On the Homestead, we try to be choosy about the media in our lives. One program we feel has been both entertaining and inspirational is New Life Live. (Click here for webcast and audio archives)
New Life is a radio/webcast program on the pattern of Dear Abby, Ann Landers, etc. People call in with the kinds of problems that people have in their lives, asking for advice. What makes this program different is the folks doing the listening, asking the questions, and offering the advice: a rotating team of mental health professionals who practice from an explicitly Christian perspective.
The world suffers no shortage of spiritual lessons, nor people eager to share theirs. Most of the major religions and philosophies generally agree on most of them. The difficulty lies in operationalizing spiritual principles - putting them into practical use in our daily lives. This is where the New Life team so excels.
When we listen to the show, we rarely hear callers calling in with the same kinds of problems that we are wrangling with. But we still learn from New Life's thoughtful way of approaching problems and thinking about solutions. One thing that's particularly helpful is when they help callers role-play interactions with other people. They have a great way of fostering connection, while still addressing the problems or issues that need to be addressed.
Listening to this program has changed the way we approach each other and work together on problems.
I would especially commend this program to anyone who can't see the positive, healing, loving side of Christianity. If you think all Christianity is rigid, judgemental, guilty, shameful, or oppressive, this program might show you a glimpse of the positive, loving, redeeming kind of Christianity to which we on the Homestead aspire.
Give it a listen!
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment