The Word Shared

God is Stranger: A conversation with Krish Kandiah about hospitality and migration

Most Christians’ views on immigration, refugees, and hospitality are being challenged more than ever. Krish Kandiah’s new edition of God is Stranger reveals how scripture calls us to see God's presence in the stranger—and how neglecting this call risks turning faith into a tool of fear. This episode breaks down practical ways to embody biblical hospitality, from welcoming refugees into our homes to challenging the narratives that fuel fear. How can we — as individuals and communities — embody Christ’s love in a world fraught with polarization? This episode reminds us that welcoming others is not just kindness—it’s an act of faith, justice, and obedience to God. Krish Kandiah is founder and director of Sanctuary Foundation, championing refugee and asylum seeker support across the UK. His work challenges believers to reconsider what it truly means to love our neighbour and see God's image in everyone. God Is Stranger: The Surprising Power of Hospitality (Hodder & Stoughton, 2026) https://www.hachette.co.uk/titles/krish-kandiah/god-is-stranger/9781399837774/ [https://www.hachette.co.uk/titles/krish-kandiah/god-is-stranger/9781399837774/]

Immersed in Jesus' life story | Liz Tabish from The Chosen

Liz Tabish’s portrayal of Mary Magdalene in The Chosen offers a profound look at faith, doubt, and redemption. This episode explores how Liz’s personal journey through depression and renewal brings authenticity to her role, resonating with those seeking grace. Why does this matter? Because in a culture obsessed with superficial perfection, Liz’s story reminds us that authenticity, pain, and vulnerability are integral to faith. Her journey encourages us to embrace our flaws, recognize that resurrection is a process, and that divine grace meets us right where we are — no matter how broken we feel. Key Insights: * Authenticity in Ministry: Embrace vulnerability as a strength in your sermons. * Media’s Role in Faith: Use storytelling to deepen spiritual connections. * Women in Scripture: Highlight the equality and complexity of biblical women. * Personal Growth: Encourage congregants to see their struggles as part of a greater story of grace. Tune in for inspiration and practical insights to enrich your ministry, please rate our podcast on your favourite streaming platform and share this episode with your friends. Doing this helps us reach more listeners and support those serving in ministry. For more info: www.lwpt.org.uk

God's presence in the wilderness: Mental health | Rachael Newham

Discover how biblical wilderness journeys mirror our inner struggles and how faith, community, and liturgical practices can provide comfort and resilience in seasons of mental health challenges. KEY TOPICS * Connecting Israel’s wilderness journey to mental health struggles * The significance of lament and honest prayer in faith communities * The role of patience and ongoing presence in pastoral care * How liturgical seasons like Advent and Lent foster healing and honesty * Practical strategies for churches to support members experiencing mental illness * The importance of rest, recovery, and stepping back in seasons of difficulty * Introducing Rachael’s new devotional book: Beloved is Where We Begin (SPCK, 2025) * Beloved is Where We Begin Book [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09XYZ...] - (Link to Rachael’s devotional on Amazon) St Andrew's Books [https://standrewsbooks.co.uk/] * Preach Magazine [https://www.preachweb.org/] * Leaders of Worship & Preachers Trust [https://www.leadersandpreachers.org/] Connect with Preach magazine YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@PreachMagazine] Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/PreachMagazine] Twitter (X) [https://x.com/PreachMagazine]

Wisdom for preachers and church leaders from Proverbs | Kirsten Birkett

In this interview Tanya Stead, editor of Preach magazine, chats with Kirsten Birkett, author of the new Hodder Bible Commentary: Proverbs. Kirsten Birkett's commentary on Proverbs offers a fresh perspective on this timeless book of wisdom. By understanding the literary form, appreciating the interconnectedness of wisdom literature, and applying its principles thoughtfully, readers can unlock the profound insights that Proverbs has to offer. Whether for personal study or leadership guidance, Kirsten's work serves as a valuable resource for anyone seeking to grow in wisdom and understanding. To get yourself a copy: https://www.hachette.co.uk/titles/kir [https://www.hachette.co.uk/titles/kir]... [https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqa0xXclgxejNMVkMwYjBHajNhSDN5WnU3YlJmZ3xBQ3Jtc0trMU44VFZ1bnRmZ3FpU0k2ZkItdmoyVWlNQ0pJYUpCZzdsVEtOQWJxNFdhcE50cDFIV0V5d3ZFeTZWNVk3LS1lTW1Fc2Y4NnBtVnBSYW8wNmlBVktxRkRBMlNlR3I4OERwSXZoY2dIX2VwcGRkRjRfZw&q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.hachette.co.uk%2Ftitles%2Fkirsten-birkett%2Fthe-hodder-bible-commentary-proverbs%2F9781399819350%2F&v=J1iZw-iejlo] To read this interview, and enjoy the other articles, in Preach magazine take out membership today: https://www.preachweb.org/membership [https://www.preachweb.org/membership] To learn more about the Leaders of Worship and Preachers Trust visit: https://lwpt.org.uk/ [https://lwpt.org.uk/]

Finding joy in the face of battles | Tobi Olujinmi

In this episode of The Word Shared, Tanya Stead sits down with Tobi Olujinmi to explore the enduring theme of joy in Christ — especially in seasons of suffering. Drawing on her experience in the TV industry and her love of storytelling, Tobi reflects on how stories shape us, connect us, and even carry us through crisis. Together they talk about the power of Christian community, the importance of vulnerability in the church, and why hope is not naïve optimism but rooted confidence in God. This is a conversation about honesty, endurance, and the deep joy that sustains us when life feels heavy. Tobi reminds us that suffering is real — but it is not final. Spring follows winter. Joy follows sorrow. And the joy of the Lord truly is our strength. Listen in for encouragement, perspective, and a renewed vision of what it means to walk together in hope. To learn more about the book, Light in the Valley of the Shadow of Death from Langham Light in the Valley of the Shadow of Death [https://langhamliterature.org/books/light-in-the-valley-of-the-shadow-of-death] To get a copy of the issue, What is Joy, where Tobi reads from: Issue 31 - Joy — Preach magazine - a resource for preachers and worship leaders, putting world events into a biblical context [https://www.preachweb.org/issues/preachissue29-print-bnzm8-pbhbn-scdfw-fjrpr-2arth] *this episode is sponsored by Langham Publishing