Contemplative preachers, contemporary age.
What is to be said of present concerns? How do we navigate the variety of opinions on offer as to how we ought to feel, to think, and to love? Is there certainty to be derived from ourselves? From scientists and experts? From pundits and demagogues? What if we were to consult a better source?
In our contemporary moment, as we search for solid ground and good content, we need to look to God. In the life of faith, in the toil of labor, and in the difficulties of human relationships, our hope and stay remains the Lord Jesus Christ. And, though at times we may feel Him to be distant or aloof, we believe that He lives and that He continues to reveal Himself to all whom He has predestined.
The vocation of a Dominican friar is to come before the Lord who speaks and to translate this communication for our contemporaries. The basic idea is—as St. Thomas Aquinas expresses it—to contemplate and to give to others the Contemplated One. In a time when everything can seem so dreadfully difficult, it comes as welcome news to know that a relationship with the Lord is possible—a relationship that is real, good, and abiding. Here, at Godsplaining, we are hoping to put that Dominican charism into practice for a podcasting generation.
Why the name? Well, when God speaks, He does so not in condescending tones, but rather as an ennobling gift imparted in friendship. Though he abbreviates the Word and condescends to liberate us from sin, yet he does not talk down to us, but rather talks us up into the very heart of divine friendship. The preacher serves as an instrument of this saving act and like the friend of the bridegroom makes the introduction and points the way.
So join us each week on Godsplaining as we seek to consider the mystery of all things that the grace of God touches. We'll talk faith, culture, art, literature, history, philosophy, and theology—all with an eye to the God who communicates himself through every avenue imaginable. In striving to discover Him in many distressing disguises, may we come to know Him, to love Him, and to serve Him and, ultimately, to enjoy Him too.
So, happy listening and cheers to you!