Coffee To Go Episodes
Coffee to Go is a regular feature on Faith Unfiltered Podcast that invites listeners into the sacred rhythm of the Christian liturgical year. Hosted by Karin Peter and Blake Smith, each episode offers a thoughtful reflection on the seasons, scriptures, and holy days that shape our spiritual journey.
Whether you’re on your morning commute, taking a walk, or pausing for a quiet moment, Coffee to Go provides a companionable space for grounding yourself in the story of God — one sacred moment at a time.
Because sometimes, the Spirit speaks best in the spaces between… and a little coffee doesn’t hurt, either.
Whether you’re on your morning commute, taking a walk, or pausing for a quiet moment, Coffee to Go provides a companionable space for grounding yourself in the story of God — one sacred moment at a time.
Because sometimes, the Spirit speaks best in the spaces between… and a little coffee doesn’t hurt, either.
Dec. 3, 2023
655 | Coffee to Go | First Sunday of Advent
It may be the beginning of a season of waiting, but not here at Project Zion! Co-hosts Karin Peter and Blake Smith jump right into the new Lectionary year … journeying with Jesus through the gospel narratives. That’s right, we’re journeying with Jesus and waiting for him to be born. The important thing is that, on this First Sunday of Advent, as the world around us seems to be awash in darkness, we know that just around the corner, the light is coming! Be awake!! Download Transcript Thanks for...
Nov. 26, 2023
652 | Coffee to Go | Reign of Christ
“Did I do that?!” When Urkel asked that question in the TV show “Family Matters,” it was usually because he had done something wrong. But, that is not the case when referring to Christ’s mission and the Reign of Christ. As a matter of fact, we should hope that the answer would be a resounding “Yes.” Join co-hosts Karin Peter and Blake Smith, as they discuss this week’s journey with Jesus where Jesus is summarizing through parable what really separates the “sheep” from the “goats.” Then ask yours...
Nov. 19, 2023
650 | Coffee to Go | Proper 28
Doing nothing is an unacceptable response! What’s the worst thing that can happen if you take a risk here or there? The treasure that we have been given … the Gospel story … won’t do anyone any good if we “bury” it for safekeeping. Join hosts Karin Peter and Blake Smith for a look at the parable of the talents, and the importance of becoming a risk taker. Accept the challenge to share the treasure you’ve been given. You’re not in this alone. Download Transcript Thanks for listening to Faith Un...
Nov. 12, 2023
647 | Coffee to Go | Proper 27
In need of an “oil change?” Or, perhaps your oil is just running a little low and you need to top it off. Either way, the time is now... don’t wait! What’s all this talk about oil, you ask? Well, join hosts Karin Peter and Blake Smith … along with the wise and foolish bridesmaids (hint... hint) for this episode of Coffee to Go to hear about how oil is a metaphor for our commitment to follow Jesus... at least in this week’s text. And, for the record, when it comes to discipleship, having a backup...
Nov. 5, 2023
645 | Coffee to Go | Proper 26
Do you have phylacteries and long tassels (fancy cars, designer clothing and accessories, etc.) that you like to show off as a symbol of your status? Though there’s nothing wrong with having those things, how you display them, and for what reason, might matter. The same is true for your life as a disciple. Join hosts Karin Peter and Blake Smith, as they discuss what Jesus had to say about those who choose status and power over humility and servanthood. No judgment here. Just honest reflection in...
Nov. 1, 2023
644 | Coffee to Go | All Saints Day
Who are the “Saints” in your life? You know, the ones that have been a positive influence in your life. The ones that have modeled grace and generosity and unconditional love. In this special episode of Coffee to Go, hosts Karin Peter and Blake Smith talk a bit about the importance of honoring those who have gone before us and remembering the impact they’ve had in our lives. But wait, being a disciple calls us to the same responsibility with regard to others. Where might your name fall in the li...
Oct. 29, 2023
642 | Coffee to Go | Proper 25
When you get to the point that you’re asking Jesus which of the commandments (laws) is the greatest, you’re either trying to trick him, or you’re looking for a loophole! If your intent is to trick, be prepared to have the tables turned on you. If your intent is to find a loophole, well … good luck with that. Join hosts Karin Peter and Blake Smith in this episode of Coffee to Go as they “throw a little love around.” After all, it all boils down to love … God’s love? Download Transcript Thanks f...
Oct. 22, 2023
639 | Coffee to Go | Proper 24
Most everyone wants to belong … to a group or organization or sacred community, but not many folks will admit wanting to belong to someone. It’s a good thing, then, that God is not just any some “one.” And, from the day of our conception, and made public in the waters of baptism, we belong to God. It doesn’t matter whose head is imprinted on the coins in our pockets. God’s image is imprinted on our hearts. In this episode of Coffee to Go, hosts Karin Peter and Blake Smith take a look at what’s r...
Oct. 15, 2023
636 | Coffee to Go | Proper 23
What do you wear to a party? You might say, “Well, it depends on what type of party it is, when it is and where it’s being held.” What if we told you that the party is every day, in every circumstance, and Jesus is the host? The reality is that you, and all of God’s children, have been invited to a “feast.” Join hosts Karin Peter and Blake Smith as they journey with Jesus to a “wedding feast,” and see how what you “wear” is more important than you might think. Download Transcript Thanks for li...
Oct. 8, 2023
633 | Coffee to Go | Proper 22
It’s all about the fruit! So, what kind of fruit are you producing and harvesting? You wouldn’t want to be an unproductive “tenant” would you? This week’s journey with Jesus finds him facing off with some of the chief priests and Pharisees... again! Join hosts Karin Peter and Blake Smith as they explore the Parable of the Tenants. Find some ways that you might share focus on the “fruits” of God’s reign in your life and the lives of those with whom you journey. Download Transcript Thanks for li...
Oct. 1, 2023
631 | Coffee to Go | Proper 21
When it comes to matters of faith, it’s sometimes hard to know whether to stand up or to stay quiet. Today’s episode finds hosts Karin Peter and Blake Smith journeying with Jesus in Jerusalem as the religious leaders are questioning Jesus about his authority. And, no surprise, Jesus has a question or two of his own that leaves them speechless. The question is, will we be speechless when we are called on to stand up for our faith and claim without embarrassment that which we say we believe? And, ...
Sept. 24, 2023
628 | Coffee to Go | Proper 20
“That’s not fair!” is a common response to today’s gospel passage. But, then again, nothing is in the Kingdom of God … thank goodness! If things were “fair” we might get what we actually deserve rather than the grace and unconditional love offered to us freely by God. This week, hosts Karin Peter and Blake Smith take us on a journey with Jesus as he shares the parable of the laborers in the vineyard. Imagine the frustration of those hearing this passage who wonder if “they’ve been good all of th...
Sept. 17, 2023
625 | Coffee to Go | Proper 19
This week’s journey with Jesus comes with an especially difficult but incredibly important challenge … the mandate to forgive. Too often, when we encounter conflict or disappointment with someone else, we choose to simply move on rather than seek forgiveness and reconciliation … especially when dealing with “repeat offenders.” But as cohost Karin Peter reminds us in this episode of Coffee to Go, it’s in those times that we need to “put goodness and mercy out into the world.” After all, God never...
Sept. 10, 2023
622 | Coffee to Go | Proper 18
The NRSV uses the caption “Reproving Another Who Sins.” Well, it’s about time we got to call somebody out... right?! Wrong. A little deeper look into where we are with Jesus this week makes clear that what Jesus wants is for us to do everything in our power to reconcile and build up the community. Darn! Join hosts Karin Peter and Blake Smith as they make their way toward Jerusalem with Jesus and come face to face with yet another example of the upside-down kingdom. No one said following Jesus wo...
Sept. 3, 2023
620 | Coffee to Go | Proper 17
Following Jesus can be like a wild roller coaster ride. One minute you’re the rock on which Jesus says he’ll build his church, and the next minute he’s calling you Satan and telling you to get behind him. If that’s ever happened to you, you’re in good company. Peter knew the words to say, but as hosts Karin Peter and Blake Smith talk about in this episode of Coffee to Go, knowing the right words to say isn’t enough. And, taking up one’s “cross” isn’t just about dealing with your personal issues,...
Aug. 27, 2023
618 | Coffee to Go | Proper 16
Who do you say that I am? Jesus’ question to Peter as recorded in the Gospel According to Matthew didn’t seem to catch Peter off guard. Peter was quick with his answer. How about you? Who would you say that Jesus is? Would you be ready with a quick answer, or would you need time to think it out? In today’s episode of Coffee to Go, hosts Karin Peter and Blake Smith consider why it’s important to know the answer to that and to other questions of faith. It’s not about being right or wrong. It’s abo...
Aug. 19, 2023
615 | Coffee to Go | Proper 15
A Rabbi, a Priest and a minister walk into a bar … Now that we have your attention, it was actually, a Syrophoenician who walked up to Jesus and the disciples and started shouting, “Have mercy on me Lord!” The thing is, Jesus didn’t respond the way we might expect. Only through the woman’s persistence in the face of rejection did Jesus have a change of heart and listen to what she had to say. This week, join hosts Karin Peter and Blake Smith as they look at the more “fully human” side of this fu...
Aug. 13, 2023
613 | Coffee to Go | Proper 14
Do you sometimes feel like you are tossed about by the “stormy seas” of life? Why is it that we often wait until times get tough to reach out to God? In this week’s gospel passage, Jesus reminds us, through action not words, that self-care and preparation are important in helping navigate the storms of life. We need not wait until we are “sinking” to reach out our hand to God. God is available to us at ll times. Listen in as hosts, Karin Peter and Blake Smith, discuss the message behind the mira...
Aug. 6, 2023
610 | Coffee to Go | Proper 13
Ever had one of those days where you’ve worked hard and you just want to go somewhere quiet, get a bite to eat and put your feet up? That’s the situation we find ourselves in this week with Jesus and the disciples. Join hosts Karin Peter and Blake Smith for this week’s journey to a hillside where there are lots of hungry people. Find assurance and courage for your own journey in those times when Jesus gives you an “impossible” task. Blessing taken from: Carlson, Meta Herrick. “For Living Genero...
July 30, 2023
609 | Coffee to Go | Proper 12
“Of course we get it, Jesus! Why do you ask?” Imagine the looks on the faces of the disciples as they try to comprehend the laundry list of parables Jesus shares regarding the Kingdom of Heaven (aka the reign of God). One thing is clear though... the reign of God leaves no one out. Join hosts Karin Peter and Blake Smith in this week’s journey with Jesus. And breathe easy! There won’t be a pop quiz at the end .... just a chance to find an analogy that works for you. Who will you choose to include...
July 23, 2023
607 | Coffee to Go | Proper 11
Do you sometimes find yourself surrounded by “toxic weeds” in your life … people whom you’d rather not be around for one reason or another? Have you ever wondered if you are the toxic “weed” in someone else’s “field?” In this episode of Coffee to Go, hosts Karin Peter and Blake Smith take a look at another parable in which Jesus suggests that, in the Kingdom of God, it’s better to let the weeds grow rather than pluck them out. After all, the “plucking” is God’s responsibility, not ours. Our resp...
July 16, 2023
604 | Coffee to Go | Proper 10
Are you the seed, or are you the soil? If you’re the soil, you may find that some days you are more like rocky ground than fertile soil. Life happens, and we don’t always find ourselves in the most nurturing state of mind. The great news is that God continues to sow seeds on all types of “ground.” Find hope, encouragement and challenge this week as hosts Karin Peter and Blake Smith take a look at the Parable of the Sower. Whatever you do though, do something that enriches the soil of your inner ...
July 9, 2023
601 | Coffee to Go | Proper 9
Do you ever feel like you’re under the scrutiny of “Goldilocks?” Too soft, too hard, not enough, too much … rarely just right? Do you try hard to please everyone only to realize there are just some people you may never please. It’s tiring, isn’t it? It’s a good thing that Jesus gives us permission to stop trying to please everyone and just be who we were created to be. Join hosts Karin Peter and Blake Smith, as they discuss accepting the invitation to “come to [Jesus]” and find rest. Download T...
July 2, 2023
599 | Coffee to Go | Proper 8
When was the last time you welcomed a stranger? Back in the “day,” houses had front porches, or stoops, and privacy fences were almost unheard of … at least in most neighborhoods. Now, we live in a time where back decks and privacy fences have become the norm. Welcoming the stranger may not be easy, but it is our calling and responsibility. Join hosts, Karin Peter and Blake Smith, as they walk with Jesus and the disciples in Matthew 10:40-42. and lift up the importance of hospitality in a seemin...