In this fourth installment of the ‘Eastertide’ series, Josh Banner invites listeners to explore the concept of becoming small through Christ's resurrection. By reflecting on Psalm 131, the discussion delves into humility and love for others, even those we don't understand. The episode examines toxic masculinity, the nurturing aspect of God, and the importance of empathy in Christianity. Highlighting insights from Dietrich Bonhoeffer and Howard Thurman, Banner emphasizes the need for a counter-cultural approach to faith, focusing on humility, meekness, and a deeper connection to justice and love. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own posture and to engage in supportive practices for personal and communal growth.

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00:00 Introduction and Overview

01:18 Exploring Psalm 131

02:04 Contemplative Listening and the Divine Feminine

03:08 Toxic Masculinity and Patriarchy

06:00 Bonhoeffer and Thurman on Brotherhood

08:52 Bonhoeffer's Transformation in Harlem

12:19 Empathy and Its Potential Abuses

16:19 The Paradox of Becoming Small

21:07 Conclusion and Call to Action

In this episode of The Invitation Podcast, Josh Banner delves deep into the concept of resurrection as a means to become humble and small. Drawing upon passages from Psalm 131, Romans 12, and integrating thoughts from Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Martin Luther King Jr., and Howard Thurman, Josh explores the transformation of society and self by aligning with the suffering and marginalized rather than seeking power. He discusses the challenges of religious jargon, the value of questioning deeply held beliefs, and fostering true dignity and justice for all. The episode invites listeners to consider the depths of their faith, the importance of mutuality, and to explore how to embody Christ's compassion in their interactions with others.


Please fill out this questionnaire to give the Invitation feedback on this podcast: https://tinyurl.com/5n73wrcx



www.theinvitationcenter.org

00:00 Introduction to The Invitation Podcast

00:36 Exploring Resurrection and Humanity

01:42 Bonhoeffer's Messianic Act and Religious Jargon

02:45 Deconstruction and Desert Spirituality

04:10 Resurrection Life Amidst Pain and Oppression

05:30 Integrating Teachings from Dr. King, Bonhoeffer, and Thurman

08:13 Psalm 131: A Meditation on Humility and Trust

09:24 Howard Thurman's Perspective on Jesus and the Disinherited

11:27 Christianity's Relationship with Power and Suffering

18:42 Resurrection Life and Creative Maladjustment

18:56 Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Resurrection Power

20:33 Embracing the Other with Christ's Love

23:39 Conclusion and Listener Engagement

In this episode of The Invitation Podcast, Josh Banner explores the idea of 'Resurrection Life as an Invitation to Become Small.' He delves into the late writings of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, suggesting that Bonhoeffer's true essence and his writings on powerlessness align with a deeper understanding of Jesus' teachings. Josh contrasts religious complacency with true Christian life, emphasizing humility, meekness, and genuine fellowship with others. He connects scripture from Psalm 131 and insights from Bonhoeffer's prison letters to encourage listeners to embrace a life of smallness and trust in God, steering away from traditional notions of religious power and significance.

Please fill out this questionnaire to give the Invitation feedback on this podcast: https://tinyurl.com/5n73wrcx



www.theinvitationcenter.org

00:00 Introduction to The Invitation Podcast

01:01 Exploring Dietrich Bonhoeffer's Legacy

04:25 Bonhoeffer's Letters and Theological Insights

12:16 The Concept of Religionless Christianity

17:27 Practical Applications of Resurrection Life

19:58 Invitation to Reflect and Become Small

In this episode of the Invitation Podcast, Josh Banner explores the upcoming podcast series focusing on resurrection as an invitation to becoming small. He reflects on the heroic dimension often associated with Christian faith in America and invites listeners to reconsider their understanding during Eastertide, the 50 days after Easter. Using Psalm 131 and teachings from figures like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Howard Thurman, and Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Josh guides a meditative journey on aligning with the meek, the poor in spirit, and the non-conforming minority. He also shares his experiences with contemplative practices in prison ministry. Tune in for a deeply reflective and thought-provoking meditation.

Please fill out this questionnaire to give the Invitation feedback on this podcast: https://tinyurl.com/5n73wrcx

www.theinvitationcenter.org

00:00 Preface to Fram Eastertide

01:02 Introduction and Listener Feedback

04:00 Proposing a New Podcast Series

07:05 Meditation on Psalm 130 and Influential Readings

08:02 Personal Reflections on Ministry and Humility

010:25 Dr. King's Influence and Creative Maladjustment

12:34 What is your pending doom?

15:24 Sermon on the Mount, Blessed are the Poor in Spirit 
20:14 Hosanna and the Call to Become Small

23:15 Conclusion: Embracing Smallness and Cooperation with God
25:15 Outro, How you can collaborate with the Invitation Center

I made this sketch for the Invitation Podcast series The Resurrection Invites us to Become Small.

I put this meditation together March 27, 2025 after facilitating an SOCL retreat. I left the retreat appropriately tired yet full and in need of processing with sound.

Rhodes, nylon string guitar, and 'field' recording processed with a Chase Bliss Mood II and some Felt Instruments Smugi.

In this hundredth episode, I share the completion of my doctoral dissertation, reflecting on the impact of global and national issues on our well-being. Drawing inspiration from Willie James Jennings, I explore the concept of a new reality in belonging and its significance in our polarized world. As an introvert and Enneagram 4, I discuss the challenges of making video podcasts and the importance of feedback. I delve into themes of contemplation, justice, and our role in public theology, referencing Matthew 10:34-37 and Kendrick Lamar's Super Bowl performance. As we approach Lent, I invite you to join me in deep soul formation and anti-racism work, aiming to create safe spaces for transformative conversations. Your feedback and support are invaluable on this journey.


To watch this podcast: https://youtu.be/LMqNzLUZjcg

Please complete this survey to help us develop the podcast. Thanks!

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00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview

00:28 Rediscovering the Podcast's Purpose

03:02 Invitation to Feedback and Reflection

04:10 Contemplation and Justice

05:19 Exploring a New Reality in Belonging

07:10 Creating Safe Spaces for Hard Conversations

09:55 Public Theology and Social Justice

12:01 Meditation on Matthew 10:34-37

14:09 Looking Ahead and Final Thoughts

To learn more about the Invitation Center: www.theinvitationcenter.org

The Invitation Center is a 501c3. Tax deductible donations can be offered here: https://theinvitationcenter.org/donations

In this episode discuss my journey with The Invitation, the challenges and goodness of 2024, especially as I finish my doctorate! To wrap up the year I share four sacred sayings that have helped me, a reading from Dr. King, Paul Kingsnorth, St. Ignatius of Loyola, and Howard Thurman. This update serves as a meditation exploring themes of justice, contemplative listening, and openness to the Holy Spirit.

We always solicit your prayer and friendship. If the Invitation has been a help to you and you have the means, you can support us with a year end gift here at this link!

With much love and gratitude for you!

Josh

A link to Paul Kingsnorth’s Erasmus Lecture: https://www.youtube.com/live/Y3hMSZqatHI

To learn more about the School of Prayer: https://theinvitationcenter.org/school-of-prayer

The School of Contemplative Listening: https://theinvitationcenter.org/socl#

00:00 Introduction and Year-End Reflections

04:09 Challenges and Personal Updates

06:49 Formation School and Collaborations

08:13 Contemplative Listening and Feminine Energy

14:05 Sayings and Reflections

32:11 Conclusion and Call to Action

"Lord, teach me to care and not to care."

It's been awhile since I needed to process with music. Found sounds here just outside my studio on a windy day. Here's our original release: https://ordinaryneighbors.bandcamp.com/album/the-necessary-dark

In this episode six members of the School of Contemplative Listening respond to our conviction that spiritual direction can solve (almost) all the world's problems. This is an episode in our onrunning Forum on Spiritual Direction series.

As we propose contemplative listening at the vital intersection of contemplation and justice, we are getting into the deeper terrain of existence. There are many reasons to fall into despair today. But if quiet ourselves and listen, we find that help and healing are not too far away. This is a movement from being victims to becoming witnesses.

This conversation has previously been between Josh Banner and Cami Beecroft Mann. We excited for you to receive the witness from others who have been studying and practicing spiritual direction!

Subscribe to the Invitation podcast:

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To learn about the School of Contemplative Listening:

theinvitationcenter.org/socl

To learn about the Invitation School of Prayer:

theinvitationcenter.org/school-of-prayer

Opening song - "Wrestle" by Kristi Hepp from the album, In Between the Gardens available at kristihepp.bandcamp.com/album/in-betw…n-the-gardens

All other music is by Josh Banner