In this episode, we explore how metaphors and stories shape the way we understand ministry, leadership, and even our own souls. Together with Greg Marshall, we reflect on why storytelling is not just a communication tool but a framework that gives meaning, alignment, and direction to churches and organizations. We discuss the power of agrarian metaphors—especially gardening—for pastors, and how they can reorient ministry away from abstraction, performance, and anxiety toward attentiveness, growth, and faithfulness. Along the way, we consider how prayer, imagination, and curiosity help us remain grounded in God’s work rather than our own striving.


Greg Marshall’s LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/greg-marshall/. 

Greg’s Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/figuregreg80

We mentioned the following resources:

Iain McGilchrist, The Master and His Emissary: The Divided Brain and the Making of the Western World

Justin Brierly, The Surprising Rebirth of Belief in God podcast, Season 1, Episode 25: “The Believing Brain: How Iain McGilchrist Rediscovered the Soul”

C. S. Lewis, Letters to Malcolm, Chiefly on Prayer 


Pre-order Matt’s book, The Pastor as Gardener: A Renewed Vision for Ministry, and then visit his blog to sign-up for pre-order incentives: www.mwerickson.com.

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