OCF Crosspoint Podcast

OCF MINISTRY NEWS Visit ocfusa.org/list-meCheck out the job descriptionVisit ocfusa.org/widowed-ministry/ to access GUEST SPOTLIGHT Why is mentoring important to the Christian in the military? Answering that question and others in this episode are COL Jim Brown, USA (Ret.), and Navy veteran and OCF Director of Women’s Ministry Kristin “KG” Goodrich. Jim and KG discuss the unique elements of Christian mentoring, their own personal experiences with mentors or mentees, and how military culture might create challenges to the idea of mentoring, among other topics. Mentoring has always been part of OCF’s DNA—from prayer and accountability to sharing wisdom across generations. Check out our Mentoring Program page, which offers a structured approach to equipping Christian military leaders to grow in their faith and leadership while walking alongside others. Whether you feel called to invest in someone else’s journey—or you’re looking for someone to invest in yours—we invite you to get involved. If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage for consideration. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org. POINTS TO PONDER As you listen to this conversation with KG and Jim, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

Guest: LTC Lee Robinson, USA In this Crosspoint Highlight from July 2025, LTC Lee Robinson explores the delicate balance military leaders must strike between free exercise of religion and non-establishment under the First Amendment. He emphasizes that the amendment’s brevity—and its ambiguity—stem from the compromises between Federalists and Anti-Federalists at the time of America’s founding. Lee explains how the language evolved, rejecting broader proposals like prohibiting any laws “touching religion” to avoid overly limiting the federal government. He encourages military leaders to wrestle with the historical context and constitutional principles behind the First Amendment to better understand their own oath to support and defend the Constitution, particularly in gray areas where religion intersects with public duty. What do you think? How does understanding the historical compromise behind the First Amendment help shape your approach to religious liberty in leadership? What practical steps can you take as a military leader to uphold both the free exercise of religion and the principle of non-establishment?

Guest: LTC Lee Robinson, USA In this Crosspoint Highlight from July 2025, LTC Lee Robinson tackles the complex question: Was America founded as a Christian nation? Lee draws a distinction between the first founding (e.g., Puritan colonies with explicitly religious laws) and the constitutional founding rooted in liberty and freedom of conscience. He explains that while America’s early cultural fabric was deeply influenced by Christianity, the U.S. Constitution intentionally avoided establishing a state religion—rejecting even a proposed religious test in Article VI. Citing Alexis de Tocqueville, Lee paints a vivid picture of early Americans shaped by both faith and civic engagement, underscoring the enduring impact of Christian values on the nation's moral habits, even if not enshrined in its legal foundation. What do you think? What does the balance between personal faith and civic freedom look like for Christian leaders today?

OCF MINISTRY NEWS Sign up for summer programs at the Conference Centers: Visit ocfusa.org/CCexperience to find the right program and week for you at Spring Canyon (Buena Vista, Colo.) or White Sulphur Springs (Manns Choice, Pa.). https://www.ocfusa.org/CCexperience/ Consider your next steps at the Caleb Challenge Career Transition Strategies Workshop (12-14 September): Visit White Sulphur Springs’ website to learn more about and sign up for this impactful weekend. https://www.whitesulphursprings.org/event/caleb-challenge-career-transition-strategies-workshop/ Update your information and stay connected: Whether it's your address, military status, rank, contact information, or something else, take 30 seconds to let us know via the Update My Info form. https://www.ocfusa.org/update/ Check out Crosspoint Highlights: Don’t miss our new episode format, designed to share just a portion of a previously posted podcast for an encouraging listen even when you’re short on time. Find Crosspoint Highlights wherever you get your podcasts. GUEST SPOTLIGHT What does it look like to follow Christ in uniform? LTC Lee Robinson, USA, director of the U.S. Military Academy’s American Politics Program and an academy professor in the Department of Social Sciences, joins the podcast to address questions like this. Hailing from Georgia and having graduated from West Point in 2000, Lee now teaches and researches topics like civil-military relations and organizational leadership. In this episode, Lee shares about the cadet ministry that takes place through USMA OCF, led by Field Staff Bob & Tracy Phillips, then dives into complex topics ranging from balancing personal and professional choices to studying the United States’ historical approach to religion. If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org. https://www.ocfusa.org/podcastguest/ POINTS TO PONDER As you listen to this conversation with Lee, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor: Why is it important to understand the historical context of the First Amendment? How does the vague language of the First Amendment impact us today? As you listen to Lee's example of the company commander with the cross on his desk, how would you respond if you were in Lee’s position? How do you think you balance your private and public personas? What do you learn from Jesus' example of rejecting political power? “In essentials unity, in non-essentials liberty, in all things charity.” How does this quote from seventeenth-century German Lutheran theologian Rupertus Meldenius tie into today’s conversation? In what ways can your life be an example of the gospel and the work of Christ? What Scriptures shape your leadership philosophy, even in ways that might be subtle to the non-believer? Where's the line between encouraging religion and morality and compelling it? What can we learn from the Founding Fathers as they faced tension and disagreement regarding the government's approach to religion? Lee explains that "liberty is freedom to follow laws and freedom of conscience." What are your thoughts on this definition? Why is it important to understand not only what the Constitution says but also why it says what it does?

Information about Summer R&R 7 at White Sulphur Springs, and speaker LtGen Clint Hinote, USAF (Ret.): About the Topic: Wherever we are, God calls us to lead. He calls us to lead ourselves, our families, our units, our communities, and our culture. The Bible contains many accounts of leaders, including stories about their successes and failures. In this session, we will examine Biblical leaders and learn from their experiences. We will celebrate the good and be honest about the bad. In doing so, we will seek practical truths we can apply to our lives because we can always learn and grow as leaders. About the Speaker: Clint retired from the U.S. Air Force in 2023 after a 35-year career as a fighter pilot, military strategist, and senior leader. In his last assignment, he served as the futurist for the Air Force, responsible for creating the vision for the future force. He now writes and speaks on defense reform and leadership. He also teaches leadership and policy implementation at RAND’s School of Public Policy. Links: http://www.ultracamp.com/info/sessiondetail.aspx?idCamp=294&campCode=wss&idSession=495759https://www.whitesulphursprings.org/summer-rnr/https://www.springcanyon.org/summer-celebration/

OCF MINISTRY NEWS Sign up for summer programs at the Conference Centers: Visit ocfusa.org/CCexperience to find the right program and week for you at Spring Canyon (Buena Vista, Colo.) or White Sulphur Springs (Manns Choice, Pa.). https://www.ocfusa.org/CCexperience/ Connect with OCFers at USNA and USAFA: OCF at USAFA: Pre-Inprocessing Day Reception (Class of 2029), 24 June, Monument, Colo. https://www.ocfusa.org/event/ocf-at-usafa-pre-inprocessing-day-reception-class-of-2029/ USNA OCF: Class of 2029 Open House, 25 June, Annapolis, Md. https://www.ocfusa.org/event/usna-ocf-class-of-2029-open-house/ Volunteer as a Local Leader at one of these locations: Columbus AFB, Fort Campbell, Fort Drum, Fort Eisenhower, Fort Jackson, Fort Riley, Fort Stewart / Hunter AAF, Goodfellow AFB, JB Charleston, MCAS Beaufort, MCB Quantico, Norwich University, NSB New London / Groton, Schofield Barracks / Wheeler AAF, Sheppard AFB, Texas A&M University, The Citadel, Tyndall AFB, University of North Georgia, USCG Air Station and Base Kodiak, USCG Air Station Miami, USCG District 11 and Base Alameda, USCG District 13 and Base Seattle, USCG Sector Key West, USCG Sector St. Petersburg, USCG Station Port Canaveral, Virginia Tech. When you are ready to volunteer, complete our quick List Me form so that members can find you on the OCF Directory and OCF staff can equip you based on local needs. https://www.ocfusa.org/list-me/ Help OCF steward its ministry buildings: Email Director of Infrastructure and Facility Management Joe Orosz (joe.orosz@ocfusa.org) to get more information or offer your expertise in master planning, design, construction, and/or facility maintenance. mailto:joe.orosz@ocfusa.org GUEST SPOTLIGHT Today’s guest spotlight features Claire Anderson, a military child and new graduate of Liberty University. Claire joins the podcast to talk about the military kid experience, informed by her own upbringing and her recent honors thesis, titled “Analysis of the At-Risk Mental Health of Military Children and Proposed Intervention Plans To Be Implemented by Mental Health Professionals.” Having gotten connected to OCF through friends as a freshman in high school, Claire shares how her summers at White Sulphur Springs, particularly her work with youths attending the Camp Caleb program, piqued her interest in the military child experience. She and Josh discuss some statistics from her thesis research, connections to The Performance Paradox: The Unexpected Way to Grind Less, Grow More, and Unlock Success by Eduardo Briceño, and a Biblical view of trials. If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org. POINTS TO PONDER As you listen to this conversation with Claire, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor: If you’ve grown up in the military and/or raised children in the military, what of your own firsthand or secondhand experiences relate to what Claire discussed today? How did the statistics shared during this episode impact you? What factors of the military lifestyle have you seen contribute to low mental health, and how might you work to address and/or mitigate those factors? Claire’s thesis and interview talks about taking a “strengths-based perspective,” and Josh mentions Romans 5:3-4, too. How can our relationship with Jesus transform our view of trials we may experience?

Crosspoint Highlights: Big ideas, short episodes … for your busy schedule Guests: Joshua and Lindsey Bowen From Episode 54: “The importance of small group fellowship.” Listen to the full episode here. Highlight Summary: In this Crosspoint Highlight, Joshua and Lindsey Bowen reflect on the lasting impact of biblical community, mentorship, and servant leadership during their time in the military. They share how their early experiences in a diverse OCF small group at Fort Carson shaped their spiritual maturity and inspired them to pour into cadets at West Point years later. From late-night Bible studies to one-on-one mentoring moments, Josh and Lindsey offer a deeply personal look at how fellowship across generations can transform lives and prepare future military leaders for both spiritual and professional challenges. Find an OCF group near youFind out more about Christian mentoring Key Takeaways: Intergenerational fellowship fosters growth:Mentorship happens in everyday moments:Leading means serving:Spiritual black holes are real:God equips those He calls:

OCF MINISTRY NEWS Sign up for summer programs at the Conference Centers: Visit ocfusa.org/CCexperience to find the right program and week for you at Spring Canyon (Buena Vista, Colo.) or White Sulphur Springs (Manns Choice, Pa.). https://www.ocfusa.org/CCexperience/ Free Bible studies for OCFers and groups: Visit ocfusa.org/library to download, dive in, and leave a rating to help others discover one of these 18 impactful resources. https://www.ocfusa.org/library/ Help us keep the OCF community connected: If you or someone in your OCF circle has celebrated a birth, wedding, or experienced a loss since 1 March, please send updates to Courtney Burdick (courtney.burdick@ocfusa.org) for the next issue of our print newsletter. Introducing Crosspoint Highlights: Don't miss our new episode format, designed to share just a portion of a previously posted podcast for an encouraging listen even when you’re short on time. Find Crosspoint Highlights wherever you get your podcasts. GUEST SPOTLIGHT Today’s guest spotlight features COL Kurt & Donna Schosek, USA (Ret.), who share their stories of hope through grief as they each lost a spouse before meeting and marrying one another. They talk about what surprised them most in the midst of their respective loss, GriefShare, the importance of community, what hurts, what helps, and more. https://www.griefshare.org/ They both have a heart to walk alongside those who have lost their spouses in any season of life, and the Schoseks will do just that later this year when they serve as speakers during the Summer R&R #6 program at White Sulphur Springs. https://www.whitesulphursprings.org/event/summer-rnr-6/ If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org. POINTS TO PONDER As you listen to this conversation with Kurt and Donna, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor: If you've lost a loved one before, what helped you in the midst of your grief? How would you describe what it means to grieve well? What are your takeaways from the Schoseks about how you can care for others as they grieve? What Bible passages comfort you most during loss?

Welcome to Crosspoint Highlights: Big ideas. Short episodes. For your busy schedule. Guest: Col Chet Arnold, USMC (Ret.) From Episode 46: “May a Christian Serve in the Military?” Listen to the full episode here. Highlight Summary: Can a Christian serve in the military and still follow Jesus’ command to love their enemies? In this Crosspoint Highlight, Col Chet Arnold, USMC (Ret.), tackles the difficult topic of killing in combat from a Biblical perspective. Drawing from both the Old and New Testaments, Chet explains why understanding the sanctity of life and the God-given authority of government is essential for military believers. He also challenges listeners to avoid dehumanizing their enemies and to grieve the loss of life—even in war—through the lens of being made in God's image. Be sure to check out our article by the same name, "May A Christian Serve in the Military?" Key Takeaways: Mentioned Bible Verses:

Quick links: Summer R&R 1 at White Sulphur SpringsAll Summer R&R sessions at WSSAll Summer Celebrations at Spring CanyonThe Starting Point Project website Episode summary: In this bonus episode, Jay Seegert, managing director of the Starting Point Project, shares his journey from a Christian upbringing to becoming a prominent speaker on defending the Christian worldview. He discusses the importance of understanding the differences between a biblical and a Christian worldview, emphasizing the need for clarity in definitions to engage in meaningful discussions. Jay also highlights the challenges of defending faith in a secular environment and the significance of grounding beliefs in Scripture rather than external influences. In this conversation, Jay and Crosspoint host Josh Jackson explore the relationship between science and the Christian worldview, addressing skepticism, the purpose of defending faith, and the importance of gentleness in apologetics. They emphasize that understanding Scripture does not require extensive scientific knowledge and that foundational questions about God's existence and the Bible's inspiration are crucial for Christians. The discussion highlights the need for respectful dialogue and the power of God's Word in addressing doubts and skepticism. There’s also discussion on the intersection of science, faith, and the interpretation of Biblical texts regarding the age of the Earth, the concept of death, and the existence of dinosaurs. Jay emphasizes the importance of understanding one's beliefs and the implications of those beliefs on one's worldview. Listeners also will hear more about the Starting Point Project, which aims to help individuals explore their foundational beliefs and engage in meaningful conversations about faith and science.

OCF MINISTRY NEWS Staff changes across the OCF team: Visit ocfusa.org/job-openings to learn more about vacant positions as a result of OCF's ongoing job moves. https://www.ocfusa.org/job-openings/ Sign up for summer programs at the Conference Centers: Visit ocfusa.org/CCexperience to find the right program and week for you at Spring Canyon (Buena Vista, Colo.) or White Sulphur Springs (Manns Choice, Pa.). https://www.ocfusa.org/CCexperience/ Take the next step in growing as a Local Leader: Visit springcanyon.org/3b to learn more about the upcoming OCF LEAD! Local Ministry Leadership Track at Spring Canyon this June. ASK OCF Landon Spaulding, who now serves as OCF’s Online Training Development Coordinator, shares his experience as a SkillBridge intern with OCF. To learn more about SkillBridge opportunities, read our latest article or visit ocfusa.org/skillbridge. https://www.ocfusa.org/2025/03/serving-beyond-the-uniform-ocfs-skillbridge-internships/ https://www.ocfusa.org/skillbridge/ GUEST SPOTLIGHT Today’s guest spotlight features an excerpt of a conversation with Jay Seegert about defending the Christian worldview. Author, international speaker, and managing director of The Starting Point Project, Jay holds degrees in both Physics and Engineering Technology and has been lecturing on the authority of Scripture for the last 40 years. https://www.thestartingpointproject.com/ He explains what it means to defend the Christian worldview, the significance of addressing the existential questions, and how the Bible ought to be our key source for these conversations. Jay also shares what our motive should be when engaging in discussions with those who hold other worldviews. Interested in hearing more from Jay about similar topics discussed in today’s episode? Stay tuned for the full, bonus episode coming this month, and consider attending the first week (6-13 June) of White Sulphur Springs’ Summer R&R program as Jay will lead speaker sessions related to his topic: “Defending the Christian Worldview.” https://www.whitesulphursprings.org/event/summer-rnr-1/ If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org. https://www.ocfusa.org/podcastguest/ POINTS TO PONDER As you listen to this conversation with Jay, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor: In your own words, why is it important to be able to defend your Christian worldview? When speaking with individuals of other worldviews, how do you ensure you care more about the individual with a need for the gospel than you do about winning the argument? What topics have you been faced with during worldview-oriented conversations that you’d like to study further? Jay mentioned 1 Peter 3:15. What other relevant verses come to mind when thinking about how to discuss worldviews?

This month’s special episode enables you to listen to the Global Town Hall, which OCF hosted on 8 February at its Home Office in Colorado Springs, Colo., and over Zoom for members around the world. You’ll hear from OCF Council President Dale Holland, OCF CEO/Executive Director Scott Fisher, Director of Field Operations Colin Wooten, Local Leaders Josh and Lindsey Bowen, USMA OCF Field Staff Bob Phillips, and OCF Conference Center Directors Paul Robyn and Kim Hawthorne. After the ministry updates from these individuals, attending members asked a variety of questions of the staff present. If you’d prefer to watch the video of GTH 2025 and/or provide follow-up questions, comments, or feedback, visit ocfusa.org/gth2025. Here are the links for some of the resources mentioned in this episode: Local fellowships https://www.ocfusa.org/directory/ OCF Conference Centers https://www.ocfusa.org/experience/ ROTC ministry https://www.ocfusa.org/rotc/ OCF LEAD! Local Ministry Leadership Track (during Spring Canyon’s Summer Celebration #3) https://www.springcanyon.org/event/summer-celebration-3b/ Fellowship of Christian Military Ministries Annual Conference (21-24 March) https://militarybeliever.com/fcmm-conference/ OCF Handbook https://www.ocfusa.org/handbook/ Mentoring opportunities https://www.ocfusa.org/mentoring/ OCF’s Annual Priorities: What you need to know and how you can get involved https://www.ocfusa.org/2023/03/ocfs-annual-priorities-what-you-need-to-know-and-how-you-can-get-involved/ Interested in sharing your own story on a future Crosspoint episode? Complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org. https://www.ocfusa.org/podcastguest/ POINTS TO PONDER As you listen to these ministry updates and Q&A session, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor: How have you seen God work through OCF in your own life? What can OCF do to serve you better? (And visit ocfusa.org/gth2025 to let us know!) What obstacles—whether personal, logistical, or financial—have kept you from engaging more deeply with Christian community and discipleship opportunities? As you listen to this recording, what might the Lord be putting on your heart to do to engage with military ministry in a new way?

OCF MINISTRY NEWS Watch the latest OCF Global Town Hall: Visit ocfusa.org/gth2025 to watch the Town Hall. https://www.ocfusa.org/gth2025/ Serve and adventure at an OCF Conference Center this spring: Make this March a meaningful mix of service, growth, and adventure through one of these two opportunities. Spring Break Service Project Week, 10-16 March, White Sulphur Springs (Manns Choice, Pa.) https://www.whitesulphursprings.org/event/sbsp-week/ Spring Break Service and Adventure Week, 21-30 March, Spring Canyon (Buena Vista, Colo.) https://www.springcanyon.org/event/spring-break-service-and-adventure-week-2/ Support OCF during your trips to the grocery store: Visit our Ways to Give page and scroll to the bottom to see if a store near you is eligible for the Community Rewards Program. https://www.ocfusa.org/donate/ ASK OCF Col Houstoun Waring, USAF (Ret.), who serves as OCF’s Central Regional Coordinator, answered this frequently asked question from another OCFer: Why did OCF develop a Handbook? Who should use it? How should people use it? To learn more about this impactful resource for military ministry, read the article about the Handbook’s background. https://www.ocfusa.org/2022/09/introducing-the-newest-tool-for-military-ministry-the-ocf-handbook/ Visit our website to access the online version of the OCF Handbook. https://www.ocfusa.org/handbook/ If you have a question that you want us to consider for a future “Ask OCF” segment, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org. GUEST SPOTLIGHT This month’s episode features not one but two guests: Lt Col Scott and Lisa Bedrosian, USAF (Ret.). The Bedrosians have been longtime supporters of White Sulphur Springs, OCF’s eastern Conference Center located in Manns Choice, Pa. Having had roles there as guests, staff, and volunteers over the years, Scott and Lisa recount some of their cherished memories made at WSS and share how God has used this special home away from home in their lives. https://www.whitesulphursprings.org/ The Bedrosians describe how WSS helped them navigate the challenges of military life through mentorship, Biblical teachings, and a sense of belonging. They share influential anecdotes, like being reminded of their identity as missionaries in uniform, keeping symbolic “rocks” with spiritual truths, and renaming chores “blessings” because of a simple spatula on a dining room table at WSS. Knowing the conference center’s spiritually rich and personally challenging programs might be intimidating to some, they also answer the frequently asked question: “But will I have fun?” Interested in having your own impactful experience at a Conference Center? Visit ocfusa.org/experience to learn more about White Sulphur Springs and its sister center Spring Canyon, located in Buena Vista, Colo. https://www.ocfusa.org/experience/ If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org. https://www.ocfusa.org/podcastguest/ POINTS TO PONDER As you listen to this conversation with Scott and Lisa, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor: When was a time you were able to truly step away from your daily rhythms to rest and spend time with the Lord? How did that experience affect your day-to-day life? The Bedrosians share a few examples of life-changing advice through connections made at WSS. What impactful advice have you received, and have you shared it with others? Scott calls a stay at WSS an “investment in your family and in your ministry.” What might be the difference that makes your average vacation that kind of investment instead?

OCF MINISTRY NEWS Visit ocfusa.org/gth2025Visit ocfusa.org/rotcvisiting ocfusa.org/air2024visit ocfusa.org/mentoring ASK OCF LT Will Parker, USN, who serves as the OCF Submarine Community Coordinator, answered this frequently asked question from another OCFer: How do you balance/integrate OCF involvement with commitment to the local church? To learn more about church-OCF dynamics and ways you can integrate your involvement in both, visit ocfusa.org/handbook/chapter-22. If you have a question that you want us to consider for a future “Ask OCF” segment, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org. GUEST SPOTLIGHT This month’s episode puts the guest spotlight on CAPT Terry Wichert, USN (Ret.). Having served in the U.S. Navy for 30+ years, he now serves as the executive director for Association for Christian Conferences, Teaching and Services (ACCTS), a sister ministry of OCF. Through personal experiences and some of the 650+ recorded prayers in the Bible, such as those in the books of Nehemiah and Daniel, Terry unpacks the power of persevering prayer. He explains what prayer is and what it isn’t, gives some ideas for developing a prayer life, and viewing prayer as a way to have a relationship with our Lord and align our hearts with His. If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org. POINTS TO PONDER

Show Notes In this bonus episode, Josh, Beth, and Corrie explore the challenges of bitterness and resentment in military marriages, highlighting the influence of faith, perspective shifts, and community support. They discuss the importance of diverse friendships, flexibility in family life, and seeking counseling. Emphasizing teamwork, Beth and Corrie share strategies for balancing responsibilities and overcoming feelings of isolation and resentment. Beth introduces insights from her new book for military spouses called “Another Move, God?: 30 Encouragements to Embrace Your Life as a Military Wife,” while Corrie shares about her dynamic Instagram platform, @ajoyfulmilspouse, that celebrates military life. Together, they stress that community and shared experiences can strengthen relationships amid military life’s unique challenges. In the course of this conversation, we also reference Beth’s list of 10 ways to overcome bitterness and resentment, which you can view here. If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org. https://www.ocfusa.org/podcastguest/ Takeaways Points to Ponder As you listen to this conversation with Beth and Corrie, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

OCF MINISTRY NEWS New Bible study available: Visit ocfusa.org/suffering to access this newest study, A Faithful Approach to Hardship and Suffering, on our website. GivingTuesday fundraiser: Give the gift of Christlike leadership this GivingTuesday (3 Dec.) by visiting ocfusa.org/givingtuesday and donating now. Job opening at WSS: If you would like more information and/or an application for this ministry opportunity, contact the WSS Center Director Paul Robyn (wssdirector@ocfusa.org) or the WSS Director of Hospitality Susanne Pappal (wssoffice@ocfusa.org), or call the main office via 814-623-5583. Visit ocfusa.org/job-openings to learn more about or to apply for the new facilities director position at White Sulphur Springs in Pennsylvania. Winter Retreats at OCF Conference Centers: Visit whitesulphursprings.org/winter-retreat to register for one of White Sulphur Springs’ Winter Retreat sessions, or visit springcanyon.org/winter-retreat to register for one of Spring Canyon’s Winter Retreat sessions. Ministry update from MMI OCF: Visit ocfusa.org/directory to learn more about and connect with local fellowships like the one at MMI in Alabama. ASK OCF Lt Col Larry Sherbondy, USAF (Ret.), who serves as the OCF Director of ROTC Ministry, answered this question from another OCFer: How much time might be involved in participating in or starting an ROTC OCF group? Many resources and opportunities await those interested in plugging into ROTC ministry. Visit ocfusa.org/rotc to get in touch with Larry, check out upcoming ROTC events, and more. If you have a question that you want us to consider for a future “Ask OCF” segment, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org. GUEST SPOTLIGHT Today’s guest spotlight features two military spouses: Beth Runkle and Corrie Reeter. Beth and her husband currently serve with Cru Military, and she recently published a book called “Another Move, God?: 30 Encouragements to Embrace Your Life as a Military Wife.” Corrie is a blogger with a dynamic following on Instagram as @ajoyfulmilspouse, where she and her followers celebrate the uniqueness, blessings, and adventures of military marriage and family life. Speaking from their experiences as military spouses, Beth and Corrie discuss the bitterness that may arise for some military spouses as they experience deployments, moves, and more. In the course of this conversation, we reference Beth’s list of 10 ways to overcome bitterness and resentment, which you can view here. If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org. POINTS TO PONDER As you listen to this conversation with Beth and Corrie, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor: When was a time you personally experienced bitterness in your life as a military service member and/or spouse? How did you overcome that bitterness? In what ways is the military life a sanctifying one? What is the value of counting your blessings, entrusting everything to the Lord, and maintaining an eternal perspective?

Show Notes OCF MINISTRY NEWS Job opening at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy: Contact PK Carlton (pk.carlton@ocfusa.org) or Marci Morris (marci.morris@ocfusa.org) for more info, or visit ocfusa.org/job-openings to learn more about and apply for the opening at USCGA. Applications are open until 31 Oct. In His Service Retreat for women in uniform: Visit events.navigators.org/women-in-uniform-in-his-service-retreat-2024 for more details about this retreat coming up in Jefferson, Texas. OCF Mid-Atlantic & Northeast Fall Retreat: Visit whitesulphursprings.org/events to learn more and register, and email any questions to the Chiaravallottis at midatlantic@ocfusa.org. Winter Retreats at OCF Conference Centers: Visit whitesulphursprings.org/winter-retreat to register for one of White Sulphur Springs’ Winter Retreat sessions, or visit springcanyon.org/winter-retreat to register for one of Spring Canyon’s Winter Retreat sessions. ASK OCF LTC Ryan Wainwright, USA (Ret.), who serves as the Assistant Director of Field Operations, answered this question from another OCFer: Is our membership expanding or contracting? OCF isn’t just for military officers—anyone sincerely able to sign the Statement of Faith and Participation and agree with the OCF Biblical Guidelines for Member Conduct can become a member of OCF. To become a member, first acknowledge your agreement with the Statement of Faith, then visit ocfusa.org/join to fill out the form. If you have a question that you want us to consider for a future “Ask OCF” segment, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org. GUEST SPOTLIGHT Today’s guest spotlight features Col PK Carlton, USAF (Ret.), who currently serves as OCF's Director of Field Staff. In this role, he focuses on the care and engagement for our Field Staff at the four Service Academies and our Gateway ministries at Leavenworth and Maxwell. PK and his wife Lindsey have served as Local Leaders across their Air Force career, later serving as Ministry Team at USAFA that led to them leading the USAFA ministry for two years. They love having cadets over and mentoring young officers and have a heart for the Field Staff and their families that serve our key ministries. Earlier this year, PK led a retreat session for USAFA cadets at Spring Canyon (springcanyon.org) to unpack this frequently asked question in OCF circles: “How do I evangelize in uniform?” PK joined us on Crosspoint to share some of the encouragement he gave those cadets and to share his own testimony as well. If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org. POINTS TO PONDER As you listen to this conversation with PK, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor: How do you feel about evangelism, and what experiences have shaped your impression? Why is it important to keep Matthew 5:16 and Romans 10:14 in mind when thinking about sharing your faith? Who might be able to mentor you in evangelism? What techniques have you found work well for sharing your own testimony?

In this episode, COL Andy MacLean, USA (Ret.), the coordinator for Latin America at the Association for Christian Conferences, Teaching and Services (ACCTS (https://accts.org/)), discusses the mission of ACCTS and its work in developing Christian leaders in the armed forces worldwide. He shares his experiences working with military communities in Latin America and the challenges and opportunities he encounters. Andy also highlights the upcoming AMCF World Conference and the need for financial support and prayer for the conference's success. Andy then shares his testimony and the five fingerprints of God in his life. He discusses his journey from being a missionary kid to a military officer and the unexpected opportunities and doors that God opened for him. He emphasizes the importance of being a good steward of what God has entrusted to us and thinking strategically about where God has placed us. He encourages Christians in the military to use their credentials and experiences to make an impact for the kingdom of God and to be mindful of the bigger picture in their actions and decisions. Andy mentions a few resources in this interview: OCF small groups (https://www.ocfusa.org/directory/), Rocky Mountain High (https://www.springcanyon.org/rocky-mountain-high/), and the AMCF World Conference (https://www.worldconferenceamcf.com/en). Takeaways ACCTS' mission is to assist in the development of Christian leaders in the armed forces worldwide and establish military Christian fellowships. Andy works as the coordinator for Latin America, supporting military Christian fellowships in 20 countries. The AMCF World Conference aims to encourage and equip military Christians from around the world and provide a vision for their mission. Financial support and prayer are needed for the success of the conference and the ongoing work of ACCTS. There is a need for more people to get involved in ACCTS and support military Christian communities globally. Be a good steward of what God has entrusted to you. Think strategically about where God has placed you. Use your credentials and experiences to make an impact for the kingdom of God. Be mindful of the bigger picture in your actions and decisions. Points to Ponder Andy talks about the Lord using his military career to prepare him for his role with ACCTS. How have you seen God use an experience in your life for another? When have you seen hardship bear fruit? Andy shares about connections and networking being a way to further the gospel elsewhere. What do his anecdotes remind us of when it comes to the Lord and His church? Thinking of the theme for this year’s AMCF World Conference, what does it mean to you to “arise and shine” (Isaiah 60:1)? How are you stewarding what God has given you?

OCF MINISTRY NEWS Fort Knox OCF update: Continue praying for the ROTC cadets as they’ve returned to their campuses and begun new semesters. To learn more about and/or get involved with OCF’s ROTC ministry, visit ocfusa.org/rotc Connected print newsletters: If you don’t receive this biannual piece in your mailbox this fall, be sure to update your info via ocfusa.org/update so that we don’t miss you next spring. This fall’s newsletter will also be available online at ocfusa.org/connected Ted & Beverly Kaiser: Contact this newest couple on the OCF team by emailing europe@ocfusa.org OCF Mid-Atlantic & Northeast Fall Retreat: Visit whitesulphursprings.org/events to learn more and register, and email any questions to the Chiaravallottis at midatlantic@ocfusa.org. The Bowens’ Fort Carson OCF group: Visit ocfusa.org/directory to connect with groups like the Bowens’, and visit ocfusa.org/list-me to start your own group wherever you are. ASK OCF COL Steve & Miriam Shambach, USA (Ret.), who serve as the OCF Mountain Central Regional Coordinator couple, answered this question from another OCFer: Retired, I don't live near a military base, no local OCF folks near me...what opportunity is there for fellowship/training through Zoom? In case you missed the Shambachs’ article in the spring 2024 issue of Connected print newsletter, you can find it here: From Service to Support: How Veterans Can Stay Engaged in OCF. If you have a question that you want us to consider for a future “Ask OCF” segment, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org. GUEST SPOTLIGHT COL Andy MacLean, USA (Ret.), graduated from the U.S. Military Academy in 1995 and later returned there to be a professor. After retiring in 2019, he joined the Association for Christian Conferences, Teaching, and Services (ACCTS), a sister ministry of OCF. He currently serves as the ACCTS coordinator for Latin America. Whether discussing the origin story of ACCTS, the countries he works with as an ACCTS staffer, or his own life, Andy’s passion for sharing how God works in the details is clear. He talks about the upcoming AMCF World Conference, approaching this October in Brazil, which you can support by attending, praying for the gathering, and/or contributing to a scholarship for other guests. If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org. POINTS TO PONDER As you listen to this conversation with Andy, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor: How can you engage in the international ministry ACCTS does? When have you seen God work through hard situations, whether in your own life or in events across the world? Why is it important to discuss how God is working in other nation’s military communities?

Show Notes In this bonus episode of OCF Crosspoint, podcast host Josh Jackson continues his discussion with CH(CPT) Michael Will, USA (Ret.), focusing on the theme of hardship and suffering. The conversation delves into defining suffering, recognizing its various sources—such as persecution, sin, and the actions of others—and understanding its impact. They address the dangers of comparison, which can undermine endurance, and emphasize the importance of acknowledging our lack of control as a starting point for discovering God's purpose in suffering. The episode offers practical advice for navigating hardship, including perseverance and concentrating on what we can control. It also explores the purpose behind suffering, such as being shaped into the image of Christ and learning obedience. The conversation touches on the challenging yet transformative concept of rejoicing in suffering and finding hope amidst adversity. Silence and listening to God are highlighted as crucial practices in these times, along with the importance of seeking God's will through prayer. Additionally, the discussion covers the role of discipline and training in preparing for suffering, encouraging believers to embrace it with a mindset of rejoicing. By viewing suffering as something appointed by God rather than accidental, believers can appreciate the transformative work God accomplishes through these hardships. Points to Ponder As you listen to this conversation with CH Will, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor: What personal experiences have shaped your definition of suffering?How have you seen God use suffering in your own life and in the lives of others?What Bible verses encourage you in the midst of hardship?Michael talks about prayer as “the most effective tool” in his toolkit. What additional tools can you use when facing hard times?