Welcome back to our podcast! This Advent season, we’ve been delving into the profound mystery of the incarnation—the incredible truth that Jesus chose to come to us in the flesh. This exploration has been deeply influenced by my studies with the Franciscans, prompting me to reflect on the idea that Jesus would have chosen this path even without the fall. What does this mean for us? 

We’re also taking a closer look at a fascinating intersection of science and faith. 

Recently, we came across a compelling article on microchimerism—an astonishing phenomenon where cells from a fetus can move across the placenta, creating a lasting connection between mother and child. 

This discovery opens the door to a theological conversation that resonates with our celebration of the incarnation: What does it imply about the relationships we form and the depth of God’s presence with us? 

To explore these questions, we are excited to welcome the Rev. Dr. Amy Peeler, an Associate Professor of New Testament at Wheaton College and an Associate Rector at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church. With her expertise and insights, we’ll unpack the implications of being intimately connected through the miracle of life and consider what it means to have a God who desires to walk among us. 

So, sit back and join us as we journey through these ideas, celebrating the incredible closeness of God with us during this special season.

Links: 

Connect with Rev. Dr. Amy Peeler 

https://amypeeler.com/

She Can Teach https://secure.qgiv.com/for/themarcellaproject/event/shecanteachaustin/

Nurturing the Soul: Spiritual Growth through Franciscan teachings: https://www.themarcellaproject.com/books-and-bible-studies

Article: Microchimerism: A new concept

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6714269/