Liminal Living

Dr. Thomas J Rundel
Liminal Living
Latest episode

172 episodes

  • Liminal Living

    156: Tom Rundel: The Light We Cannot See

    04/2/2026 | 30 mins.
    In this conversation, Tom Rundel shares personal anecdotes and insights about the nature of light, the teachings of Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount, and the significance of the Beatitudes. He emphasizes the importance of understanding unseen forces that affect our lives, the transformative power of imagination, and the call to justice and mercy as central themes in the Beatitudes. The discussion encourages listeners to reflect on their own lives and the societal structures around them, advocating for a compassionate and just approach to living. 
    takeaways 
    Just because you can't see something doesn't mean it's not affecting you. 
    The nature of light includes both visible and invisible elements that impact us. 
    The Sermon on the Mount offers a new perspective on societal norms and values. 
    Jesus' teachings challenge our survival instincts and societal hierarchies. 
    The Beatitudes call for a radical reimagining of how we engage with the world. 
    Solidarity is essential in understanding Jesus' message. 
    Imagination is crucial for hope and social transformation. 
    Justice and mercy are intertwined in the teachings of Jesus. 
    The meek are strong-souled individuals who refuse violence as a means of progress. 
    A vision for the world must be rooted in the Beatitudes to be effective.

    Sponsors
    Quoir Square 2 Class: https://www.bk2sq1.com/square-2-next-steps-into-reconstruction (Promo code: Liminal for 10% off)
    Kineo Center: https://www.thekineocenter.com/cohort (mention "Liminal" in Application for $100 off)
    Monk Manual: https://monkmanual.com/LIMINAL (10% off all merchandise)

    Connect
    Find us on the web: https://liminalliving.simplecast.com/
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    Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCseqDsKpQv2r7AbFfrWF0ow
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  • Liminal Living

    155: Tom Rundel: Speaking Truth to Power

    28/1/2026 | 37 mins.
    This conversation explores the context of Jesus' beginning ministry, the nature of time, the role of prophets in society, ancient fishermen, and the call to solidarity and healing within communities. Tom Rundel shares personal fishing memories, transitions into discussing the serious nature of fishing in Jesus' time, and delves into the importance of understanding time as a social construct. He emphasizes the need for prophets to challenge unjust systems and highlights Jesus' radical choice of disciples from the margins of society. The conversation concludes with reflections on healing and the presence of God among those who are marginalized.
    takeaways
    Fishing memories evoke nostalgia and family connections.
    Jesus' disciples were not just hobbyists but working fishermen.
    Understanding the context of Jesus' ministry requires a shift in perspective.
    Time was measured seasonally in ancient societies, not precisely.
    Prophets challenge unjust systems and advocate for change.
    Jesus' withdrawal to Galilee was a strategic move for a new movement.
    The marginalized often see God's light more clearly than the powerful.
    Healing is an act of solidarity, not just a display of power.
    Community and care are essential in the Kingdom of God.
    Imagination shapes hope and action in our lives.
    Chapters
    00:00Fishing Memories and Family Traditions
    06:20Understanding the Context of Jesus and Fishermen
    12:05The Nature of Time and Its Impact on Society
    18:21The Role of Prophets in Challenging Systems
    24:22Jesus' Radical Call to the Margins
    30:20Healing and Solidarity in the Kingdom of God

    Sponsors
    Quoir Square 2 Class: https://www.bk2sq1.com/square-2-next-steps-into-reconstruction (Promo code: Liminal for 10% off)
    Kineo Center: https://www.thekineocenter.com/cohort (mention "Liminal" in Application for $100 off)
    Monk Manual: https://monkmanual.com/LIMINAL (10% off all merchandise)

    Connect
    Find us on the web: https://liminalliving.simplecast.com/
    Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liminalliving
    Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCseqDsKpQv2r7AbFfrWF0ow
    Follow us on Patheos: patheos.com/editorial/podcasts/liminal-living



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  • Liminal Living

    154: Tom Rundel: The Lamb of God vs The Eagle of Rome

    21/1/2026 | 33 mins.
    n this episode, Tom Rundel delves into the historical and theological significance of Pope Sergius I's refusal to conform to political pressures in the late seventh century, particularly regarding the phrase 'Lamb of God.' This pivotal moment in church history illustrates the tension between faith and power, as Sergius stood firm in his beliefs despite the threat of arrest. Rundel draws parallels between this historical event and contemporary issues within the church, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the integrity of faith in the face of societal pressures. He highlights how the phrase 'Lamb of God' serves as a radical declaration of God's nature, contrasting with imperial power and domination, and invites listeners to reflect on their own spiritual journeys and the deeper meanings behind their beliefs.
    Throughout the conversation, Rundel encourages a re-examination of what it means to follow Jesus, emphasizing that true spirituality is not merely about beliefs but about living out those beliefs in a way that embodies love, vulnerability, and sacrifice. He challenges listeners to consider their desires and how they align with their spiritual lives, ultimately calling for a deeper allegiance to the values represented by the 'Lamb of God.'
    Chapters
    00:00 Introduction to Pope Sergius and Historical Context
    02:58 The Significance of the 'Lamb of God'
    05:27 Political Pressures and Faith Integrity
    10:00 Contrasting Symbols: Eagle vs. Lamb
    15:46 The Radical Nature of the 'Lamb of God'
    20:27 Faith as a Witness and Spirituality
    25:26 Desire and Spirituality: What Do You Want?
    30:50 Vocation and Living Authentically
    34:51 Closing Reflections and Benediction
    Takeaways
    'I'm a Christian.'
    'God's power doesn't look like empire power.'
    'What do you want?'
    'Faith is a witness.'
    'Desire is naturally human.'
    'Tell me what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?'
    'The lamb symbolizes self-emptying love rather than imposed force.'
    'We can't pretend otherwise, even if these people in power ask us to.'
    'This is who Jesus is.'
    'Come and see.'

    Sponsors
    Quoir Square 2 Class: https://www.bk2sq1.com/square-2-next-steps-into-reconstruction (Promo code: Liminal for 10% off)
    Kineo Center: https://www.thekineocenter.com/cohort (mention "Liminal" in Application for $100 off)
    Monk Manual: https://monkmanual.com/LIMINAL (10% off all merchandise)

    Connect
    Find us on the web: https://liminalliving.simplecast.com/
    Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liminalliving
    Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCseqDsKpQv2r7AbFfrWF0ow
    Follow us on Patheos: patheos.com/editorial/podcasts/liminal-living



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  • Liminal Living

    153: Tom Rundel: Worship What You Have Burned. Burn What You Have Worshipped

    14/1/2026 | 36 mins.
    In this conversation, Tom Rundel reflects on his journey from city life to a deeper understanding of faith, exploring themes of baptism, identity, and the call to repentance. He shares personal anecdotes and historical insights, particularly focusing on the significance of baptism as a transformative act that reveals one's true identity as beloved by God. The discussion emphasizes the importance of solidarity with others and the need for a profound reorientation of values in the context of faith.
    takeaways
    I did not grow up a country boy.
    I wanted to get out of the city.
    Fire is a symbol of baptism in the Bible.
    Worship what you have burned and burn what you have worshiped.
    Salvation and liberation are the same words.
    Baptism is an identity marker for us.
    We need a new epiphany for the new year.
    Repentance is a profound reorientation of values.
    We must stand in solidarity with those we help.
    You are God's beloved and he is well pleased.
    Chapters
    From City Life to Country Dreams
    The Symbolism of Fire and Baptism
    The Epiphany of Christ's Baptism
    Solidarity and the Call to Repentance
    Identity and Belovedness in Baptism

    Sponsors
    Quoir Square 2 Class: https://www.bk2sq1.com/square-2-next-steps-into-reconstruction (Promo code: Liminal for 10% off)
    Kineo Center: https://www.thekineocenter.com/cohort (mention "Liminal" in Application for $100 off)
    Monk Manual: https://monkmanual.com/LIMINAL (10% off all merchandise)

    Connect
    Find us on the web: https://liminalliving.simplecast.com/
    Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liminalliving
    Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCseqDsKpQv2r7AbFfrWF0ow
    Follow us on Patheos: patheos.com/editorial/podcasts/liminal-living



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  • Liminal Living

    152: Tom Rundel: The Radical Theology of Incarnation

    07/1/2026 | 34 mins.
    This conversation explores the life and theology of Julian of Norwich, a 14th-century mystic who lived through the Black Death. Tom Rundel discusses how Julian's experiences shaped her radical theology, emphasizing God's love and presence in suffering. The conversation also delves into the nature of God, the distinction between the world and God's kingdom, and the importance of radical inclusion in the Christian faith. Finally, it advocates for a shift from Christian nationalism to localism, encouraging deeper community engagement and awareness of God's presence in everyday life.
    takeaways
    Julian of Norwich lived through the Black Death, shaping her theology.
    Her visions emphasized God's love and presence in suffering.
    Julian's radical theology countered the belief in God's wrath during the plague.
    God's love is deeper than death, offering hope amidst suffering.
    The world is not separate from God's kingdom; we live in both.
    God's presence is often unrecognized due to societal power structures.
    Radical inclusion in God's family transcends race and status.
    Christian localism emphasizes community engagement and care.
    God's vulnerability is shown through proximity to humanity.
    The gospel addresses both spiritual and physical realities.
    Chapters
    Introduction to Julian of Norwich
    Julian's Life During the Black Death
    Visions and Revelations of Divine Love
    The Nature of God's Love
    Understanding the World and God's Presence
    The Power Structures of the World
    Radical Theology and Belonging
    Christian Localism and Community Engagement

    Sponsors
    Quoir Square 2 Class: https://www.bk2sq1.com/square-2-next-steps-into-reconstruction (Promo code: Liminal for 10% off)
    Kineo Center: https://www.thekineocenter.com/cohort (mention "Liminal" in Application for $100 off)
    Monk Manual: https://monkmanual.com/LIMINAL (10% off all merchandise)

    Connect
    Find us on the web: https://liminalliving.simplecast.com/
    Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liminalliving
    Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCseqDsKpQv2r7AbFfrWF0ow
    Follow us on Patheos: patheos.com/editorial/podcasts/liminal-living



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About Liminal Living

Welcome to the Liminal Living Podcast, where we dive deep into the realm of liminal spaces—those transitional phases where uncertainty is our companion. I'm your host and curator of conversations, Dr. Tom Rundel, and it's my pleasure to serve as your guide through these uncharted territories. With a doctoral background in spirituality and leadership from Portland Seminary, my research has centered on the spirituality found in the narratives of liminality in the Bible, but I have expanded my research to include other faith traditions and cognitive science. Since our launch in 2023, we've been dedicated to exploring the nuances of dark nights and deconstructions, but our journey expanded to include insights from a diverse array of modern-day thinkers and artists. Through a blend of stories, practices, and perspectives, we provide valuable guidance for fellow travelers navigating their own liminal spaces. So, join us as we embark on this journey and embrace the uncertainty in order to uncover the hidden wisdom that lies within the liminal spaces of life.
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