“Jesus himself drew near and went with them.” Lk 24:15
Our goal is simple: we are striving to set the world on fire - to set hearts on fire with the love of God.
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The Draw Near podcast is hosted by Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell— friends who like talking about God. And thought… “why not let others join?”
Latest DRAW NEAR Episodes
Kara reflects on St. Paul's words in 1 Thessalonians 2:8 and explores why the most powerful ministry is often found not in polished content or perfect answers, but in the willingness to share our very selves with others in love.
Drawing from Romans 11 and the image of the olive tree, we explore how God often transforms us not by working around our wounds and defenses, but by gently cutting away what is hardened so that his life can take deeper root within us.
Through the story of St. Patrick and the powerful words of his Lorica, we reflect on suffering, mission, and how to face the battles of life not by our own strength, but clothed in the strength of Christ and the Trinity.
Kara sits down with her dad for an honest conversation about faith, fatherhood, and the quiet ways a father's love, presence, and example shape both his children and their understanding of God the Father.
Why does the Christian life insist that resurrection comes through the cross? This episode explores how God uses suffering, sacrifice, and the desert to make us into who we were created to be.
Join BJ and Kara for a real at-home date night exploring communication, connection, and the surprising truth that stronger marriages are often built through small moments of intentionality.
What if sharing your faith isn't about having the right answers, but simply noticing people, listening well, and saying yes when the Holy Spirit opens a door?
What if some of the most common assumptions about Catholicism aren't what the Church actually teaches? In this episode, we explore the biblical foundations of Catholic faith, grace, Scripture, and relationship with Christ.
What if a quieter season isn't a sign that God is finished, but an invitation to let him tend the bruised reed, rekindle the dimly burning wick, and teach us a new rhythm of faithfulness?
If you struggle to love parts of yourself, this guided meditation invites you to step into God's gaze and discover that the One who formed you sees every part of you and calls it good.
What if guarding your heart too carefully keeps you from the very love you were made for? This episode explores vulnerability, courage, and the freedom of loving as Christ loves.
Sometimes, we all just need a friend day. Grab your favorite drink and join us for ours. This episode is less teaching and more living room conversation—honest questions, shared stories, plenty of laughter, and a reminder that drawing near to one another is part of drawing near to God.
Is it possible to look holy without becoming holy? Reflecting on Luke 18:9–14, Fred and Kara explore pride, comparison, and the subtle temptation to measure holiness by appearances, discovering instead that God looks first to the heart.
Imagine Jesus stopping everything just to find you and heal you. In this Lectio Divina episode, Fred and Kara reflect on the hemorrhhaging woman's desperate faith, Christ's pursuit of the hidden and hurting, and his invitation to step out of shame and into healing.
Come behind the curtain for a fun, unscripted conversation as Fred and Kara share real-life updates and their unfiltered thoughts on everything from reality TV and parish bingo to smartphones, social media, and living faith in an online world.
Latest DRAW NEAR Blogs
What does Jesus mean when he says we must take up our cross and follow him? Reflecting on the call to costly discipleship, this reflection explores surrender, sacrifice, and the surprising truth that we only find life when we give it away.
Here are some of my favorite journals (and writing essentials) to help you slow down and look forward to this time with God!
What started as concern for a discarded baptismal font became a powerful reminder that even good and holy things should never eclipse the true heart of the Catholic faith: Jesus in the Eucharist.
Whether you're a new or seasoned catechist, these 30 practical tips will help you deepen your relationship with Christ, connect with your students, and approach catechesis with renewed confidence and purpose.
Few things hurt more than having your motives questioned or your efforts criticized. Discover a biblical approach to handling criticism without losing your peace.
What nets are you still carrying? Drawing on Jesus' call to the first disciples, this reflection explores the distractions, fears, and attachments that can keep us from fully following Christ—and the freedom that comes when we finally let them go.
Many ministry leaders feel exhausted by the pressure to perform, grow programs, and keep everyone happy. This reflection offers a Gospel-centered path to leading with greater peace, purpose, and love.
People rarely commit long-term because they are needed; they commit because they believe in the mission. Learn how a clear sense of purpose transforms parish ministry and volunteer culture.
People are more likely to serve when they feel called than when they feel needed. Learn how parish leaders can invite volunteers into mission rather than obligation.
When every attempt to fix a difficult situation only made it worse, one simple decision—to pray the Rosary—became an unexpected lesson in surrender, peace, and trusting God.
A simple gesture from a son after Communion became a powerful reminder that God's grace is still at work, even when we feel like we are falling short.
What happens when our trust is rooted in success, comfort, or human strength rather than God? This reflection on the Beatitudes explores the challenge—and freedom—of placing our hope fully in Christ.
How do we hold onto faith when suffering seems to bring no visible fruit? Drawing from personal loss, Scripture, and the wisdom of the saints, this reflection explores Christian hope in the midst of grief.
In a world that encourages self-protection and emotional distance, Jesus offers a radically different path: to love openly, vulnerably, and without walls.
"I'm praying for you" is a beautiful promise—but when someone is hurting, they may need more than your prayers. They may need your presence.