A Plain Account

The podcast explores themes of redemption and suffering through Psalm 22, discussing the transformative power of processing disappointments in light of God's unwavering nature. They also touch on sensitive topics like misused biblical verses and address environmental justice and community needs using Psalm verses. The true meaning of fasting and finding satisfaction in God's presence amidst suffering are also highlighted.

The hosts discuss their decision to focus on the book of Psalms during Lent. They highlight the power of poetry in finding the right words and images. The text for the week, Psalm 25:1-10, is introduced with themes of shame, mercy, forgiveness, treachery, and repentance. The importance of resisting and envisioning alternatives is discussed. They reflect on feeling lost and finding solace in stillness. Embracing self-care and finding joy in a somber season is encouraged. The importance of communal Lenten practices and resources is explored.

The podcast discusses themes of justice and prosperity in Psalm 72, exploring the use of king language. It also delves into the significance of blood and the oppression of marginalized groups. The speakers invite listeners to imagine a different kind of spring and reflect on the tension between individualism and community. They emphasize the importance of aligning with God's mission of redemption and peacemaking.

The podcast discusses the Christmas story in Luke, highlighting Joseph, Mary, and the shepherds. It explores parallels between Bethlehem and modern conflicts. Emphasis on waiting, divine timing, and the importance of attention in prayer. It also explores vulnerability in the birth of Jesus and the significance of community in sharing God's good news.

Delve into Psalm 89 during Advent, exploring themes of love, faithfulness, and the Davidic covenant. Discuss the inclusivity of God's family, welcome of shepherds, and attributes of God. Explore restoration, redemption, and the guiding metaphor of light in Advent. Reflect on faith, advocacy, and seeking restoration in God's guiding light.

Exploring themes of joy, reversal, and restoration in Psalm 126. Reflecting on the transformative power of joy amidst grief. Delving into the intertwining of sorrow and joy, embracing lament as a path to illuminate divine purpose.

SHOW NOTES  Our texts this week are here  Our prayer this week: “For the Interim TIme” - To Bless the Space Between Us by John O’Donohue …. “For Those Who Bear Witness” - The Lives We Actually Have by Kate Bowler and Jessica Richie  “Jesus is what God has to say” - Brian Zahnd, Sinners in the Hands of a Loving God Browse our curated booklists! Purchasing through this affiliate link generates a small commission for us and is a great way to support the show https://bookshop.org/shop/aplainaccount   Other resources on our website: commentaries, discipleship, liturgics, music. Alicia’s advent playlist and Matt’s EP 

SHOW NOTES  Our texts this week are here  Our prayer this week: “Blessing When the World is Ending,” Jan Richardson from Circle of Grace Alicia’s Advent playlist and Matt’s Advent EP  Alicia mentioned Kintsugi pottery. Learn more about the beauty in the art of repair.  Browse our curated booklists! Purchasing through this affiliate link generates a small commission for us and is a great way to support the show https://bookshop.org/shop/aplainaccount   Other resources on our website: commentaries, discipleship, liturgics, music. 

SHOW NOTES  Our texts this week are here  Our prayer this week: Feminist Prayers For My Daughter “For a Faith Community”  Browse our curated booklists! Purchasing through this affiliate link generates a small commission for us and is a great way to support the show https://bookshop.org/shop/aplainaccount   Other resources on our website: commentaries, discipleship, liturgics, music.  We’ll be back for the first week of Advent– reading through the Psalms! 

SHOW NOTES  Our texts this week are here  Our prayer this week is from The Lives We Actually Have – “Collective Grief” (p 74-75) Alicia mentions Dr. Mekel Harris’s Instagram account. Check out her full website here.   Megan mentions Jan Richardson’s book, The Cure for Sorrow Browse our curated booklists! Purchasing through this affiliate link generates a small commission for us and is a great way to support the show https://bookshop.org/shop/aplainaccount   Other resources on our website: commentaries, discipleship, liturgics, music.