On the Shoulders of Giants: A Christmas Reflection with Dr. David Stevens
In this special Christmas episode of Faith in Healthcare, Dr. Mike Chupp reflects on God’s faithfulness as CMDA nears its 100th year, before we listen to a message from former CMDA CEO Dr. Dave Stevens. He shares how a small group of praying medical students grew into CMDA and a global ministry through seasons of obedience, challenge, and God’s unmistakable guidance. More than a history lesson, this episode is a reminder that God delights in using ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary purposes for His Kingdom. As we celebrate the birth of Christ, we’re invited to remember that the same God who has been at work through CMDA for decades is still at work today in healthcare and in each of our lives.
As we come to the close of the year, we want to invite you to prayerfully consider making your special year-end gift to CMDA. If you’ve never given before, this is a wonderful time to join us in supporting a ministry that equips and encourages Christian healthcare professionals across the country and around the world. Your donation, no matter the size, truly makes an impact and helps sustain and grow the many ministries God is using through CMDA. You can give easily by visiting cmda.org/give or by mailing in your gift. And if you have any questions or need assistance, our team would be glad to help, just call us at 888-230-2637. Thank you for your partnership and your generosity. We’re grateful for you! cmda.org/give
Early bird registration rates for the 2026 CMDA National Convention are available through January 13, 2026, so now is the perfect time to reserve your spot for next year’s gathering, happening April 23–26 in Loveland, Colorado. It’s a time to renew your spirit, recharge your faith, and connect with fellow believers in healthcare. We’re thrilled to welcome John Stonestreet, President of the Colson Center and co-host of Breakpoint Radio, a nationally recognized voice on faith, theology, and Christian worldview. Convenient lodging is available at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Loveland Conference Center and SpringHill Suites by Marriott, with special CMDA room rates reserved for attendees. Learn more or register at cmda.org/events.
Applications are open for the 2026–27 CMDA Mentoring Academy through December 31, 2025, a year-long journey designed to help Christian healthcare professionals grow spiritually, professionally, and personally through one-on-one mentoring and blended learning. The program runs April 2026 to April 2027, launching at National Convention, with about 44 hours of in-person, virtual, and self-study components. Eligible applicants include physicians, dentists, and advanced practice providers who desire to grow as disciple-makers. Learn more and apply at cmda.org/mentoring/applicants, or contact Dr. Francis Nuthalapaty with questions at [email protected] or 864-436-9323.
Video Podcast:
Meet Our Guest(s):
Dr. David Stevens, author of Jesus, MD, Beyond Medicine and co-author of Leadership Proverbs and Servant Leadership and serves as CEO Emeritus of the Christian Medical & Dental Associations® (CMDA).
As untold thousands of people who have heard him preach could attest, Dave Stevens is a gifted storyteller and a powerful Christian communicator with a passion for evangelism and a deep understanding and respect for the integrity of God’s Word. As the son of an itinerant Methodist evangelist who, like John Wesley himself, truly saw the world as his parish, Dave comes by his speaking skills honestly. He’s honed his talent over the years in an incredible variety of settings. Whether he’s recruiting tribal leaders to provide volunteer support for a community health initiative in rural Kenya, preaching at American mega-church missions conferences, testifying before a panel of Washington politicians on Capitol Hill or challenging an auditorium full of healthcare professionals to better integrate their personal faith with their professional practice, Dave knows how to hook and hold an audience.
As a leading, trusted spokesman for Christian healthcare professionals, Dr. Stevens has conducted thousands of media interviews, including JAMA, USA Today, Newsweek, NBC’s Today Show, NBC Nightly News, BBC-World Television, CNN and National Public Radio. He has also appeared on FOX Family Channel, PAX-Television, Tech TV, The Odyssey Channel, America’s Health Network and many other national outlets.
