The hosts reflect on pivotal post-election commitments, emphasizing the need to stay awake and engaged in the quest for justice. They discuss the importance of caring for one another and confronting systems of injustice without succumbing to contempt. Listeners are encouraged to draw inspiration from historical figures while organizing in solidarity with marginalized groups. Balancing self-care and social responsibility, they stress recognizing God's work in everyday life and fostering community connections.

Matt and Ben tackle a listener's question about resisting the influence of Mammon. They explore the moral dilemmas of inherited wealth and its connection to systemic injustice. The conversation highlights how individual choices relate to larger societal issues, emphasizing the importance of community dialogue. They advocate for using privilege to uplift marginalized voices and critique the reverence often placed on money. The hosts encourage listeners to rethink their financial values within a broader context of justice and compassion.

Discover how to navigate holiday gatherings when political views clash. The hosts share strategies for open communication and personal boundaries, ensuring self-care during emotionally charged moments. They emphasize the importance of empathy and light-hearted interactions, along with the transformative power of sharing fears. Tips for setting boundaries are discussed, focusing on maintaining relationships without sacrificing personal well-being. Enjoy practical advice for a harmonious holiday season!

Christy, Matt, and Ben discuss the virtues of participating in book clubs, and some of the goodness that has emerged from the new Gravity Book Club. (We are selecting our next book right now, by the way!) Let us know what you think we should read and discuss together.Connect with Gravity Commons:Leave us a message or ask a question about this or any other episode and we'll answer it on a future episode.Join the Gravity Community to interact with other listeners, and get our list of curated links each week to all things edifying and interesting.Are you interested in advertising on the Gravity Podcast? Contact us at podcast@gravitycommons.com.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/gravity-leadership-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Thomas Jay Oord, a notable theologian and author, discusses his recent heresy trial for advocating LGBTQ+ inclusion. He shares his journey from a traditionalist view of faith to one anchored in love and acceptance. Oord delves into the emotional challenges of navigating divides in religious communities regarding sexual orientation, emphasizing the need for compassion and dialogue. He reflects on the complexities of scriptural interpretations and personal experiences while advocating for a more inclusive approach to theology.

Juliet Liu, a pastor at Life on the Vine, discusses the impact of political events on her Asian-American family. Timothy McCain shares insights on building a multi-ethnic church amidst racial tensions. Mac McCarthy tackles the challenges of leading a diverse congregation with varying political views. Seth Richardson emphasizes the importance of unity, discernment, and approaching politics from a theological perspective. Together, they explore emotional turmoil, the need for authentic dialogue, and the responsibility of faith communities in addressing systemic issues.

Timothy McCain, an evangelist, mentor, and author of 'Honest Conversations: Talking to Understand, Not to Win,' shares wisdom on fostering healthy dialogues across cultural divides. He highlights the importance of empathy when discussing race and the necessity of psychological safety in these conversations. The discussion also touches on the difference between being 'nice' and 'kind,' encouraging listeners to engage authentically, even in discomfort. With anecdotes about community bonding and communication, McCain equips us with tools to celebrate differences and grow together.

In this engaging discussion, Jacob L. Wright, an Associate Professor of Hebrew Bible and author of the acclaimed "Why the Bible Began," sheds light on the Bible's unique role in history. He explores the interplay of trauma and identity within biblical texts and emphasizes the importance of acknowledging failure to forge new narratives. Wright highlights the often-ignored voices of marginalized individuals and the need for inclusivity in interpreting scripture, ultimately advocating for a richer understanding of faith that embraces diverse perspectives.

In this conversation, Joel A. Bowman, Sr. — a pastor, writer, and clinical social worker — tackles how to practice politics through a Christian lens. He discusses the intricate links between faith and political engagement, especially during elections. Bowman shares insights from his upbringing in a historically significant church, stressing social justice within the Black church tradition. He also critiques the selective political engagement of evangelicals and raises thought-provoking questions about the intersection of faith, race, and political ideologies.

Emily P. Freeman, a Wall Street Journal bestselling author and spiritual director, dives into the art of decision-making. She shares insights from her book on knowing when to stay or walk away in life’s transitions. Listeners will resonate with her personal anecdotes about the emotional complexities of leaving relationships and communities. Freeman discusses the importance of recognizing grief and finding peace in change, all while navigating the 'hallway' of life’s in-between moments with intention and community support.