In this discussion, Michael Ward, a literary scholar and theologian acclaimed for his insights on C.S. Lewis, delves into the profound themes of joy and tears in Lewis's writings. He unpacks the symbolism of waterfalls, illustrating how they reflect spiritual truths and the beauty found in suffering. Ward examines how redemption emerges through emotional experiences, emphasizing the transformative power of both love and grief in Lewis's works. His insights paint a rich tapestry of imagination and depth, revealing the layers behind familiar narratives.

Chase Whitney, a church planter, discusses the significance of tears in our spiritual journey. He explores how joy and sorrow coexist, sharing personal anecdotes that highlight the emotional weight of human experiences like marriage and parenthood. Whitney introduces the idea of 'liquid prayer,' emphasizing empathy in response to adversity. He illustrates how acknowledging grief can deepen one's joy and connection to God, showing that our tears invite divine compassion and healing.

Support the podcast: https://www.anselmsociety.org/podcast25 Months of planning and prep are almost finished, and in January, with your help, the first episodes of the NEW Imagination Redeemed podcast will drop.  It will be a feast: retellings of the great stories, and warm conversations on how to enter into the life of the Christian imagination. But to do it right, we need two things from you! Listen for more details on the new (and old) hosts, the updates to the format, and how you can help.

Michael Minkoff, associated with Renew the Arts, dives into the transformative power of imagination and art as tools for living a life reflective of heavenly values. He and Brian discuss how community engagement enriches the human experience and critiques the disconnect between art and consumerism. They explore the importance of humility in personal and artistic growth and share insights into how shared experiences can deepen connections and foster creativity. Plus, they even touch on the fascinating cultural phenomenon of Taylor Swift!

Speaker Brian Brown from a Narnia conference discusses viewing the world as a reflection of God's design, bridging the gap between material reality and spiritual significance. He emphasizes the importance of appreciating the beauty and symbolism of creation, urging listeners to live sacramentally and steward the earth with a Christ-like perspective.

Exploring the intersection of creativity and spirituality, the podcast discusses the transformative power of creativity in celebrating the wonders of the world. It also delves into the balance between suspicion and acceptance in Protestantism, the importance of practicing gratitude, and the transformative power of grace. Additionally, it touches on the critique of lack of creativity in movies, the unique character development in a Shrek movie, and the concept of beauty and purpose through extraordinary and ordinary experiences.

Why did God tell Adam to name the animals? When you think about it, it’s an odd time to quit creating. He left it to humankind to look for the significance of the things He made, to derive meaning from it, and to join with Him to put the finishing touches on things for which He obviously had a clear vision. Understanding the dignity and responsibility inherent in the role of naming not only allows us to better understand our relationship with the created order, but also our relationship with God, the first Creator and Namer.

Glenn Paauw, an expert on biblical narrative, discusses the idea of God entering into our time for restoration. The podcast explores time in the Bible, authentic engagement with God, Jewish development impact on the New Testament, and the intersection of God's time with human time. It emphasizes living as a community of the future in the present age and the concept of restoration in Christianity.

Dive into a fresh perspective on remembering the past, where gratitude becomes a discipline. Explore the significance of mythos in the Christian tradition through the story of Mary. Discover how daily acts of faith weave a legacy of strength and salvation. Uncover the connection between memory and art, highlighting storytelling as a powerful cultural tool. Finally, reflect on the metaphor of weaving in shaping identity and community, celebrating the artistic purpose in our narratives.

In this insightful discussion, Matthew Clark, an expert on Tolkien's philosophy and the concept of subcreation, delves into the profound connection between divine creativity and human artistry. He emphasizes humility in our creative endeavors, contrasting true artistry with idolatry. Matthew explores how storytelling can provide meaning in a post-truth world, advocating for a Christian perspective that centers Jesus in our narratives. He uses drama and jazz as metaphors for engaging with God's will, underscoring how individual creativity enriches our faith journeys.