I assert that God meets us in the present, and our chief task is to prepare for the future without surrendering our presence or attempting to control outcomes. I speak from years of pastoral work and from the heart of Stained Glass International about how God often cares more about shaping our character and trust than about revealing a single, sealed future. I explain that planning and wise preparation are proper, but seeking certainty or yielding to the shame of “should” undermines freedom and trust. I argue that discernment happens in the present moment, where God gives the next step rather than a full map. I invite you to submit questions to me, to read more at drraymitsch.substack.com, and to practice faithful, courageous choices while trusting God in whatever follows.

Links referenced in this episode:

• sgi-net.org
• bit.ly/mondayswithmitsch26
• dr.raymitsch.substack.com

The main point is that we should live in faith rather than fear. I say faith does not eliminate fear, but it changes how we relate to God. I explain that faith is trust, not certainty, and that trust grows as we learn the heart of God. I share that my cancer has made my mortality clearer and helped me focus on the present. I recommend Dane Ortlund's Gentle and Lowly for seeing the gentleness of Jesus. I invite listeners to learn more about our work and to partner with us at sgi-net.org. I begin by naming the show and the question I answer. I am Mitsch. I tell the story of a cancer diagnosis and how it made my mortality less theoretical. I describe an image of two gravity loops. One loop is the past with if only and regret. The other loop is the future with what if and anxiety. The small space where they cross is the present. I say the present is the only place trust can happen. I explore a question from Carsten about how to live by faith rather than fear amid new relationships, school, moves, and job searches. I argue that faith does not turn off fear. Fear is a built in response to threat. Faith is not certainty about outcomes. Faith is trust in the heart of God even when tomorrow is unknown. I close by inviting listeners to live more in the present, to read the Where Do You Live series on my Substack, and to send questions to Mondays with Mitch.

Links referenced in this episode:

• bit.ly/mondayswithmitsch26
• dr-raymitsch.substack.com
• sgi-net.org

The central theme of this episode revolves around the profound inquiry posed by a listener, Jen, regarding the process of reconciling oneself with the reality of living a life that diverges from one’s original expectations. Dr. Ray Mitsch articulates his reflections on this notion of "coming to terms," emphasizing that it is not merely a static acceptance but a dynamic and ongoing engagement with one’s circumstances, particularly in the context of his experience with cancer. He elucidates that the essence of living authentically often necessitates a re-examination of one's narrative, suggesting that the act of co-authoring one's life story involves both acknowledging the current reality and resisting the urge to succumb to despair. Throughout the discussion, Dr. Mitsch underscores the significance of presence and gratitude in the face of adversity, positing that true fulfillment is found in the richness of the present moment rather than in the comparison of one's life to an idealized narrative. This episode invites listeners to reflect deeply on their own journeys and the narratives they construct, encouraging an exploration of the complexities inherent in the human experience.

Links referenced in this episode:

• drraymitsch.substack.com
• bit.ly/mondayswithmitsch26
• sgi-net.org

The essence of "Mondays with Mitch" lies in the exploration of profound questions that arise from the human experience, particularly in the context of facing life's challenges, such as illness. Dr. Ray Mitsch, inspired by the inquiries of his students, embarks on a journey of reflection and discourse that delves into the philosophical, spiritual, and existential dimensions of living with cancer. This podcast serves as a platform for listeners to pose their questions, fostering a dialogue that seeks to unearth deeper meanings and insights about life's uncertainties. As we navigate through various topics, including faith and the quest for purpose amidst adversity, we invite you to engage with us, sharing your inquiries and thoughts. Together, we shall traverse the intricate landscape of existence, guided by curiosity and a collective desire to understand what it truly means to live well.

Links of importance:

sgi-net.org

sgi-net.org/resources/mondays-with-mitsch

drraymitsch.substack.com