There’s an honest difference between "looking" holy and "living" a holy life. Reflecting on Luke 18:9–14, Fred and Kara explore how pride and comparison creep into our hearts, why appearances are not what God looks at, and how one's heart is truly the measure holiness. Looking beyond all you do for God, what does your heart look like?
Let's dive into how pride can creep into our prayer life, how comparison blinds us to grace, and why holiness is not something we achieve but an interior posture of the heart.
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Imagine Jesus stopping everything just to find you and heal you. That’s exactly what happens in the story of the hemorrhaging woman. In this Lectio Divine episode, Fred and Kara pray with this passage and reflect on the woman's need to "touch" Jesus and how her circumstances during 12 years of suffering would have led to her "desperate" faith. In addition to spiritual themes, this episode also talks about Jesus' initiative to seek the woman and invite her out of her hiding place of shame and into healing.
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In this episode, we’re giving you a peek behind the curtain with real-life updates and our unfiltered takes on everything from reality shows and parish bingos to social media, smartphones, and DIY projects. We even get serious for a moment about how we use technology, faith, and the “thoughts and prayers” culture online.
If you’ve ever wondered what we’re like when the mics aren’t scripted—this one’s for you. Fun, honest, and a little unpredictable, this episode mixes laughter with reflection on living faith in everyday life.
Writing projects mentioned:
"The Surrender Journal"
"Near to You:" Marriage retreat at home
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What does it mean to actually surrender to God?... and how do we begin to do it? There are seasons when God feels silent, when prayers go unanswered, or when our hearts wrestle with waiting. In those moments, surrender can sound like a nice idea but feel nearly impossible. So, where do we begin?
To continue your journey to total surrender to God, check out The Surrender Journal on the Draw Near Shop. It shares 30 uniquely crafted meditation exercises that will bring you to a place of surrender.
Reflection Questions from this episode:
What does it look like for you to actively surrender to God’s timing right now?
What truths or promises do you cling to when waiting feels hard?
Can you recall a time when waiting brought unexpected grace, growth, or healing?
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.
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Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell
Imagine building a thriving career, only to hear a call so strong you can’t ignore it. That’s exactly what happened to Rob “Mr. Theology” Reynolds and Shevin McCullough. In this episode, the founders of Studio 316 share how they traded corporate success for a life of ministry—and how they’re using creativity and media to lead kids to Christ.
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.
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Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell
What do Dungeons & Dragons, Harry Potter, the Walking Dead, and A Quiet Place have in common?
In this episode, we have some fun exploring how even the most unlikely movies and shows can open doors to deeper conversations about faith. From unlikely heroes and the battle of good and evil, to themes of sacrifice, friendship, and courage... we discover that God can shine through stories we never expected.
This isn’t about forcing a religious lens where it doesn’t belong. It’s about learning to see with eyes of faith, and enjoying the creative ways truth, beauty, and goodness can break through, even in secular media.
Pull up some popcorn and join us for this lighthearted conversation where we share some of our favorite shows and movies, laugh a little, and give you new eyes for the next time you hit “play.”
What You’ll Hear in This Episode:
How secular stories can echo the Gospel when we learn to look deeper
Why Christian themes show up in unexpected places (and why that matters)
The power of sacrifice, courage, and friendship on screen
A few of our favorite movies and shows (and why we like them!)
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.
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Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page.
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Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell
Do our pets go to heaven?
It’s one of those questions people of all ages wonder about. Whether it’s sparked by watching All Dogs Go to Heaven as a kid, or by the very real grief of saying goodbye to a beloved family pet, the thought lingers: Will I see them again?
In this episode, Kara shares her family’s personal experience of losing a pet—and how that moment of loss opened up bigger questions of faith, hope, and what God has in store for all creation. Together, let's explore the possibilities by looking at what Scripture and the Catechism actually say about heaven and the renewal of all things. Here, Kara will share her own considerations, as well!
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.
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Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page.
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Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell
In this episode of Draw Near, we explore how Scripture becomes a living encounter with the voice of God. We talk about how to prepare our hearts to hear him, the power of knowing the full story of salvation, and how God speaks uniquely and personally through his Word. With personal stories, practical tips, and favorite passages that have carried us through suffering and joy, we hope to inspire you to trust that God is speaking to you.
Whether you’re new to reading Scripture or longing to go deeper, this conversation will help you move from simply reading the Bible to truly encountering the God who loves you.
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.
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Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page.
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Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell
Prayer is essential—but sometimes, it’s not the only thing someone needs. In some seasons, words can fall short if they aren’t paired with presence and love. This episode invites you to reflect on how we can truly support one another—not only by praying for someone, but by walking with them.
Drawing from Scripture, the wisdom of the saints, and real-life experience, we explore the power of showing up, listening well, and offering small acts of mercy. Let’s become the kind of people who pray deeply—and live that prayer out with compassion.
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.
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Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page.
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Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell
What if the interruptions in your day aren’t distractions… but invitations? In this reflective "shorty," Kara shares a personal insight drawn from her own life and the life of Christ in Scripture. Jesus never pushed people away because they weren’t part of “the plan.” He embraced them as the plan.
This episode invites you to rethink the way you see the unexpected moments in your own life—those small or inconvenient interruptions—as potential encounters with God’s grace.
This week, when you’re interrupted: Stop. Breathe. Reflect: “Lord, is this an invitation from you? Help me to embrace this moment and invite grace.”
Click to REGISTER for the Draw Near Retreat Aug. 9th
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.
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Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell
In this episode of Draw Near, we reflect on the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ and invite you to rediscover the power, beauty, and reality of the Eucharist. More than a symbol, the Eucharist is the living presence of Jesus—true food for the soul, strength for the weary, and healing for the brokenhearted.
Together, we explore:
With heartfelt stories, Scripture, practical takeaways, and wisdom from the saints, this episode will leave you inspired to approach every Mass and every moment with renewed gratitude and reverence.
Challenge for the Week:
Choose one simple way to deepen your Eucharistic devotion—adoration, prayer after Communion, or offering your day intentionally to God—and share it with someone.
Whether you're struggling to connect with the Eucharist or simply desire more, this episode offers encouragement and spiritual depth that will draw you closer to the Heart of Christ.
*Mentioned in this episode: *
Stay With Me - Prayer of St Padre Pio After Communion
Stay with me, Lord, for it is necessary to have You present so that I do not forget You. You know how easily I abandon You.
Stay with me, Lord, because I am weak
and I need Your strength,
that I may not fall so often.
Stay with me, Lord, for You are my life,
and without You, I am without fervor.
Stay with me, Lord, for You are my light,
and without You, I am in darkness.
Stay with me, Lord, to show me Your will.
Stay with me, Lord, so that I hear Your voice
and follow You.
Stay with me, Lord, for I desire to love You
very much, and always be in Your company.
Stay with me, Lord, if You wish me to be faithful to You.
Stay with me, Lord, for as poor as my soul is,
I want it to be a place of consolation for You, a nest of love.
Stay with me, Jesus, for it is getting late and the day is coming to a close, and life passes;
death, judgment, eternity approaches. It is necessary to renew my strength,
so that I will not stop along the way and for that, I need You.
It is getting late and death approaches,
I fear the darkness, the temptations, the dryness, the cross, the sorrows.
O how I need You, my Jesus, in this night of exile!
Stay with me tonight, Jesus, in life with all it’s dangers. I need You.
Let me recognize You as Your disciples did at the breaking of the bread,
so that the Eucharistic Communion be the Light which disperses the darkness,
the force which sustains me, the unique joy of my heart.
Stay with me, Lord, because at the hour of my death, I want to remain united to You,
if not by communion, at least by grace and love.
Stay with me, Jesus, I do not ask for divine consolation, because I do not merit it,
but the gift of Your Presence, oh yes, I ask this of You!
Stay with me, Lord, for it is You alone I look for, Your Love, Your Grace, Your Will, Your Heart, Your Spirit, because I love You and ask no other reward but to love You more and more.
With a firm love, I will love You with all my heart while on earth
and continue to love You perfectly during all eternity. Amen
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.
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Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page.
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Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell
“Prayer is nothing else than a close sharing between friends.” — St. Teresa of Ávila
In this powerful and reflective episode of Draw Near, Kara invites you to explore the deeply personal and transformative nature of prayer as an intimate friendship with God. Using the story of Doubting Thomas in John 20, Kara reflects on how God responds to us when we ask, and gives us exactly what is needed. Jesus enters the locked rooms of our lives... those places we try to keep hidden.
You’ll be guided through a visual prayer meditation that helps you encounter Jesus in those very spaces. Is there a room in your life where you've closed the door on God? He’s already standing among you, ready to meet you with peace and transformation.
Whether you're seeking a deeper relationship with Jesus, struggling with doubt, or yearning for vulnerability in your spiritual life, this episode offers a quiet, sacred space to reconnect with the God who calls you friend.
Perfect for:
Catholics and Christians seeking to deepen their prayer life, grow in intimacy with God, or explore spiritual friendship, especially through Catholic meditation and imaginative prayer.
Discussion Questions for Reflection or Group Use:
In the visualization, what was it like in the room? What did you see, feel, or notice?
What locked door in your life is God asking you to open?
How is God calling you to grow closer to him in friendship?
Scripture for Meditation:
John 20:19–29 – Jesus appears to the disciples and to Thomas in the upper room.
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.
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Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page.
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Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell
What does it mean to be a "living stone" in God's Church? How can we live as a royal priesthood, and build communities that truly reflect the love and unity of Christ?
In this episode, Fred explores the readings for the Sixth Sunday of Easter and unpacks our identity as chosen people—called not just to believe, but to build. Drawing from Acts, Revelation, and John’s Gospel, we’ll dive into what it means to be part of something eternal and radiant: the Kingdom of God.
🔹 Discover how God is building his Church through us
🔹 Learn what it means to offer spiritual sacrifices in daily life
🔹 Be inspired to live your faith with peace, purpose, and unity
Whether you're new to the faith or a lifelong disciple, this episode will challenge and encourage you to take your place in God’s spiritual house.
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.
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Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page.
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Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell
How do we hear the voice of Jesus in a world full of noise, distraction, and doubt? And what does it mean to truly follow him—especially when the road is uncertain or difficult?
In this episode, we reflect on John 10 and Jesus’ words: “My sheep hear my voice; I know them, and they follow me.” We explore how to discern the voice of the Good Shepherd through prayer, silence, and Scripture—and we introduce insights from St. Ignatius of Loyola on the discernment of spirits to help you grow in spiritual clarity and trust. If you’re longing for peace, direction, or deeper intimacy with Christ, this conversation is for you.
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.
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Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell
In this full-length episode of Draw Near, we return to the mic for a heartfelt conversation on one of the most essential themes of our faith—mercy.
What does it really mean to be merciful? Is mercy just forgiveness, or something more? And in a world full of division, anxiety, and wounds, how can God’s mercy truly heal us and flow through us to others?
Together, we explore:
We also share personal stories of struggle, healing, and God’s never-ending patience, including a time of wrestling with anger toward God—and how mercy transformed it.
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.
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Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page.
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Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell
Is it possible to feel joy in the midst of sorrow? Can we call Holy Week happy even while meditating on the suffering of Jesus? In this short and heartfelt Holy Week reflection, Fred and Kara share a deeply personal and spiritually rich meditation on John 11—the raising of Lazarus.
Together, we explore what it means for Jesus to stand before our tombs and call us by name, how we’re invited into community to help “unbind” one another from the grave clothes of fear, shame, and sin, and how the resurrection is not just something we believe in—it’s something we’re called to live.
Whether you're walking through grief, wrestling with God's timing, or just longing for renewal, this episode is a companion for your journey toward Easter joy. You’ll also hear stories from our own lives, encouragement for your spiritual walk, and a Holy Week challenge to invite God into your deepest burdens.
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.
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Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page.
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Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell
This week on Draw Near, we dive into one of the most beloved parables in all of Scripture—the Prodigal Son. But this time, we ask three questions that challenge us to look deeper:
How is God’s love different from the love we experience from others—or even from ourselves?
What does “coming home to the Father” look like in real life?
And how do we respond when grace feels... unfair?
With humor, vulnerability, and heart, we reflect on the extravagant mercy of God, the wounds we carry in how we love (and fail to love), and the real-life humility it takes to return home—again and again. Whether you relate most to the younger son, the older son, or the waiting father, there’s something here for you.
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.
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Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell
Have you ever had a powerful “mountaintop” moment in your faith—only to struggle when coming back to daily life? In this episode, we dive into the Transfiguration of Jesus (Luke 9:28-36) and explore:
How to seek moments of transformation in your spiritual life
What it means to carry the light of Christ into everyday struggles
The power of prayer to open our hearts to God’s transformative love
Lent is a season of renewal—don’t miss this episode that will challenge and inspire you to draw near to God in a deeper way!
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.
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Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell
Lent isn’t just about giving things up—it’s about conversion, renewal, and drawing closer to Christ. In this episode, we dive into Jesus’ time in the desert (Luke 4:1-13) and what it teaches us about resisting temptation, deepening our faith, and embracing the call to holiness.
🔥 We also explore:
✔️ How The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis reveal the battle of temptation.
✔️ The distractions that sabotage our prayer life—and what to do about them.
✔️ For some reason, we talk about zombies and we share some news on some big changes coming in April!
Plus, practical ways to grow this Lent through prayer, fasting, and almsgiving—not just as obligations, but as pathways to real transformation.
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
What happens when you endure the Cross, but joy feels impossibly far away? In this episode, we explore the mystery of suffering, the hope of unseen joy, and the strength we find in Christ to carry us through life’s heaviest trials.
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
