Welcome to Season 3 of the With Him Podcast!
As we step into the New Year of 2026, Raz and I kick off the season with a simple but profound theme: learning how to be present with Abba.

This episode isn’t about hustle, goals, or religious performance—it’s about relationship. We explore the Father’s heart to be with His kids and what it might look like to intentionally choose His presence in the year ahead.

The Word for 2026: Presence
What if this year wasn’t about doing more for God—but about being more with Him?

We talk about how human parents experience deep joy when their adult children choose to spend time with them—not out of obligation, but desire. That same joy, we believe, reflects the heart of God the Father. Abba delights when His kids want to be with Him.

Abba’s Love Language?
Building on insights from The 5 Love Languages, we play with a compelling idea:
What if God the Father’s primary love language is quality time?

If that’s true, then our presence—our attention, our availability—might be one of the greatest gifts we can give Him.

A Question for the New Year
We pose a reflective, prayerful question for listeners:
If Abba’s love language was quality time, what would you do differently this year?
Would you linger longer in prayer?
Create unhurried space in your day?
Choose presence over productivity?

Resources Mentioned in This Episode
If this theme stirs something in you, here are a few thoughtful resources we referenced:

God’s Relational Presence — J. Scott Duvall & J. Daniel Hayes
https://www.amazon.com/dp/0801049598

The Mission of God (2nd Edition) — Christopher J. H. Wright
https://www.amazon.com/dp/1514000040

The 5 Love Languages — Gary Chapman
https://www.amazon.com/dp/080241270X

Each of these helps frame a vision of God not as distant or demanding, but as a relational Father who desires closeness with His children.

An Invitation
As Season 3 begins, we invite you to consider this New Year not as a reset of striving—but as an invitation to presence.
Choose to be with Him.
Let your life flow from relationship.
Discover the joy of simply showing up with Abba.
We’re so glad you’re on this journey with us.

Subscribe to the "With Him" Podcast email list
Get new episodes, bonus content, and more:
https://mailchi.mp/mariemontchurch/sub-to-with-him-podcast

Explore past episodes and resources
https://www.mariemontchurch.org/with-him-podcast

Resources & Contact Info

Email Raz & Jamie: razwithhim@gmail.com

Their church: Mariemont Church (Cincinnati, OH)
https://www.mariemontchurch.org

Jamie’s website & writing:
https://www.jamiemoore.org

Jamie’s book, Friendship with God
https://www.amazon.com/dp/1736292609

In this second conversation, Jason Scott shares the heart and mission behind Activation Ministries, the ministry he and his wife Kristin launched to awaken hearts and ignite the Body of Christ. Their passion is simple and biblical: equip everyday believers to hear God’s voice, step into their identity, and join Jesus in His Kingdom work.

Jason describes himself as a “player-coach”—someone who doesn’t just teach from the sidelines but equips people and then steps onto the field with them to minister side-by-side.

We talk through the practical skills they teach, including how to hear God’s voice, how to give a prophetic word with love and clarity, and how to pray for healing in a naturally supernatural way.

This past summer, Activation partnered with City Church OTR for a missional outreach initiative. Each weekend they trained believers, then went out in small groups to hand out popsicles—affectionately called “godsicles.” This simple act opened doors for SALT conversations:
Start a conversation. Ask questions. Listen. Take action.

Through these steps of faith, they saw Jesus move—people encouraged, prayed for, deeply listened to… and even physically healed, including a man walking away from crutches.

If you’re hungry to learn how to recognize God’s voice, love people with boldness, and grow in Kingdom confidence, this episode will stir your heart.

To learn more about what Jason and Kristin are doing—and to consider partnering with or supporting their ministry—visit:

Activation Ministries
https://www.activationministries.org

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/activation_ministries

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/activationministries

Their ministry is catalytic, practical, and deeply needed in the Church today. Go check them out and consider praying, giving, or getting equipped.

Subscribe to the "With Him" Podcast email list
Get new episodes, bonus content, and more:
https://mailchi.mp/mariemontchurch/sub-to-with-him-podcast

Explore past episodes and resources
https://www.mariemontchurch.org/with-him-podcast

Resources & Contact Info

Email Raz & Jamie:
razwithhim@gmail.com

Their church: Mariemont Church (Cincinnati, OH)
https://www.mariemontchurch.org

Jamie’s website & writing:
https://www.jamiemoore.org

Jamie’s book, Friendship with God
Available on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/1736292609

This week on the With Him podcast, Raz and Jamie do something a little different. Instead of a deep theological dive or guest interview, we slow down and have some Christmas fun—sharing favorite Christmas memories, laughing about beloved (and debated!) Christmas movies, and reflecting on the timeless Charlie Brown Christmas special.

Along the way, we talk about nostalgia, simplicity, and why Charlie Brown’s struggle to find the meaning of Christmas still resonates so deeply today. It’s a light-hearted, warm, and honest conversation—perfect for the holiday season.

So grab some hot chocolate, settle in, and join us for a Christmas conversation with Him.

Resources mentioned:

Cincinnati Contemporary Jazz Orchestra
Bringing world-class jazz to the Cincinnati region, including incredible holiday performances.
https://www.cincinnatijazz.org

Cincinnati Contemporary Jazz Orchestra's New Christmas Album: “The Nutcracker Remix”
Looking for a fresh and fun Christmas soundtrack? The Cincinnati Contemporary Jazz Orchestra’s inaugural holiday recording reimagines The Nutcracker with bold, audience-favorite arrangements—blending funk, hip-hop, contemporary big band swing, and more.
The album also features several holiday classics, including a heartfelt original song by Mandy Gaines titled “Christmas This Year.” It’s joyful, soulful, and perfect for the season.
https://www.cincinnatijazz.org/recordings

Vince Guaraldi Trio
The iconic jazz sound behind A Charlie Brown Christmas—simple, soulful, and timeless.
A Charlie Brown Christmas (Album) – available on all major streaming platforms
https://open.spotify.com/album/4jKeipwuUTjlx9USNYdhZn

https://music.apple.com/us/album/a-charlie-brown-christmas/1440852425

A Charlie Brown Christmas (Movie)
The classic Christmas special that continues to point hearts back to the true meaning of Christmas.
Available on Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video, and other major streaming platforms
https://tv.apple.com/us/movie/a-charlie-brown-christmas/umc.cmc.3c7p8x0p8z5k7x2x3c6zv9x5n

https://www.amazon.com/Charlie-Brown-Christmas-Peter-Robbins/dp/B000W5Z0YO

Subscribe to the "With Him" Podcast email list
Get new episodes, bonus content, and more:
https://mailchi.mp/mariemontchurch/sub-to-with-him-podcast

Explore past episodes and resources
https://www.mariemontchurch.org/with-him-podcast

Resources & Contact Info

Email Raz & Jamie:
razwithhim@gmail.com

Their church: Mariemont Church (Cincinnati, OH)
https://www.mariemontchurch.org

Jamie’s website & writing:
https://www.jamiemoore.org

Jamie’s book, Friendship with God
Available on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/1736292609

In this episode, Jason Scott shares his incredible journey from religious upbringing to radical life transformation in Jesus. Growing up in the Catholic church, Jason knew about God but didn’t walk with Him. College at Ohio University led him into deep addiction to alcohol and drugs — a path that nearly destroyed his life.

Everything shifted 25 years ago when Jason attended a church service in Cincinnati, heard the gospel clearly, and was instantly set free from addiction. His life with Jesus took off from there: restored identity, a thriving marriage, and major success in the corporate world.

Then God spoke: “I’m going to bless you, and you’re going to work for Me.”
What followed was a wild season of confirmations as Jason and Kristin stepped out of their careers, downsized their home, and launched Activation Ministries by faith.

And yes — one of those confirmations happened in a Power Rangers movie. The god-like mentor figure looked at the main character (named Jason Scott) and said, “Jason Scott, now is the time.” It became a defining moment of calling and courage.

If you’re longing to hear God’s voice, take a risk, or step into the adventure of following Jesus, Jason’s story will inspire and strengthen you.

Check out Jason and Kristin’s work at Activation Ministries:
Website: https://activationministries.org
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/activation_ministries
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/activationministries

Subscribe to the "With Him" Podcast email list
Get new episodes, bonus content, and more:
https://mailchi.mp/mariemontchurch/sub-to-with-him-podcast

Explore past episodes and resources
https://www.mariemontchurch.org/with-him-podcast

Resources and Contact Info

Email Raz and Jamie: mailto:razwithhim@gmail.com

Their church: Mariemont Church (Cincinnati, OH)
https://www.mariemontchurch.org

Jamie’s website and writing:
https://www.jamiemoore.org

Jamie’s book, Friendship with God
Available on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1736292609

In this conversation, Jamie and Raz dive into one of the most challenging parts of the Bible to understand: the Old Testament Law. As the YOUR STORY reading plan leads the church family into Exodus, they explore how New Testament believers—rooted in the gospel of Jesus—should make sense of laws that address topics like slavery, women’s rights, and sexuality.

They emphasize that God the Father was not endorsing the broken structures of the ancient Near East. Rather, He was working within a fallen cultural world to plant the earliest seeds of freedom, equality, and human dignity—seeds that would grow into full bloom in the New Testament.

Key Ideas
1. OT Slavery ≠ Modern Slavery
Ancient Israel’s system was more like indentured servitude, usually temporary and often voluntary for economic survival.
God built protections, limits, and humanizing commands into Israel’s laws that were radical for their time.
These were not endorsements—they were first steps toward liberation.

2. God Plants Seeds, Not Finished Structures
The Father works inside a broken culture but sows truths that outgrow that culture.
By the time the NT arrives, God’s heart becomes unmistakably clear:
“There is neither slave nor free, male nor female… for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” (Gal 3:28)
The eventual abolition of slavery and the expansion of women’s rights have deep biblical roots.

3. Eden Is the Goal, Not the Ancient Near Eastern Culture
The culture God wants is Eden—no slavery, no domination, no oppression, no devaluing of women.
The ANE was simply the culture He stepped into to begin restoring Eden through His people.

4. Sexuality and Holiness
OT laws around sexuality aimed to protect covenant faithfulness, stabilize families, and create a distinct community of holiness.
Jesus fulfills and intensifies this—bringing us from outward rules to inner transformation in the Spirit.

5. The Gospel Is the True Foundation of Freedom
The good news that He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us (2 Cor 5:21) is the ultimate liberation.
Freedom doesn’t come from law-keeping; it comes from union with Christ.
The gospel restores our dignity and re-establishes our identity as God’s image-bearers.

Want help understanding OT Law?
If you want deeper clarity as you read these Law passages, here are two excellent resources to guide you:

Highly Recommended Book: How to Read the Bible for All Its Worth (Gordon Fee and Doug Stuart)
This classic (over 1 million copies sold) helps you understand the different kinds of literature in Scripture—including the Law.
It explains what these texts meant to their original audience and how to apply them today with confidence.

Link to the book on Amazon here:
https://www.amazon.com/How-Read-Bible-All-Worth/dp/0310517826

Here's a sample from chapter 9 of the book – “The Law(s): Covenant Stipulations for Israel”
Read it here (Google Doc):
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1cFXumVOBu4J0-Mcl0SndROvk-OebKFdx/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=102229517336768502134&rtpof=true&sd=true

Even skimming the last page—“12 Dos and Don’ts for Reading the Law”—will change the way you read Exodus.

To join the "YOUR STORY" reading plan, sign up here:
https://mariemontchurch.churchcenter.com/groups/unique/your-story-encountering-the-father-in-his-word

Subscribe to the "With Him" Podcast email list
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In this conversation, Jamie and Raz explore the Kingdom adventure that opens up when we follow God the Father into assignments that are bigger than our strength, skill, or experience. Using the story of Moses and the burning bush (Exodus 3–4), they highlight how Yahweh calls Moses to confront Pharaoh—a task far beyond Moses’ natural capacity.

Instead of telling Moses to get more training, build a better résumé, or take a leadership course, God gives him a single promise: “I will be with you.” That promise becomes the bridge across the gap between human weakness and divine calling.

Key Ideas
1) The Gap Is Where the Adventure Lives
God routinely invites His children into spaces where their own capacity is not enough. The “gap” between what I can do and what God is asking is the very place where Kingdom adventure is born.

2) God Doesn’t Solve Moses’ Insecurity With Self-Improvement
Moses argues that he’s inadequate, unskilled, and not up for the job. Yahweh’s solution isn’t: “Improve yourself.”
It’s: “My presence fills the gap.”

3) Don’t Play It Safe
Many believers limit themselves to things they can succeed at based purely on natural strength. Jesus invites us into a life where obedience requires His presence—where if He doesn’t show up… we can’t pull it off.

4) Courage Looks Like Neediness, Not Self-Confidence
We often feel nervous, afraid of failing, or afraid of looking foolish. But the right posture isn’t “I’ve got this”—it’s “Father, I need You.”
That needy dependence is where faith is formed and where the Kingdom breaks in.

5) Unless Jesus Shows Up…
Following God often looks like stepping into something where, unless Jesus intervenes, it won’t work. That’s not recklessness—that’s trust.

Practical Encouragement for Listeners
Notice where God may be inviting you into something beyond your ability.
Don’t disqualify yourself because you don’t feel capable.
Let your nervousness be a reminder: the adventure is supposed to be bigger than you.
Step into obedience with the confidence that He is with you—the same promise He gave Moses.

To join the "YOUR STORY" reading plan, sign up here:
https://mariemontchurch.churchcenter.com/groups/unique/your-story-encountering-the-father-in-his-word

Subscribe to the "With Him" Podcast email list
Get new episodes, bonus content, and more:
https://mailchi.mp/mariemontchurch/sub-to-with-him-podcast

Explore past episodes and resources
https://www.mariemontchurch.org/with-him-podcast

Resources & Contact Info

Email Raz & Jamie: razwithhim@gmail.com

Their church: Mariemont Church (Cincinnati, OH)
https://www.mariemontchurch.org

Jamie’s website & writing:
https://www.jamiemoore.org

Jamie’s book, Friendship with God
Available on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1736292609

In this episode, Jamie and Raz talk about what it means to enroll in “The School of the Father”—where the Teacher is God Himself.

Throughout the Scriptures, we find a stunning promise: God wants to personally teach His children. From the prophets of the Old Testament to the words of Jesus and the Apostle Paul, we see a thread of divine instruction—the Father leading, guiding, and forming us by His Spirit.

Even the psalmist understood this reality:
“I have more understanding than all my teachers . . . for You have taught me.”
Psalm 119:99–102
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+119%3A99-102&version=ESV

Jamie and Raz unpack passages like Isaiah 30, Jeremiah 31, and 1 Thessalonians 4, showing that walking with Him means learning from Him.
Isaiah 30: https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah+30%3A18-21&version=ESV

Jeremiah 31: https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Jeremiah+31%3A33-34&version=ESV

1 Thessalonians 4: https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Thessalonians+4%3A9&version=ESV

They also offer practical steps for getting into this “school”:

1. Enroll yourself – Believe that God, the Father, wants to be your teacher.
2. Open your textbook – Read the Bible with expectation that He’ll speak.
3. Listen to the lecture – Slow down and let the Spirit highlight truth.
4. Take notes – Write down what you hear so you don’t forget.
5. Ask questions – Dialogue with the Father; learning happens in relationship.

Scriptures to explore (Read these and ask the Father to teach you!):

Isaiah 30:18–21
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah+30%3A18-21&version=ESV

Jeremiah 31:33–34
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Jeremiah+31%3A33-34&version=ESV

Isaiah 54:13 (cf. John 6:45)
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah+54%3A13&version=ESV

https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+6%3A45&version=ESV

1 Thessalonians 4:9
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Thessalonians+4%3A9&version=ESV

Psalm 119:97–104
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+119%3A97-104&version=ESV

Let the Father teach you—He’s the best Teacher you’ll ever have, and you might just learn more than your favorite Bible teacher.

To join the "YOUR STORY" reading plan, sign up here:
https://mariemontchurch.churchcenter.com/groups/unique/your-story-encountering-the-father-in-his-word

Subscribe to the "With Him" Podcast email list
https://mailchi.mp/mariemontchurch/sub-to-with-him-podcast

Explore past episodes and resources
https://www.mariemontchurch.org/with-hi

In this episode, Jamie and Raz share what they’re learning through the Your Story chronological Bible reading journey—and invite listeners to jump in and read along with the church family.

They reflect on the lives of the patriarchs—Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob—and how remarkable it is that God the Father continually appears, speaks, guides, blesses, and keeps covenant with these men (and women), even though their lives are full of sin and dysfunction. Manipulation, deception, control, favoritism, polygamy, and violence are all part of their stories—yet God never stops pursuing relationship with them.

Together, Jamie and Raz marvel that the Father seems far more interested in their covenant loyalty than their sinless perfection. His desire has always been to be with His people.

They trace this theme forward to the New Testament, celebrating the stunning reality that we now get to experience God’s presence within us through the Holy Spirit. As believers, we have become mobile temples—His dwelling place—because of the finished work of Jesus’ death and resurrection, not because of our own performance.

Using Jacob’s dream of the stairway to heaven as an example—where he awoke and said, “Surely the Lord is in this place, and I was not aware of it!”—they challenge listeners to recognize the same truth in our own lives. God is with us all the time, even when we’re unaware.

The episode ends with practical ways to practice His presence: learning to turn prayer into a two-way conversation of talking and listening to God, rather than simply reciting requests.

To join the "YOUR STORY" reading plan, sign up here:
https://mariemontchurch.churchcenter.com/groups/unique/your-story-encountering-the-father-in-his-word

Subscribe to the "With Him" Podcast email list
Get new episodes, bonus content, and more:
https://mailchi.mp/mariemontchurch/sub-to-with-him-podcast

Explore past episodes and resources
https://www.mariemontchurch.org/with-him-podcast

Resources & Contact Info

Email Raz & Jamie: razwithhim@gmail.com

Their church: Mariemont Church (Cincinnati, OH)
https://www.mariemontchurch.org

Jamie’s website & writing:
https://www.jamiemoore.org

Jamie’s book, Friendship with God
Available on Amazon