app02 Tue, 30 Jun 2026 16:40:27 +0000 Fireside (https://fireside.fm) Draw Near - Episodes Tagged with “Identity In Christ” https://drawnear.fireside.fm/tags/identity%20in%20christ Mon, 22 Jun 2026 06:00:00 -0500 At Draw Near, we explore the beautiful truth that God, out of His deep and personal love for each of us, takes the first step to draw near. But this divine movement calls for a response—a response that shapes our lives and transforms our hearts. Together, we embark on this journey of faith, discovering the many ways God's grace and the power of the Holy Spirit work within us. Rooted in the Catholic faith, our podcast is a space where authenticity meets joy. We’re two best friends navigating life, family, and faith with honesty, humility, and a lot of love. Each episode is a heartfelt conversation—sometimes deep, sometimes lighthearted, but always real. We strive to be vulnerable, faithful, and passionate, sharing insights and stories to inspire you on your path toward Christ. This is more than a podcast; it’s a shared journey toward sainthood. So come laugh with us, reflect with us, and grow with us as we Draw Near to God and one another. Let’s set out together on this adventure of faith, friendship, and grace. en episodic Helping each person to draw near to Christ and to one another. Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell At Draw Near, we explore the beautiful truth that God, out of His deep and personal love for each of us, takes the first step to draw near. But this divine movement calls for a response—a response that shapes our lives and transforms our hearts. Together, we embark on this journey of faith, discovering the many ways God's grace and the power of the Holy Spirit work within us. Rooted in the Catholic faith, our podcast is a space where authenticity meets joy. We’re two best friends navigating life, family, and faith with honesty, humility, and a lot of love. Each episode is a heartfelt conversation—sometimes deep, sometimes lighthearted, but always real. We strive to be vulnerable, faithful, and passionate, sharing insights and stories to inspire you on your path toward Christ. This is more than a podcast; it’s a shared journey toward sainthood. So come laugh with us, reflect with us, and grow with us as we Draw Near to God and one another. Let’s set out together on this adventure of faith, friendship, and grace. no Faith; Christ; Podcast; Catholic; Friends; Draw Near Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell drawnear.me@gmail.com Fred's Journey to Christ: From Brokenness to Beloved https://drawnear.fireside.fm/243 e4d9cf94-e139-4f1d-be14-608fe84061fa Mon, 22 Jun 2026 06:00:00 -0500 Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell full Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell Many listeners have asked to hear more of Fred's story, and in this episode, he shares it. From a difficult childhood and experiences that left deep wounds, to the moments that shaped his faith, Fred reflects on why he often says, "I shouldn't be alive." More importantly, he shares where Christ was in the midst of the suffering—even when he couldn't see Him. This is a story of pain, survival, grace, and the relentless love of God that pursues us through every chapter of our lives. 1:05:11 no <p>TRIGGER WARNING! Many people have asked to hear more of Fred's story. In this episode, he opens up about parts of his life he doesn't often share publicly.<br> This episode of Draw Near contains adult themes; we do not recommend listening in the presence of children. </p> <p>Through an honest conversation with Kara, Fred reflects on his childhood, the hardships he experienced, and the wounds throughout his early life. He shares why he often says, <em>"I shouldn't be alive,"</em> and how there were moments when his future seemed uncertain.</p> <p>Yet this episode is about far more than suffering or past wounds. Looking back, Fred can now see how Christ was present even in the darkest seasons: through unexpected people, quiet moments of grace, and circumstances that helped lead him toward healing and faith. What once seemed like random events now reveal a story of God's providence and relentless pursuit.</p> <p>In this episode, we discuss:</p> <ul> <li> Fred's childhood and family experiences</li> <li> The challenges and wounds that marked his early years</li> <li> Why he says he "shouldn't be alive"</li> <li> The lasting impact of suffering and brokenness</li> <li> Where Christ was present throughout the journey</li> <li> How God works even when we cannot see Him</li> <li> The path that eventually led Fred to deeper faith and conversion</li> <li> Hope for anyone who feels trapped by their past</li> </ul> <p>Whether your story is marked by loss, pain, disappointment, or unanswered questions, this conversation is a reminder that God is never absent. He is often working in ways we cannot yet understand.</p> <p>As Jesus says in the Parable of the Prodigal Son (and Kara referenced in the episode): <br> "For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found." (Luke 15:24)</p> <p>No wound is beyond Christ's reach. No story is beyond redemption.</p> <p>*<em>Resources Mentioned<br> *</em></p> <ul> <li> OCIA curriculum from Ascension: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xeJl-lPwCsQ" rel="nofollow noopener">INVITED Webinar</a></li> <li> <a href="https://www.drawnear.me/drawnearshop/p/the-surrender-journal" rel="nofollow noopener">The Surrender Journal</a></li> </ul> <p>*<em>Listen Next<br> *</em><br> If this episode resonates with you, consider listening to Fred's other testimony episodes, where he shares more about his conversion, his Catholic faith, and the ways God continues to work in his life today.</p> <ul> <li> Fred's First Testimony Episode: <a href="https://open.spotify.com/episode/6umqaZpjeLTE7AtTN9hYxt?si=Phe_mSs-TE2TXpzu1RAP1w" rel="nofollow noopener">From Heathen to Heaven</a></li> <li> "Why are you Catholic?" <a href="https://drawnear.fireside.fm/9" rel="nofollow noopener">Testimony</a></li> </ul> <p>For reflections, formation, and community, <strong>FOLLOW Draw Near on Social Media:</strong> @drawnearbygrace<br> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@drawnearbygrace" rel="nofollow noopener">YouTube</a> <br> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/drawnearbygrace/" rel="nofollow noopener">Instagram</a><br> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/drawnearbygrace/" rel="nofollow noopener">Facebook!</a></p> <p>Like our podcast? Hit that “follow” button and tell your friends. :)</p> <p><a href="https://www.patreon.com/c/drawnear/membership" rel="nofollow noopener">Click here</a> to become a patron! We wouldn't be "Draw Near" without your support! <br> Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our <a href="https://www.drawnear.me/" rel="nofollow noopener">home page. </a></p> <p>Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger &amp; Kara Kardell </p> Catholic podcast, Draw Near, Fred and Kara, Christian testimony, conversion story, faith journey, Catholic testimony, Catholic conversion, personal testimony, overcoming adversity, healing from childhood trauma, childhood trauma and faith, finding God in suffering, God's grace, God's providence, redemption story, hope after suffering, Christian encouragement, Catholic podcast, Christian podcast, spiritual healing, healing and faith, encountering Christ, relationship with Jesus, journey to Christ, brokenness to beloved, God's love, Christian discipleship, faith and suffering, testimony of God's faithfulness, spiritual transformation, Draw Near Podcast, Fred Shellabarger, where was God in my suffering, how God works through suffering, Christian story of redemption, Catholic conversion testimony, overcoming a difficult childhood, finding hope after trauma, God's presence in suffering, healing childhood wounds through faith, personal journey to Jesus Christ, Christian testimony podcast, Catholic faith journey, how Christ changes lives TRIGGER WARNING! Many people have asked to hear more of Fred's story. In this episode, he opens up about parts of his life he doesn't often share publicly.
This episode of Draw Near contains adult themes; we do not recommend listening in the presence of children.

Through an honest conversation with Kara, Fred reflects on his childhood, the hardships he experienced, and the wounds throughout his early life. He shares why he often says, "I shouldn't be alive," and how there were moments when his future seemed uncertain.

Yet this episode is about far more than suffering or past wounds. Looking back, Fred can now see how Christ was present even in the darkest seasons: through unexpected people, quiet moments of grace, and circumstances that helped lead him toward healing and faith. What once seemed like random events now reveal a story of God's providence and relentless pursuit.

In this episode, we discuss:

  • Fred's childhood and family experiences
  • The challenges and wounds that marked his early years
  • Why he says he "shouldn't be alive"
  • The lasting impact of suffering and brokenness
  • Where Christ was present throughout the journey
  • How God works even when we cannot see Him
  • The path that eventually led Fred to deeper faith and conversion
  • Hope for anyone who feels trapped by their past

Whether your story is marked by loss, pain, disappointment, or unanswered questions, this conversation is a reminder that God is never absent. He is often working in ways we cannot yet understand.

As Jesus says in the Parable of the Prodigal Son (and Kara referenced in the episode):
"For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found." (Luke 15:24)

No wound is beyond Christ's reach. No story is beyond redemption.

*Resources Mentioned
*

*Listen Next
*
If this episode resonates with you, consider listening to Fred's other testimony episodes, where he shares more about his conversion, his Catholic faith, and the ways God continues to work in his life today.

For reflections, formation, and community, FOLLOW Draw Near on Social Media: @drawnearbygrace
YouTube
Instagram
Facebook!

Like our podcast? Hit that “follow” button and tell your friends. :)

Click here to become a patron! We wouldn't be "Draw Near" without your support!
Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page.

Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell

Support Draw Near

]]> TRIGGER WARNING! Many people have asked to hear more of Fred's story. In this episode, he opens up about parts of his life he doesn't often share publicly.
This episode of Draw Near contains adult themes; we do not recommend listening in the presence of children.

Through an honest conversation with Kara, Fred reflects on his childhood, the hardships he experienced, and the wounds throughout his early life. He shares why he often says, "I shouldn't be alive," and how there were moments when his future seemed uncertain.

Yet this episode is about far more than suffering or past wounds. Looking back, Fred can now see how Christ was present even in the darkest seasons: through unexpected people, quiet moments of grace, and circumstances that helped lead him toward healing and faith. What once seemed like random events now reveal a story of God's providence and relentless pursuit.

In this episode, we discuss:

  • Fred's childhood and family experiences
  • The challenges and wounds that marked his early years
  • Why he says he "shouldn't be alive"
  • The lasting impact of suffering and brokenness
  • Where Christ was present throughout the journey
  • How God works even when we cannot see Him
  • The path that eventually led Fred to deeper faith and conversion
  • Hope for anyone who feels trapped by their past

Whether your story is marked by loss, pain, disappointment, or unanswered questions, this conversation is a reminder that God is never absent. He is often working in ways we cannot yet understand.

As Jesus says in the Parable of the Prodigal Son (and Kara referenced in the episode):
"For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found." (Luke 15:24)

No wound is beyond Christ's reach. No story is beyond redemption.

*Resources Mentioned
*

*Listen Next
*
If this episode resonates with you, consider listening to Fred's other testimony episodes, where he shares more about his conversion, his Catholic faith, and the ways God continues to work in his life today.

For reflections, formation, and community, FOLLOW Draw Near on Social Media: @drawnearbygrace
YouTube
Instagram
Facebook!

Like our podcast? Hit that “follow” button and tell your friends. :)

Click here to become a patron! We wouldn't be "Draw Near" without your support!
Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page.

Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell

Support Draw Near

]]> Guided Meditation: God Saw That It Was Good https://drawnear.fireside.fm/233 8124cd21-bf08-48a1-b8b5-fbcd6eadeb85 Wed, 17 Dec 2025 05:00:00 -0600 Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell full Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell In this guided Christian visualization meditation, Kara leads you into prayer to help you see yourself through God’s eyes: intentionally formed, fully known, and deeply loved. Rooted in Draw Near’s Surrender Journal, this reflection invites you to receive all that God has created in you—your gifts, personality, and even the parts you struggle to understand—with truth, purpose, and love. 17:37 no <p>God formed you carefully—every part of you. In this episode of Draw Near, Kara leads you through a guided visualization meditation designed to quiet the noise and open you to the depth of God’s love for you. </p> <p>This reflection is especially for anyone who struggles to see themselves as wholly good and loved... those who can appreciate their strengths but wrestle with their weaknesses, insecurities, or parts they wish were different. This meditation gently invites you to see yourself through God’s eyes and to receive yourself with the same love God offers.</p> <p>Drawn directly from the <a href="https://www.drawnear.me/drawnearshop" rel="nofollow noopener">Surrender Journal</a> we wrote and offer through our shop, this prayer experience is meant to be returned to again and again—especially in moments of self-doubt, comparison, or discouragement.</p> <p>Find a quiet place, take a deep breath, and allow God to remind you: you are deeply known, carefully created, and lovingly held.</p> <p><strong>Questions to reflect on before you begin:</strong></p> <ol> <li>Where do you find value within yourself? When do feel valuable? Are there moments when you do not feel valuable but worthless? What are they?</li> <li>What lies from the evil one do you listen to regularly regarding your life, identity, or value?</li> <li>What does it mean to be made in the image of God? What does it mean to be in the likeness of God? </li> </ol> <p><strong>The Surrender Journal:</strong> <br> Find additional meditations in the Surrender Journal. <a href="https://www.drawnear.me/drawnearshop" rel="nofollow noopener">Learn more or ORDER by clicking HERE</a></p> <p>Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "<a href="https://www.drawnear.me/booking" rel="nofollow noopener">booking page</a>."</p> <p><a href="https://www.patreon.com/c/drawnear/membership" rel="nofollow noopener">Click here</a> to become a patron! Patrons are essentially "sponsors" and co-producers or Draw Near as it could not happen without them. <br> "Like" and follow us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/fredandkara" rel="nofollow noopener">Facebook!</a>. Follow us on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/fredandkara/" rel="nofollow noopener">Instagram</a>! </p> <p>Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our <a href="https://www.drawnear.me/" rel="nofollow noopener">home page. </a></p> <p>Like our podcast? Hit that “subscribe” button AND the notification button/bell to know when new episodes are posted! Give us a rating! Leave a review! Tell your friends! Even more, pray for us! </p> <p>Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger &amp; Kara Kardell </p> Catholic podcast, Draw Near, Fred and Kara, Christian meditation, guided Christian meditation, guided prayer, Christian guided prayer, visualization prayer, Catholic meditation, Catholic prayer, encountering God’s love, God’s intentional design, identity in Christ, seeing yourself through God’s eyes, God’s gaze, prayer for self-worth, prayer for healing, spiritual reflection, contemplative prayer, surrender prayer, inner healing prayer, Christian mindfulness, resting in God’s presence, God’s love for you, personal prayer, Draw Near podcast, Surrender Journal God formed you carefully—every part of you. In this episode of Draw Near, Kara leads you through a guided visualization meditation designed to quiet the noise and open you to the depth of God’s love for you.

This reflection is especially for anyone who struggles to see themselves as wholly good and loved... those who can appreciate their strengths but wrestle with their weaknesses, insecurities, or parts they wish were different. This meditation gently invites you to see yourself through God’s eyes and to receive yourself with the same love God offers.

Drawn directly from the Surrender Journal we wrote and offer through our shop, this prayer experience is meant to be returned to again and again—especially in moments of self-doubt, comparison, or discouragement.

Find a quiet place, take a deep breath, and allow God to remind you: you are deeply known, carefully created, and lovingly held.

Questions to reflect on before you begin:

  1. Where do you find value within yourself? When do feel valuable? Are there moments when you do not feel valuable but worthless? What are they?
  2. What lies from the evil one do you listen to regularly regarding your life, identity, or value?
  3. What does it mean to be made in the image of God? What does it mean to be in the likeness of God?

The Surrender Journal:
Find additional meditations in the Surrender Journal. Learn more or ORDER by clicking HERE

Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "booking page."

Click here to become a patron! Patrons are essentially "sponsors" and co-producers or Draw Near as it could not happen without them.
"Like" and follow us on Facebook!. Follow us on Instagram!

Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page.

Like our podcast? Hit that “subscribe” button AND the notification button/bell to know when new episodes are posted! Give us a rating! Leave a review! Tell your friends! Even more, pray for us!

Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell

Support Draw Near

]]> God formed you carefully—every part of you. In this episode of Draw Near, Kara leads you through a guided visualization meditation designed to quiet the noise and open you to the depth of God’s love for you.

This reflection is especially for anyone who struggles to see themselves as wholly good and loved... those who can appreciate their strengths but wrestle with their weaknesses, insecurities, or parts they wish were different. This meditation gently invites you to see yourself through God’s eyes and to receive yourself with the same love God offers.

Drawn directly from the Surrender Journal we wrote and offer through our shop, this prayer experience is meant to be returned to again and again—especially in moments of self-doubt, comparison, or discouragement.

Find a quiet place, take a deep breath, and allow God to remind you: you are deeply known, carefully created, and lovingly held.

Questions to reflect on before you begin:

  1. Where do you find value within yourself? When do feel valuable? Are there moments when you do not feel valuable but worthless? What are they?
  2. What lies from the evil one do you listen to regularly regarding your life, identity, or value?
  3. What does it mean to be made in the image of God? What does it mean to be in the likeness of God?

The Surrender Journal:
Find additional meditations in the Surrender Journal. Learn more or ORDER by clicking HERE

Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "booking page."

Click here to become a patron! Patrons are essentially "sponsors" and co-producers or Draw Near as it could not happen without them.
"Like" and follow us on Facebook!. Follow us on Instagram!

Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page.

Like our podcast? Hit that “subscribe” button AND the notification button/bell to know when new episodes are posted! Give us a rating! Leave a review! Tell your friends! Even more, pray for us!

Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell

Support Draw Near

]]> Washed and Chosen: Living Out Our Baptismal Call https://drawnear.fireside.fm/207 8d57d823-28b1-4ab4-9d43-ccf8e3a0a849 Wed, 15 Jan 2025 00:00:00 -0600 Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell full Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell In this inspiring episode of Draw Near, we delve into the transformative power of our baptism and its enduring impact on our identity and mission as disciples of Christ. Through meaningful reflection and practical insights, we explore the deep truth that each of us is a beloved child of God, uniquely called to live out our baptismal mission with purpose and joy. This episode offers not only spiritual depth but also actionable ways to deepen your relationship with God in the midst of life’s busyness. You’ll be inspired to embrace your identity, rediscover your mission, and live as a light in the world. 55:00 no <p>In this inspiring episode of Draw Near, we delve into the transformative power of our baptism and its enduring impact on our identity and mission as disciples of Christ.</p> <p>**Theme: **Renewing Our Identity in Christ<br> Through meaningful reflection and practical insights, we explore the deep truth that each of us is a beloved child of God, uniquely called to live out our baptismal mission with purpose and joy.</p> <p><strong>Key Questions Answered:</strong></p> <p><em><strong>How can we understand and embrace our identity as beloved children of God?</strong></em></p> <ul> <li>Discover how God’s unconditional love defines our worth, sets us free, and calls us to a life rooted in hope and purpose.</li> </ul> <p><em><strong>What role does baptism play in forming our mission and vocation?</strong></em></p> <ul> <li>Learn how baptism commissions us as missionary disciples, equipping us to live our faith in the ordinary and extraordinary moments of life. <em><strong>In a busy world, how can we renew our commitment to living as disciples?</strong></em> Gain practical steps to cultivate prayer, prioritize the Eucharist, and reflect Christ’s love in everyday actions.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Why Listen?</strong><br> This episode offers not only spiritual depth but also actionable ways to deepen your relationship with God in the midst of life’s busyness. You’ll be inspired to embrace your identity, rediscover your mission, and live as a light in the world.</p> <p>Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "<a href="https://www.drawnear.me/booking" rel="nofollow noopener">booking page</a>."</p> <p><a href="https://www.drawnear.me/donate" rel="nofollow noopener">Click here</a> to become a patron! Patrons are essentially "sponsors" and co-producers or Draw Near as it could not happen without them. <br> "Like" and follow us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/fredandkara" rel="nofollow noopener">Facebook!</a>. Follow us on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/drawnear.me/" rel="nofollow noopener">Instagram</a>! </p> <p>Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our <a href="https://www.drawnear.me/" rel="nofollow noopener">home page. </a></p> <p>Like our podcast? Hit that “subscribe” button AND the notification button/bell to know when new episodes are posted! Give us a rating! Leave a review! Tell your friends! Even more, pray for us! </p> <p>Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger &amp; Kara Kardell </p> Baptismal call, Catholic discipleship, identity in Christ, living your faith, Catholic podcast, Christian spirituality, renewing faith, mission and vocation, beloved child of God, practical discipleship tips. pokemon In this inspiring episode of Draw Near, we delve into the transformative power of our baptism and its enduring impact on our identity and mission as disciples of Christ.

**Theme: **Renewing Our Identity in Christ
Through meaningful reflection and practical insights, we explore the deep truth that each of us is a beloved child of God, uniquely called to live out our baptismal mission with purpose and joy.

Key Questions Answered:

How can we understand and embrace our identity as beloved children of God?

  • Discover how God’s unconditional love defines our worth, sets us free, and calls us to a life rooted in hope and purpose.

What role does baptism play in forming our mission and vocation?

  • Learn how baptism commissions us as missionary disciples, equipping us to live our faith in the ordinary and extraordinary moments of life. In a busy world, how can we renew our commitment to living as disciples? Gain practical steps to cultivate prayer, prioritize the Eucharist, and reflect Christ’s love in everyday actions.

Why Listen?
This episode offers not only spiritual depth but also actionable ways to deepen your relationship with God in the midst of life’s busyness. You’ll be inspired to embrace your identity, rediscover your mission, and live as a light in the world.

Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "booking page."

Click here to become a patron! Patrons are essentially "sponsors" and co-producers or Draw Near as it could not happen without them.
"Like" and follow us on Facebook!. Follow us on Instagram!

Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page.

Like our podcast? Hit that “subscribe” button AND the notification button/bell to know when new episodes are posted! Give us a rating! Leave a review! Tell your friends! Even more, pray for us!

Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell

Support Draw Near

]]> In this inspiring episode of Draw Near, we delve into the transformative power of our baptism and its enduring impact on our identity and mission as disciples of Christ.

**Theme: **Renewing Our Identity in Christ
Through meaningful reflection and practical insights, we explore the deep truth that each of us is a beloved child of God, uniquely called to live out our baptismal mission with purpose and joy.

Key Questions Answered:

How can we understand and embrace our identity as beloved children of God?

  • Discover how God’s unconditional love defines our worth, sets us free, and calls us to a life rooted in hope and purpose.

What role does baptism play in forming our mission and vocation?

  • Learn how baptism commissions us as missionary disciples, equipping us to live our faith in the ordinary and extraordinary moments of life. In a busy world, how can we renew our commitment to living as disciples? Gain practical steps to cultivate prayer, prioritize the Eucharist, and reflect Christ’s love in everyday actions.

Why Listen?
This episode offers not only spiritual depth but also actionable ways to deepen your relationship with God in the midst of life’s busyness. You’ll be inspired to embrace your identity, rediscover your mission, and live as a light in the world.

Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "booking page."

Click here to become a patron! Patrons are essentially "sponsors" and co-producers or Draw Near as it could not happen without them.
"Like" and follow us on Facebook!. Follow us on Instagram!

Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page.

Like our podcast? Hit that “subscribe” button AND the notification button/bell to know when new episodes are posted! Give us a rating! Leave a review! Tell your friends! Even more, pray for us!

Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell

Support Draw Near

]]>