Episodes

The Great Restoration from May 18, 2025 - Rev. 21:1-7 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 on Peace Lutheran Church, where Craig currently serves as Pastor, visit www.peacearlington.org Please share this podcast with a f...

This episode explores the significance of National Road Trip Day, reflecting on three major road trips in Scripture—Abraham’s call, Israel’s Exodus, and the Emmaus Road encounter. Through humor, illustrations, and biblical insight, Pastor Craig invites listeners to ponder their own journey with God this summer. Practical steps and encouragement help listeners apply these truths in daily life. For more information on Pastor Craig McCourt and the ministry of Pondering God or to send us a message, ...

In this episode of Pondering God , Pastor Craig McCourt explores the significance of Christ’s Ascension in Acts 1. Why did Jesus go up, and what does it mean for us today? We look at the sending of the Holy Spirit, the promise of Christ’s return, and the power we have to live boldly for him. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion that invites reflection and action in our daily faith walk. For more information on Pastor Craig McCourt and the ministry of Pondering God or to send us a message, ...

In this episode, Pastor Craig McCourt explores the biblical meaning of contentment from Philippians 4:11-13. Through storytelling, humor, and Scripture, we uncover Paul’s secret to peace, even in difficult circumstances. We’ll discuss why contentment matters, the dangers of comparison, and practical steps to grow in gratitude. 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 on Peace Luth...

In this episode of Pondering God , Pastor Craig McCourt dives into the significance of the Nicene Creed and why it still shapes our faith nearly 1,700 years after its creation. From the heated debates of the Council of Nicaea to the lasting truth that Jesus is fully God, this creed serves as an anchor against cultural shifts and theological confusion. Why does this matter in your daily life? Pastor Craig explores the big “So What?” and challenges listeners to ponder, embrace, and live out the tr...

Classic Message fomr 2015 - Mark 4:1-20 - The Power of the Seed. 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 on Peace Lutheran Church, where Craig currently serves as Pastor, visit www.peacearlington.org Please share this podca...

In this episode of Pondering God , Pastor Craig McCourt humorously reflects on how we survived before cell phones and how dependent we've become on them. But unlike our phones, our connection with God is never interrupted, never out of range, and never dies. Join us as we explore Bible verses that remind us how blessed we are to be fully connected to Christ. 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 Fo...

In this episode of Pondering God Podcast, Pastor Craig McCourt dives into Hebrews 3:13, exploring the importance of daily encouragement. Through engaging stories, practical wisdom, and quotes from Max Lucado and Billy Graham, listeners are challenged to reflect on how God encourages them and how they, in turn, can uplift others. With a list of 15 simple, no-cost ways to encourage others, this episode offers actionable steps to make the world a more encouraging place. Tune in and start spreading ...

In today’s episode of Pondering God , Pastor Craig McCourt explores how faith speaks into mental health struggles. From Elijah’s exhaustion to Jesus’ invitation to rest, we unpack practical ways to trade anxiety for God’s peace. We also tackle an important distinction—depression is not a lack of faith, and believers can faithfully seek support. Listen in for engaging stories, biblical truth, and a Big So What Question that challenges you to release your burdens to God. For more information on th...

On National Velcro Day , Pastor Craig McCourt explores how Velcro’s invention—officially trademarked on May 13, 1958—connects to Jesus’ teaching in John 15 . Using Velcro’s gripping hooks as an illustration (and a little humor), this episode encourages listeners to stay fastened to Christ through daily faith, prayer, and fellowship. With engaging storytelling and practical application, listeners are invited to ponder their connection to Jesus and discover creative witnessing opportunities using ...

In this episode, Pastor Craig McCourt explores Psalm 23 and the incredible care of the Good Shepherd. Join us as we ponder what it means to be a sheep under His care, and discover practical ways to trust the Shepherd in everyday moments. 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 on Peace Lutheran Church, where Craig currently serves as Pastor, visit www.peacearlington.org Please sh...

In this episode of the Pondering God Podcast , Pastor Craig McCourt dives into Colossians 1:15-23 to explore the life-changing truth that Christ is truly enough. Through engaging storytelling, relatable illustrations, and Scriptural insights, he unpacks why the sufficiency of Jesus matters in our daily lives. Feeling overwhelmed by the pressure to do more, be more, or measure up? This episode offers hope, reminding us that in Christ, we lack nothing. Listen in as Pastor Craig challenges us to po...

Do you have a "little Jesus" - They seem to be everywhere. But is it true that we all need a little Jesus? 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 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! Get your ve...

I know sometimes Sunday morning can look like a three-ring circus as you get ready for Worship with your children, but let's look at why it is so important. 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 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 revie...

As Lutherans We understand Law and Gospel, some say we are too heavy on the Gospel - well NOT TODAY! It's National Law Day! 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 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 pod...

If you want to sing along with our new Musical Hit "Pondering God" here are the Lyrics... (To create your own song CLICK HERE Hey, Gather round friends it's time to share With stories of faith, laughter in the air From the tales of Moses to the fisherman crew every story of faith is connected to you Pondering God with our friend Pastor Craig With laughter and insight to brighten your day. So grab your headphones lets take a seat in the stories of old there is a lesson sweet from David and Golia...

Sometimes in life we just don't ask ourselves the right question. Lets take a little pressure off, and just sit back in God's presence... more on that in today's PonderingGod Podcast. 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 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...

Today's Message is titled is "5 smooth stones" Today's Text is 1 Samuel 17 - The story of David and Goliath and other select verses. This message is from the Funeral of a young man in my congregation Parker, whose life was full of ups and downs, He had lived a hard life, but with the help of his family and the Lord he was putting all the pieces of his life back together when tragedy struck. Each Monday Morning, we bring you a message hot off the press or from the archives. We pray that these mes...

A lot can happen in five days... 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 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! To support the ministry of PonderinGod and help cover our online and production costs...

May you be strengthened, uplifted, and renewed as you wait on the Lord—just like the eagle. 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 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! To support the ministry of...

Whether you bake Cherry Cheesecake yourself, buy it from a local bakery, or steal a bite from a friend’s plate, remember: Cheesecake is a reminder of God’s goodness. Sharing dessert builds community. Celebrating joyfully honors our Creator. And someday, we’ll feast with Him forever! 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 on Peace Lutheran Church, where Craig currently serves as ...

“3 Completely Valid Reasons to Skip Church (Just Kidding, You Should Definitely Go)” Your turn: What’s one excuse you’ve used for skipping church, and what’s a reason you’re glad you went instead? Let’s start the conversation! 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 on Peace Lutheran Church, where Craig currently serves as Pastor, visit www.peacearlington.org Please share this po...

CHRIST IS RISEN!!!!! He Has Risen Indeed!!!!! Alleluiah!!!!! This morning I will share with you a reading I reflect on each Easter by Leslie Brandt's book Christ In Your Life, entitled "IF I Really Believed! 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 on Peace Lutheran Church, where Craig currently serves as Pastor, visit www.peacearlington.org Please share this podcast with a friend...

Today is Holy Saturday. I can think of no story, outside of the accounts of the death and resurrection of Christ found in the Gospels, that relays the story of Christs mission, death, and resurrection like The Ragman. Today you are in for a treat as you listen to the telling of the story of the Ragman from the Author Rev. Walter Wangerin Jr. 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 informatio...