Adult VBS with Walter Brueggemann, Kester Brewin, and Kristen Howerton
Sep 26, 2016
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In a lively discussion, theologian Walter Brueggemann dives into politics and its intersection with faith. Author Kester Brewin shares unconventional takes on life while keeping things humorously high. Writer Kristen Howerton has the group in stitches, even making the host choke with laughter. They explore the complexity of love songs, the impact of nostalgia on spiritual engagement, and the deep connections between divine fidelity and human relationships, all with a refreshing mix of humor and poignant reflection.
Walter Brueggemann highlights the dangers of intertwining religious ideologies with political power, especially concerning marginalized communities' violence in history.
Kester Bruin emphasizes the impact of ideologies in shaping human experiences, necessitating a critical assessment of the narratives surrounding faith and society.
The podcast underscores the importance of embracing grief and loss within faith communities, promoting authenticity and vulnerability through the practice of lament.
Deep dives
Exploring Theological Conversations
The podcast features a live recording with three notable guests: Walter Brueggemann, Kester Bruin, and Kristin Howerton, who engage in enriching discussions on various theological topics. Walter Brueggemann discusses the misuse of the concepts of covenant and chosenness in the Hebrew Scriptures, illustrating how these ideas can lead to violence when co-opted by those in power. He highlights that when urban elites in Jerusalem wield these religious concepts, they often justify actions that promote violence against marginalized groups. This conversation effectively showcases the dangers of intertwining religious ideologies with political power, emphasizing that the church's history is marked by similar failures, including colonialism and imperialism.
The Role of Ideology
Kester Bruin introduces the notion that ideology takes shape in various contexts and can either promote inclusivity or serve vested interests. He explains how ideologies can simplify complex human experiences, which often results in narratives that serve to maintain existing power structures. This perspective aligns with Marx's interpretation of ideology as a manipulation of truth to benefit one's privilege. The conversation touches on how these ideologies manifest in modern contexts, suggesting a critical look at the narratives we craft around faith and society.
Nostalgia and Lament
The discussion delves into the role of nostalgia in shaping public perception and political rhetoric. It posits that nostalgia can hinder the ability to engage with painful realities and stifle opportunities for authentic growth and healing. Participants share that this longing for an idealized past can morph into violence, particularly when societies grapple with loss and change. They cite biblical texts that embrace lament as a critical component of spiritual life, encouraging an honest confrontation with reality rather than a retreat into nostalgic fantasies.
The Nature of Grief and Transition
Walter Brueggemann articulates that understanding our grief can lead to new possibilities and transitions in the community. He draws from biblical literature, notably the Psalms, which encapsulate human sorrow while also opening pathways to hope. The narrative of lament becomes vital to personal and communal faith, ensuring that there is room for vulnerability and acknowledgment of brokenness within the church. This indicates that embracing loss and acknowledging its complexities can lead to richer, more authentic forms of faith.
Technology and Empathy
The conversation shifts toward technology's role in shaping human connection, particularly around the internet as an 'empathy machine.' Participants explore how technology can amplify both positive and negative aspects of human interaction, reflecting the dual potential of digital platforms to provide solidarity or perpetuate discord. Discussions highlight that while the internet has the power to foster community and understanding, it also can draw out extreme viewpoints and divisive behaviors. This nuanced view suggests the need for critical engagement with how technologies impact our relationships and society's fabric.
The Quest for Perfection
Kester Bruin shares insights on the quest for perfection often encountered in religious contexts, drawing parallels with the broader human desire for transcendence. He critiques the notion of perfectibility, suggesting that the relentless pursuit for such ideals can lead to disillusionment and harm. This dialogue emphasizes a shift toward accepting human fragility and the importance of being 'good' rather than perfect. Ultimately, the conversation underscores the need for authenticity in relationships, where embracing imperfections becomes a source of strength and resilience in faith.
Listen as Walter Brueggemann talks politics, Kester Brewin gets high, Kristen Howerton makes Tripp choke on his laughter, and Barry Taylor discusses love songs.