Imagination Redeemed

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.

Brian and Heidi explain our season focus (Why We Create), and tee up the big question: what is the relationship between eternity and what I do with my time now?

Explore the fascinating theme of creation theology and its impact on our lives. Delve into J.R.R. Tolkien's 'Leaf by Niggle,' uncovering how distractions shape creativity within faith. Discover the importance of ordinary moments in the grand narrative of existence. Get inspired by upcoming spring activities aimed at fostering community engagement and creativity. Listen to personal stories from the audience as they connect through shared experiences.

How do you write fantasy without just trying to write another Lord of the Rings? How did Tolkien's faith (and particularly his Catholicism) inform his approach to writing? What did his home life look like? What were his views on women, anyway?  With the help of a live Zoom audience, Brian interviews Word on Fire scholar and (forthcoming) Tolkien biographer Holly Ordway.

Amy Lee, one of the Anselm Society's Arts Guild directors, reads her short story, "The Ferryman," which was featured in the previous episode. You can find the story text at https://www.amybaiklee.com/2016/09/20/the-ferryman-part-1/.

Pastors: you want to get artists more involved in the life of the church, but where do you begin? Artists: how can you respond (or initiate)? Anselm Arts Guild co-director Amy Lee and her pastor, Kevin Boaz, share the story of what happened when Kevin asked Amy to read an original story in a Sunday morning service.