Welcome to episode 4 of the 40acts Generosity Challenge podcast!
In this episode, Ruth is joined by John Reynolds, content creator, speaker, author and former youth pastor, best known for his much-loved family comedy and storytelling across social media. Together with his wife Jade, John shares honest, humorous reflections on family life, disability, faith and generosity.
John talks openly about taking part in 40acts as a family, how the daily prompts have helped him be more intentional and why encouragement has become one of his favourite and most powerful acts of generosity.
“Encouragement is totally free, instantly possible, and genuinely life‑changing for people.”
Watch
Listen
Download the podcast transcript
John’s favourite verse for Lent
‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’ Acts 20:35 (NIV)
See our note on Bible usage: https://www.stewardship.org.uk/bible-usage
How you can pray for John
- for energy, strength and reduced pain for Jade, particularly in seasons of low energy
- for opportunities to continue sharing faith, humour and encouragement through content and speaking
- that John’s work would continue to connect with and encourage people who may be struggling
- for wisdom and grace as they raise their children to grow in generosity and gratitude
Related links
- Follow John on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/johnreynoldscomedy
Final thoughts
John’s reflections remind us that generosity doesn’t have to be big or costly to be meaningful. Small, intentional acts — especially words of encouragement — can have a lasting impact, shaping habits, families and faith over time.
If the conversation inspired you:
Subscribe by signing up to 40acts, our generosity challenge for Lent. You’ll receive a daily email for the 40 days of Lent, each one with a reflection, challenge and prayer prompt. On Wednesdays, the email will also include a link to the next 40acts podcast episode.
You can also follow and track your 40acts journey in the Stewardship Giving App for the first time this year, helping you stay engaged and see how your generosity grows.
Please also remember to:
leave a review on your favourite podcast platform
- share the podcast with someone starting their Lent journey
The podcast is also available on the following platforms: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, PlayerFM, Amazon Music, YouTube
Podcast presenter: Ruth Jackson
Podcast producer: Esther Simmons
Ruth Jackson
Ruth leads the PR and Communications for Stewardship, which she joined in April 2022.
She has over 25 years’ marketing communications experience across a range of sectors, including higher education, technology and the arts, both business- and customer-facing.
Ruth worships and serves at C3 Church in Cambridge, where she lives with her husband, two daughters, a dog and a cat. When she’s not at her desk, you might find her rowing on the River Cam, in a ballet class or out for a walk.
She supports causes that are focused on alleviating global poverty and injustice, with a particular interest in supporting vulnerable children.
