Finding Grace in the Everyday: A Conversation with Charlie Peacock and Andi Ashworth (Copy)
Recently, I had the privilege of sitting down with Grammy Award-winning musician and producer Charlie Peacock and his wife, author Andi Ashworth, to discuss their new book, Why Everything That Doesn’t Matter Matters So Much: The Way of Love in a World of Hurt. The conversation left me inspired, challenged, and grateful for their wisdom.
Charlie and Andi bring a wealth of experience from their creative, spiritual, and personal journeys. From Charlie’s iconic contributions to contemporary Christian music, including Heart in Motion by Amy Grant and DC Talk’s Jesus Freak, to Andi’s rich exploration of hospitality and mentorship, their insights offer a refreshing perspective on faith, creativity, and finding meaning in the everyday.
Why Everything That Doesn’t Matter Matters So Much
When I first saw the title of their book, it stopped me in my tracks. “Why everything that doesn’t matter matters so much”—what a paradox! But as I read their collection of essays, I realized how deeply it resonated with where I am in life and ministry.
Some days, I’m living fully in the grace of small, meaningful moments—a good cup of coffee in the morning, sunlight streaming through a window, or an unexpected smile from my daughter. Other days, I get so bogged down by the big, overwhelming things that I forget to savor the gifts God is offering in the ordinary.
When I asked them about the title, Andi shared:
“We had almost finished writing the book but couldn’t settle on a title. Then one day, we realized this phrase captured everything we wanted to say. Life is full of small, seemingly insignificant moments that actually hold deep significance when we stop and pay attention.”
Charlie tied this concept to God’s redemptive work in the world:
“Every day, we’re invited to cooperate with the remaking of the world. Whether through kindness, creativity, or simply being present with someone, these small acts contribute to God’s renewal of all things.”
Fruitfulness vs. Success
One of the book’s themes that struck me the most was the contrast between fruitfulness and success. Like many of us, I often get caught up in measuring my worth by accomplishments—how many sermons I’ve preached, projects I’ve completed, or goals I’ve checked off a list.
But as Andi pointed out, success often reflects human metrics, while fruitfulness is about living in step with God.
“Success is so often about how we measure human value,” she explained. “But God invites us to a different perspective—fruitfulness, which flows from abiding in Christ and participating in His work in the world.”
Charlie added:
“It’s about shifting our focus from worldly accolades to what God is doing through us. Success might be celebrated by people, but fruitfulness reflects the character and values of Jesus.”
This reframing reminded me of Galatians 5 and the fruit of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These are the qualities God wants to cultivate in us, and they don’t always look like worldly success.
The Call to Hospitality
Andi’s reflections on hospitality were another highlight of our conversation. Over the years, she and Charlie have lived lives of intentional openness, welcoming others into their home and hearts.
As someone who considers himself an introvert, I asked Andi how she balances the demands of hospitality with the need for rest. She confessed that it hasn’t always been easy.
“Hospitality isn’t about performance or perfection,” she said. “It’s about creating space for connection, healing, and grace. Whether it’s inviting someone into your home or simply being present in a conversation, it’s an act of love.”
She also emphasized the importance of boundaries and self-care:
“I’ve learned that saying yes to everyone, all the time, isn’t sustainable. It’s okay—and even necessary—to recognize your own limits and care for yourself while still extending hospitality in meaningful ways.”
This hit home for me. As a pastor, I often find myself pouring into others to the point of exhaustion. Andi’s perspective reminded me that boundaries are not only healthy but also an act of love—for myself and for those I’m called to serve.
Living a Life That Matters
What I appreciated most about Charlie and Andi’s book—and our conversation—is the way it invites readers to see every part of life as worship.
Charlie shared:
“There’s not a single aspect of life that Jesus isn’t interested in. Whether you’re an artist, an athlete, a teacher, or a parent, God wants to work through you to bring beauty, hope, and redemption to the world.”
Andi echoed this sentiment, pointing to the small, everyday acts of love that reflect God’s kingdom:
“It might be as simple as having a conversation with a neighbor or sitting with someone who’s hurting. These moments may seem small, but they matter deeply in God’s economy.”
Encouragement for the Journey
As I finished the book and reflected on our conversation, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the reminder that life with Jesus is not about checking boxes or striving for success. It’s about abiding in Him, savoring His presence, and letting His love flow through us into the world.
If you’re feeling weary or stuck, this book offers hope and practical wisdom for finding grace in the ordinary. It’s a reminder that God is with us in the small moments and that our faithfulness in those moments matters more than we realize.
I encourage you to check out Charlie and Andi’s book, Why Everything That Doesn’t Matter Matters So Much: The Way of Love in a World of Hurt. You can also listen to my full conversation with them here.
And if you love reflecting on faith and music, don’t forget to grab a copy of my book, Mixtape Theology: 90s Christian Edition. It’s part devotional, part nostalgic throwback, and all awesome. You can find it here.
Let’s keep looking for God’s grace in the everyday. Thanks for reading!
-Dr. Ashley
