The “Between Heaven and Earth” podcast with Justin and Amy Howard examines church leadership and challenges the modern expectation that pastors do everything. They introduce spiritual formation practices and Encounter Life cohorts that help believers grow in their relationship with God.

The episode reframes “pastor” as a function within the fivefold ministry rather than a title, advocating for shared leadership among elders and deacons. It addresses burnout caused by unrealistic demands and calls the church to move from consumerism to active discipleship, equipping all believers to participate in God’s kingdom work. Highlights 🌟 Modern pastoral expectations are unrealistic and contribute to burnout. 📖 Pastor is a function within the fivefold ministry, not a title. 🤝 Healthy leadership involves shared responsibility among elders and deacons. 💔 Emotional dependency on pastors fuels burnout and unhealthy dynamics. 🛠️ Encounter Culture Mission Collaborative offers cohorts for spiritual growth and renewal.

Micro Churches & Missional Communities

The Tampa Underground

The Kansas City Underground

The Underground Network

Book Resource

The Starfish and the Spirit

Five-Fold Ministry (Ephesians 4)

5Q | Alan Hirsch

The Immanent Frame

Lectio Divina “Sacred Reading"

• ✨ Advent is a season of dual preparation: celebrating Christ’s birth and anticipating His second coming.
• 📖 The devotional uses a fourfold Scripture reading method: acquaintance, friendship, intimacy, and union.
• 🎶 Original music by Jared Deem enriches the prayer experience.
• 📝 Journaling is encouraged to process distractions and deepen reflection.
• 💖 Emotions, doubts, and physical sensations are welcomed as part of spiritual engagement.
• 🙏 The practice invites participants to invite the Holy Spirit’s healing and transformation.
• 🌿 The series aims to cultivate a tangible experience of God’s presence amidst the holiday busyness.

The Immanent Frame

Lectio Divina “Sacred Reading"

• 🎄 Advent is a season of dual preparation: celebrating Jesus’ first coming and anticipating His second advent.
• 📖 The practice of Lectio Divina is used to engage Scripture deeply through repeated readings and prayerful reflection.
• ✍️ Listeners are encouraged to journal their thoughts, emotions, and insights during the prayer time.
• 🎵 Original music accompanies the series, enhancing the contemplative atmosphere.
• 💖 Emphasis on welcoming all emotions—both pleasant and uncomfortable—without judgment during the spiritual encounter.
• 🙏 The featured Scripture passage is Mary’s Magnificat (Luke 1:46-55), a hymn celebrating God’s mercy, justice, and faithfulness.
• 🌿 The prayer concludes with blessings for ongoing spiritual growth, healing, and peace throughout the Advent season.