Steve Cuss and Esau McCaulley discuss the impact of absence and forgiveness, navigating trauma with humor, and the power of memory. They touch on racism, shame, and dehumanization while exploring the presence of God’s love. Resources mentioned include books by McCaulley and authors like C.S. Lewis and N.T. Wright.
Forgiveness can be a declaration of acceptance in the absence of paternal love.
Parenting can be shaped by embracing imperfections and modeling vulnerability.
Rehumanizing narratives through empathy and understanding can challenge dehumanization and promote inclusivity.
Deep dives
Dr. Esau McCauley's Journey and Insights
Dr. Esau McCauley, a New Testament scholar, shares profound insights in a heartfelt interview. Discussing his memoir 'How Far Out of the Promised Land,' he delves into the complexities of being human-sized amidst trauma and empathy. He emphasizes the importance of portraying broken individuals as lovable, highlighting the lessons they offer. McCauley's personal journey reflects the struggle between acknowledging past trauma and finding forgiveness, culminating in a narrative of resilience and self-discovery.
Navigating Parenthood and Complex Narratives
McCualet reflects on his experiences as a parent, emphasizing the significance of embracing imperfections and modeling vulnerability to foster genuine connections. Through his memoir, he explores the impact of familial absence on shaping identity and the challenges of breaking generational patterns. He shares how navigating fatherhood has led him to prioritize authenticity and self-forgiveness, creating a space for his children to embrace their own humanity.
Rehumanizing Narratives and Dignity
McCualet advocates for rehumanizing narratives, challenging dehumanization by recognizing the inherent dignity in every individual. He highlights the importance of empathy and understanding in dismantling racism and promoting inclusivity. By sharing personal stories that blend universal themes with distinct cultural experiences, he underscores the transformative power of storytelling in fostering connections and affirming humanity.
Navigating Faith and Personal Struggles
In candid reflections, McCualet shares his internal struggles between belief and experience, particularly grappling with grace and the tension between receiving salvation and striving for perfection. He candidly explores the gap between theological convictions and personal uncertainties, emphasizing the complexities of faith and the pursuit of encountering God's love amidst human imperfections.
Embracing Love and Family
Amidst his sabbatical journey through England with his family, McCualet finds profound love and connection, immersing in moments of togetherness and beauty. Refined by the harmonies of choral music and the shared experiences with his loved ones, he discovers a sense of complete acceptance and joy. This journey serves as a poignant reminder of the transformative power of love and familial bonds in nurturing the soul.
Presence has a profound impact on our lives. So does its opposite—absence.
On this episode of Being Human, Steve Cross welcomes author, professor, and public theologian Esau McCaulley. McCaulley’s book Reading While Black is dedicated to his father, which may lead people to believe that they had a close relationship. But, McCaulley says that dedication was his way of declaring, “I forgive you.”
During their conversation, Cross and McCaulley talk about how the absence of paternal love can shape a child. They discuss how McCaulley’s childhood affects his parenting, the role of humor in processing trauma, and the power of memory. They talk about racism, shame, and the roots of dehumanization. And they consider the presence of God’s love and redemption.
