Constantly Under Construction with Donna Harris

Latest Episodes:

Tim Ezell - Addiction, Recovery, and Ministry May 24, 2018

Show notes

Tim was an alcoholic starting in 8th grade. In our time together, Tim gives us insight into why he chose alcohol as a coping mechanism and how it was masking who he really was. God worked a miracle for Tim through a family member that also struggled with alcoholism. His favorite uncle had just completed two years of sobriety and became a mentor to him. God provided many individuals, including his dad, along the way that helped him have a real heart change away from alcohol and toward Christ. Tim fully embraces the idea of Constantly Under Construction as he says that God is never done with him. God continues to work through him. The pull to work in ministry was a seed that was planted many many years before he became a pastor at a church. Tim knew that he was already in ministry when he worked on TV news, but God told him it was time to step away. And in that, he saw God stripping away things that weren't meant to be part of his life and God's plan. And it was a process of finding his identity in Christ. When it comes to identity, Tim reminds us that God works in our lives when we step into who we really are. Walking into the role as pastor was such an amazing process because Tim was able to come with confidence because of the work that God had been continually doing in his life. Tim Ezell is a familiar face if you live in St Louis. As a TV journalist, he made us laugh for nearly 20 years amidst the heavy and necessary stories we catch on the early morning news. Tim has always been associated with levity and has been a bright spot to our mornings. We've watched him use goofy tactics, physical comedy, props and costumes to share a fun and light aspect to tv news. Tim now flourishes in his God-given identity with his own television show, The Thread. Which he makes very very clear that it would never have been created without the dream, vision, and follow through of his friend and fellow show creator and producer, Virginia Kerr. I'm so thrilled for you to hear Tim's account about how God shaped him through his journey from alcoholic teen, to tv news anchor, becoming a pastor, and then BACK to television to complete a bigger ministry than Tim (and Virginia) has ever done before. The Thread gives the gospel message at each and every episode and the mission and message of The Thread can be summed up in the verse John 13:34- "As I have loved you, love one another." I can't wait for you to hear of the big dreams Tim has about the show! It's his goal to tangibly reach individuals by means of live events and functions. Get ready to want to take part in all the fun and joy Tim wants to inspire in those who participate in The Thread! Some things you may not know: The Thread is a show that is independent of FOX television network. Because people see Tim back on TV, they assume the show is funded by FOX. There have been moments where the show has needed financial and moral support. Tim has had bright moments where he sees God telling him that the show is doing work and there is fruit in his efforts. However, the show is funded independently and looks to outside support for viewers and donations. As a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, the show needs support. Go to the website to support financially. And connect on Facebook and Instagram to interact with the show and it's episodes. The Thread will surely connect individuals and create a whole new level of community like we've never seen before!

Virginia Kerr - Connecting "The Thread" of Healing May 24, 2018

Show notes

Virginia originally pursued journalism out of desperation. It wasn't out of noble efforts but instead to feed something that was missing inside of her. She says that she was a lost person who felt like she was worth nothing. She felt like if she could just be on television, then she would prove to herself that she felt like "a somebody". Through her battle with an eating disorder, her connection with mental illness, and her miscarriage, Virgina shares with us God's provision in her life. Learn of His love as we talk about true identity and no longer trying to hide or numb the pain that life might bring.

Virginia Kerr is well known around the St. Louis area as a television news anchor. Most recently Virginia has founded and fueled an amazing television show called The Thread. A show that's dedicated to sharing the light and kingdom work of St. Louis. It highlights the hearts and efforts of activities, events, and individuals who want to make the world a better place. The Thread celebrates these people and organizations by sharing and inviting others to be a part of it. The purpose of the show is to help people know God better and encourage people to see their purpose in life by showcasing others who are already walking in that role.

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Robert Beeson - Going Solo May 09, 2018

Show notes

Robert Beeson is an author and former music executive for Grammy nominated bands like Jars of Clay and Casting Crowns. His career brought him much success but it was within the busyness of that success that Robert will tell you his marriage crumbled away. After 13 years of marriage, Robert was left to raise his 3 young daughters on his own. He became a bit of an expert on navigating the Solo Parenting life. Which brings us to talking about his lessons of identity that he chronicles in his book, Going Solo: Hope and Healing for the Single Mom or Dad.

If you're not single parenting or divorced, don't think this episode is not for you! Have you ever felt abandoned, frustrated with your situation, or been forced to start over in your life? I think my time with Robert and the wisdom he shares, speaks to all of us, as well as those of us who are walking the road of being a solo parent or those who have been divorced.

When Robert hit rock bottom, that's when he found Jesus. Even though he always knew about God and would say he was definitely a Christian throughout most of his life, it was when everything was stripped away that he began to truly understand how his identity had very little to do with his role or title in life. For Robert, this realization began with his divorce and parenting his kids on his own. But for any of us that are walking a road of difficulty and loneliness, Robert's lesson is available for us to learn too.

Another important aspect we discussed in this episode, was supporting those who are single parenting. Robert brought to light that supporting a solo parent doesn't always look like what we think it does. Being consciously aware of those in your life is an important tip in loving on others. It's vital to the struggling single parent that they have support. And so many of us can make that effort to reach out and encourage them in the best way possible by simply saying, "I see you. You're doing a great job. I'm here for you."

If you're a solo parent, get ready to be nodding your head In agreement with the struggle that Robert has faced as he was isolated from church, family, and friends once he was divorced. He recounts the awkwardness of divorce as everyone secretly wonders what "went wrong." And the tricky matter of who is to blame for the crumbling of a marriage. Ultimately, Robert brings us back to how he found that God loves him for how God made him and no other role will hold the same kind of worth.

And, one of my favorite parts of Robert's book was an unlikely lesson he learned through N'Sync and Justin Timberlake. Let me know if you enjoyed that part too!

I was amused that even Robert learned a few lessons from his own story in our time together. If you're a solo parent, I hope you feel encouraged today! And of course we all know somebody that's walking the road of parenting solo and has struggled through the difficulty of divorce. I hope you feel more equipped to be able to help your friend! Consider grabbing Robert's book today and walking the road with a solo parent. Thorough Robert's book, there's an abundance of opportunity to learn more about yourself and how God views you.

Jess Ronne - Sunlight Burning at Midnight May 02, 2018

Show notes

Jess Ronne, chronicles her pregnancy and birth of her special needs son and the loss of her husband to brain cancer.

Jennie Harclerode - Patiently Endure Apr 23, 2018

Show notes

Polyarticular Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis is the particular form that Jennie Harclerode has. It lay dormant until she was 3 years old when an injury sparked the inflammation in her body. That's when pain and limitation became a regular part of the rest of her life. A lot of people don't know that kids can get arthritis. Over 300,000 children in the USA have an autoimmune issue that causes them swelling and pain called Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis (JRA). With this kind of diagnosis, your body is under constant pain and causes many limitations but Jennie has used her hard times to God's glory. Jennie recalls one of the hardest parts of her life was when she was 16 and she had to have full hip replacement surgery. During her rehabilitation, Jennie had to stay in a rehab facility. Life felt dark, and she was very aware of the fact that she was the youngest person in the facility. Surrounded by many elderly people, she felt isolated and alone. At 16, you never imagine being all alone, pulled away to another town, and experiencing a new level of physical pain. On top of that, she had many individuals who would look at her and talk to her like an anomaly. It was at this point when Jennie decided to make her misery her ministry. She saw that God gave her pain for a purpose. JRA has taken a toll on Jennie's body. She describes the way her body is altered because of the arthritis. It has caused her fingers to bend and 'cripple' and her walk to become slower like someone that is older. This created much self-conciousness in her twenties as she desired to be attractive and desirable to men. But the story she tells of how she came to meet her husband was so incredible. It says a lot about friends and the power of prayer! And such a precious way that God supplies our needs even in a way that feels impossible. Moving into the season of marriage and motherhood was a huge concern for Jennie with her limitations. As she gets older and her body ages, the hurdles of JRA get harder. But Jennie is praying for Jesus to come well before she has to worry of the degradation of her body from age. Because of the medications she has been on, it was likely that she wouldn't be able to conceive a child. Jennie recounts that the prayers of God's people where answered when the Lord chose to bless the Harclerode's with a daughter, Aralyn Joy, which means beautiful (joyful!) melody. I desperately want you to drink in the MIRACLE that Jennie received and tells us about in our time together. I don't even want to recount it in the post. Just, please, listen! Through the miracle, Jennie paints a wonderful picture: It's a picture of being kingdom-minded, it's a full measure of hope, and it gives me the peace that God is totally in control. This earth isn't our home, we weren't promised a perfect life without pain, hardship or trials, but God prepared a place for us! And He's coming!!! Patiently enduring is the theme of Jennie's life so much that she made Patiently Endure title of her interactive devotional journal. She has the hope of heaven and the hope of Jesus. In the journal, you have the opportunity to learn and reflect by answering questions and writing out your feelings. And you get much wisdom and perspective from Jennie's story mixed with her lessons she's learned based on God's word. I love this journal for myself and for ALL my friends that are walking hard roads right now. I hope you will consider blessing Jennie by purchasing a copy for you or for a friend that needs encouragement!

Hayley Morgan - Always Enough Apr 18, 2018

Show notes

Hayley Morgan is a wrote a book about Feeling Too Much or Never enough.

Feeling too much or never enough is two sides of the same coin and it's about identity and obedience. Wild is walking how God made you. Believing Him and walking with Him in HOW he made you. Free is resting in the work that Jesus did. No more to trying to measure up. No more trying to be what the world thinks, christian or secular. Jesus conquered the brokenness! As a true creative, Hayley has a talent for painting, definitely a love affair. It's a therapeutic activity where she finds enjoyment. I loved hearing how the paintings she showcases get created... along with the words she puts out on Instagram. When diving into the book and it's contents, we talk about friendship and how we may feel both the struggles of being too much or not enough. Being overbearing, wanting a deep friendship may feel like we are in the space of "too much". Deep friendships look and behave differently depending on the person and desiring a deep friendship isn't a bad thing, it's how God made you. But pacing that depth may be the key to finding the mutual intimacy you're looking for in a pal. Not enough, can literally look like we don't have any friends. No Soul Sisters, no pals, not a playdate buddy, not a friend to have coffee with. In Hayley's experience, she chronicles a very lonely time in her life where she didn't have a friend. This is something that I think we have all felt at one time. Hayley talks about taking that "winter season" and finding joy in it. She also mentions some ways to reach out and connect with people when we are feeling lonely and that mutual neediness and quantity time can be something that really cultivates a friendship. I loved how her practical tips were for people in every season of life, a tip for those desiring a casual friend, and for the gal who needs to dive deep with another soul sister.

Craig Johnson - The Miracle of a Champion Apr 11, 2018

Show notes

"When Connor's behavior changed and he stopped talking, he was officially diagnosed with autism."

Friends, today we'll meet Craig Johnson and talk about how his son Connor has changed his life.

Until he was 2 years old, Craig's son Connor was just like other kids: playful, verbal and affectionate.

When Connor's behavior changed and he stopped talking, he was officially diagnosed with autism.

But Craig and his wife Samantha refused to believe that Connor's life was without meaning and purpose.

It was such pleasure to speak with Craig and I hope you'll feel encouraged by his triumphs and educated by his story! And I sincerely hope that his advocacy resonates with those share the struggle of a special needs family member. You aren't alone.

Friends, be thinking of how you can help share this message of hope. Do you know someone who would enjoy this episode? You can share it on your social media or shoot them a text. I am thankful for your support.

And I would love to hear from you! If you enjoyed the show, let me know! I'm on Instagram at constantly under construction.

Tiffany Smiley - Story By Faith Apr 03, 2018

Show notes

Tiffany and Scotty survived a horrific experience when Scotty became brutally injured from a suicide car-bombing. Almost losing his life, Scotty was hospitalized from brain and body injuries. The shrapnel that pierced his body ultimately took his eyes and this began his life as a blind person. During this time, Tiffany talks about a pivotal moment where she refused to sign Scotty's retirement papers. Understanding and hearing God in a hope that was completely unseen by everyone else around her, Tiffany told the commanding officers that if Scotty were to retire, he would be the one to sign those papers, not her. Where the rest of the world said a blind man could not do much, instead, Scotty became the first blind active duty officer to serve his country. When talking about navigating the 'blind- lifestyle', Tiffany's perspective on normal brings a fresh idea on focusing on what we can do, rather than what we can't do. The focus on our uniqueness makes 'normal' so much more different. Being content in our differences is what makes us thrive and where we can really use our individual talents, gifts, and circumstances to share hope with others. With unwavering hope, and the confidence of God's promises, Tiffany shares how she has boldly navigated through life with a husband who has lost his sight. This boldness has transformed into a ministry that Tiffany pioneers called Story by Faith. You'll want to learn more about the Story by Faith conference and the gift that Tiffany has in encouraging and empowering women by allowing them to share their stories.

Erin Odom - The Humbled Homemaker Mar 26, 2018

Show notes

Even though what Erin was going through was rough, and at times, felt embarrasing, God taught her that she's not the only one struggling in life. I also loved the lesson that she left with us about never forgetting where you came from: Being grateful for where God delivered her to the point of keeping thankfulness and humility in the very top of her heart response.

As the humbled homemaker, Erin Odom can tell you a lot about saving money. Just check out her fantastic tips and tricks on her blog and in her books! Erin says that her blog started as a way of expressing how she was humbled as a homemaker. But the humility she acquired from blogging and sharing her life was transformed into a deeper level of growth than she even anticipated.

You'll love learning from Erin and I encourage you to check out her book, You Can Stay Home With Your Kids, as it's an excellent resource for moms looking to increase their income or curb their spending ...right from the home.

Natalie Epps - Beautifully You Mar 22, 2018

Show notes

After the shocking death of her father a month before her wedding, Natalie experienced her first real loss. Then life took an unexpected turn when as a healthy young mother, she was diagnosed with a brain tumor that paralyzed her face and vocal cords and took away part of her hearing.

Natalie chose to walk the road of grief and loss by turning some of her thoughts, lessons, and hardships into a journal called Beautifully You. We talk about the challenge of not becoming bitter while battling the darkness, loneliness, and depression of losing the very simple functions of blinking, smiling, hearing, and speaking normally. During this time, Natalie fell into a moment of despair. She felt like she hit a brick wall with all of her efforts of praying, thinking, wanting to be free of her physical ailments. Feeling at the end of her rope, not having an answer of when she would be free of the prison of a body, Natalie cried and fell into her husband's arms. The profound reminder her husband gave her is that there is nothing we can or cannot do that takes away what Jesus did on the cross for us and it is ok to sometimes feel mad, sad, trapped, or without hope. If you're looking for a hopeful, inspirational moment from this episode, get ready. Natalie changed my perspective and gave me a renewed sense of hope when she told me about a time she was in church praying and weeping for the loss of her father. She was sent a revelation of Jesus weeping alongside her and also seeing and feeling the vision of Jesus celebrating along with her. This revelation was a comfort that showed Natalie that Jesus feels our humanity, even in His holiness. Oh, to be reminded that we aren't alone even in the most barren times! Jesus is right here, weeping as we are weeping and rejoicing as we are rejoicing. We talk about allowing a moment, a hardship, a difficulty to change us. To learn something about ourself but also about God. And we also talk about the importance of rest. Human rest. Meaning, sometimes, it's ok to take a valium after surgery and sleep off a difficult day. But when it comes to getting better, we have a responsibility to heal. Natalie shares with us the wisdom of being aware of the hard times, choosing to learn from them, and having a story to share that can help others. We figured out that this may just be the key to hope during that tough time! And for Natalie, healing did come! She will tell you that her healing is a different definition than what she believed but she does claim healing in her life. What I love about Natalie, though, is that she hasn't forgotten the lessons that God has taught her in her darkest time. She has a new appreciation for grief, and a new understanding of how God makes all things new for us here on earth. We talk about two of my favorite chapters in her book, titled Honey I Shrunk my Dreams and The Responsibility to Heal…two very motivational truths for people who are dealing with especially tough times. The first one: God doesn't want us to abandon the dreams that have been put in our heart just because where we are at feels small. And the second: Being stuck in our hurts can cause us to turn a blind eye to the healing that God has already provided in our lives and we have a responsibility in our mind to choose, "Yes!" to God's healing. You'll get a lot of comfort from this episode. Especially knowing that once we take on the comfort from God, we have then the ability to comfort others. We can be thankful for this because of the lessons we have learned in our hard times. I hope the position of your heart is open to shift because there's much richness to be found from Natalie in this episode.

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