The Canvascast

What if prayer was never meant to sound polished? In this episode of The Canvascast, Lead Pastor J. Mark Johns and Executive Pastor Robby Rassel unpack the raw, honest, and deeply personal side of prayer — the kind that happens in frustration, desperation, silence, and intimacy with God. Pastor Mark opens up about difficult seasons in ministry, planting Canvas Church, and the moments where his pra...

This week on The Canvascast, Lead Pastor J. Mark Johns and Executive Pastor Robby Rassel unpack one of the most unexpected Mother’s Day messages we’ve ever had at Canvas Church. Starting in 1 Kings 3 with the story of two prostitutes standing before Solomon, this conversation dives into identity, surrender, prayer, wisdom, and the reality that God works through imperfect people. In this episode we...

In this episode, Lead Pastor J. Mark Johns and Executive Pastor Robby Rassel talk about the reality that marriage isn’t always easy—it’s layered, stretching, and at times, messy. But it’s also deeply meaningful when viewed through the lens it was designed for. Building off the idea of God First Marriages, this conversation explores how marriage is more than just two people coming together—it’s a r...

In this episode of the Canvascast, Lead Pastor J. Mark Johns and Executive Pastor Robby Rassel take a deeper look at the early church in the book of Acts—what changed in the disciples, where their boldness came from, and how the Holy Spirit transformed ordinary people into powerful witnesses. If you’ve ever felt unsure about who the Holy Spirit is or what He does, this conversation breaks it down...

In this episode of the Canvascast, Lead Pastor J. Mark Johns and Executive Pastor Robby Rassel keep the conversation going around spiritual warfare—specifically how failure can quietly become a foothold in our lives. It’s not just about messing up. It’s about what happens next. The discouragement, the lies we start believing, and the way those moments can shape how we see ourselves and God. – Love...

In this episode of The Canvascast! Lead Pastor J. Mark Johns and Executive Pastor Robby Rassel unpack the reality of spiritual warfare—what it is and what it isn't, and why understanding the unseen world changes everything. The real battle isn't flesh and blood. It's deeper that circumstances, emotions, or surface-level problems. – Love God. Love people. Serve others. This is the vision of Canvas...

In this episode of The Canvascast, we continue the ongoing conversation around what it truly means to love God with all of who we are. Building on recent teachings, the discussion unpacks the biblical call to love God with our heart, soul, strength, and mind—not as abstract ideas, but as lived, practiced faith. Lead Pastor J. Mark Johns and Executive Pastor Robby Rassel reflect on recent sermons a...

For this episode of The Canvascast! Centers on the power of prayer and the importance of God-ordained relationships. Through personal stories and ministry reflections, the message reveals how God brings the right people together across seasons of life and leadership. It emphasizes that spiritual growth often happens through shared journeys, faithful friendships, and trusting God’s timing. We are r...

Love God. Love people. Serve others. This is the vision of Canvas Church, led by Pastor J. Mark Johns, based in Alachua, Florida. — For more content, visit: https://canvasfl.com/media For podcasts, visit: https://canvasfl.com/media For more resources, visit: https://canvasfl.com To donate, please visit: https://canvasfl.com/give

In this episode of The Canvascast, we talk about what it really looks like to follow Jesus when it would be easier to quit. Sometimes faith doesn’t feel big or loud — sometimes it’s quiet, ordinary, and difficult. But it’s in those moments that God is forming something deeper in us. If you’ve been tired, discouraged, or tempted to give up… this conversation is for you. You are not alone, and your...

In this episode of The Canvascast, the team dives deep into what it truly means to live out a faith that stands not just during events or mountaintop moments, but in the everyday challenges of following Christ. – Love God. Love people. Serve others. This is the vision of Canvas Church, led by Pastor J. Mark Johns, based in Alachua, Florida. — For more content, visit: https://canvasfl.com/media For...

In this episode, we explore what it means to find meaning in the quiet moments of life. The conversation dives deep into purpose, reflection, and how slowing down can awaken something spiritual within us. From childhood influences to discovering peace in discipline, this talk reveals how growth often comes through patience and presence. – Key Takeaways Stillness brings clarity and purpose. Discipl...

In this episode of The Canvascast, Lead Pastor J. Mark Johns and Executive Pastor Robby Rassel dive into practical ways to hear God’s voice, highlighting personal stories and biblical principles. Discussing why slowing down, paying attention, and creating space for God’s whisper can transform your spiritual journey. Real-life examples illustrate how God speaks in unexpected moments—reminding us th...

In this episode, we close out with a powerful conversation about the role of community, accountability, and wisdom in shaping your walk with Christ. This episode dives into how correction is really an act of love, why isolation is dangerous, and how living connected to God’s people helps us leave a legacy that glorifies Him. Whether you’re walking through correction, searching for deeper fellowshi...

In this episode, we dive into how Jesus transforms ordinary people into extraordinary leaders. Through the story of Nehemiah and the call to build, we see that God doesn’t look for the most qualified—He empowers the willing. True leadership begins with surrender, courage, and faith, and it leads to change that impacts families, communities, and future generations. We’ll explore how ordinary believ...

This episode dives into the heart of our “Ordinary World Changers” series — celebrating how God uses everyday people to make an extraordinary impact. From an eventful summer in Canvas Church to powerful worship moments, salvations, and baptisms, we share stories that prove you don’t need a platform to change the world. Hear personal testimonies, including moving family faith stories, that show how...

In the final episode of season one of The Canvascast, Lead Pastor J. Mark Johns and Executive Pastor Robby Rassel reflect on the incredible journey of the past five months, walking through the life-changing God First Series. This episode dives into the importance of obedience over comfort, living with purpose, and keeping Jesus at the center of everything. Key Takeaways - Comfort never produces ca...

What does it really mean to be connected to the church—and why does it matter? In this episode of The Canvascast, Lead Pastor J. Mark Johns and Executive Pastor Robby Rassel explore why believers are called to more than just showing up on Sundays. They discuss the deeper purpose behind regular worship, giving faithfully, and being actively involved in the life of the church. Key Takeaways: - Why s...

In this episode of The Canvascast, Lead Pastor J. Mark Johns and Executive Pastor Robby Rassel dig into a bold and deeply relevant question: What difference can I make if I’m the only one trying to make a difference? Inspired by the story of Noah in Genesis 6:5–9, they unpack what it means to live with God First Boldness—even when you stand alone. This conversation reframes how you see your role i...

In this episode, Pastors J. Mark Johns and Robby Rassel explore how Easter creates a unique window to reach people who might otherwise ignore church. Drawing from John 4, they unpack Jesus’ conversation with the Samaritan woman and its ripple effect on a whole community. They also discuss why the Gospels differ and how those differences deepen our understanding of Jesus. Whether you’re inviting so...

In this episode of The Canvascast, we continue our journey in the God First series, exploring what it truly means to prioritize God in every aspect of life. The conversation dives into the areas where people often struggle to put God first, why this happens, and practical ways to shift our mindset and habits. Whether it's in our relationships, finances, or daily decisions, this episode provides th...

What makes a strong and lasting marriage? It’s not perfection—it’s two flawed people relentlessly committed to God and each other. In this episode of The Canvascast, Lead Pastor J. Mark Johns and Executive Pastor Robby Rassel dive deep into what it means to build a God-first marriage and family.

What does it truly mean for a man to lead his family in a God-honoring way? In this episode of The Canvascast, Lead Pastor J. Mark Johns and Executive Pastor Robby Rassel dive deep into the biblical foundation of male leadership in the home. Drawing wisdom from Psalm 128, they break down what it means to be a man of character, integrity, and faithfulness—one who sets the spiritual tone for his hou...

In this episode of The Canvascast, we dive deep into the book of Leviticus 14 and explore its profound spiritual significance. We also breakdown how the physical cleansing of a leper in the Old Testament mirrors the spiritual redemption we receive through Christ. Join us as we discuss: • The six parallels between Old Testament cleansing and salvation in Christ. • How God speaks to us today—through...