Gospel Spice | Awaken Delight in God through faith in Jesus Christ

Your Lenten journey from inward reflection to outward light | with Bonnie O’Neil

Stéphanie Rousselle welcomes her friend Bonnie O'Neil, author and spiritual director, to discuss the spiritual significance of Lent through Bonnie’s Christ-centered devotional, "Where the Light of Hope Falls." This new book gives us both theological depth and practical advice for those seeking to engage with Lent meaningfully. The title, "Where the Light of Hope Falls," reflects that our ultimate hope is found in Jesus’ sacrificial love—His crucifixion and resurrection. Throughout Lent, we are invited to place our failures and longings in the light of the cross, finding forgiveness and strength, and emerging to share that hope with those around us. Lent is one of the two penitential seasons in the church calendar, alongside Advent, and is traditionally a time for deep self-examination and realignment with God. Bonnie O'Neil shares that, although she grew up in a tradition that didn’t extensively engage with Lent, her lifelong exposure to global churches deepened her appreciation for its intentionality. Lent offers a set-aside, sacred period—40 days echoing biblical patterns for reflection and preparation, paralleling Jesus’ own time in the wilderness. While anyone could, in theory, embark on a season of introspection at any time, Lent’s communal and historical significance makes it a uniquely powerful time for spiritual renewal. The process of Lent isn’t about guilt or shame but about journeying inward "into the cave"—a metaphor for self-examination. Bonnie O'Neil emphasizes that only by plumbing the depths of our inner lives can we experience true healing and freedom. Importantly, this journey is not taken alone or in harshness. She shares how her approach is shaped by gentleness, beginning with an anchoring in the belovedness we have in Christ. The process starts with focusing on Jesus, remembering that we are utterly loved and safe in God’s presence; only then can we honestly bring ourselves to confession and repentance. A central tool Bonnie O'Neil uses is the historic Prayer of Confession from the Book of Common Prayer. Recited slowly, this prayer walks believers through acknowledging specific failings—not to wallow in them but to bring them into the healing presence of God’s mercy. Bonnie O'Neil recounts how, in a moment of frustration, quietly praying this confession brought unexpected freedom and release, demonstrating how tender acknowledgment before God removes the power of pride and shame. The end goal of this Lenten journey isn’t mere self-improvement. Bonnie O'Neil reminds us, drawing from John 17 and her experiences with Alpha, that true transformation equips us to participate in God’s work of reconciliation and hope in the world. After deep inward work, we are called outward—to reflect Christ’s hope and love to others, contributing to the revitalization of communities and the world at large. Lent is a sacred opportunity for intentional growth, transformation, and hope. Through honest self-examination, gentle confession, and remembrance of God’s abundant mercy, we find freedom—not only for ourselves but for the wider world. This journey, lovingly guided by ancient prayers and the presence of the Holy Spirit, prepares us to walk in the light of Christ’s resurrection—the truest hope of all. MORE ABOUT THE BOOK Purchase the book on Amazon today at https://a.co/d/4r14rHm [https://a.co/d/4r14rHm]  If the Christian life is meant to form us in Christlikeness, then why is transformation so elusive? We yearn to break free from the habits and mindsets that continuously ensnare us and remind us of how far we have to travel in our journey toward Christlikeness. Yet we get locked into the same patterns of control, envy, shame, anger, pride, judgmentalism and more. Can we hope for rescue from these habits that are so contrary to the abundant life of grace and rest Jesus offers us? Incorporating 47 daily Scripture readings and meditations, Where the Light of Hope Falls guides you on a journey inward to discover the roots behind many hidden sin patterns. Beginning by examining Jesus—the one into whose image we seek transformation—and helping us get comfortable with honest confession and repentance, the book then explores twenty-one common sin habits. This daily devotional helps you not only identify these central issues, but also yield to the Holy Spirit’s restorative work within you. From this posture of rest, you will discover that transformation into Christlikeness is never meant for your benefit only, but is meant to awaken you to share the love and grace of Jesus with a world in need. Where the Light of Hope Falls offers you: - 47 hope-filled meditations that guide you on a journey of discovering Jesus more intimately, understanding yourself more fully, and loving others more completely; - 47 Bible passages that anchor the meditations; - A journey into deeper rest that’s perfect for Lent or anytime. Lent offers us six weeks to wrestle with old habits and press into new ways of being as we accompany Jesus to the cross. Everyone who thirsts for more of God is welcome here, whether Lent is a familiar practice or something brand new—and not only during Lent, but whenever you long for deeper freedom. MORE ABOUT BONNIE O’NEIL “Hi there! I’m Bonnie and I’m glad you stopped by. I’m a hope hunter. As long as I can remember, I have sought to find hope in the hard seasons of life. I believe beauty can be found in every life, and that sometimes beauty does its most transformative work in brokenness. My greatest source of hope comes from trusting in my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. My training and work as a spiritual director has shaped me to go deeper below the surface of our emotions to discover root causes of things that block us from experiencing the love of God. Drawing from a deep well of faith, I have learned the restorative grace of giving space for sorrow rather than pushing quickly past it. Whether writing about discovering deeper freedom in Jesus or searching for hope in the darkest valleys of illness, suffering, and broken dreams, my writing reflects life in all its beauty and messiness, convinced that hope glimmers even in the darkest of shadows. I wrote my latest book, Where the Light of Hope Falls, as a Lenten companion for your six-week journey to the cross with Jesus. The book is for everyone who thirsts for more of God—whether Lent is a familiar practice or something brand new, and for any season— not only during Lent, but whenever you long for deeper freedom. A former banker, I’m now the Executive Director of Alpha Mid Atlantic, the local face of a global ministry called Alpha. Alpha offers churches a post-Christian approach to introducing people to Jesus and is run in nearly every denominational stream within the Church. I live with my husband in greater Philadelphia but have also made my home in New York City, greater Boston, Paris, Florida, Connecticut, and London. My happiest times are spent in the company of my three adult children. I’m passionate about helping others encounter the God of love, finding a cure for type 1 diabetes, filling my senses with beauty and wonder, and exploring all things France. Perhaps you too are hunting for hope in the hard places. I’d love to travel with you through whatever life season you’re currently encountering and discover hope and joy together in the journey. Thanks for visiting. I hope you’ll continue hunting for hope with me!” More at https://www.bonnieoneil.com/ [https://www.bonnieoneil.com/]  Support us on Gospel Spice [https://www.gospelspice.com/donate], PayPal [https://www.paypal.com/biz/fund?id=U9CFSXW2XCWCL] and Venmo [https://account.venmo.com/u/gospelspice]!

Healing, holiness, and humility: encountering Jesus in faith (6th lesson from Luke)

In this episode, we explore two interconnected stories from the Gospel of Luke. They invite us to explore Jesus’ character, the meaning behind ancient Jewish practices, and how these stories can ignite our spiritual walk today. Today’s passage invites us to approach Jesus with faith, basking in both His dazzling holiness and His tender, approachable love. God delights in us and calls us to delight in His glory—this is our deepest invitation. In Luke 8 and 9, we read of the healing of a woman suffering from chronic bleeding and the raising of Jairus’ daughter. Both events are crafted to reveal the multifaceted personality of Jesus and new perspectives on faith, purity, and intimacy with God. Jairus, a synagogue leader, pleads for Jesus to heal his dying daughter (who is 12 years old). On the way, a woman who has been bleeding for 12 years reaches out to touch Jesus’ garment, believing it will heal her. While others crowd around Jesus, it’s her act of faith that connects her to his healing power. Jesus calls her “daughter,” affirming her restored status, both physically and spiritually. The parallel is striking: the girl has lived 12 years; the woman has suffered for 12 years. For one, 12 years was a short, cherished life; for the other, it was a long, isolating ordeal. These stories highlight Jesus’ care for both the old and young, the named and unnamed, those seen by society and those forgotten. Stéphanie explains the importance of the tallit—the Jewish prayer shawl—and its tassels (tzitzit). The tassels, with white threads and a single blue thread, served as daily, physical reminders of God’s commandments and presence. The blue thread (“techelet”) is rich with symbolism: representing the sky, sea, and ultimately the heavenly throne room of God. Blue is a visible connection to God’s glory and the promise of intimacy with Him. These tassels would have been the very ones the bleeding woman touched; believing, as some rabbis argued, that only the tassels could be touched without making someone unclean. Yet Jesus breaks all ritual barriers—nothing and no one can defile Him. Luke urges us to see ourselves in the bleeding woman: After years of trying remedies, it is faith in Christ—not faith alone—that truly heals. Her faith is both fearful and courageous, reaching out in desperation and hope. Jesus, “interruptible” like a loving parent, honors her faith, inviting all to experience relationship with Him—a relationship marked by delight in God’s glory, not rule-keeping. Like the disciples at the Transfiguration, we are called not just to witness Jesus’ glory, but to let it transform us in humility and awe. We’re reminded not to seek spiritual pride, but deep, childlike trust and open-hearted worship—the “spice” of the gospel. Support us on Gospel Spice [https://www.gospelspice.com/donate], PayPal [https://www.paypal.com/biz/fund?id=U9CFSXW2XCWCL] and Venmo [https://account.venmo.com/u/gospelspice]!

Hope and Healing After Human Trafficking: Real Stories, Real Freedom | with Kathrine Lee

Stéphanie welcomes Kathrine Lee to discuss, through the film "Still Hope," the harsh realities of human trafficking, the hope that is possible beyond it, and the life-changing freedom that comes from knowing Christ. Hope, identity, and healing are possible, no matter the darkness. Forgiveness is a courageous, ongoing act that transforms not only survivors of trafficking but anyone struggling with pain. By embracing story, community, and action, each of us can help bring healing and God’s light into the darkest places—starting with ourselves. Our brains remember narratives far more vividly than mere facts. The movie “Still Hope” stands apart from other films on human trafficking by showcasing not only the darkness but also the healing journey that survivors undertake. The film’s narrative is survivor-informed—real experiences, heartbreak, and ultimately, hope are at its core. This careful storytelling invites viewers not just to witness, but to empathize and reflect on their own lives. A central theme in both the movie and Kathrine Lee’s work is the biblical truth that one’s true identity cannot be stolen—even by the evil of trafficking. The movie’s protagonist, Hope, has her name changed by her trafficker. Yet, she emerges, still Hope. Kathrine Lee shares a moving insight from a survivor: “They can take so much from me, but they cannot take my name.” This empowers survivors to remember who they are as beloved children of God, with purpose and the possibility of transformation. Healing from trauma, especially such profound exploitation, is a long-term process. Pure Hope Foundation practices a trauma-informed approach, honoring each survivor’s choices and pace. Some survivors advised on the film, lending authenticity to its scenes, while others prefer not to revisit those memories at all—a choice fully respected by Kathrine Lee and her team. Forgiveness is the critical theme. The journey is neither easy nor immediate. Forgiving doesn’t mean forgetting, nor does it diminish the need for justice. Instead, it’s about releasing the hold of pain and reclaiming freedom and light. As Kathrine Lee teaches, "Forgiveness equals freedom,” and is a process of aligning our lived reality with the truth of who God says we are. Trafficking injures people through an evil community, and it is in healthy, supportive community that true healing takes place. Pure Hope Foundation offers a space where survivors develop life skills, work experience, and a sense of belonging. The film also shows how healing encompasses the families of survivors, teaching everyone about boundaries, safe relationships, and grace. Awareness is not enough. Action is required—whether through supporting films like "Still Hope," volunteering, donating, or simply living out love and advocacy in everyday life. Worship and prayer also play an essential role, as these spiritual disciplines open our hearts to both healing and purpose. Let’s take our place and bring hope to a hurting world. Three Important Questions to ponder after this conversation: ·         How did the narrative form of "Still Hope" shift your understanding of human trafficking? ·         In what ways do you resonate with the theme of identity that cannot be taken from you? ·         Where in your life might forgiveness—of yourself or others—bring greater freedom? MORE ABOUT THE MOVIE “STILL HOPE” Hope, a teenager from a tight-knit community, finds herself in danger when the person she believes to be a new friend proves unsafe. Taken from all she knows, Hope is forced into sex trafficking and stripped of her identity. After finding freedom from her captors, Hope discovers that survival is only the first step. Inspired by true stories, Hope’s journey is a powerful illustration of the courage it takes to walk the complex path of recovery. “Unlike other films, this story isn’t just about the rescue piece but also about redemption, resilience and walking alongside survivors on their journey to healing,” said Kathrine Lee, co-founder and CEO of Pure Hope Foundation. Pure Hope is a nonprofit organization mobilizing action against the sex trafficking industry and played a pivotal role in the real-life stories behind the film. “It highlights the bravery of women and men who have endured sex trafficking and the courageous work of recovery. That’s why this film is so important.” Showcasing the aid of individuals and organizations who stand shoulder to shoulder with these warriors, viewers of Still Hope will be encouraged to join arms with advocates in the fight against trafficking. “Your voice and your support matters,” said Natalie Grant, cofounder of Hope for Justice, nine-time GRAMMY® nominee and supporter of Still Hope. “I want to encourage viewers to join this important and courageous work of healing—not just for each individual impacted by sex trafficking but for the dedicated advocates guiding those who are ready to receive support.” More at https://stillhopemovie.com/ [https://stillhopemovie.com/]  MORE ABOUT PURE HOPE FOUNDATION WITH KATHRINE LEE Kathrine Lee is the co-founder of Pure Hope Foundation, a second-stage program that restores survivors and aids in ending the demand for sex trafficking. They offer stabilized survivors continued healing, personal development, extended educational support and vocational skills to help them acquire skills that will allow for healthy, independent lives. The activities in Hope Home include trauma-informed restoration programming. Examples of programming include multidisciplinary therapies, nutritional education, GED pursuit, College Prep, educational assistance, financial literacy/education, Bible study and application, etc. More at https://purehopefoundation.com/ [https://purehopefoundation.com/]  Support us on Gospel Spice [https://www.gospelspice.com/donate], PayPal [https://www.paypal.com/biz/fund?id=U9CFSXW2XCWCL] and Venmo [https://account.venmo.com/u/gospelspice]!

Inviting Jesus to fulfill our deepest longings (5th lesson from Luke)

This episode offers Part 2 of our exploration of the gospel of Luke through the lens of the question that John the Baptist asked Jesus in Luke 7:19: “Are you the one, or should we look for someone else?” (Make sure to have listened to Episode 427 before tuning in to this one). Today, we’re asking this question of ourselves, our own lives, and our own hearts: Is Jesus truly the One our hearts desire? This begs a second question: if, as Christians, we’ve answered yes, then does our life reflect our stated priority? So, we examine the evidence of Jesus’ identity through: ·         Scripture: A thorough study of Luke’s firsthand accounts and prophecies. ·         Lives of Others: Observing faith’s impact in people around us. ·         Personal Reflection: Identifying if we’re filling the “God-shaped hole” with substitutes. ·         Asking God Directly: Inviting honest, personal encounter. Luke’s narrative highlights three responses to Jesus, which inform our own possible response: ·         Unbelief (Nazareth): Viewing Jesus as a lunatic. ·         Rejection (Pharisees): Accusing Jesus of deception—a liar. ·         Faith (The woman who anoints Jesus): Trusting Jesus as Lord. So, which will it be for you and me? The choice is ours – for salvation, but also throughout our lives. We get to choose to follow Jesus every single day. Through Luke, we are issued a challenge: Seek Jesus, not just as a distant historical figure, but as the One who knows us fully and loves us perfectly. The journey is ongoing—keep pursuing deeper relationship, letting Him fill what only He can. Reflection: Who is Jesus to you? Lunatic, liar, or Lord? The answer shapes your identity, faith, and future. The invitation is to make Him your One—day after day, every day. We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with. Go to gospelspice.com [http://%20gospelspice.com%20]for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast [http://gospelspice.com/podcast] to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog [http://gospelspice.com/blog] Identity in the battle | Ephesians https://www.podcastics.com/episode/372022/link/ [https://www.podcastics.com/episode/372022/link/] Malachi: Messenger to Messiah https://www.podcastics.com/episode/356130/link/ [https://www.podcastics.com/episode/356130/link/] Wisdom from the Book of Proverbs https://www.podcastics.com/episode/324347/link/ [https://www.podcastics.com/episode/324347/link/] Come to the Table | The Feasts Jesus celebrated https://www.podcastics.com/episode/309956/link/ [https://www.podcastics.com/episode/309956/link/] Support us on Gospel Spice [https://www.gospelspice.com/donate], PayPal [https://www.paypal.com/biz/fund?id=U9CFSXW2XCWCL] and Venmo [https://account.venmo.com/u/gospelspice]!

Jesus, are You the One? (4th lesson from Luke)

This episode dives deep into the Gospel of Luke, specifically chapters 4 and 5, focusing on one essential life question: Is Jesus the One? A.W. Tozer said, “What comes into our minds when we think about God is the most important thing about us.” With this anchor, let’s focus on John the Baptist’s question to Jesus in Luke 7:19: “Are you the one, or should we look for someone else?” Stéphanie walks through key passages in the gospel of Luke. Luke paints a vivid portrait of Jesus through six defining attributes: 1.      Human: Jesus was fully human, experiencing temptation, rejection, and emotions. His empathy is real and relatable, especially in moments of loneliness and rejection, as seen in Nazareth. 2.      God: Jesus claims to be God Himself, most notably when forgiving sins and performing miracles that only God could do. 3.      Lord (Master): Peter’s humble obedience to Jesus’ authority—even against his own experience as a fisherman—role-models for us what it means to submit to Christ as Master. 4.      Messiah (Anointed One): Jesus fulfills Messianic prophecy, notably reading Isaiah 61 in Nazareth, and performing miracles reserved for the Messiah such as healing lepers. 5.      Healer: Luke, the physician, documents numerous healings, illustrating that Jesus brings hope, restoration, and wholeness in physical and spiritual ways. 6.      Groom: Through parables and encounters, Jesus positions himself as the bridegroom, inviting us into intimate, joyful relationship—the ultimate spiritual union. Through Luke, we are issued a challenge: Seek Jesus, not just as a distant historical figure, but as the One who knows us fully and loves us perfectly. ----------- DID YOU KNOW? The Gospel Spice Podcast is part of a larger range of tools brought to you by Gospel Spice Ministries.  Would you consider supporting this show today? It comes to you completely free, but is labor-intensive to produce. For the price of a cup of coffee or two, your monthly support of $5 or $10 would make a huge difference! Contact us to donate by Credit Card [https://www.paypal.com/donate/?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=U9CFSXW2XCWCL], or donate via PayPal [https://www.paypal.com/donate/?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=U9CFSXW2XCWCL]. The Gospel Spice Ministries exist to inspire Christ-followers in our generation to delight in the glory of God by knowing and experiencing Jesus more intimately. We provide resources to empower Christian leaders across generational, social, ethnic and geographical boundaries towards more intimacy with Jesus Christ and discipleship effectiveness through a Biblical Christocentric foundation. The Gospel-Spice Ministries provide a safe environment for spiritual and community growth empowering people to know Christ more intimately, serve one another more powerfully, and reach the world for Jesus. Gospel Spice Ministries is a non-profit organization registered under the tax-exempt 501c3 status. Your donations are tax-deductible under IRS Section 170. We want to be the best possible stewards of your financial support. Contact us to donate by Credit Card [https://www.paypal.com/donate/?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=U9CFSXW2XCWCL], or donate via PayPal [https://www.paypal.com/donate/?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=U9CFSXW2XCWCL]. We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with. Go to gospelspice.com [http://%20gospelspice.com%20]for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast [http://gospelspice.com/podcast] to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog [http://gospelspice.com/blog] Identity in the battle | Ephesians https://www.podcastics.com/episode/372022/link/ [https://www.podcastics.com/episode/372022/link/] Malachi: Messenger to Messiah https://www.podcastics.com/episode/356130/link/ [https://www.podcastics.com/episode/356130/link/] Wisdom from the Book of Proverbs https://www.podcastics.com/episode/324347/link/ [https://www.podcastics.com/episode/324347/link/] Come to the Table | The Feasts Jesus celebrated https://www.podcastics.com/episode/309956/link/ [https://www.podcastics.com/episode/309956/link/] Bonjour! Gospel Spice exists to inspire our generation to delight in God. We do this through the podcast, online Bible studies, leadership trainings, and more. We want to serve Christ-followers who seek to live a life spiced with the gospel. We want to love God, because He first loved us. We want to experience the fullness of life with Him—and not be content with stale, boring, leftover faith. Jesus tells us that the most important thing is to love the Lord our God, so we take Him seriously. He adds that we are to love our neighbor as ourselves. Now, there are many ways to do that, but I have always personally felt deep compassion for victims of human trafficking – it is modern day slavery, and it revolts the heart of God. And so, they are our particular neighbors here at Gospel Spice. We want to play our part in raising awareness and then financially supporting those who fight this great evil.   Now we would love to invite you to join the team in one of three ways: 1, pray Gospel Spice forward – pray for our guests, our listeners and participants, and for us too! 2, play Gospel Spice forward by telling your friends about us, and by please leaving positive reviews and comments on your podcast listening app; and 3rd, PAY GospelSpice forward. Less than 1% of our listeners are supporting us financially. We need your help! Please pay Gospel Spice forward today. It can be a one-time donation, or a monthly one, for the amount of your choice. Your donation is fully tax-deductible in the US. Plus, once we cover our costs, a significant portion of your donation will be given back to Christian organizations that fight human trafficking, and that we vet thoroughly. So, you can know that every dime you give is used for the Kingdom of God. Every little bit helps. So, be part of the spice of the gospel by becoming a financial partner today! Support us on Gospel Spice [https://www.gospelspice.com/donate], PayPal [https://www.paypal.com/biz/fund?id=U9CFSXW2XCWCL] and Venmo [https://account.venmo.com/u/gospelspice]!