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Established in 1948, Central Lutheran Church has been a beacon of faith and community in Elk River, Minnesota, for more than seven decades. Led by our dedicated Lead Pastor, Ryan Braley, we are a congregation deeply rooted in family values and intergenerational connection. Central Lutheran Church offers two services every Sunday at 8:30 AM and 10:00 AM, welcoming individuals and families of all ages to join us in worship and fellowship. Our services and activities are thoughtfully designed t ...
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Ever been moved to tears by a simple question? Join me, Ryan, as I recount an eye-opening retreat experience where I encountered Kent Dobson, a master of transformative questioning. Spending five days in the woods with Kent and a group of fellow seekers, I witnessed firsthand how his seemingly straightforward questions could unearth profound emotio…
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What if embracing your weaknesses could reveal your true strength? Join us as we journey through the final chapter of our series on Ephesians, where we unravel Paul's compelling message on the transformative power of prayer. We'll challenge the cultural norm of self-sufficiency and explore how admitting our vulnerabilities can strengthen our connec…
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Can you really miss a divine calling, or is it more like a GPS guiding us back on track when we stray? Join me, Ryan, as we explore this idea through the story of Moses and the burning bush. We'll dig into the concept of divine guidance and how it resembles a modern GPS—offering direction rather than condemnation when we face life's detours. Drawin…
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Can ancient texts provide the keys to solving modern relationship dilemmas? Imagine navigating the complexities of relationships by looking at age-old teachings through a fresh lens. Explore with us as we challenge the conventional interpretations of Paul's letters in Ephesians, bringing to light their revolutionary nature when viewed in the histor…
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What does it take to truly make an impact? Sometimes, it's as simple as showing up. Join me, Ryan, in this episode of the Reflections podcast as I recount my journey stepping into a youth ministry role, a path I was hesitant to walk. Drawing inspiration from an unexpected source—a scene from Kung Fu Panda—I found courage in the idea that we are oft…
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What if the light that guides us is more than just a metaphor? Join us for a transformative exploration of the sacred essence of light throughout spiritual history and its profound role in human consciousness. We promise you'll walk away with a deeper understanding of how ancient rituals, like those of the Israelites, used light as a bridge to the …
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What if the question "Why?" is the wrong question to ask when faced with life's toughest trials? Episode 60 of the Reflections podcast invites you to join Ryan and Mike as they explore this profound inquiry. Drawing from Ryan's personal experiences in his pastoral work, including a heart-rending funeral for a young girl and a church building projec…
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Can dressing up for Halloween teach us about our faith? Imagine your kids in their costumes, embodying different characters, and you're left wondering how this parallels with our own spiritual journey. This episode unravels the layers of imitation and authenticity in living a life inspired by Jesus, using personal anecdotes and the teachings from t…
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Left Handed Power v Right Handed Power with Pastor Ryan Braley {Reflection: Special Edition}
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What if there was a way of living that transcended political power and societal norms? Join us on this special edition of the Reflections Podcast as we explore the profound message of Ephesians 2:19-22, brought to life amidst the ancient streets of Ephesus. Despite unexpected technical hiccups, this unique sermon invites us to imagine a kingdom whe…
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Can betting on faith lead to infinite happiness? Join us on the Reflections podcast as we close out our mini-series on the arguments for God's existence with a look at Pascal's Wager, one of the most intriguing and debated theories out there. Blaise Pascal, the Renaissance man and brilliant philosopher, suggests that we should gamble on belief—an i…
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Unravel the profound connection between Reformation Sunday and its historical resonance with Martin Luther's 95 Theses while exploring its fascinating alignment with Halloween. You'll gain insights into Ephesians 4, where Paul exhorts the Ephesians to embody lives worthy of their divine calling—bridging foundational gospel teachings with practical,…
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Can our deepest longings point us towards a divine reality? This episode promises to explore the compelling idea that our unfulfilled desires hint at a spiritual world beyond our earthly experience. Inspired by the writings of C.S. Lewis, we consider how our innate desires for wholeness, love, and acceptance might suggest we're made for another wor…
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Picture a bustling ancient city with the vibrancy of modern-day New York, where historical divisions among its people were as tangible as its cobblestones. This episode transports us to Ephesus, where Paul's radical message of unity between Jews and Gentiles breaks down these barriers, inviting us to question the tribal lines we draw in our own liv…
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Is the universe finely tuned for life, or is it all just a cosmic coincidence? Join us as we challenge conventional wisdom and explore the intricate fine-tuning argument for the existence of God. Our journey through the universe's precise calibration takes us through the cosmic constants like the electromagnetic force, strong nuclear force, and gra…
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Unlock the path to unity and reconciliation within the Christian faith with us, as we journey through the profound teachings of Ephesians. What if the divisions that seem insurmountable are actually hiding the true calling that lies within each of us? Join our pastoral associate, Sonia Knutson, as she opens the door to understanding Paul's letter t…
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Unlock the secrets of the universe with our exploration of the cosmological argument for the existence of God. Ever wondered if the universe had a beginning and what that implies? Join us as we promise an enlightening journey through philosophical and scientific reasoning, where we discuss everything from the second law of thermodynamics to the pio…
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How do we gracefully ride the waves of life's highs and lows?" Join me, Ryan, on the Reflections podcast, as I unpack a heartfelt narrative centered around my son Gavin’s flourishing freshman year at North Central College. His journey isn't just a personal milestone; it's a springboard into a discussion on navigating life's rollercoaster moments. F…
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Ever feel like the constant barrage of political news and social media is taking a toll on your mental and spiritual well-being? Join us for an insightful conversation on how to manage political anxiety with faith, where we promise you'll learn practical ways to keep your sanity and spiritual health intact. We'll explore how to discern and avoid me…
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Ever questioned if belief in God is a logical choice in today's world? Join us on Reflections as we tackle this and more, promising an enlightening journey through the landscape of faith and rationality. We'll debunk the myth that non-believers are inherently more educated or rational, making a bold case for the reasonableness of faith. Forget rely…
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What if you lived in a city where magic and amulets were as commonplace as smartphones are today? Journey with us to ancient Ephesus, a vibrant metropolis akin to New York City, where citizens worshipped the goddess Artemis and believed in the mystical powers of charms and amulets. We'll uncover how Paul's mission, as detailed in Acts 19, created r…
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How often do we focus on winning arguments rather than embodying genuine kindness and love? Join us as we explore the profound impact of "The Power of Love and Righteousness" through personal stories and poignant reflections. Drawing from my experiences at Bethel University, I share the story of a student whose argumentative nature, despite his the…
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Can a letter written nearly 2,000 years ago offer solutions to the divisions we face today? Discover how Paul's Epistle to the Ephesians provides timeless wisdom on unity and living as a community of believers. We'll transport you to ancient Ephesus, a city bustling with wealth and culture, to set the stage for Paul's teachings. The vibrant scene o…
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Have you ever wondered if the reality you perceive is just a shadow on the wall? Join us in episode 51 as we unravel the profound analogy of Plato's Cave and its implications on our understanding of reality. This idea, which I first encountered in my Philosophy 101 class at Red Rocks Community College, continues to be a cornerstone of my worldview.…
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What does it mean to trust in God's sovereignty during uncertain times? Pastor Lorraine Daly, co-pastor of Restoring Lives Community Church in Zimmerman, joins us to explore this profound question. Since 2020, Pastor Lorraine has been a cherished voice at Central, and in this episode, she shares her journey of seeking God's guidance in every decisi…
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Ever found yourself wishing you were anywhere but here? Whether it’s ducking out of a party, an unending workday, or the claustrophobic confines of an airplane, we've all felt that restless urge to be somewhere else. On this landmark 50th episode of Reflections, Mike and I, Ryan, kick off with a hilarious Jerry Seinfeld bit that perfectly captures …
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What happens when we misdirect our worship? Join us in this thought-provoking episode as we celebrate the heartwarming generosity of Central's community, who have handcrafted and donated 52 quilts to Lutheran World Relief. We extend a special shout-out to our online viewers, including North Central students and friends from Texas, showcasing the fa…
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What would you do if faced with the ultimate decision to use violence in self-defense or to protect a loved one? This week on Reflections with Ryan Braley, we explore the unsettling moral terrain of violence and pacifism through a personal story involving my father-in-law. As we navigate the tough questions posed by my seminary friend Sam, we wrest…
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Have you ever considered how the faith of early Christians might challenge today's social norms? Join me, Pastor Ryan, as we close our You Pick series with a deep exploration of the book of Philemon. I share amusing and eye-opening stories from my recent trip to Tanzania, including the quirks of driving on the left side of the road and navigating s…
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How can the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus illuminate seemingly contradictory biblical teachings? Join us as we tackle Beth's insightful question about harmonizing Old Testament laws with the transformative teachings of Jesus in the New Testament. By taking a closer look at interpretations from noted theological scholars like Greg Boyd, Mar…
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What happens when faith, hope, and joy intertwine on a journey across continents and back to the heart? Join us as we kick off this episode with a heartfelt prayer and a reflection on Nehemiah's timeless words, "The joy of the Lord is your strength." You'll hear about the emotional rollercoaster of dropping a son off at college, and then travel wit…
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What if the darkness you fear is the key to discovering a deeper connection with the divine? This week on Reflections, Ryan takes you through his transformative journey during a five-day retreat in the wild mountains of Colorado. Inspired by the teachings of Thomas Merton, Ryan recounts a profound night watch experience that reshaped his relationsh…
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Do you really need to go to church to grow spiritually?" This is one of the thought-provoking questions we tackle in this episode as we explore the role of church attendance in deepening one's faith and relationship with Jesus. We share personal stories, like Sonia's journey of finding healing within the church community after a tumultuous childhoo…
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Ever felt like your soul's on mute despite your best efforts to tune in? Imagine being in the beautiful San Juan Mountains of Colorado, ready to bask in divine revelation, only to feel... nothing. Join me, Ryan Braley, as I recount my humbling journey from frustration to enlightenment during a five-day retreat. Through the lens of my own thirst for…
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Ever wondered how much faith is enough? Join us as we unravel this profound question with Ben Carruthers, the insightful director of student and family ministry. Through personal anecdotes and biblical insights from Matthew 17, Ben tackles the misconception that the quantity of faith determines its power. Learn why the true strength of faith lies i…
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What happens when your meticulously planned retreat turns into a series of unexpected challenges? Join me, Ryan, as I recount my recent five-day silence, solitude, and wilderness retreat in the picturesque mountains near Montrose, Colorado. Faced with canceled flights, expensive Uber rides, and an unplanned overnight stay, I discovered that these i…
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Is your work-life balance a myth rather than a reality? Discover how observing the Sabbath could transform your life, bringing you joy, rest, and a sense of freedom you never knew you needed. We kick off our episode by unraveling the essence of the Sabbath in Jewish tradition and the fascinating debates among rabbis about what activities constitute…
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What if a simple phrase could completely change the way you handle conflicts? Today, I’m flying solo from my office to share a groundbreaking communication technique that has transformed my relationships and could do the same for you. This isn’t just theory; it’s a practical, easy-to-remember tool that you can start using today. The magic words? "W…
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Ever felt the transformative power of pure silence and solitude? Join Pastor Ryan as he recounts his recent retreat in the serene mountains of Colorado. He shares how this period of quiet reflection not only rejuvenated his spirit but also deepened his sense of gratitude toward the congregation for their understanding during his time away. Get exci…
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Have you ever wondered how silence and solitude can lead to profound psychological healing? This week on Reflections, we explore Carl Jung's illuminating insights on the numinous—the divine encounters that can transform our inner lives. You'll hear personal stories from my journey as a pastor, including my transformative experiences with Youth With…
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Have you ever wondered how life's trials can shape and strengthen us? Join me as I recount my transformative journey from graduating Bethel University to working at Feed My Starving Children, with profound experiences like getting married, having three children, and moving to Austria as a missionary. Discover how our return to the U.S. and becoming…
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Ever wondered how a simple t-shirt design could make you feel seen and understood? In this episode of Reflections, we kick things off by celebrating Mike's aunt Kathy and her new husband, Ken, while reminiscing about the iconic "Jesus is my homeboy" t-shirts that were popular in our early 20s. These shirts offered a comforting and relatable image o…
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What if misunderstandings in our relationships could be turned into opportunities for growth and deeper connection? Join us this 4th of July weekend as our youth director, Ben Carruthers, leads us through a thoughtful examination of resolving conflict biblically. Ben begins with a light-hearted nod to those who arrive fashionably late and then dive…
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Ever had a phone call take an unexpected turn and leave you questioning everything? I know I have. Join me, Ryan, as I recount a surprising moment that unfolded right after a memorable trip to Washington DC with my daughter’s middle school class. I share the ups and downs of my emotional rollercoaster after my eagerly anticipated call to my wife, K…
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Ever questioned how trials and tribulations could possibly lead to a greater purpose? Join us as we unravel the extraordinary journey of Joseph—a tale of betrayal, redemption, and divine purpose. Discover how Joseph's life, from being sold into slavery to becoming Egypt's second most powerful man, encapsulates the unforeseen twists that shape our d…
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Can biohacking conquer the inevitability of death, or are we merely trying to outsmart our own mortality? This episode challenges our perceptions by juxtaposing ancient wisdom with modern science. We kick things off with a profound Hindu aphorism that lays the groundwork for our discussion on death and the human condition. Cue in Brian Johnson, a t…
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What if your name carried a hidden narrative that could reshape your understanding of your life's journey? Join us as Ben Carruthers, Director of Student and Family Ministry at Central, unpacks the profound significance of names in the story of Joseph. Drawing inspiration from Shakespeare's famous query, "What's in a name?", we delve into the bibli…
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Imagine being caught in a relentless storm in the Boundary Waters, where you have no choice but to surrender to the elements. In this episode, we unpack the profound lessons learned when we let go of control and face nature's unpredictability head-on. Through personal anecdotes and vivid storytelling, we discuss how such harrowing experiences teach…
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Can you imagine navigating the intricate web of family dynamics through stories that are millennia old yet strikingly relatable? Join us as Pastoral Associate Sonja Knutson takes us on a fascinating journey through the story of Joseph from Genesis, peppered with her own personal anecdotes. We'll unravel the complexities of favoritism and sibling ri…
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Do today's youth think life revolves around them? That's a question we tackle head-on in the latest episode of our engaging five-part series on rites of passage in tribal cultures. I'm Ryan Braley, joined by Mike Lauer on editing. This time, we uncover the profound lesson that life isn't about you, a critical message often conveyed during tradition…
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Have you ever wondered how ancient rituals and personal transformation intersect with divine encounters? In this episode, we journey through the riveting narrative of Jacob and his profound relationship with God, exploring the transformative power of rituals like baptisms and the long-lasting impact of our habits. We dive into the rich tapestry of …
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