Marty Solomon shares his sabbatical experience, including engaging in enjoyable activities, personal reflection, and the role of a spiritual director. The hosts reflect on the concept of Beimah ism, the unintentional chiasm structure of session seven, and the significance of the guest being placed in the center. They discuss the reflection episodes in the first half of the season, new prayer practices and tools they have learned, and their future plans for examining the book of Isaiah in a different way.
Taking a sabbatical provides an opportunity for self-reflection, renewal, and creative expression.
Embracing diverse perspectives and engaging in conversations fosters growth and learning in spirituality.
Deep dives
Reflection on Sabbatical Experience
The podcast hosts discuss their experiences and reflections on their recent sabbaticals, sharing personal insights and lessons learned. They emphasize the importance of allowing oneself to be refreshed and renewed during a period of rest, highlighting the value of taking time for self-reflection and engaging in activities that bring joy and creative expression. They also challenge the idea that sabbatical must yield profound insights, instead highlighting the beauty of simply finding renewal and embracing a new rhythm. The hosts express gratitude for the opportunity to spend time with Jesus, engage in spiritual exercises, and confront personal struggles during their sabbaticals.
Embracing Diversity of Thought
Throughout the episode, the hosts celebrate the diversity of thought and perspectives within the podcast community. They highlight the importance of embracing disagreements and differing opinions, recognizing that it is through these differences that growth and learning occur. They emphasize the beauty of engaging in conversations and wrestling with ideas, challenging the notion that there is a singular right way of thinking or practicing spirituality. The hosts encourage listeners to appreciate the various perspectives shared on the podcast, recognizing that everyone connects with different episodes and topics in unique ways.
Season Seven Reflections
The hosts reflect on the structure and content of Season Seven, acknowledging the intentional organization of episodes, especially noting the reflection episodes, friendship episode, and upcoming prayer and fasting episodes. They discuss the positive feedback received from listeners regarding the reflective episodes, in which they shared personal insights and experiences. Additionally, they discuss the challenges of editing certain episodes and the enjoyment of creating ambient music-filled episodes. The hosts express their gratitude for the engagement and feedback from the podcast community throughout the season.
Exploring New Practices
While the hosts primarily discuss their return to familiar spiritual practices after their sabbaticals, they also mention discovering new practices that resonated with them. They mention exploring the Ignatian spiritual exercises, including the practice of the Examen, which allowed them to reflect on their lives and their relationship with Jesus. Additionally, they recommend books on fasting and prayer, highlighting the inspiration they found in these resources. The hosts express their excitement to continue exploring and integrating these newfound practices into their lives and sharing them with others.
Marty Solomon and Brent Billings wrap up Session 7 of the podcast by hearing about Marty’s sabbatical experience and reflecting on what we’ve all been through in this season of rest.