What does it really mean when someone says, “I’m fine, thanks”? In this sermon, Phil reflects on a moment from student days — and a chaplain with a knack for seeing through polite English facades — to unpack how encouragement is more than a social nicety. It’s a ministry.

Drawing from Watching the English by Kate Fox and Colossians 1, this message explores how God works through our words to build up one another, and how encouragement is both a fruit of faith and a sign of grace. Whether you're a gifted encourager or someone quietly in need of it, this episode is for you.

Is God's grace really as simple as "wash and be clean"? In this episode, we explore the story of Naaman — the powerful commander who almost missed out on healing because the cure was too straightforward for his pride to handle.

Phil reflects on how we, like Naaman, often expect faith to be complicated, dramatic, or costly — and how our suspicion of anything “too easy” can get in the way of receiving the gift right in front of us. Along the way, there’s a story about free laptops, a cameo from Adrian Plass (and a confused bloke called Ron), and a good reminder from Phil’s dad: KISS — Keep It Simple, Stupid.

At the heart of it all? A gospel that really is as good — and as simple — as it sounds: God loves you, and there’s nothing you need to do to earn it.

🎧 This week we’re doing something a bit different.Phil is guiding us through the spiritual exercise of creating your own Rule of Life — a simple but powerful tool to help you stay rooted in your calling, grounded in your faith, and anchored in the storm.Whether you’re new to this idea or looking to refresh your spiritual rhythm, this session is practical, honest, and deeply personal.📄 Download the free worksheet to follow along and create your own Rule of Life:👉https://drive.google.com/file/d/1es6JR47nvYhiyECNLxtSVPXI3NmfTfEA/view?usp=sharing You’ll come away with something you’ve written yourself — not a list of rules to follow, but a reminder of who you are, who God is, and what He’s calling you to do.🎙️ Listen now. Reflect. Write. Be anchored.#RuleOfLife #SpiritualRhythms #FaithInPractice #Discipleship #ChristianLiving #Podcast #VicarOnAMission

Where does God turn up? In Luke 8, Jesus shows up in a place no one expected — among tombs, pigs, and panic — and transforms a man's life. In this reflection, Phil shares a beachside surprise involving a rugby shirt and a familiar face, exploring how God often appears in the ordinary, overlooked corners of our lives. From traffic jams to supermarket aisles, faith isn’t just for Sundays — it’s for the everyday.

Real stories, real Scripture, and a gentle challenge to spot Jesus in the most unexpected places.

This Father’s Day, we explore the unsung faithfulness of one of Scripture’s quietest heroes—Joseph, the earthly father of Jesus. In a world that celebrates loud leadership and big personalities, Joseph shows us the quiet power of mercy, obedience, and showing up.

It’s Pentecost — and we’re asking what the Church is really built on. Not bricks and stone, but the Spirit of God. Not old routines, but a rediscovered purpose. Starting in Genesis and ending in Acts, this talk weaves through creation, confusion, calling, and commissioning — with a little help from 1980s rock and a singer called Grace. If you’re feeling stuck, tired, or just wondering what it’s all for… this one’s for you.
(Helpful passages to read: Genesis 1 & 11, Luke 4, Acts 2)

After a family holiday full of chlorine-scented skin and last-minute dashes down the motorway, Phil reflects on the deep ache — and joy — of coming home. In this episode, he explores the beautiful promise of Ezekiel 36: a God who cleanses, restores, and brings his people home not because they’ve earned it, but because he’s faithful. Whether you're feeling far off or freshly baptised, this one's for you.

This Week we are exploring psalm 67 and wondering how a new espresso machine might help us to understand it