Episodes

In this episode of The Pondering God Podcast, Pastor Craig McCourt reflects on Jesus’ simple yet powerful summary of God’s law: Love God. Love Neighbor. With warmth, humor, and plenty of stories—including riding shotgun with chickens and pigs in Houston—Pastor Craig shows how this straightforward command can simplify and strengthen our spiritual walk. You’ll gain three spiritual benefits of a love-focused life and be challenged to carry this truth into every corner of your day. Don’t miss the do...

In today’s episode, Pastor Craig McCourt invites listeners into the rich truth of 1 John 3:1, exploring what it means to be a “Child of God.” Through engaging stories, surprising royal facts, and Scriptural depth, Craig reflects on both the spiritual blessings and the holy expectations of this identity. Whether you're standing tall in faith or dragging your feet in doubt, this episode is a reminder: you are loved, you are called, and you are His. For more information on Peace Lutheran Church, w...

In this flavorful episode, Pastor Craig celebrates National Chocolate and Almonds Day by exploring great combinations—from your snack drawer to your soul. From biblical dynamic duos like Moses & Aaron and Paul & Barnabas to theological truths like repentance & forgiveness and water & the Word, we see how God weaves together powerful partnerships that point us to grace. With a touch of humor and hearty storytelling, this episode reminds us why some combinations are both eternal and essential. (F...

ponderingGod Podcast - Message Monday - Featuring a message from Pastor Craig McCourt. Today's Episode was recorded on June 29, 2025 at Peace Lutheran Church in Arlington, MN The third in a series of God's Outreageous Claims - How to Win the Rat Race, Without Becoming a Rat (For more information on Peace Lutheran Church, where Craig currently serves as Pastor, visit www.peacearlington.org Please share this podcast with a friend , and do us a favor by giving us a rating and review wherever you ...

Show Notes Summary: On this Fourth of July episode, Pastor Craig dives into a timely reflection on freedom—not just political, but spiritual. With stories, Scripture, and even a few fireworks facts, this episode explores the paradox of being both independent from the world and dependent on a gracious God. It’s a celebration of grace, liberty, and the One who gives them both. (For more information on Peace Lutheran Church, where Craig currently serves as Pastor, visit www.peacearlington.org Ple...

In this episode, Pastor Craig humorously imagines a “Grammarly for Theology”—a divine proofreader to catch our doctrinal typos. We explore two spiritual benefits of such a tool: guarding our confession (2 Timothy 4:2–3) and building healthy Christian community (Ephesians 4:15–16). Along the way, we unpack three surprising facts, from ancient word disputes to Luther’s own editorial diligence. Finally, Craig offers a practical exercise: theological proofreading with your Bible and Small Catechism....

In this episode of The Pondering God Podcast, Pastor Craig reflects on the mysterious last transmission of Amelia Earhart and how it mirrors our own spiritual signal strength with God. Through three powerful takeaways—about listening for God’s voice, trusting without a full map, and remembering we are never abandoned—this episode challenges listeners to re-tune their hearts to Scripture and stay connected to the source of all direction and comfort. (For more information on Peace Lutheran Church...

In this episode of The Pondering God Podcast, Pastor Craig McCourt reflects on Genesis 12 and the call of Abram, weaving in lessons from his son Isaiah’s new camper-van birding adventure. We learn three key takeaways: embracing God’s call into the unknown, carrying His blessing outward to others, and pausing to build altars that mark God’s faithfulness. Plus, discover surprising facts about Abram’s journey and practical steps to apply this message in your daily life. (For more information on Pe...

ponderingGod Podcast - Message Monday - Featuring a message from Pastor Craig McCourt. Today's Episode was recorded on June 22, 2025 at Peace Lutheran Church in Arlington, MN The first in a series of God's Outreageous Claims - You Can Even Learn To Forgive Yourself.. (For more information on Peace Lutheran Church, where Craig currently serves as Pastor, visit www.peacearlington.org Please share this podcast with a friend , and do us a favor by giving us a rating and review wherever you listen ...

In this episode of The Pondering God Podcast, Pastor Craig dives into the spiritual depth behind the familiar phrase "Thank God It’s Friday." What begins as a light-hearted cultural catchphrase unfolds into a rich exploration of God’s presence in the ordinary, the finished work of Christ on the cross, and the promise of what’s to come. With warmth, humor, and practical insights, Pastor Craig shares three spiritual takeaways supported by Scripture, surprising facts about Friday, and ways to embra...

In Summary: In this episode, Pastor Craig shares three spiritual lessons we can learn from our feathered friends—birds. From trusting God\'s provision to singing in the dark, to having the courage to soar when God calls, we are invited to reflect on how the songs and flights of birds mirror our walk of faith. With a few surprising bird facts and personal stories, this episode is an encouraging and uplifting look at how creation still tells the story of our Creator. This is one For The Birds! Fo...

In today’s episode titled “The Ancient Mentor,” Pastor Craig McCourt explores key passages from Hebrews 13, emphasizing the importance of mutual love, hospitality, and respecting spiritual guidance as timeless mentor advice. By connecting these ancient words to our everyday lives, Pastor Craig challenges us to seek out mentors, embrace simple living, and extend kindness as a reflection of God’s everlasting care. (For more information on Peace Lutheran Church, where Craig currently serves as Pas...

In this episode of the Pondering God Podcast, Pastor Craig McCourt invites us to marvel at the beauty and intentionality of creation. From the cosmic dance of the stars to the delicate detail of a single leaf, all of creation sings praise to its Creator. With reflections on amateur photography, Scripture, and a special project called Speaks Twice, Pastor Craig encourages us to listen as both creation and the Word speak powerfully—together—to our lives. Listeners are encouraged to visit www.speak...

ponderingGod Podcast - Message Monday - Featuring a message from Pastor Craig McCourt. Today's Episode was recorded on June 15, 2025 at Peace Lutheran Church in Arlington, MN The first in a series of God's Outreageous Claims - There is Freedom in forgiving your enemies. (For more information on Peace Lutheran Church, where Craig currently serves as Pastor, visit www.peacearlington.org Please share this podcast with a friend , and do us a favor by giving us a rating and review wherever you list...

Pastor Craig unpacks the difference between Peter's sermon in Acts 2 and Paul's in Acts 17, showing how the early church adapted its message without altering the truth. As we speak to a culture increasingly unfamiliar with the Bible, this episode provides practical, grace-filled strategies for sharing the Gospel in everyday life—without sounding like you’re from another planet. (For more information on Peace Lutheran Church, where Craig currently serves as Pastor, visit www.peacearlington.org P...

Music and the Word of God have journeyed together through time, shaping culture, faith, and human expression. From ancient scrolls and 78 RPM records to streaming services and digital Bibles, each innovation has changed how we engage with divine truth and melody. In this episode, we explore how recorded music and biblical preservation evolved side by side—both influencing the way people experience worship, devotion, and artistry.

In this episode, Pastor Craig McCourt explores the loss of civility in today's world and how Christians can respond with love, patience, and Christlike conversation. He also addresses the recent tragic shooting of two Minnesota legislators and their spouses, urging listeners to be voices of peace in a divided world. (For more information on Peace Lutheran Church, where Craig currently serves as Pastor, visit www.peacearlington.org. Please share this podcast with a friend, and do us a favor by g...

ponderingGod Podcast - Message Monday - Featuring a message from Pastor Craig McCourt. Today's Episode was recorded on June 1, 2025 at Peace Lutheran Church in Arlington, MN The text for the message was: Revelation 22 (For more information on Peace Lutheran Church, where Craig currently serves as Pastor, visit www.peacearlington.org Please share this podcast with a friend , and do us a favor by giving us a rating and review wherever you listen to this podcast! We would love to hear from you, ...

Celebrate National Movie Night with Christian family films that inspire and uplift! In this episode, Pastor Craig McCourt discusses why faith-based movies matter and highlights four incredible films from iiFilms: Treasure Lies, The Current, Miles Between Us, and the upcoming My 7 Grandmas. Discover how these stories align with Philippians 4:8 and why they’re the perfect choice for your family movie night. Check out the show notes for streaming links! iiFilms For more information on iiFilms visit...

Psalm 8 reminds us of both the vastness of God’s majesty and His intimate care for us. While we often seek to ascend to divinity, God humbles Himself in Christ. In this episode, Pastor Craig reflects on the paradox of humanity’s longing for more and Christ’s willingness to give it all up for us. What does it mean to embrace humility rather than striving for greatness? Let’s ponder together. (For more information on Peace Lutheran Church, where Craig currently serves as Pastor, visit www.peacear...

What does Ice Cream and a Lutheran Catechism have in common. (beyond after you read one, you deserve the other) Let's find out in todays PonderingGod Episode. (For more information on Peace Lutheran Church, where Craig currently serves as Pastor, visit www.peacearlington.org Please share this podcast with a friend , and do us a favor by giving us a rating and review wherever you listen to this podcast! We would love to hear from you, leave us a comment right here. Get your very own ponderingG...

Welcome to another episode of Pondering God Podcast with Pastor Craig McCourt! Pentecost has come and gone—the flames, the rushing winds, even the potluck casseroles—but now it's Tuesday. How do we live as Pentecost People in the ordinary moments of life? (For more information on Peace Lutheran Church, where Craig currently serves as Pastor, visit www.peacearlington.org Please share this podcast with a friend , and do us a favor by giving us a rating and review wherever you listen to this podca...

Pentecost Sunday 2025 - Three Pentecosts. This is a very personal and direct message for the members of Peace Lutheran Church in Arlington, MN - I pray it encourages you as well. Each Monday Morning, we bring you a message hot off the press or from the archives. We pray that these messages will be an extra boost of encouragement to you. For more information on Pastor Craig McCourt and the ministry of Pondering God or to send us a message, visit us at www.ponderinggod.org For more information o...

Jesus didn’t call us to bring people to church—He calls us to bring the church to the people. In this episode, Pastor Craig explores what it means to train believers to go into their neighborhoods, workplaces, and everyday conversations, living out their faith in practical ways. With Scripture, humor, and engaging storytelling, this episode reminds us that discipleship is an action—not just a location. (For more information on Peace Lutheran Church, where Craig currently serves as Pastor, vis...