The holidays are here and you know what that means?

Awkward conversations about religion and politics with family, friends, and coworkers.

Today on the podcast I am bringing you some wisdom... rules even... from two friends who work at the intersection of religion and the psychological sciences. Sarah Lane Ritchie and Kutter Callaway were part of the live podcast last week in San Diego and after hearing these 'rules' for the holidays, I knew I needed to share them ASAP.

The live event included a bunch of other segments that engaged an upcoming film J.E.S.U.A. The rest of the podcast will come out near the release of the film. I moved the rules from the end of the conversation to the beginning, so after that segment you will go back in time to the beginning of my chat with Sarah and Kutter.

Here are the 7 rules.

You are NOT your ideas
Prioritize Sleep
Make Yourself Start (or keep) Meditating (here's the Examen app I mentioned)
Be a Documentarian - talk by listening
Acknowledge Their Trauma... including being in a family with you and your deconstructive path
Remember Everyone You See and Love Will Die
Criticism is a Form of Pursuit

This episode was sponsored by the upcoming documentary film J.E.S.U.S.A.

J.E.S.U.S.A. is an in-depth exploration of the relationship between Christianity and American nationalism and the violence that can often emerge from it. Far from a new phenomenon, this documentary traces the co-opting of Christianity by the state all the way back to when the Christian faith became the official religion of the Roman Empire.

Through interviews with a diverse group of scholars, pastors, historians, and activists, this film shows how specific readings of the Bible have led many Christians to confuse their devotion to Jesus with their dedication to the state. The film helps viewers rediscover and restore long-held Christian beliefs regarding nonviolence, inspiring Christians to become purveyors of peace rather than enablers of conflict and violence.

The documentary will be released for general viewing on February 25, 2020, and will be available on many streaming platforms for rental or purchase.

If you wish to help organize a showing for your church or organization, please contact the production team here.

The film includes some amazing people like David Bentley Hart, Suzanne Ross, Brian Zahnd, Osheta Moore, Diana Butler Bass, Greg Boyd, and many more.

Follow the podcast, drop a review, send feedback/questions or become a member of the HBC Community.

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Tales to Terrify 653 Jade C. Wildy