Be Encouraged with Bishop Julius C. Trimble

In this powerful episode of the To Be Encouraged podcast, Rev. Dr. Brad Miller sits down with Bishop Julius C. Trimble to reflect on the life, legacy, and enduring impact of Reverend Jesse Jackson. The conversation traces Jackson’s countless contributions to social justice and civil rights, and explores the lessons today’s leaders can draw from his example.
Three Key Takeaways:
Living Out a Gospel of Compassion
Bishop Julius C. Trimble illuminates how Reverend Jackson deeply embodied the teachings of Matthew 25 and Luke 4—calling on leaders to make sure their ministries and community actions prioritize the needs of the poor, marginalized, and overlooked. Jackson’s focus was unwavering: “He believed there was no good news from the gospel unless it was also good news for the poor and for the disconnected and for the disrespected.” This episode encourages listeners to remember that true leadership and faith require standing up for those without a voice and reaching out in practical, compassionate ways.
Building Broad Coalitions for Change
Jackson’s vision of a unified movement—exemplified through organizations like the Rainbow Coalition and Operation PUSH—was about more than just diversity; it was about collective action for the common good. Bishop Julius C. Trimble explains how these coalitions brought together students, labor groups, rural communities, the LGBTQ+ community, and more to push for justice and equity. Modern leaders and everyday people are challenged here to collaborate across differences and not “apologize for celebrating diversity, for equity, for inclusion”—carrying forward the spirit of unity that Jackson championed.
Taking Action: Voting, Advocacy, and Engagement
Perhaps Jackson’s greatest legacy, as reflected in this discussion, is his call to action: not just to speak up, but to vote, run for office, and actively participate in democracy. Bishop Julius C. Trimble urges listeners to honor Jackson by registering to vote, supporting others in civic engagement, and even considering public service themselves. The episode highlights, too, that while Jackson’s example may seem extraordinary, the real work is in the everyday actions we take to advocate for the common good and the marginalized where we live.

This episode is both a tribute and a call to action—reminding us that the torch carried by Jesse Jackson continues to shine through all who choose compassion, unity, and bold engagement in their communities.
Listen now for inspiration on carrying the legacy forward!

Reflecting on the Legacy of Reverend Jesse Jackson: Key Takeaways from “To Be Encouraged” Podcast
In the latest episode of the “To Be Encouraged” podcast, Rev. Dr. Brad Miller and, Bishop Julius C. Trimble, pay tribute to the life and influence of Reverend Jesse Louis Jackson. As the world mourns his recent passing, the conversation takes listeners on an insightful journey through Jesse Jackson’s pivotal role in civil rights, social justice, and spiritual advocacy.
1. Jesse Jackson’s Enduring Impact on Civil Rights and Social Justice
Both Rev. Dr. Brad Miller and Bishop Julius C. Trimble underscore that Jesse Jackson’s story cannot be separated from the broader narrative of Black history in America. As Bishop Julius C. Trimble recounts, Reverend Jackson was a “giant for civil rights and justice for people all around the world.” Starting his activism alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and organizing impactful initiatives such as Operation Breadbasket, Operation PUSH, and the Rainbow Coalition, Jackson’s legacy extends far beyond the pulpit into the heart of community transformation.
His advocacy included championing voting rights, dismantling systemic racism, fighting for the inclusion of women and people with disabilities, and raising his voice against international injustices like apartheid in South Africa. The hosts remind us that Jackson didn’t just speak about justice—he put it into action, becoming a global ambassador of hope and a paragon of persistence.
2. Faith and Activism: Keeping Hope Alive
A standout theme in the episode is the seamless integration of faith and social activism. Rev. Dr. Brad Miller and Bishop Julius C. Trimble both illustrate how Jackson embodied prophetic preaching and the gospel’s call to action. His oft-repeated catchphrase, “Keep hope alive,” served not just as a slogan but as a rallying cry for marginalized communities.
Bishop Julius C. Trimble shares personal memories of studying under Jackson during his time at Garrett Evangelical Theological Seminary, recalling community organizing trips to Operation PUSH and Cook County Jail—real-life lessons in applied theology. Jackson’s ministry, rooted in scripture and social outreach, resonated with the affirmation “I am somebody,” affirming human dignity for all—especially those who felt overlooked.
3. The Courage to Challenge and Change
The podcast also shines a light on the courage required to challenge the status quo. As Rev. Dr. Brad Miller points out, Jackson was “a real master of afflicting the comfortable and comforting the afflicted.” Even when facing criticism—from political figures, communities, or the media—Jackson stood firm in his beliefs. He wasn’t afraid to “stick his nose in places where he felt like others didn’t want him to be, but he got it done,” whether it was running for president or negotiating the release of hostages overseas.
Both hosts agree that Jackson’s impact was never about simply trying to fit in; it was about changing the very fabric of society for the better.
Conclusion
This heartfelt conversation reminds us that Jesse Jackson’s legacy is one of profound hope, faith, and unwavering action. As listeners reflect on his mission to “bend the moral arc of the universe towards justice,” the challenge is clear: to keep hope alive, stand boldly for justice, and remember that “I am somebody”—because we are all created in the image of God.
If you’re looking for inspiration to face today’s challenges with courage and faith, this episode of “To Be Encouraged” is one you won’t want to miss.

On this moving episode of the To Be Encouraged podcast, hosts Rev. Dr. Brad Miller and Bishop Julius C. Trimble come together with raw honesty to mark Black History Month, tackling its significance as a lens to interpret and challenge the upheaval, injustice, and trauma facing our communities today.
As the episode opens, Rev. Dr. Brad Miller acknowledges the growing distress—tragedies like ICE raids, murders, and harassment that recall troubling echoes from the Civil Rights era. These events, he notes, serve as a sobering reminder of history’s cycles and the need for reflective action. Referencing Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s pivotal question, “Where do we go from here?” the conversation builds toward exploring whether our society is headed toward chaos or community.
Rev. Dr. Brad Miller and Bishop Julius C. Trimble courageously address the erosion of compassionate democracy in America. Bishop Julius C. Trimble shares firsthand accounts of ICE agents blocking church ministries and the harrowing reality for brown and Black Americans facing increased racial profiling and systemic abuse. He connects these present-day injustices to the church’s legacy, recalling the Methodist Social Creed of 1908—a bold declaration that advocated fair wages, child labor protections, and the Golden Rule. Both hosts lament how these basic tenets of dignity and justice are under siege but emphasize the Christian imperative to act.
Several key lessons and takeaways emerge from their discussion:
1. The Choice Between Chaos and Community: Our nation stands at a “tipping point,” echoing Dr. King’s challenge. Faith communities and individuals are called to intentionally rebuild “community” instead of allowing chaos to dictate our social fabric.
2. The Role of Faith in Protest and Advocacy: Bishop Julius C. Trimble lifts up the need for prayer coupled with action. Churches must lead by speaking up for vulnerable populations—children, immigrants, and the oppressed—refusing to be silent in the face of injustice.
3. The Power of Voice and Vote: Every person has a voice, and, as Rev. Dr. Brad Miller emphasizes, “everybody’s got a vote.” The hosts urge listeners to use their influence, register to vote, and actively support leaders advocating for the least and the marginalized.
4. A Biblical and Moral Mandate: From Matthew 25 and the Methodist Social Creed to the prophetic examples of Archbishop Desmond Tutu and Congressman John Lewis, listeners are reminded that justice, mercy, and neighborly love are foundational Christian virtues and indispensable to social renewal.
5. The Hope of Community Action: Stories of clergy and churches standing up provide seeds of hope. Bishop Julius C. Trimble ’s reflections and poetry from his book encourage pastors, laypersons, and all listeners to be agents of change by choosing dignity, respect, and beloved community over apathy and fear.
This episode stands as a call to action and a word of encouragement: as for us and our houses, let us choose to serve the Lord and pursue community, not chaos.
Links to Bishop Julius C. Trimble 's book “I Dreamed of Life in Living Color,” referenced throughout the episode, will be in the show notes.

Show Notes: To Be and Do
Hosts: Bishop Julius C. Trimble
In this moving and timely episode of “To Be and Do,” Dr Brad Miller and Bishop Julius C. Trimble tackle the chaos and injustice facing our society at the dawn of a new year. They address recent tragedies involving ICE agents in Minneapolis, a growing sense of lawlessness, and how the faith community can – and must – respond. Combining powerful personal insights, historical perspective, and a call to action rooted in faith and compassion, this conversation is both grounding and challenging.
Three Key Takeaways:
1. The Enduring Power of the Golden Rule
Dr Brad Miller and Bishop Julius C. Trimble reflect on the Methodist Social Creed of 1908, highlighting how the Golden Rule (“treat others as you want to be treated”) was once seen as the “remedy of all social ills.” Despite current societal divisions, they argue that this principle remains as powerful and necessary as ever, especially when civil discourse and basic human decency seem to be lacking.
2. Encouragement is Action, Not Just Words
The hosts stress that encouragement and faith are not passive. Bishop Julius C. Trimble urges listeners to link their prayers with action – whether it’s protesting injustice, reaching out to elected officials, or raising important questions within their own communities and churches. Real encouragement channels compassion into advocacy and legislative change, making it both personal and social.
3. Remembering Our Role: Salt and Light
Drawing parallels to the civil rights era and the teachings of Jesus, Bishop Julius C. Trimble reminds us that people of faith are called to be “salt and light” in the world. Salt, he notes, “melts ice,” a powerful metaphor for breaking through indifference or cruelty. Being salt and light means actively dissolving hatred, illuminating darkness, standing against dehumanization, and fostering kindness – “all day long,” as he beautifully underscores with a story about his granddaughter’s sweatshirt.
Final Thoughts:
This episode weaves together history, scripture, and critical current events, calling all listeners to move from complacency to commitment. Real change starts with everyday actions – from courageous protest to conversations in Sunday school. In a world too often divided by fear and othering, we’re reminded that kindness, advocacy, and love for our neighbor truly matter.
Listen, reflect, and share this episode to keep the conversation – and action – moving forward.

In this heartfelt holiday episode of the To Be Encouraged podcast, Rev. Dr. Brad Miller joins Bishop Julius C. Trimble to talk about reclaiming the true spirit of Christmas in a world saturated with commercialization and stress. As we approach Christmas 2025, the conversation explores how to focus on the deeper meaning of the season, building beloved community, and offering hope and encouragement to those who feel discouraged.
Together, they share personal stories, practical tips for celebrating Christmas meaningfully, and gentle reminders to put faith, kindness, and connection at the heart of our holiday traditions. Whether you celebrate with candlelight services or simple walks with family, you’ll find inspiration to make this season more peaceful, joyful, and true to its sacred roots.
Three Key Takeaways
1. Reclaiming the Simple Joys of ChristmasRev. Dr. Brad Miller (Rev. Dr. Brad Miller and Bishop Julius C. Trimble ) discuss how the commercialization of the holidays can easily overshadow the true meaning of Christmas. Instead, they encourage listeners to reclaim simpler, more meaningful traditions—like family meals, lighting a candle, taking a walk, or pausing each morning to take deep breaths and give thanks. These small practices help center the season on gratitude, presence, and spiritual reflection rather than stress or material gifts.
2. Building Beloved Community At the heart of the episode is the idea of building a “beloved community,” where love, grace, and joyful connections extend beyond just family—to neighbors, acquaintances, and even strangers. Rev. Dr. Brad Miller shares how even small acts—like speaking words of affirmation to grocery store clerks or baking cookies with grandchildren—contribute to a more loving and inclusive world. They remind us that embracing diversity and intentionally forging relationships is core to the Christmas story and to faith itself.
3. Finding Hope in the Christmas Story For those feeling discouraged, isolated, or unable to meet all the holiday expectations, the Christmas story is a message of hope and affirmation. Bishop Julius C. Trimble and Rev. Dr. Brad Miller remind listeners that Jesus’ birth was for everyone, in all circumstances—not just the wealthy or privileged. The message “do not be afraid, you are loved” is repeated as an antidote to the pressures of the season. Through stories from their own ministries, they highlight how simple moments of kindness and worship can be transformative for individuals and communities alike.
Wishing you a blessed and peace-filled Christmas from the To Be snd Do podcast. Remember: you are loved, you are enough, and small acts of kindness can light up the world.