down with Rev. Jefferson Beeker to talk about Patriotism and Faith, specifically how we as Christians can use our faith to keep that balance between pride in our country and an egalitarian view of global politics.
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In this message, we focus on two stories found in Mark chapter five that overlap one another and help teach the same lesson. That lesson is also found in Isaiah chapter 55: His ways are higher than our ways. His thoughts are higher than our thoughts. God can see it all. He understands it all. He wants us to place our full trust in Him, even during …
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This month, Pastor Mark is chatting with Rev Allison Mark about her journey as a pastor. From her pregnancy journey to her struggles with Methodist itineracy, Rev Allison shares about her faith in God's plan. Our Story: The Podcast is a part of the Harmony Podcast Network Learn more about Harmony-Toluca Lake: IG @Harmony_TLC FB @HarmonyTL www.Harmo…
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The General Conference of The United Methodist Church only happens once every four years, so we see a lot of changes after each gathering. To help us understand what the conclusion of the 2024 GC means for the faith community, Rev Allison Mark joins Pastor Mark in this Short Stories.
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After the Parable of the Sower, Jesus goes on to explain how there are three responses that will enable us to produce the amount of fruit that Jesus says is available and that God wants for our lives. Pastor Frank Bennett shares those three responses in this message.By Lake Point Church
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In Mark chapter 4, Jesus begins with the Parable of the Sower. We learn of four types of soils for planting. These soils also represents types of heart conditions for receiving the word of God. Jesus is asking us which heart best describes us. Are you a hard heart, a shallow heart, and crowded heart, or a good heart?…
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What Was Happening to Broadway | Ruth's Story
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This episode features Broadway actress Ruth Williamson and highlights her journey from The Big Apple to the City of Angels. Ruth tells an intricate narrative of her journey of love, career, and rediscovering Jesus. Our Story: The Podcast is a part of the Harmony Podcast Network Learn more about Harmony-Toluca Lake: IG @Harmony_TLC FB @HarmonyTL www…
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In Mark chapter three, we see three groups of people respond to Jesus in different ways. One group thinks Jesus is a liar. Another group thinks Jesus is a lunatic, while another group considers Him to be Lord. Mark is asking us this question...Is Jesus considered to be a liar, a lunatic, or a Lord?By Lake Point Church
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Short Stories | Faith & Collective Bargaining
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How does collective bargaining have anything to do with the Christian faith? In this episode of Short Stories, Pastor Bridie Roberts shares how her work with LA unions is one way she shows God's love to others and explains the importance of this critical social justice tool. Our Story: The Podcast is a part of the Harmony Podcast Network Learn more…
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We look at the teachings of Jesus about binding and loosing. Jesus has given the Church authority to bind things on earth, which will be bound in heaven and to loose things on earth, which will be loosed in heaven. We have authority to walk in victory through the power of the Holy Spirit. Jesus and our sins were bound on earth while on the cross. J…
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Every Good Attorney is a Great Actor | Mark's Story
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This month's surprise guest telling their story is our very own Pastor Mark Stephenson! While he's usually hosting the show, this episode features Mark's story from Texas to California and the many, many hats he's worn as he pursues God's calling in his life. Join guest host Jase Lucas from Sunday Replay in this unique episode of Our Story: The Pod…
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We often think that God rested on the 7th day because He was tired from all His work. it's hard to believe God was tired. He actually rested to take in and observe all His wonderful creation. Our Sabbath should begin with praising God for all He has accomplished over our previous week. We should approach observing our Sabbath not as an obligation (…
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Through the questioning from the Pharisees about fasting, Jesus answers with abstract explanations of the difference between following religion and following Him. Jesus brings celebration, whereas religion brings condemnation. Jesus offers new life, whereas religion offers to just patch up our lives. Jesus brings a bigger life, whereas religion bri…
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We love the Oscars! On this episode of Short Stories, Pastor Mark is chatting with Kenny Dickson of Faithspotting podcast to explore the 2024 Academy Awards, the Christian faith, and where the two meet. Our Story: The Podcast is a part of the Harmony Podcast Network Learn more about Harmony-Toluca Lake: IG @Harmony_TLC FB @HarmonyTL www.HarmonyTL.o…
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In this message from Mark chapter two, we look at the calling of Matthew, who was known as the biggest sinner in the city due to his job of collecting overcharged taxes from the Jewish people. Jesus shows that He can call anyone, no matter the weight of their sin, the scope of their reputation, or the shame that haunts them. Many people like Matthe…
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For the first time in the Gospel of Mark we see the authority of Jesus over sin. In this encounter with the paralyzed man, Jesus sees things the crowd and even the ready may not see. He saw their faith. He saw the man's deepest need. And Jesus saw the cross.By Lake Point Church
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Meet Julia - she grew up the daughter of a preacher ... a female preacher. Julia has spent her life pushing back on religious norms and prioritizing living life in the ways of God. Learn all about this mom, actor, and educator in this month's story. Our Story: The Podcast is a part of the Harmony Podcast Network Learn more about Harmony-Toluca Lake…
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In this message of our Gospel of Mark series, we visit the encounter with Jesus and a man with leprosy. As with our own spiritual leprosy, we need to first come to Jesus just as we are. Jesus will draw near and "touch" us to show we're not alone. And finally, we will experience Jesus take our place in the hurt, the sick, and the shame.…
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The Gospel ministry of Jesus had much purpose. We learn from Mark chapter one His Gospel was powerful as many people were healed and demons cast out. His Gospel was also personal as Jesus displays His personal time with God in prayer. And His Gospel was public. Everyone is looking for Jesus. We need to tell others and don't keep the good news to ou…
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Welcome to lent - the season of ... actually, I'm not sure! In this episode of Short Stories, Pastor Mark is sitting down with HUMC Associate Pastor Bridie Roberts to answer the question, "What is lent?" Our Story: The Podcast is a part of the Harmony Podcast Network Learn more about Harmony-Toluca Lake: IG @Harmony_TLC FB @HarmonyTL www.HarmonyTL.…
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in Mark 1:21-28, Jesus shows us His authority when confronted with a man possessed by a demon. We see many demons in the Gospels make themselves known because of Jesus. For the most part, demons today do not want to make themselves known. They want to be discreet. The work of Satan and his demons are just as much active today. It just looks a littl…
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As we continue in chapter one of the Gospel of Mark, we come across the calling of the disciples to follow Jesus. We see in this passage three elements to the calling of Jesus. It's an urgent call, a personal call, and a transformational call. As believers, we are called to be a part of the Kingdom of God. This kingdom doesn't stop at our conversio…
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We're bringing you a bonus episode! In this Short Stories, Pastor Mark is chatting with our producer Donna about her journey into veganism and how her dietary choices play a role in her outlook on faithful stewardship. Our Story: The Podcast is a part of the Harmony Podcast Network Learn more about Harmony-Toluca Lake: IG @Harmony_TLC FB @HarmonyTL…
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In this second week of our series through the Gospel of Mark, we visit the scene where Jesus was baptized and was then driven out to the wilderness by the Holy Spirit. We all will face seasons of wilderness. We arrive their in one of three ways: decision, disruption, and direction. Our poor decisions can land us in the wilderness. Disruptions in li…
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People Just Resonate with Music | Gattison's Story
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Gattison is a musician, business owner, father, husband, queer person, man of faith, and Worship Leader at Harmony. In this month's story, he shares about his unique experiences and how he believes music impacts all people. People Just Resonate with Music | Gattison's Story is episode 10 of Our Story: The Podcast! Our Story: The Podcast is a part o…
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We begin a new sermon series through the Gospel According to Mark. In this first message, Pastor Frank Bennett shares background information on the author and the book. We then see the ministry of John the Baptist as he paves the way for Jesus by preparing the hearts of the people to receive the message of a new kingdom. Like John calling people ou…
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Kicking off a new year, Pastor Mark is joined by Meditation Ministry Director Jefferson to reflect on the goals and intentions that dominate the month of January for so many peoplele. Our Story: The Podcast is a part of the Harmony Podcast Network Learn more about Harmony-Toluca Lake: IG @Harmony_TLC FB @HarmonyTL www.HarmonyTL.org Jase@HollywoodUM…
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BONUS: Short Stories | Israel & Palestine
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This month, we're bringing you a bonus episode! As war rages in the Middle East, Pastor Mark sits down for a chat with Rev Sandy Olewine, a former UMC liaison to the area, to discuss the conflict in Gaza. We are praying for peace. Our Story: The Podcast is a part of the Harmony Podcast Network Learn more about Harmony-Toluca Lake: IG @Harmony_TLC F…
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Happy Thanksgiving! Merry Christmas! Happy New Year! In this month's Holiday Special, Pastor Mark is joined by Jase Lucas - Harmony's Families & Connections Director - for a chat about Jase's story as a queer Christian and #1 fan of the holiday season. Our Story: The Podcast is a part of the Harmony Podcast Network Learn more about Harmony-Toluca L…
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Welcome to Short Stories - quick chats about how modern events impact our faith from the team that brings you Our Story: The Podcast! In our first episode, Pastor Mark discuses holiday grief with grief and meditation specialist, Rev Jefferson Beeker. Our Story: The Podcast is a part of the Harmony Podcast Network Learn more about Harmony-Toluca Lak…
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In Episode 3, Pastor Mark is joined by Joy Min to share her story of faith. As an educator, wife, mom, and follower of Christ, Joy shares her stories of family and how she found her church community. Learn more about Joy Min in this month's episode of Our Story: The Podcast! Our Story: The Podcast is a part of the Harmony Podcast Network Learn more…
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In this episode, Rev Ed Hansen joins Pastor Mark to share his story. During this illuminating conversation, Rev Ed dives deep into his experiences as a retired gay pastor, and his work with Strength for the Journey ministering to individuals living with HIV and AIDS. You won't want to miss Ed's Story because it's an inspiring part of Our Story. Our…
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He's Got Food & Drinks Covered | Chana's Story
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This month, Pastor Mark is joined by professional comedian Chana Carol. Hear about Chana's upbringing into the Catholic Church, dive in to her husband's battle with COVID, and experience her perspective on Jesus' sense of humor. Our Story: The Podcast is a part of the Harmony Podcast Network Learn more about Harmony-Toluca Lake: IG @Harmony_TLC FB …
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In this stand-alone sermon, Discipleship Pastor Terry Kruger shares an important message from Romans 12:1-2 about our supreme act of worship. True worship is to offer ourselves wholly and continually to the Lord as living sacrifices. From the day of your salvation to when you die and go to heaven we are to offer ourselves wholly and continually wit…
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Kicking off 2024, Pastor Mark is joined this month by Beth Mueller. Beth is a Harmony Families Coordinator, member of the HUMC governance board, worker in the Los Angeles school system, and beacon of God's love for all she encounters. Hear about Beth's journey of acceptance and rejection, trials and celebrations, and love above all else. Our Story:…
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Are you afraid of the dark? It's difficult to have peace when you're scared. The defeater of darkness is light. The Christmas story is about darkness being interrupted by light. In the final message of our Missing Peace series, Pastor Frank Bennett shares lessons from the Christmas narrative on how to deal with the darkness that enters our lives.…
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Have you ever had to wait on something? We all have at some point. Some seasons of waiting are more serious than others. In the Christmas story we read that the people of Israel had to wait hundreds of years for the Messiah to be born. In this message, Pastor Frank Bennett shares that while you're waiting God is working. God's delays are not necess…
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Short Stories | The Significance of Christmas
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Merry Christmas! Happy Holidays! A Savior is Born! In this month's Short Stories, Pastor Mark chats with Jase from the Harmony staff to discuss the history, meaning, and significance of Christmas. Our Story: The Podcast is a part of the Harmony Podcast Network Learn more about Harmony-Toluca Lake: IG @Harmony_TLC FB @HarmonyTL www.HarmonyTL.org Jas…
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