Episode 160: Finding faith again with Liz Contreras

Liz’s story is one of resilience, rediscovery, and grace—and we’re honored to share it with you today. She begins by telling us she was born in Arizona, but her early years were shaped by her father’s role as a traveling evangelist. As she grew older, Liz came to see how much of her father’s passion for ministry was inspired by the Jesus Revolution. Life on the road wasn’t easy. Liz speaks candidly about the challenges of growing up in a family constantly on the move. For a time, they even lived in a bus—a reality that left her feeling embarrassed and isolated, especially at school. Even after the traveling stopped, her family continued to relocate frequently throughout the Valley. They rarely stayed in the same church or school for more than a year, and this instability began to distort Liz’s understanding of what community—especially Christian community—could be. Much of the faith she encountered in those years felt lonely, restrictive, and at times, judgmental. Liz found herself longing for independence, counting down the days until she turned 18 so she could create a life of her own. That journey began when she enrolled at Phoenix College, where she met her husband, Buddy. Their early years together were sweet, and before long, they were welcoming a baby boy—and shortly after, a baby girl—into the world. With motherhood came a shift in Liz’s heart. She felt a deep desire to raise her children with an understanding of who God is. Though Buddy wasn’t actively pursuing faith at the time, he fully supported Liz’s efforts to introduce their kids to Jesus. This marked the beginning of a slow but meaningful return to God. As the kids started attending a Christian school, a fellow parent invited Liz to visit Desert Springs. She calls it a “visit” that lasted four years—coming regularly but still holding back. And then, something began to change. Liz started to take real steps into community, into faith, and into relationship with God again. Today, Liz speaks with honesty and humility about her journey—about the ways God has reshaped her heart and mind over time. Her story reminds us that faith is often a winding road, but one full of hope, healing, and transformation. We’re so grateful Liz chose to share that road with us.

Pastor Steve's January 2025 sermon on deconstruction

Buddy's (Liz's husband!) testimony video

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