Infinitely Precious

In this episode of The Infinitely Precious Podcast, James Henry offers a gentle and practical reflection on how to navigate the paralyzing feeling of being overwhelmed. With honesty and warmth, he shares personal stories and actionable steps—like making a list, focusing on one task at a time, and setting realistic goals—to help listeners find their way through the chaos of too many demands. Emphasizing presence, breath, and grace, James reminds us that even when life feels unmanageable, we are still infinitely precious and unconditionally loved. This episode is a thoughtful companion for anyone feeling stuck, scattered, or stre...

In this heartfelt episode, James shares his personal reflections on grief following the recent death of his father and his upcoming transition after 33 years in ministry at one church. Speaking both as a longtime pastor and as someone currently experiencing deep loss, James offers compassionate wisdom about the unpredictable nature of grief, encouraging listeners to allow themselves to feel their emotions without judgment. He discusses the importance of breathing through grief, seeking support when needed, expressing feelings through creative outlets, and creating personal rituals of remembrance. Through it all, James reminds us that grief, though painful, is rooted in...

In this episode of The Infinitely Precious Podcast, James explores the ancient Aramaic understanding of “heaven” (shmaya) and “earth” (ar’ah) as interwoven realities—not distant opposites, but expressions of deep unity and sacred individuality. Drawing from the teachings of Neil Douglas-Klotz, Dr. Lamsa, and the wisdom of Jesus’ first-century context, he invites us to reimagine heaven and earth not as separate realms, but as a divine tapestry we live within right now. Through this lens, we come to see ourselves as both uniquely particular and infinitely connected—waves and particles in God’s ever-unfolding creation.

In this post-Easter reflection, James explores what it means to keep going when the path ahead seems to vanish. Drawing on his own spiritual practices—like journaling, meditation, and sacred reading—he invites listeners to “rock back on their heels” and ground themselves in the present moment. Rather than rushing to find clarity, James encourages embracing uncertainty with trust and openness, reminding us that we are infinitely precious even when we don’t know the way forward. This episode is a gentle companion for anyone feeling lost or unsure about their next step.

On this Good Friday, we pause not to rush ahead to Easter, but to dwell in the shadow of the cross—a place of heartbreak, silence, and transformation. James invites us to reflect on where we find ourselves in the story of suffering: in the midst of it, recovering from it, or anticipating what is to come. With honesty and compassion, this episode explores what we may be called to release—illusions, attachments, or stories that no longer serve us—as part of the sacred invitation to transformation. Wherever you are, remember: even here, you are infinitely precious and uncond...

In this Holy Week reflection, James invites listeners to journey day by day through the final week of Jesus’ life, connecting each moment to the places we might find ourselves—paradox, disruption, extravagant love, service, suffering, or silent waiting. Rather than rushing ahead to Easter, we are encouraged to pause and ask, “Where am I in the story this year?” With honesty and tenderness, this episode becomes an invitation to be present with whatever is stirring in our hearts during this sacred time. As always, we are reminded that we are infinitely precious and unconditionally loved.

In this episode of the Infinitely Precious Podcast, James reflects on the deeply human impulse to fix everything—ourselves, others, situations beyond our control—and how that impulse can sometimes pull us away from presence, love, and true healing. Through the lens of a personal journey with his father’s recent hospitalization, he shares how surrender, not control, became the gateway to deeper connection. Drawing from spiritual wisdom and lived experience, James invites us to consider what it means to let go of our fixing mindset and simply be. It’s a gentle yet powerful reminder that transformation often begins n...

In this heartfelt episode of the Infinitely Precious podcast, James Henry returns after a brief hiatus due to his father’s hospitalization and shares a deeply personal reflection on presence, connection, and the wisdom of friends. He recounts the emotional challenges of navigating medical uncertainty and how a friend’s reminder helped him shift from worrying about outcomes to embracing the present moment. Through his week spent at his father’s bedside—listening, sharing silence, and simply being—James offers a moving meditation on the transformative power of presence. He invites listeners to consider their own capacity to be fully pres...

In this heartfelt episode of Infinitely Precious, James Henry shares a deeply personal reflection on navigating stress, uncertainty, and emotional weight while supporting a loved one in crisis. Drawing from his recent experience advocating for his father in the ICU, he explores the challenge of staying present in difficult moments, the importance of leaning on community, and the need for self-compassion. Through his journey, he invites listeners to recognize their own inner and external resources, embrace the present, and remember that they are infinitely precious and unconditionally loved.

In this powerful episode of The Infinitely Precious Podcast, James Henry reflects on the deep frustration and exhaustion many feel while standing against injustice, particularly in a time of increasing hate and marginalization. Acknowledging the emotional toll of activism, he explores how we can resist without letting anger consume us, emphasizing the importance of inner strength, endurance, and grounding practices. Drawing on wisdom from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., the Dhammapada, and contemplative traditions, James highlights how love—not hate—ultimately transforms the world. He shares practical tools for staying engaged without burnout, including breathwork, setting boundaries, leaning on comm...

In this episode of Infinitely Precious, host James Henry explores what it truly means to listen to your heart—not for fleeting desires, but for deeper, long-lasting callings that shape your purpose and legacy. Inspired by the classic song Listen to Your Heart, James reflects on how our hearts serve as a sacred guide, helping us discern the patterns and gifts we are meant to bring into the world.

He shares practical ways to attune ourselves to this inner wisdom, including:

• Slowing down to create space for deep reflection.

• Recognizing life’s...

This week’s podcast explores the timeless question posed by the apostle Paul: “Why do I do what I don’t want to do?” James reflects on how much of our missteps stem from living on autopilot—moving through life without full awareness of our actions, words, and choices. He shares insights on the power of presence, the importance of paying attention, and the freedom that comes with slowing down to notice what’s truly happening within us and around us. Using everyday examples, including the experience of driving without remembering the journey, he highlights how being fully engaged in the prese...

In this episode of Infinitely Precious, James Henry explores the practice of setting daily intentions, particularly during the Lenten season—a time of reflection and preparation. He shares his own recent experience of intentionally reducing screen time, emphasizing how small, mindful choices can bring clarity and presence to daily life. James reassures listeners that intentions are not about self-judgment or measuring success but rather about opening awareness to what truly matters in a given day. He encourages trying this practice, adjusting as needed, and remembering that it is never too late to begin. Above all, he reminds each listener of...

In this episode of Infinitely Precious, James Henry reflects on the deep-seated feeling of not measuring up, inspired by a line from A Knight’s Tale: “You have been measured, you have been weighed, and you have been found wanting.” He explores how cultural and personal messages often make people doubt their worth, leading them to undervalue the unique gifts they bring to the world. Drawing on Genesis 1, he emphasizes that each person, created in the image of God, carries an irreplaceable aspect of the divine. The challenge lies in overcoming negative self-perceptions, which are deeply ingrained in the brain’...

In this episode of Infinitely Precious, James Henry reflects on the significance of the forty-day Lenten season, beginning with Ash Wednesday. He explores the tradition of self-denial and spiritual practices, whether through fasting, releasing unhealthy attachments, or adopting new habits of kindness, gratitude, or prayer. Rather than focusing on perfection, he encourages listeners to use this time for self-examination, seeking moments of divine connection and transformation. Whether by letting go or taking on something new, Lent is an opportunity to realign with what truly matters. Above all, James reminds us that we are already infinitely precious and unconditionally loved.<...

In this episode of the Infinitely Precious podcast, host James Henry encourages listeners to take a moment to check in with themselves amid the chaos and uncertainty of life. He explains how fear can trigger the brain’s fight-or-flight response, leading to stress and anxiety, but emphasizes the importance of slowing down, grounding oneself, and consciously breathing to regain calm. James invites listeners to find a quiet space, notice their physical and emotional states, and recognize patterns of tension and stress. He reassures them that self-awareness and intentional relaxation can help prevent burnout and guide healthier responses to challenges. Th...

In this episode of The Infinitely Precious Podcast, host James Henry reflects on the profound layers of meaning behind the phrase “Give us this day our daily bread” from the Lord’s Prayer. James explores how “daily bread” extends beyond physical sustenance to include spiritual, mental, and emotional nourishment. Drawing from his study of the Aramaic language and the works of Neil Douglas-Klotz, James shares insights into creating sacred spaces for spiritual renewal, engaging deeply with intellectual challenges, and caring for emotional well-being amidst life’s chaos. He reminds listeners that we are not only called to seek our own sustenan...

In this episode of The Infinitely Precious Podcast, host James Henry invites listeners to reflect on the transformative power of the simple word and. Drawing inspiration from his personal journey of learning Aramaic—the language most likely spoken by Jesus—James explores how a single letter at the beginning of words signifies connection in both Aramaic and Hebrew, much like the English conjunction and.

James contrasts the inclusive, unifying nature of and with the divisive, dualistic tendencies of or. He reflects on how life’s complexities often call for a both/and mindset rather than a...

In this episode of the Infinitely Precious Podcast, James Henry explores a thoughtful listener question: How can you be present for someone without making it about yourself? Reflecting on the complexities of human relationships, James delves into the motivations we bring when supporting others, the inevitable projections we carry, and the importance of self-awareness. He offers practical insights on recognizing our own emotions, managing personal expectations, and truly showing up for others with intention and presence. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation on navigating the delicate balance between being there for someone and honoring your own inner work.

In this episode of Infinitely Precious, James explores the concept of sacred unity through the lens of the Aramaic language spoken by Jesus. Drawing from Neil Douglas-Klotz’s work, James reflects on the deeper meaning of the word Alaha, which conveys a sense of divine connection that includes and transcends all things. He challenges listeners to move beyond divisive thinking and embrace a vision of justice, love, and inclusion rooted in this sacred unity. With a call to recognize the interconnectedness of all people and creation, James reminds us that our work for justice should not be against others, bu...

 In this episode of Infinitely Precious, James Henry reflects on the overwhelming chaos of the world and the importance of grounding ourselves for the long haul. Using the metaphor of a marathon, he emphasizes the need for resilience, mindful breathing, and intentional response rather than reactive engagement. Drawing on the Aramaic word ruha—which means breath, wind, and spirit—James invites listeners to cultivate a simple yet powerful practice of focusing on their breath as a way to reconnect with themselves, with others, and with the divine. He reminds us that no matter the uncertainty around us, we are infin...

The podcast episode of Infinitely Precious explores the pitfalls of "playing the blame game" and how blame serves as a distraction from personal responsibility and meaningful action. Host James Henry discusses how individuals, particularly leaders, often deflect accountability by blaming others, which prevents constructive problem-solving. Instead, he encourages listeners to step back, reflect on their role in any given situation, and take responsibility for what they can change. He also addresses what to do when unfairly blamed—whether to let it go or stand up for those being scapegoated. Drawing inspiration from Jesus' example, he emphasizes the importance of se...

In this reflective episode of the Infinitely Precious podcast, host James Henry shares a heartfelt message on managing the overwhelming chaos of today’s world. Drawing from his personal experiences with meditation, journaling, and the challenges of recording live thoughts, James explores how naming our emotions and taking deliberate breaths can transform reactive impulses into mindful responses. He candidly discusses the pitfalls of quick blame and social media reactivity while offering practical advice to help listeners reclaim their calm and focus. Tune in to discover how you can navigate the noise with clarity, remember your inherent worth, and engage wi...

Seeing beauty in diversity is a spiritual gift and discipline. It is easier sometimes to view the world through my own lens and imagine beauty when it comes to me in forms "I like" or "I prefer."  What might it be like to see the Divine everywhere I go? These thoughts arose within me during my morning meditation and reflection time. [I promised in the podcast to include a link to a song that came to mind while reflecting- I See You by Rich Mullins so here it is: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XejzqulWj2k

We often imagine that something or someone external to us is the cause of frustration. Perhaps we are the author of frustration in our lives?

Forgiveness is not easy. It is a journey and we must begin somewhere. In today's podcast, I share some thoughts about a first step we can make on the path toward forgiving.

We have talked about what is ours to do in the world. Each of us as the gifts we are brings our gifts into the life of the world. What might your next step be in being the gift you are made to be?

Play. Some folks imagine that play is a waste of time. In a culture that almost worships "work,"  sometimes it may seem that there is little room to play. However, it is part of the divine image to take time off, to commit to holidays as part of the gift of living.

Is simplicity something that can be added to an already complex life? Are those things that are meant to simplify our lives actually adding complexity? Perhaps simplicity requires a different approach...

Today may be a difficult day for you. Seek to catch yourself in moments of anxiety and concern, catch your breath. Do what is yours to do and let it go, if only for this moment. Remember you are truly beloved! (originally video streamed on November 5, election day in the U.S.) With the Inauguration upcoming, this seemed it might be a good replay...

We are already into the new year and perhaps you may have already not quite gotten on track with your goals and resolutions. First, take a moment to give yourself grace and then reframe, reevaluate, and re-engage. Remember above all what a precious gift you are! 

Sometimes it can feel as though we are insignificant. It is big universe, a big world. Yet each of us is part of the Whole, an irrepeatable part and our engagement is significant. You matter; create the lovely ripples you were meant to create wherever you are.

The end of a calendar is a time when we can choose the listen for the echoes of lessons learned this year. What have I learned about myself? What will I leave behind as I move forward? On what will I focus my energies in the time ahead? May your reflections give you opportunity to celebrate!

Reflecting on a spiritual connection on Christmas: what is Spirit giving birth to in each of us?

We are connected to one another through more than just the internet. At the very core of who we are, we belong to one another. When one hurts, all of us hurt. When one suffers so do we all. Let's remember our connectedness.

Do you find yourself stuck between the way you perceive “things” ought to be and the way things are? I do sometimes and I am trying to find a way to live in that dissonance and engage positively.

Regrets? Each of us has made choices, done things, and said things we regret. Some of those are irreparable. However, we can live now with intention and perhaps create more fond recollections and fewer regrets.

There are three questions by which I seek to measure my words daily: Is it true? Is it necessary? Is it kind? I do not always succeed but these help shape my words into clearer and kinder communication.