On today's episode...

Today we talk about the Book of Job, starting with a quick chat on where the book came from, and what we know about its piecemeal composition. You’ll notice that the text starts and ends with prose and has a middle section of poetry. These sections were not all written at the same time.

Why was Job written, what is the major question it is here to answer, and how does it answer this question? How is Job’s answer in tension with the other answers offered both in our Wisdom literature and the other scriptures we’ve read through so far and upcoming?

What or who exactly is the cause of Job’s suffering? In our discussion we briefly review the origins of Satan, suggesting a book of the same name: “The Origins of Satan” by Elaine Pagels.

We get into the ways that Job’s friends deal with his suffering and a discussion on how we can deal with the emotions of suffering when we encounter it – especially the grief of others. Rick offers a resource, a book by Megan Devine called “It’s okay that you’re not okay.” Elliot also mentions an article by Parker Palmer on the “On Being Project” called “The Gift of Presence, the Perils of Advice.”

We get Rick’s favorite quote, Elliot points out the most sarcastic phrase in the Bible, and then we wonder – but does this story solve the problem of evil and suffering? And do we find this scripture satisfying in its answers?

Quick correction – we’re actually 36 episodes in, not 34! Whew, that went fast!

Cross Connections is a ministry of ⁠⁠St. David’s Episcopal Church in Wayne, PA⁠⁠. Season two, Cover to Cover is hosted by the Rev. Rick Morley, Elliot VanHoy, and Natalee Hill.

A full copy list of readings for 2025 may be found on our website at ⁠⁠https://stdavidschurch.org/crossconnections⁠⁠

If you have questions for us, you can call us at 484.588.5656 and leave a voicemail with your name, where you’re from, and your question or comment. Please note, we may use your recorded voice in an upcoming episode of Cross Connections. You can also email us at [email protected].

Logo graphic design and podcast production by Natalee Hill. Stock Media Music provided by Marscott and MoodMode / ⁠⁠Pond5⁠⁠.

You are welcome to learn more about all of St. David’s worship offerings and ministries at ⁠⁠ https://stdavidschurch.org/.