Gone too soon. We celebrate the life and legacy of Reverend Richard Smallwood as part of our ongoing reflection on Black Christian history and the rich tradition of Black Church worship.

While the music and presentation of his award-winning songs are extraordinary, this episode focuses on something even deeper—the lyrics. Richard Smallwood’s compositions are rooted in Scripture, theologically sound, and deeply soul-stirring. His music reflects a profound understanding of God’s Word and a commitment to worship that strengthens faith.

As you listen, you will discover the biblical depth behind the melodies and find renewed strength and comfort in the truth his songs proclaim.

Join us as we honor this world-renowned Gospel composer and explore the spiritual power of music grounded in God’s Word.

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Although Jarena Lee, an African American woman, was born free during a time when slavery defined the nation, her life journey was anything but easy. Her story is a powerful chapter in Black Christian history and offers much to learn from this courageous pioneer of faith.

Recognized as the first woman authorized to preach in the African Methodist Episcopal Church—and later posthumously ordained as an elder—Jarena Lee also became the first African American woman to publish an autobiography. A self-taught scholar and preacher, she faced relentless opposition because of both her race and her gender. Even after convincing church leaders that her call to preach was genuine, her challenges did not cease.

Lee traveled long distances—often on foot—and delivered hundreds of sermons each year. She preached wherever doors opened: churches, homes, schools, courthouses, revivals, camp meetings, prayer gatherings, and even steamships. Her life reflects the cultural struggles of her era and the unwavering conviction that when God calls, obedience must follow.

Join us as we explore the faith, perseverance, and theology of Jarena Lee—an enduring voice in Black Church history whose legacy still speaks today.

“Why can’t we have our own church?” That question stood at the heart of a painful and defining moment in American church history. Reverend Richard Allen and other African American worshippers at St. George’s Methodist Church in Philadelphia were forced to confront discrimination when they were manhandled and ordered to sit in a newly established segregated section during worship. Rather than accept humiliation, they walked out.

From that courageous decision grew a movement that would shape generations. Richard Allen would go on to help found what became the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church, creating a place where Black believers could worship freely, lead boldly, and serve God without discrimination.

Today, many of us worship in churches built on the sacrifices of those who refused to accept injustice. This episode explores the faith, courage, and leadership of Bishop Richard Allen — and challenges us not to take for granted the spiritual freedoms we now enjoy.

Listen, learn, share, and subscribe as we reflect on the legacy of a man whose faith helped build the Black Church.

Sources:
Freedom’s Prophet by Richard Newman
The Life, Experience, and Gospel Labours of the Rt. Rev. Richard Allen by Richard Allen

Have you ever noticed that in a race, everyone is running as hard as they can — yet only those at the front are applauded? In life, it can feel the same way. Effort often goes unseen, and faithfulness can feel unnoticed. But God sees every step.

Scripture reminds us, “Let us not grow weary in well doing, for in due season we shall reap, if we do not give up” (Galatians 6:9). When we follow Jesus and commit ourselves to doing what is right, even when it’s difficult, we can trust that He notices and cares.

This episode encourages us to stay faithful, keep doing good, and rely on Christ to help us focus on the right things instead of the wrong ones. You may not hear applause from the crowd — but heaven is watching, and God promises a reward for those who remain faithful. Join us as we explore this encouraging truth together and find renewed strength to keep going.

There are moments in life when we desperately need to hear from God. Scripture gives us a powerful promise: “Draw near to God and He will draw near to you” (James 4:8). God is not distant or unwilling—He invites us into deeper fellowship with Him.

Drawing near to God requires turning away from the distractions of the world and allowing our love for Him to fill our hearts. As we grow closer to Him, it becomes easier to hear His voice, follow His will, and walk in obedience.

This episode reminds us that true peace is found not in circumstances, but in closeness to God. When we draw near to Him, we discover that He draws near to us—and peace follows.

After the Children of Israel were delivered from slavery in Egypt, God faithfully provided for them in the wilderness by sending manna from heaven each morning (Exodus 16). It was a daily miracle—simple, sufficient, and freely given. Yet over time, they began to complain, growing dissatisfied with God’s provision and even longing to return to slavery for what they believed was better food.

In much the same way, when we accept Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior, God blesses us daily in ways both seen and unseen. Still, like the Israelites, we can become so familiar with His blessings that we overlook them—or worse, complain instead of giving thanks. This episode challenges us to ask an important question: What is the “manna” God is providing in our lives today?

Join us as we learn from the mistakes of the Children of Israel and rediscover the importance of gratitude—recognizing, appreciating, and honoring the blessings God gives us every single day.

Persecution has been part of the Christian faith from the very beginning. In this episode, we examine the persecution faced by believers in the early church and compare it with the suffering many Christians still endure today for following Jesus Christ.

Drawing from 1 Peter 1:6–8, we reflect on Peter’s words to the exiles—believers who were tested by trials yet anchored by a living hope through eternal life in Christ. Though they were grieved by suffering, their faith produced endurance, joy, and unshakable trust in God.

This message reminds us that persecution does not mean God has abandoned His people. Instead, it reveals a faith that is refined, strengthened, and sustained by hope that cannot be taken away. Join us as we explore what it truly means to be persecuted for Jesus’s sake and how believers today can stand firm with confidence in Him.

(Originally aired November 12, 2022.)

The Bible passage found in Mark 4:35–41 tells the powerful story of Jesus calming the storm. Even though Jesus was in the boat with them, His disciples were overcome with fear as the waves threatened their lives. In the same way, we often panic in the storms of life—even when the Lord is right beside us. This episode reminds us that Jesus is always with us, no matter how fierce the storm may be. He is ready to save, ready to speak peace, and ready to make all things right. Our part is to trust Him. Listen as we explore this passage and help you build stronger faith in Jesus, the One who still calms storms today.