Reality has never felt stranger, and the response for many of us then is to grasp desperately for something or someone to hold on to. But it is precisely that desire for control, that can lead us to some really dark places. Today's Zeitcast contrasts different spiritual approaches, advocating for a faith that encourages curiosity and compassion rather than certainty and outrage. We consider the role of knowledge in spirituality, the struggle for certainty in uncertain times, and the paradox of holding on versus letting go. Ultimately, this is an invitation to surrender control and trust in a reality larger than themselves.

What is evil, and how does evil work in the world? “The prince of the power of the air” in the Christian New Testament, “Ha-Satan” (the accuser) in the Hebrew Bible, give us crucial glimpses into the nature of evil. How do we tell the difference between truth & lies, between fact and fiction? OH, and for those of us who are trying to figure out how to escape beliefs and ideas that have been toxic for us-how do we find enough scaffolding to make sure we don’t just now get caught up in something worse?! We explore the overwhelming nature of misinformation and disinformation in today's society, particularly in the context of the upcoming election. We delve into the concept of evil, drawing connections between ancient texts and modern experiences of self-destruction and identity crises. The discussion highlights the power of accusation and scapegoating, the struggle for self-identity amidst external influences, and the quest for truth in a chaotic world filled with conflicting voices. We also talk about identity, and the journey of deconstruction and reconstruction of faith. Ultimately we advocate for the need for spiritual scaffolding to support personal growth and understanding, ultimately leading to the realization of one's identity as God's beloved.

On this week's four weeks for Friday: the debut of Typecast (!), where I respond to listener questions; a rundown of what I am watching, listening to, and reading this week (including: the new Netflix film It's What's Inside, revisiting Stephen King's Storm of the Century, Coldplay's Moon Music, The Bulwark conversation with Timothy Snyder this week on "the Politics of Impotence," Slow Burn's great new season on "The Rise of Fox News," and a searing new piece in the Atlantic, "Seventy Miles in the Darien Gap," by Cailtin Dickerson. Let me know what you are into this week in the comments! This week's Typecast is a response to Mike Skinner, who asked me: "from your personal and pastoral experience, what are two or three theological truths that are commonly shared with folks who are struggling to find and hold onto hope that are both overrated and underrated in their power and ability to help and encourage?" Such a great (multi-part) question! I will look forward to reading more of yours!

Who told you the middle was the right place to be? Was it God? Does it feel holy to be a little above the fray, a little detached? It is one thing to see the world from an aerial point of view (like say, we saw in our reflections on Revelation), but another thing to see the world from out the window from a private plane. Today we challenge the notion of "middle ground," advocating instead for a deeper understanding of grace and truth. This is an invitation to recognize one's position of power and shatter the illusion of powerlessness, urging listeners to embrace vulnerability and take action in the prophetic in-between space. Along the way, we talk U2's Bullet the Blue Sky, racially charged rhetoric in the Trump era, faithful politics, the prophet Elisha, and Jonathan's theological mentor, Stanley Hauerwas

This heartfelt discussion navigates the interplay of faith and sexuality, emphasizing the inclusion of LGBTQ individuals in the Christian community. The speaker shares personal struggles with judgment, shame, and identity, highlighting the transformative power of divine love. Through vivid anecdotes, they reflect on encounters that shaped their spiritual journey, advocating for authenticity and grace. A deep dive into Romans 1 reveals the need for reinterpretation and acceptance, ultimately encouraging listeners to embrace truth and connection.

John Wesley preached in fields, so this is in the water where I come from. From a really sacred experience out at the Ames' farm in Fillmore, Indiana for Ethan's Legacy Project, comes a sermon about how we might theologically grap with the heaviest things--divorce, death, and suicide--in light of God revealed in Christ who is always available to the vulnerable. Raw, provocative, and inclusive of everything from abortion to finding life on the other side of dying, this is a sweeping talk...and a tender invitation to allow your own wounds to become a source of healing for the people around you.

It's Friday, and we are live on the Zeicast...let's go! Today: 1) a short new piece 2) The Vice Presidential Debate between Governor Tim Walz and J.D. Vance 3) pop culture corner, featuring two new franchises on HBO/Max--The Penguin and Salem's Lot 4) state of the podcast, and what's coming next--announcing the Typecast!

Even when our traditions may look externally very different, the shape of our journeys of finding faith (and losing...and maybe finding again), are remarkably similar! In this conversation, Will James shares vulnerably about his experience through the Seventh-Day Adventist. They delve deep into the teachings of Ellen White, the nature of truth, the relationship between scientific understanding and belief systems, the significance of the Sabbath, and the impact of parenting on belief systems. They also touch on the evolution of understanding God, the importance of community, and the journey of self-discovery as they navigate their spiritual paths. It's a wild ride, and a very particular account of a faith journey...that we somehow think might yet somehow sound a whole lot like your own.

In this conversation, Amy Hawk and Jonathan Martin discuss disillusionment with evangelicalism, in the context of widespread Trump support. Amy shares her personal spiritual journey, the impact of the quest for political power on faith, and the metaphor of Judas' betrayal as it relates to the church's alignment with Trump. The conversation emphasizes the importance of integrity and truth in faith, and the need for Christians to (in the language of New Testament scripture) "discern the spirits" influencing their beliefs and actions.

Have you been intimidated by the Book of Revelation? Or terrorized or traumatized by it? Does it seem to be within the realm of some sort of strange "expertise" that you either don't feel like you have, or wouldn't want to have given the takes people have on all of this? While not comprehensive, this is my absolute best shot at giving you some handles on how this apocalyptic book functions, what it's about, and how it connects to the world we are living in now. It may challenge you; but hopefully it might also make you feel like you are getting Revelation "back" as the source of hope and healing it was intended to be (albeit a strange comforter at times. We explore the complexities and profound themes of the Book of Revelation, emphasizing its relevance and accessibility. We consider the importance of understanding Revelation through the lens of Jesus Christ as He appears in the gospels, the implications of misinterpretation, and the significance of key symbols and narratives within the text. Ultimately I argue for a perspective on Revelation as a story of hope, healing, and the final triumph of love over violence...a story you are called to participate in. The end of Revelation is the "end" of Scripture, the conclusion of all the other "revelations"--mercy triumphs over judgment.