Everything Happens with Kate Bowler The Strange Gift of Joy with Rowan Williams
Mar 31, 2026
Rowan Williams, theologian, poet, and former Archbishop of Canterbury, reflects on joy that can coexist with sorrow. He explores how longing, grief, music, gratitude, and surprising delight live alongside pain. Conversations range from poetic readings to practical practices that open space for unexpected joy.
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Herbert's Pulley Explains Restless Longing
- George Herbert's 'The Pulley' explains God leaves rest so humans keep reaching for the real.
- Williams reads Herbert: God withholds 'rest' so longing drives people toward the true rather than complacency.
Joy Breaks Open Like Music
- Joy is dynamic, repeatedly breaking open like music returning each year with new depth.
- Williams uses Bach's Christmas Oratorio and musical repetition to show yearning expands perception over time.
Faith Holds Even If Rescue Fails
- Faith can be held even if outcomes aren't fixed; 'and if not' expresses commitment beyond guaranteed rescue.
- Williams cites the Daniel story: serve God with faithfulness even if deliverance doesn't occur.
