Imagination Redeemed

Delve into the profound reasons behind human creativity and its divine connection. Explore how feasting and creating are seen as acts of defiance against negativity. Discover the tension between personal ambition and communal service through Tolkien's character, Niggle. Reflect on the Imago Dei, which depicts humanity's unique role as bearers of the divine image. Learn about the ethical dimensions of creativity, emphasizing humility and love over pride, while recognizing the spiritual journey of creation.

Leslie Bustard, a talented writer and storyteller known for her work with The Cultivating Project and Square Halo Books, shares deep insights on gratitude and its role in navigating life's challenges. She discusses finding thankfulness amid adversity, drawing from her personal cancer journey. Leslie emphasizes reframing the mundane, uncovering beauty in everyday life, and how rituals provide meaning. She passionately explores how stories shape identity, encouraging diverse narratives for children to foster appreciation and unity.

Bonus episode! After the conversation with Corey about how Bergson's theory of time influenced the literature of Lewis and Eliot, Jane and Corey take us into T.S. Eliot's poem The Four Quartets to show us an example of these ideas in the text. 

Corey Latta, an expert on the philosophies behind C.S. Lewis and T.S. Eliot's works, explores intriguing concepts of time and its impact on spirituality and identity. He discusses how the present moment serves as a bridge to eternity, reshaping our relationships with past and future. The conversation highlights the tension between nostalgia and living fully in the present, while digging into literary themes from Lewis's 'The Screwtape Letters' and Eliot's 'Four Quartets,' encouraging listeners to reflect on their own experience of time.

In this engaging conversation, Ned Bustard, a time travel and storytelling expert, shares his insights into the intricate world of Doctor Who. He discusses how the series explores personal and philosophical dimensions of time. Bustard critiques the evolution of sci-fi storytelling and contrasts Western and non-Western perspectives on time. He also dives into the Greek concepts of time, urging listeners to consider their legacies. Throughout, he highlights the emotional depth of the Doctor's character and the evolution of fear in the show's narratives.

Jane Scharl discusses the concept of time as a gift for finding meaning in life. The podcast explores time through literature, philosophy, and spirituality, challenging traditional perceptions. It delves into reciprocal love, mysticism, and transcending time and space, highlighting the eternal bonds formed through spiritual practices. The relationship between time and eternity is explored, emphasizing human transformation through prayer, love, and seeking redemption across past and future moments.

In this engaging discussion, Pastor Chris Stroup, a thoughtful leader deeply rooted in the Christian faith, highlights the paradox of the Ascension of Christ. He explores how believers balance joy and sorrow, reminding us that even in troubling times, we can find comfort in our communion with God. Stroup shares insightful theological reflections on Jesus' role in our lives and emphasizes the empowering nature of the Holy Spirit. Through stories like Stephen's, he illustrates how Christ's presence can offer peace during suffering.

The podcast explores the balance between valuing the world around us without idolizing it, emphasizing how living in the created order can lead us to know the Creator better. Boersma's essay sheds light on finding heaven in earthly experiences, connecting the magnificence of the earthly realm to God's celestial domain through fairy tales, theology, and liturgy.

Discover the vibrant interplay between the physical and spiritual realms. Dive into the idea that the Earth reflects God's grandeur and how stewardship highlights our role in creation. Explore the rich symbolism of the Eucharist and how everyday experiences are interwoven with divine truth. From the beauty of nature to the mysteries of redemption in literature, this discussion invites a deeper connection to the material world. It's a refreshing look at how the essence of faith can be found in both heaven and earth.

Paul Buckley, an author passionate about the interpretation of creation, joins Brian, who offers insights on the narrative of creation. They explore how creation illuminates God's glory uniquely. Listeners learn about the tension between earthly beauty and divine grace through hymn lyrics. The discussion emphasizes how our physical world reveals spiritual truths and connects deeply with human experience, like the sacredness of bread-making. Together, they reflect on humanity's role in celebrating creation's beauty and the importance of justice in this divine tapestry.