Intro

In this final, heartfelt episode of The Becoming Project, Pastor Michael reflects on three transformative years at Dayspring United Methodist Church as he prepares for his next chapter as Lead Pastor at Saint Francis in the Foothills in Tucson.Pastor Michael offers a vulnerable look back at his journey—from arriving as a "young kid from Oklahoma" to becoming a leader who found a true "oasis" in the desert. He discusses the ongoing nature of spiritual deconstruction, the dangers of Christian nationalism, and the deep, authentic love he experienced within the Dayspring community.

In this episode Pastor Michael Long returns with a timely, pastoral reflection on what it means to become who God calls us to be. Drawing on Luke 4:18–19 and Micah 6:6–8, Michael lays out a simple—yet urgent—framework for faithful living: do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with your God.He names the weariness of these times, the loudness of harmful voices, and the real harm facing marginalized communities. With pastoral honesty and spiritual hope, the episode explores how the Spirit invites each listener to a life of liberation, compassion, and courageous truth-telling. Expect grounding scripture, practical questions for personal reflection, and a challenge to live the Gospel in ways that bring sight to the blind and freedom to the oppressed.Subscribe to The Becoming Project for monthly conversations about faith, identity, and the journeys that shape us. If this episode spoke to you, please rate, review, and share.

The Becoming Project – Episode DescriptionIn this special episode of The Becoming Project, Pastor Michael Long takes time to catch up with listeners and reflect on two major milestones in his journey: being commissioned as a Provisional Elder in the United Methodist Church and graduating with a Master of Divinity from Iliff School of Theology.With honesty and heart, Pastor Michael shares what it took to get here—the challenges, growth, and faith that carried him through—and what it means to look ahead to the road still unfolding. This episode is about more than personal achievement; it’s about vocation, calling, and the ongoing process of becoming.Whether you’ve been on the journey with him from the beginning or are just tuning in, this is a powerful reflection on perseverance, transformation, and what it means to keep saying “yes” to God’s unfolding work in our lives.

Welcome to The Becoming Project! After a short break, Pastor Michael Long returns with exciting updates—a new studio space, new plans, and a renewed mission. In this episode, he reintroduces the podcast’s purpose: sharing inspiring personal stories of growth and transformation. Pastor Michael also offers encouragement in light of today’s social and political challenges, reflecting on faith, justice, and the power of community. Tune in for a heartfelt discussion on overcoming fear, staying hopeful, and embracing the work we are all called to do. Plus, a sneak peek at upcoming guests and topics for 2025. Follow along for more stories, wisdom, and meaningful conversations!

Today we sit down with Rev. Khalif Smith. Khalif was born and raised in New York City, the son of a United Methodist pastor. He served in numerous positions in the church: acolyte, Sunday School teacher, a camp counselor at the United Methodist Church camp and youth delegate to New York Annual Conference. He has worked with youth, homeless, and seniors. He moved to Georgia to pursue higher education which includes degrees in telecommunications and information technology. Khalif decided to answer God’s calling on his life in 2006 after serving Grayson United Methodist Church as a Sunday school teacher for adults and Senior High youth. He is a graduate of Candler School of Theology at Emory University having completed a Master of Divinity degree in May of 2011. Khalif served three churches in the North Georgia Conference before coming to the Desert Southwest Conference. He currently serves Trinity United Methodist Church in Las Vegas. His family consists of his wife Nikki and children Cassie, Khalif II, Asti, and Zoe, who are all very supportive and active in ministry. Asti will also be teaching at a Mission u this summer. Khalif has a strong sense of purpose and passion for spreading the Gospel, as well as a deep dedication to God, family and community.

Welcome to The Becoming Project- Today we journey with our special guest Bill Norwood.

Welcome to The Becoming Project- A space where you can hear the stories of the lived experiences from where it all began to the present.

This is the Becoming Project