Episode Notes: Summary of Arguments 1. Palm Sunday is a political confrontation, not a celebration. Tom establishes the historical and cultural context: Jerusalem at Passover swelled from 30,000 to upward of 500,000 people. Rome, aware of the uprising potential, flooded the city with military forces. On the same day Jesus processed in from the east on a donkey, Roman Governor Pontius Pilate rode in from the west on a war horse with full military escort — a deliberate display of imperial power. T...
Apr 01, 2026•36 min•Season 4Ep. 65
Jesus is a wanted man. He’s been run out of Jerusalem twice, nearly stoned to death, and is hiding in the wilderness when word arrives: your friend Lazarus is dying. What he does next—and how long he waits before doing it—will raise more questions than it answers. In this message from John 11, Tom Rundel explores the theology of delay, the geography of exile, and the difference between the kind of love that shows up when it’s convenient and the kind that enters a tomb. Grounded in the Greek text...
Mar 25, 2026•38 min•Season 4Ep. 64
Episode Summary Jesus heals a man born blind using mud and spit — a deliberate echo of Genesis 2 and a declaration that the sacred arrives through the physical, not despite it. But the miracle is almost beside the point. The real story is what happens next: a twenty-verse interrogation by the Pharisees who cannot allow this healing to mean what it means, because it would unravel the world they've built. The disciples' first question — "Who sinned?" — reveals a theology of retribution that places...
Mar 18, 2026•36 min•Season 4Ep. 63
Follow the Drinking Gourd: A Map Encoded in Song Tom opens with his love of astronomy and the Big Dipper, tracing it to the African American folk song "Follow the Drinking Gourd" — a secret map taught to enslaved people escaping north on the Underground Railroad. The stars, the rivers, and the mysterious guide Peg Leg Joe become an extended metaphor for the kind of liberation the Woman at the Well is seeking. Setting the Scene: Why Jesus "Had To" Go Through Samaria By the time Jesus heads north ...
Mar 11, 2026•30 min•Season 4Ep. 62
In this conversation, Tom Rundel explores the deeper meanings and contexts surrounding the famous biblical verse John 3:16, discussing its historical significance, the character of Nicodemus, and the spiritual journey of understanding faith. He emphasizes the importance of context in scripture, the role of doubt in faith, and the transformative practices of Lent as a means to deepen one's spiritual life. takeaways John 3:16 became famous through a man with a rainbow wig. The context of scripture...
Mar 04, 2026•27 min•Season 4Ep. 61
In this conversation, Tom Rundel explores the significance of Lent as a time for spiritual recalibration and intentional practices. He emphasizes the importance of understanding hunger versus appetite, the experience of mortality through hunger, and the temptations faced by Jesus. The discussion culminates in an invitation for personal reflection and growth during Lent, highlighting the power of love over the love of power. takeaways Lent serves as an annual recalibration of our habits and patte...
Feb 25, 2026•36 min•Season 4Ep. 60
In this conversation, Tom Rundel reflects on Black History Month, focusing on the inspiring story of Ruby Bridges and her courage during the Civil Rights Movement. He discusses the significance of Norman Rockwell's painting, 'The Problem We All Live With,' and how it encapsulates the struggles faced by Ruby as she integrated an all-white school. The conversation transitions into the themes of mountaintop moments, sacred separation, and the transfiguration of Jesus, emphasizing the importance of ...
Feb 18, 2026•30 min•Season 4Ep. 59
In this conversation, Tom Rundel explores the profound teachings of the Sermon on the Mount, emphasizing its counterintuitive nature and the challenges it presents to individuals across the Christian spectrum. He delves into the historical context of Rosa Parks and the Montgomery Bus Boycott, illustrating how acts of non-violence and dignity can challenge oppressive systems. The discussion further expands on the metaphor of being 'salt of the earth' and 'light of the world,' calling for a commun...
Feb 11, 2026•35 min•Season 4Ep. 58
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, advocati...
Feb 04, 2026•30 min•Season 4Ep. 57
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 d...
Jan 28, 2026•37 min•Season 4Ep. 56
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 ...
Jan 21, 2026•34 min•Season 4Ep. 55
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...
Jan 14, 2026•37 min•Season 4Ep. 54
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, enc...
Jan 07, 2026•35 min•Season 4Ep. 53
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 th...
Dec 31, 2025•38 min•Season 4Ep. 52
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-be...
Dec 24, 2025•16 min•Season 4Ep. 51
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 h...
Dec 17, 2025•31 min•Season 4Ep. 50
He contrasts joy with happiness, emphasizing that joy is a deeper, more resilient state that can coexist with sorrow and is not dependent on circumstances. The discussion also delves into the historical context of apartheid in South Africa and how Tutu's joyful spirit served as a powerful form of resistance against oppression. The conversation concludes with an invitation to meditate on joy and its significance in our lives. takeaways Advent is a preparation for the arrival of God into our lives...
Dec 10, 2025•41 min•Season 4Ep. 49
In this episode, Tom Rundel explores the concept of hope versus toxic positivity, particularly within the context of Advent and the Christian faith. He discusses how hope is often misunderstood as mere optimism or positivity, and instead argues that true hope involves acknowledging reality and potential, even in the face of despair. Rundel shares personal insights and experiences, emphasizing the importance of co-authoring a better future with God, rather than relying on clichéd narratives. Take...
Dec 03, 2025•44 min•Season 4Ep. 48
In this episode, Tom Rundel explores the meaning of Christ the King Sunday, the conclusion of the liturgical year, and uses Psalm 46 to challenge the common Western tendency to treat God as a mere idea rather than an embodied reality. Rundel unpacks the Psalmist’s imagery—refuge, river, stillness—to point listeners toward a faith that is lived, practiced, and experienced in the body, not simply thought in the mind. He contrasts the biblical embodied pathway of spiritual trust with the modern hab...
Nov 26, 2025•42 min•Season 4Ep. 47
In this episode of Liminal Living , Tom Rundel welcomes theologian and author Bruce Epperly back for his third appearance to discuss his new book, Healing the World: Whitehead, Francis, Clare, and Bonaventure on Spiritual and Planetary Transformation . Their conversation flows through themes of hope, mysticism, process theology, and spiritual imagination in a world in need of healing. They explore how Francis of Assisi, Clare, and Bonaventure embodied a spirituality of simplicity and interconnec...
Nov 19, 2025•1 hr 5 min•Season 4Ep. 46
In this engaging conversation, Tom Rundel and Kathy Khang explore the complexities of faith, deconstruction, and the journey towards reimagining spirituality in a modern context. They discuss the importance of love, community, and the challenges of navigating conversations with differing perspectives. Kathy shares her insights on embodied theology, the significance of human connection, and the need for authenticity in faith practices. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of acknowledging past ...
Nov 12, 2025•1 hr 6 min•Season 4Ep. 45
takeaways If a good God exists, why does suffering occur? We often attribute suffering to a greater good. The mystery of God's plan can be hard to understand. Tragedies like cancer and war challenge our beliefs. Supernaturalism becomes problematic when faced with evil. The death of children raises profound questions about faith. World events like the Holocaust complicate the narrative of a good God. Understanding suffering requires deep philosophical inquiry. Faith can be tested by the realities...
Nov 05, 2025•51 min•Season 4Ep. 44
Deconstruction is a journey many are experiencing. The dichotomy of natural and supernatural is outdated. Prayer should be seen as cooperation with God. God's omnipotence is often misunderstood. Selective miracles create distrust in God. Enchantment in the world is often overlooked. Philosophy and theology should work together. Resurrection narratives can be reinterpreted. Life after death may involve continued subjective experience. Trust in God can be rebuilt through understanding God's nature...
Oct 29, 2025•1 hr 4 min•Season 4Ep. 43
takeaways Philosophy begins in wonder and should cultivate it. The universe is not disenchanted; it is full of wonder. Science and spirituality can coexist and enrich each other. Values are perceived through our consciousness and are objective. Art and poetry play a crucial role in understanding reality. Experiences of enchantment can be reintroduced into our lives. The journey of understanding death can be transformative. The integration of science and faith requires humility. Objective values ...
Oct 22, 2025•1 hr 4 min•Season 4Ep. 42
Chapters Navigating Change: Personal and Professional Transitions The Political Landscape: Insights from Local Governance Reimagining God: Contrasting Views in Christianity The Kingdom of God: Understanding Its True Nature Revival or Division? The Current State of Christianity The Echoes of McCarthyism Awakening from Christian Nationalism The Cruelty of Reality The Cost of Austerity Revival and Reversal of Power Grassroots Hope and Community Building Sponsors Quoir Square 2 Class: https://www.bk...
Oct 15, 2025•1 hr 6 min•Season 4Ep. 41
Being in nature and facing challenges is vital. Community support is essential during difficult times. Toxic positivity denies reality; genuine hope acknowledges pain. Pastors often feel powerless in a chaotic world. The need for pastoral care is mutual between pastor and congregation. Navigating political issues in ministry is complex. Moral choices in politics often feel inconsistent. Christian nationalism poses a significant challenge to faith. Capitalism influences our understanding of God. ...
Oct 08, 2025•48 min•Season 4Ep. 40
Being in nature and facing challenges is vital. Community support is essential during difficult times. Toxic positivity denies reality; genuine hope acknowledges pain. Pastors often feel powerless in a chaotic world. The need for pastoral care is mutual between pastor and congregation. Navigating political issues in ministry is complex. Moral choices in politics often feel inconsistent. Christian nationalism poses a significant challenge to faith. Capitalism influences our understanding of God. ...
Oct 01, 2025•58 min•Season 4Ep. 39
takeaways Tori Owens and Jonathan Foster discuss their experiences with open and relational theology. The definition of love is explored as a non-violent, non-scapegoating energy. Personal stories play a crucial role in understanding authority within the church. God assumptions can shape our emotional well-being and spirituality. Reimagining God in modern contexts is essential for spiritual growth. Emotional well-being is tied to our understanding of God and how we relate to others. Integrating ...
Sep 24, 2025•1 hr 6 min•Season 4Ep. 38
takeaways Ministry leadership is inherently difficult and often leads to burnout. Burnout can stem from vocational disappointment and unmet expectations. Relational injuries within ministry contexts are common and can be deeply impactful. Pastors often neglect their emotional health, leading to unregulated emotions. It's essential for pastors to have friendships outside their congregations. The Kineo Center provides support for pastors experiencing burnout. Naming and addressing emotions is cruc...
Sep 17, 2025•1 hr 13 min•Season 4Ep. 37
takeaways Josh Patterson discusses his recent exploration of radical theology. The conversation highlights the importance of ongoing education through podcasts. Tom Rundel reflects on the evolution of his own theological perspectives. The hosts discuss the need for re-enchantment in a post-deconstruction world. Process theology is presented as a way to understand God as a verb rather than a noun. The conversation touches on the interconnectedness of all beings and the importance of community. Th...
Sep 10, 2025•1 hr 19 min•Season 4Ep. 36
