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Liminal Living

Liminal Living

Written by: Dr. Thomas J Rundel
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About this listen

Welcome to the Liminal Living Podcast, where we dive deep into the realm of liminal spaces—those transitional phases where uncertainty is our companion. I'm your host and curator of conversations, Dr. Tom Rundel, and it's my pleasure to serve as your guide through these uncharted territories. With a doctoral background in spirituality and leadership from Portland Seminary, my research has centered on the spirituality found in the narratives of liminality in the Bible, but I have expanded my research to include other faith traditions and cognitive science. Since our launch in 2023, we've been dedicated to exploring the nuances of dark nights and deconstructions, but our journey expanded to include insights from a diverse array of modern-day thinkers and artists. Through a blend of stories, practices, and perspectives, we provide valuable guidance for fellow travelers navigating their own liminal spaces. So, join us as we embark on this journey and embrace the uncertainty in order to uncover the hidden wisdom that lies within the liminal spaces of life.All rights reserved Christianity Ministry & Evangelism Philosophy Social Sciences Spirituality
Episodes
  • 153: Tom Rundel: Worship What You Have Burned. Burn What You Have Worshipped
    Jan 14 2026

    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

    Sponsors
    Quoir Square 2 Class: https://www.bk2sq1.com/square-2-next-steps-into-reconstruction (Promo code: Liminal for 10% off)

    Kineo Center: https://www.thekineocenter.com/cohort (mention "Liminal" in Application for $100 off)

    Monk Manual: https://monkmanual.com/LIMINAL (10% off all merchandise)

    Connect
    Find us on the web: https://liminalliving.simplecast.com/

    Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liminalliving

    Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCseqDsKpQv2r7AbFfrWF0ow

    Follow us on Patheos: patheos.com/editorial/podcasts/liminal-living


    Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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    37 mins
  • 152: Tom Rundel: The Radical Theology of Incarnation
    Jan 7 2026

    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

    Sponsors
    Quoir Square 2 Class: https://www.bk2sq1.com/square-2-next-steps-into-reconstruction (Promo code: Liminal for 10% off)

    Kineo Center: https://www.thekineocenter.com/cohort (mention "Liminal" in Application for $100 off)

    Monk Manual: https://monkmanual.com/LIMINAL (10% off all merchandise)

    Connect
    Find us on the web: https://liminalliving.simplecast.com/

    Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liminalliving

    Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCseqDsKpQv2r7AbFfrWF0ow

    Follow us on Patheos: patheos.com/editorial/podcasts/liminal-living


    Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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    35 mins
  • 151: Tom Rundel: The Political Tyranny of Herod the Great
    Dec 31 2025

    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.

    Sponsors
    Quoir Square 2 Class: https://www.bk2sq1.com/square-2-next-steps-into-reconstruction (Promo code: Liminal for 10% off)

    Kineo Center: https://www.thekineocenter.com/cohort (mention "Liminal" in Application for $100 off)

    Monk Manual: https://monkmanual.com/LIMINAL (10% off all merchandise)

    Connect
    Find us on the web: https://liminalliving.simplecast.com/

    Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liminalliving

    Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCseqDsKpQv2r7AbFfrWF0ow

    Follow us on Patheos: patheos.com/editorial/podcasts/liminal-living


    Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Show More Show Less
    38 mins
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