Hey, guys, welcome to the messy table, an ordinary space for us to pause and remember that God's actually at work in our mess.

Well, I'm Jen Jewel, and I have the honor of hosting this faith-fueled conversation-style podcast, which unleashes a brand new episode every other Tuesday.

And that's truly what this is, a conversation, a chance to hear how someone's navigated

a messy part of their life while clinging to the faithfulness of God.

And some of those messes are good, like starting a business or raising a carload of kids

or taking the gospel to unreached people on the other side of the world.

While other messes are hard, complex, even tragic. But this podcast exists

because we're here for it, here to learn from those who've gone before us, here to listen to those

with a different perspective than our own. And you know what? That's a worthy, beautiful thing.

Well, if you don't already know, we are actually partnered with the women of

my church, Life Church, where my husband happens to be on staff. And that doesn't mean we are

limited to one specific church. But we are passionate about the Capital C Church. So no matter where

you're coming from, no matter your own story, we pray that you'll get plugged in or stay connected

to your local Bible teaching church.

And we are also so glad you're here. Y'all today's guest for episode 86 is one you won't

forget. Avery Brooks is a wife, teacher, survivor, world traveler, avid adventurer, who's both sweet

and spicy, embracing the paradox of the already, but not yet,

persevering when you want to give up, and relentless joy in the depths of grief.

Guys, I'm a little partial because she was actually my daughter's teacher, which is how we met

several years ago. And let me just add, a special shout out to all of the teachers out there

who are

still making magic in the midst of this pandemic. One of my favorite quotes from Corey Ten Boom

...