Embarrassment: Inside Out Faith: The Science and Spirituality of Emotions

About this sermon

In this heartfelt conversation, Dr. Rebeca Chow and Pastor Bill Gepford dive into the emotion of embarrassment—what it is, how it shows up in our lives, and the deep impact it can have on how we see ourselves. Pastor Bill shares a personal story from his middle school years that many can relate to: a moment of embarrassment that felt bigger than it was, yet still shaped how he viewed himself. Dr. Rebeca explains how embarrassment triggers both a physical and emotional response and can often push us into hiding or self-doubt. They unpack the difference between healthy embarrassment and harmful shame. Embarrassment reminds us of a misstep or moment that didn’t reflect our best self. But when left unchecked, it can evolve into shame—a belief that we are the mistake. Through their conversation, they explore how shame can isolate us, distort our identity, and trap us in a story that no longer reflects who we truly are. Drawing from Luke 8, they reflect on the story of the woman who suffered for 12 years and quietly reached out to Jesus. She was consumed by shame, yet Jesus didn’t define her by her suffering—He saw her, loved her, and restored her. This powerful image reminds us that we are not the worst thing we’ve done, and we are not meant to carry shame alone. Healing begins when we allow ourselves to be seen and loved just as we are. If you’ve been carrying the weight of embarrassment or shame, this episode is for you. Let this be a reminder that your story isn’t over—and you are not defined by your lowest moment. Watch now, and rediscover what it means to be truly seen, truly known, and truly loved. Highlights: 00:00 – Intro: Let’s Talk About Embarrassment 00:19 – Pastor Bill’s Middle School Choir Story 01:11 – What Embarrassment Does to the Body and Mind 02:43 – Embarrassment vs. Shame: What’s the Difference? 02:49 – When Embarrassment Shapes Our Sense of Self 03:16 – The Danger of Letting Shame Define You 04:03 – The Woman in Luke 8: Reaching Out Through Shame 05:05 – Jesus’ Response: You Are Not Defined by Shame 05:24 – The Power of Being Seen and Fully Accepted 05:49 – Baptism and Identity: You Are Loved, Not Labeled 06:51 – Final Encouragement: You Are Seen, Known, and Loved Visit our website: https://resurrection.church/ Connect with us on social media! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/weareresurrection Twitter: https://x.com/umcresurrection Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/resurrectionumc/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChurchoftheResurrection Learn more from us at https://resurrection.church/next #ResurrectionAUnitedMethodistChurch #InsideOutFaith #Embarrassment

Topics

• Faith