In this episode, I chatted with Dr. Susan Maros, associate professor of Christian leadership at Fuller Theological Seminary and author of Calling in Context and Power, Agency, and Women in the Mission of God.' We discussed how identities shape our calling and vocation, especially for women in conservative evangelical circles. Dr. Maros shared her experiences and insights into how context, culture, and gender impact one's sense of calling. The conversation also explored practical aspects of fostering diverse, intercultural communities within churches. We discussed the challenges of integrating different voices and cultures into church leadership and practice, moving beyond tokenism to genuine interdependence. As an educator, Dr. Maros highlighted the importance of formation in theological education and the need for seminaries to focus on disciple-making beyond credentialing. This vital conversation underscores the complex interplay between personal vocation, community contexts, and broader cultural dynamics in church and educational settings.

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Richard Park, an Associate Professor of Theology at Vanguard University, to chat about his book 'Calling, the Blueprint.' Dr. Park shares his journey and passion for helping people discover their calling, whether it's in ministry, dentistry, or any other field. He helps unpack the biblical concept of calling, the importance of mentorship, and how everyday tasks can be acts of worship. He also breaks down the difference between interests and passions and why it's crucial to know the difference. Tune in for practical advice on living out your calling and making every day meaningful!

You can find Dr. Park's non-profit, The Renaissance @ TheRen.org

Show Notes:

01:13 Dr. Richard Park's Publications01:26 Children's Book and Personal Motivation02:19 Nonprofit Work: The Renaissance02:45 Exploring the Concept of Calling04:57 Biblical Foundations of Calling08:11 The Sacred and the Secular13:51 Mentorship and Its Importance16:26 Personal Reflections on Family and Faith16:56 The Importance of Intergenerational Relationships17:44 Passion and Suffering: A Deeper Connection21:01 Understanding Liturgy in Worship26:34 Recommended Resources for Further Reading

In this episode, I had the privilege of talking with Dr. Lisa Bowens, Associate Professor of New Testament at Princeton Theological Seminary and author of 'African American Readings of Paul.' We discuss her inspiration for writing the book and its roots in her doctoral dissertation. Dr. Bowens shares insights on how African Americans have historically interpreted Paul's texts, revealing both positive receptions and critical perspectives. We discuss the impact of reception history on scripture interpretation, the ingenious ways African American interpreters have reclaimed Paul's texts from slaveholder misinterpretations, and the influence of hermeneutics on understanding Paul's message. Our conversation also touched on broader themes of love, unity, and the church's role in society, enriched by powerful historical examples like Frederick Douglass and William Seymour. Dr. Bowens emphasizes how her research highlights the intersection of faith with liberation and justice. Just in case it's not obvious, I absolutely loved her book.

You can get her book here on Amazon.Show Notes:01:58 Inspiration Behind the Book03:11 Reception History and Its Impact04:51 Interpreting Paul's Letters07:21 African American Biblical Exegesis15:21 Women Interpreters and Equality17:39 Azusa Street and Racial Unity20:07 Frederick Douglass and Modern Relevance