Parenting City Kids Podcast

Zach Meerkeebs on true masculinity and being a godly father at home

True biblical masculinity doesn't start with being a powerful father; it starts with learning how to be a beloved son. In an era defined by cynicism and the constant pressure to perform, what does it truly mean to lead a family with authentic, Christ-like strength? Today, Danny and Chum sit down with Zach Meerkreebs, pastor in residence at Asbury University, author of Lower, and a catalyst for the 2023 Asbury Outpouring. Zach opens up about his personal journey of finding true masculinity not in cultural stereotypes or outdoor conquests, but in the radical humility and belovedness of Jesus. This conversation dives deep into the "soft parts" of manhood, the danger of performing for our kids, and how to stop finding our identity in how others perceive us. Zach also shares practical wisdom on empowering a strong spouse, implementing a family "Rule of Life" to weather unexpected storms, and adapting ancient Sabbath rhythms to anchor a modern urban family. Key Takeaways * Redefining Masculinity: True biblical masculinity doesn't start with performance or rugged stereotypes; it begins with "belovedness" and sonship. We must find our identity in Jesus before we can effectively lead our families. * The Power of Radical Humility: Humility is not about making yourself small or being passive; it's about choosing yourself less. In marriage, it means having the courage to communicate honestly and consecrating your spouse's unique strengths rather than subduing them. * Making the Gospel "Good": The modern world is no longer just asking if Christianity is true, but if it is good. Parents and churches must cultivate safe environments where the gentleness and kindness of Christ are visibly lived out. * Establishing a Rule of Life: To navigate the urgent, unpredictable moments of life (Kairos), families need a strong foundation in their ordinary routines (Chronos). Establishing a family "scorecard" or rhythm keeps you grounded when crises hit. * Sabbath & Family Discipleship: Zach shares how he integrates his Jewish heritage into his family's weekly rhythm, using a simple Sabbath practice of sharing a meal, reflecting on what to "stop," what to "delight in," and affirming one another. Mentioned in this Episode * Book: Lower: Igniting the Spiritual Awakening Through Radical Humility by Zach Meerkreebs * Scripture References: Psalm 103:13-14, Philippians 2, Philippians 3, Galatians 5 (Fruits of the Spirit) * Concepts: The Asbury Outpouring (2023), Developing a Rule of Life, Chronos (ordinary time) vs. Kairos (appointed/extraordinary time)

Karen Mason on the importance of talking about suicide in church and dispelling the stigma

The ultimate theological answer to suicide isn't about debating where the soul goes, it's about giving them a reason to stay. In this episode, Milene and Paul discuss one of the most challenging topics facing parents today: suicide prevention within the Christian home. Our guest, Dr. Karen Mason, is a Professor of Counseling and Psychology at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary and a former manager of the Office of Suicide Prevention for the state of Colorado. Dr. Mason helps us move past the "spiritual failure" stigma of mental health, reframing suicidal ideation not as a sin, but as a "dark night of the soul" occurring in a broken world. We dive into the practical "red flags" parents should look for, why asking the hard questions doesn't "plant the seed," and how the story of the Philippian jailer in Acts 16 is actually one of the Bible's most powerful examples of suicide prevention. Whether you are currently navigating a crisis or simply want to build a home of "authentic transparency," this episode offers a roadmap of hope and grace. In This Episode, We Discuss: * The "Red Flags": How to distinguish between normal teenage angst and a genuine cry for help, focusing on changes in behavior and big life stressors. * The "Stop, Drop, and Roll" of Mental Health: Why we need to give our children a plan for suicidal thoughts before they happen. * Reframing the Stigma: Shifting our theology from "where does the soul go?" to "why is life a moral good?" and treating mental health with the same "common grace" we apply to physical ailments like diabetes. * The Catholic & Reformed Perspective: How church history and modern theology have shifted toward compassion and "diminished moral responsibility" during depression. * Acts 16 & Suicide Prevention: A beautiful deep dive into the story of Paul and the Philippian jailer, proving that every life—no matter how "scuzzy"—matters to God. * The "Hope Box": A practical tool parents and kids can use to internalize their worth and reasons for living. * Science vs. Faith: Why seeking clinical resources isn't "replacing God," but rather utilizing the tools He has provided through common grace. * The Proverbs 22:6 Struggle: Counseling parents who feel they've done everything "right" yet are still facing this "dark night" with their child. Resources Mentioned: * Dr. Karen Mason’s Training Resources: Patreon.com/KarenMasonPhD * Faculty Bio & Publications: Gordon-Conwell Faculty Page [https://www.gordonconwell.edu/faculty/current/karen-mason/] * Recommended Reading: Preventing Suicide: A Handbook for Pastors and Preaching Hope in Darkness by Dr. Karen Mason. Emergency Support (Australia): If you or someone you know is in immediate danger or needs someone to talk to, please reach out to these 24/7 services: * Lifeline: 13 11 14 * Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800 * Emergency Services: 000 * Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636

Kevin Van Lant on men's mental health and the importance for fathers to express emotional vulnerability to their children

Men are lonelier, more anxious, and more disconnected, and it’s shaping how our children grow up. Kevin Van Lant, Clinical psychologist and Associate Professor of Marriage and Family Therapy at Biola University, unpacks the quiet crisis facing modern men, isolation, mental health, and the father wound. This conversation helps parents recognise when struggle is more than “just a phase,” why dads matter more than ever, and how healing men can reshape families for the better. ⁠www.kevinvanlantphd.com [www.kevinvanlantphd.com ]

Danny Gamadhi on Leading Your Children to Christ at Home

Your children aren’t shaped by what you teach, but by what you model. Parents shape faith long before sermons and programs do. In this deeply pastoral episode, Danny Gamadhi unpacks why children imitate what they see, not what they’re told. From repentance and surrender to everyday modelling, this conversation reframes parenting as discipleship and invites parents to lead with authenticity, grace, and a lived gospel at home.

Zac and Meimei Hodgkinson Discuss Marriage and Raising Children Across Cultures

Intercultural marriage doesn’t just blend cultures, it exposes everything. What happens when love crosses cultures, and parenting brings everything to the surface? In this honest conversation, Zac (Australian) and Mei Mei (Chinese) share what marriage, family expectations, and raising kids revealed about culture, communication, and faith. From in-laws and language barriers to trust, boundaries, and grace, this episode helps couples navigate difference without losing unity.