American Awakening

What is happening in our brains when we are divided? Today we’re speaking about the neuroscience of polarization. What are the meta perceptions that create anger, hate and division — politically, religiously and even as we react to disruptions from Coronavirus? Is there space for us to think the best of one another, or are we simply predisposed to separation? Discover where God and neuroscience are aligned and learn how to love your neighbor. Plus, the ‘movie line of the day’ is back!

If each one of us is a dimension of God’s image, then you cannot love God unless you love your neighbor. That’s where we launch our conversation today with Pastor Hurmon Hamilton, who helped to inspire American Awakening. Diversity was intended to reflect back the total image of God. What does this mean for us as we aim to push back the broken edges of division to find true community? We don’t have to agree on everything, but can we agree Jesus is the center? Join the conversation!

As we begin the hard work of rebuilding our country, we need to think about the greater toll in our communities beyond the virus. With issues like homelessness and domestic violence on the rise, how do we make sure we are focused on more than Corona and the economy? And how might we think about those whose voices we are not hearing as loudly? Join this conversation, plus meet our new favorite modern bluegrass (newgrass?) singer/songwriter Bryan Simpson (The Whistles & The Bells).

Author and activist Shane Claiborne joins this must listen episode as we dig into chapter 7 of John’s new book (releasing next week!). In the conversation we’re reminded unity is not the same as uniformity and are challenged to ask, “how can we stand in solidarity with the deepest pain that is around us, kill the poison of contempt, and lean into the truth that every person is made in the image of God?” It’s a topic that will challenge and energize everyone who listens. Don’t skip this one!

How does the big story work and how do we fit within it? In today’s episode the team goes DEEP on how to find answers in the midst of our struggle to find what God’s will is for our lives. If you are grappling with where you are called, this is an epic conversation we invite you to join — with three generations (almost) worth of input on the journey! Plus, Dan Haseltine introduces our new favorite roots-rocker, Stephen Wilson Jr.

How is Covid fueling us vs. them divisions in our home states? How much judgement are we casting on others and how much grace are we giving? One America Movement’s Andrew Hanauer leads a conversation about life in a pandemic from Florida, Hawaii, Massachusetts, Tennessee and Illinois. Join us as we unpack what is similar and what is unique about each of these places and the universal truths that will help you #LoveYourNeighbor. Plus music from Madisen Ward!

American Awakening IN FOCUS is back, unpacking themes from John Kingston’s new book coming July 28! This week our friend, photographer and social entrepreneur Jeremy Cowart joins Jeff Bethke and the team to discuss chapter 6 titled, “You’re Not Alone.” So many awesome conversations around this idea. How do we fight the epidemic of loneliness, and what does it look like to build communities that redeem adversity? Don’t sleep on this one. Plus incredible new music from Amanda Noel.

What is most threatening to your peace — school, election, work or financial concerns? In a new Christianity Today poll, the election is by far what people are most troubled with at the moment—though many are still struggling with race and COVID concerns. With that in mind, what are some of the best ways we can share our burdens with each other so we can carry them together and not grow weary? A great conversation ensues, plus Dan Haseltine and music from The Magi.

Parents are used to being shamed for how they raise their kids, but the “COVID Mommy Wars” are reaching a new level of distortion online. The question about whether or not the time is right to send kids back to school is an important one for many of us. Our @One__America question of the day is, “How do we approach the decision about sending kids back to school with common sense — avoiding the polarization that can cloud our thinking?” Join the conversation and stay for music with Josh Jacob!

We’re back with our weekly 'American Awakening' IN FOCUS feature, where we unpack themes from John Kingston’s new book (out July 28). This week we welcome Activist Theology Project leader Dr. Robyn Espinoza. With Robyn, Jeff Bethke steers a conversation about chapter 5, titled, “You Need People: Engage in Person”—easier said than done! The team talks about ‘tech sabbath’, ending our slavery to algorithms, and how the chemistry of being with other humans contributes to our digital friendships.