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Theology for the Curious
Debating theology that makes sense of life and faith. A team of regular people discuss issues of theology, faith and life. Uncovering bible thinking from cutting edge, to conservative, to all things in-between. A lively debate show that gets you thinking, challenging the relevance of God, scripture and faith to today's contemporary outlook.
Theology for the Curious
Ep.145 - Contrast and Comparisons: Tragedy or Triumph w/ Jerry Sittser
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In October 1991, Jerry Sittser and his family were returning from a time away when their minivan was hit head on by a drunk driver. Jerry lost his wife, his mother, and his four-year-old daughter in the collision. Jerry was to spend many years trying to rebuild his life whilst equally looking after his three other surviving children.
How do we cope when our world is ripped apart? Where do we go, emotionally, mentally, spiritually, when all we’ve loved and known is taken from us? How does profound loss and deep tragedy affect our understanding of life, people and family? How do such moments inform our belief in God? How do they shape, or reshape our understanding of a God of love and kindness?
This week the Curious team are in conversation with professor emeritus, theologian and writer Jerry Sittser. With touching honesty Jerry reflects on that dark moment all those years ago, and the journey since, speaking openly of pain, loss and faith. Jerry insists that you don't have to merely cope, but can grow in and through the dark and painful moments of life
For all those who have struggled making sense of their hurt; for those especially trying to come to terms with a God of love in the face of such overwhelmingly painful experiences; Jerry’s words will resonate in a very soulful way. Join the team this week for some very personal and honest dialogue.
Further Reading
Here’s a bit of homework for you….we’ve included a few articles that compliments this episode….
The Waves of Grief Will Give Way - DesiringGod.org
A Grief Observed - Ligonier.org
God's Purpose in your Pain - Plough.com
What we’re reading?
As a feature to our notes, we are adding the book or books that we’ve browsed related to this episode.
We’ve included below Jerry’s excellent and plain talking book, as well as a couple of other highly recommended ones….
Jerry Sittser — A Grace Disguised: How The Soul Grows Through Loss
C. S. Lewis — A Grief Observed
Tim Challies — Seasons of Sorrow: The Pain of Loss and the Comfort of God
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