In this conversation, Tom Rundel shares personal anecdotes and insights about the nature of light, the teachings of Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount, and the significance of the Beatitudes. He emphasizes the importance of understanding unseen forces that affect our lives, the transformative power of imagination, and the call to justice and mercy as central themes in the Beatitudes. The discussion encourages listeners to reflect on their own lives and the societal structures around them, advocating for a compassionate and just approach to living.

takeaways

• Just because you can't see something doesn't mean it's not affecting you.
• The nature of light includes both visible and invisible elements that impact us.
• The Sermon on the Mount offers a new perspective on societal norms and values.
• Jesus' teachings challenge our survival instincts and societal hierarchies.
• The Beatitudes call for a radical reimagining of how we engage with the world.
• Solidarity is essential in understanding Jesus' message.
• Imagination is crucial for hope and social transformation.
• Justice and mercy are intertwined in the teachings of Jesus.
• The meek are strong-souled individuals who refuse violence as a means of progress.
• A vision for the world must be rooted in the Beatitudes to be effective.

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This conversation explores the context of Jesus' beginning ministry, the nature of time, the role of prophets in society, ancient fishermen, and the call to solidarity and healing within communities. Tom Rundel shares personal fishing memories, transitions into discussing the serious nature of fishing in Jesus' time, and delves into the importance of understanding time as a social construct. He emphasizes the need for prophets to challenge unjust systems and highlights Jesus' radical choice of disciples from the margins of society. The conversation concludes with reflections on healing and the presence of God among those who are marginalized.

takeaways

• Fishing memories evoke nostalgia and family connections.
• Jesus' disciples were not just hobbyists but working fishermen.
• Understanding the context of Jesus' ministry requires a shift in perspective.
• Time was measured seasonally in ancient societies, not precisely.
• Prophets challenge unjust systems and advocate for change.
• Jesus' withdrawal to Galilee was a strategic move for a new movement.
• The marginalized often see God's light more clearly than the powerful.
• Healing is an act of solidarity, not just a display of power.
• Community and care are essential in the Kingdom of God.
• Imagination shapes hope and action in our lives.

Chapters

00:00Fishing Memories and Family Traditions

06:20Understanding the Context of Jesus and Fishermen

12:05The Nature of Time and Its Impact on Society

18:21The Role of Prophets in Challenging Systems

24:22Jesus' Radical Call to the Margins

30:20Healing and Solidarity in the Kingdom of God

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n this episode, Tom Rundel delves into the historical and theological significance of Pope Sergius I's refusal to conform to political pressures in the late seventh century, particularly regarding the phrase 'Lamb of God.' This pivotal moment in church history illustrates the tension between faith and power, as Sergius stood firm in his beliefs despite the threat of arrest. Rundel draws parallels between this historical event and contemporary issues within the church, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the integrity of faith in the face of societal pressures. He highlights how the phrase 'Lamb of God' serves as a radical declaration of God's nature, contrasting with imperial power and domination, and invites listeners to reflect on their own spiritual journeys and the deeper meanings behind their beliefs.

Throughout the conversation, Rundel encourages a re-examination of what it means to follow Jesus, emphasizing that true spirituality is not merely about beliefs but about living out those beliefs in a way that embodies love, vulnerability, and sacrifice. He challenges listeners to consider their desires and how they align with their spiritual lives, ultimately calling for a deeper allegiance to the values represented by the 'Lamb of God.'

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to Pope Sergius and Historical Context
• 02:58 The Significance of the 'Lamb of God'
• 05:27 Political Pressures and Faith Integrity
• 10:00 Contrasting Symbols: Eagle vs. Lamb
• 15:46 The Radical Nature of the 'Lamb of God'
• 20:27 Faith as a Witness and Spirituality
• 25:26 Desire and Spirituality: What Do You Want?
• 30:50 Vocation and Living Authentically
• 34:51 Closing Reflections and Benediction

Takeaways

• 'I'm a Christian.'
• 'God's power doesn't look like empire power.'
• 'What do you want?'
• 'Faith is a witness.'
• 'Desire is naturally human.'
• 'Tell me what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?'
• 'The lamb symbolizes self-emptying love rather than imposed force.'
• 'We can't pretend otherwise, even if these people in power ask us to.'
• 'This is who Jesus is.'
• 'Come and see.'

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In this conversation, Tom Rundel reflects on his journey from city life to a deeper understanding of faith, exploring themes of baptism, identity, and the call to repentance. He shares personal anecdotes and historical insights, particularly focusing on the significance of baptism as a transformative act that reveals one's true identity as beloved by God. The discussion emphasizes the importance of solidarity with others and the need for a profound reorientation of values in the context of faith.

takeaways

• I did not grow up a country boy.
• I wanted to get out of the city.
• Fire is a symbol of baptism in the Bible.
• Worship what you have burned and burn what you have worshiped.
• Salvation and liberation are the same words.
• Baptism is an identity marker for us.
• We need a new epiphany for the new year.
• Repentance is a profound reorientation of values.
• We must stand in solidarity with those we help.
• You are God's beloved and he is well pleased.

Chapters

1. From City Life to Country Dreams
2. The Symbolism of Fire and Baptism
3. The Epiphany of Christ's Baptism
4. Solidarity and the Call to Repentance
5. Identity and Belovedness in Baptism

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This conversation explores the life and theology of Julian of Norwich, a 14th-century mystic who lived through the Black Death. Tom Rundel discusses how Julian's experiences shaped her radical theology, emphasizing God's love and presence in suffering. The conversation also delves into the nature of God, the distinction between the world and God's kingdom, and the importance of radical inclusion in the Christian faith. Finally, it advocates for a shift from Christian nationalism to localism, encouraging deeper community engagement and awareness of God's presence in everyday life.

takeaways

• Julian of Norwich lived through the Black Death, shaping her theology.
• Her visions emphasized God's love and presence in suffering.
• Julian's radical theology countered the belief in God's wrath during the plague.
• God's love is deeper than death, offering hope amidst suffering.
• The world is not separate from God's kingdom; we live in both.
• God's presence is often unrecognized due to societal power structures.
• Radical inclusion in God's family transcends race and status.
• Christian localism emphasizes community engagement and care.
• God's vulnerability is shown through proximity to humanity.
• The gospel addresses both spiritual and physical realities.

Chapters

1. Introduction to Julian of Norwich
2. Julian's Life During the Black Death
3. Visions and Revelations of Divine Love
4. The Nature of God's Love
5. Understanding the World and God's Presence
6. The Power Structures of the World
7. Radical Theology and Belonging
8. Christian Localism and Community Engagement

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summaryThis conversation explores the unique perspectives of the Gospels, particularly focusing on the historical context of the Hebrew people, the rise and rule of Herod the Great, and the implications of Jesus' birth in relation to Herod's tyranny. It delves into the narrative parallels between Moses and Jesus, the significance of lamentation as a form of resistance, and the overarching theme of power dynamics in biblical history. The discussion culminates in reflections on authenticity and the nature of silence in the face of oppression.

takeaways

• Different Gospels target different audiences with unique perspectives.
• Herod the Great's rule was marked by violence and political maneuvering.
• The historical context of the Hebrew people is crucial to understanding the Gospels.
• Herod's fear of losing power led to the slaughter of innocent children.
• The narrative aligns Jesus with Moses, framing him as a new leader.
• God communicates through dreams, bypassing traditional power structures.
• Lamentation is a vital form of resistance against oppression.
• Herod's death symbolizes the triumph of Jesus' life and message.
• Matthew's account seeks to correct the narrative surrounding Herod.
• Silence can lead to authenticity and self-discovery.

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This reflection explores love as a disruptive, risky, and compassionate force revealed in the Advent story of Joseph and Mary. Rather than portraying love as perfection or rule-following, it shows how imperfect love—choosing mercy over fear and presence over withdrawal—is enough to bring God into the world. Joseph’s decision to stay, despite uncertainty and social risk, reframes righteousness as compassion and justice as mercy, inviting listeners to see love as embodied courage in liminal, in-between spaces.

Liminal Space and Advent Love
Life is lived in “in-between” spaces where transformation and possibility emerge; Advent highlights love within this liminality.

The Disruption of the Virgin Birth
God breaks patriarchal and monarchical expectations by entering the world quietly, without coercion or male control.

Joseph’s Imperfect Love
Joseph follows the law yet chooses mercy, redefining righteousness as compassion rather than strict rule-keeping.

Love Resists Sanctioned Violence
Love stands against violence even when that violence is justified by religion or law.

God Interrupts Closed Systems
Through dreams and divine invitation, God opens new possibilities beyond fear-driven decisions.

Love Must Be Embodied
Love is not an idea or doctrine but something lived out through risky, faithful action.

Risky Fidelity Over Safe Withdrawal
Joseph chooses to stay and grow through love rather than escape discomfort.

Reflection and Practice
Listeners are invited into self-examination and imaginative prayer to embody love in their own lives.

Love often arrives as disruption, not certainty

Imperfect love is still enough to bring God into the world

Righteousness is compassion, not mere rule-following

Justice and mercy are inseparable

Love resists fear-driven withdrawal

God opens new possibilities when systems feel closed

Love grows when fear is faced rather than avoided

Staying present can be a holy, transformative act

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In this episode, Dr. Tom Rundel explores the themes of Advent, focusing on peace as a central concept. He reflects on personal experiences of chaos and stress, particularly during a planned power outage, and contrasts these with moments of genuine peace found in community service. The discussion delves into the nature of peace, emphasizing that it is not merely the absence of chaos but a powerful force that can disrupt unjust systems. The episode concludes with a reflection on expectations and how they can blind us to the peace that exists in our lives.

takeaways

• Advent is a time for reflection on hope, joy, and peace.
• Peace is not just tranquility; it is a deeper state of being.
• Experiencing chaos can lead to a greater understanding of peace.
• Expectations can blind us to the peace present in our lives.
• True peace can disrupt unjust systems and promote liberation.
• Peace exists in every moment, regardless of circumstances.
• Breath meditation can help tap into inner peace.
• Community service can be a source of genuine peace.
• Peace is a generous contribution to the good of all.
• The world is not saved through force but by a change of consciousness.

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