Stars Shine Brightest That Are Closest: Taking Advantage of the Opportunity Knocking This Fall

10/24/23 • 23 min

Are you ready to light up your neighborhood with the love of Jesus this fall season? We promise you this episode is the perfect guide to embrace this time of the year as an opportunity to shower God's love and mercy on those around us. From using the occasion of Halloween to exhibit generosity, even if it scares you, to finding creative ways to foster community by welcoming new neighbors with gifts and notes. We delve into the joy of resetting, venturing out, and connecting with the people around us.
As we journey together to make our neighborhoods shine with God's love, we share practical ways of showing mercy, love, and care to those in our path this season. Trick-or-treating with our kids, setting up shop in our driveways, or even having a simple conversation on our porch, every action matters and is a part of building relationships. Most importantly, we highlight the significance of trusting God with the results of our steps of faith. So, join us and be the beacon of light in your community this fall season.
Find the Chili Recipe we talk in this episode on Called to Shine Instagram this week.

SOCIAL MEDIA: @called_toshine Instagram.
Follow us on Instagram and enjoy the community as we spur each other on through inspiration, encouragement, and equipping.
And always you can find resources to help you connect to the people around you at NBS2GO! (nbs2go.com)
— A ministry of NBS2GO: Neighbor Bible Studies to Go and Cru

Previous Episode

Shining Luminously: The Power of The Holy Spirit Within Us

Debbie McGoldrick, our incredible guest, takes us on a journey of luminosity and faith in this inspiring episode. From the moment she opened her bedroom window, at age 9, to invite her neighbors to hear stories about Jesus, to now serving full-time with Cru City and founding NBS2GO, her dedication to shining the light of Christ is truly remarkable.
We explore the concept of luminosity as not just a measure of energy radiated by a star, but as a metaphor for how we can impact the lives of those around us. Debbie reminds us that we don't have to be perfect or put on a show, but instead, allow God's spirit to flow through us as God leads. Join us as we delve into the importance of staying dependent on God, the power of mentoring and connecting with others, and how we can better engage with our neighbors.
Get ready to be inspired and empowered to shine brightly in your own path.
Try Debbie's gluten-free Monster Cookies:
Monster Cookies (not scary but BIG SIZE)
350° 7-8 minutes (time depends on size of cookies)
Mix together:
1⁄2 cup better
1 cup sugar
1 cup & 2 T. brown sugar
3 eggs
2 cups peanut butter (I use chunky)
1⁄4 t. vanilla
3⁄4 t. light corn syrup
4 1⁄2 cups reg. oats
2 t. baking soda
1⁄4 t. salt
1 cup M & M’s (holiday themed)
1 cup Choc. Chips

Cream butter, gradually add sugars
Add eggs, PB, vanilla & corn syrup
Now, enjoy sharing your treats!

Next Episode

Shining Through the Darkness: The Power of Being a Light In Hard Times

Have you experienced one of those dark nights when you can’t see anything around you, but you look up and see one star that sparkles and gives light? It shines brighter surrounded by the darkest night.
During hard seasons, sometimes we need help to navigate the future, a life preserver thrown to us to survive, or maybe a friend to sit with us as we process. And then other times we get to throw the life preserver to others— which might look like a shining star—where you shine the little light of hope you have to those in darkness.
Listen and absorb wisdom as Caroline Schuler, Cru City Staff, shares her personal journey of walking through the unknown in a health challenge. Her story showcases the profound impact of empathy, hope, and the power of the smallest gestures of love from those around us. A kind word, a surprise treat, or a comforting presence speaks volumes-- saying that we are not alone.

You don’t have much capacity right now? Even showing up and giving the gift of your presence is one of the most important parts of being a light in the darkness.

Who is God nudging you to shine toward this season?