Year-end Message

In this episode we explore The Seven Key Relationships, a course I host online and in-person. This is a series for those wanting to cultivate a practice of the presence of God and get to know themselves and others they're journeying with. Support Urban Mystic Website | FaceBook| YouTube | PayPal

Welcome to Season 7 of The Urban Mystic — a slower, intentional season focused on the work we're doing and why we've been slower on content output. In this introductory episode we speak episodes to come on The Seven Key Relationships, The Trinity Sessions, a Trinitarian devotional series, and conversations about the book Relational Spirituality, plus updates on live experiments and plans to share these resources more broadly in 2027. Thank you to the supporters and listeners who make this relational work possible. Support Urban Mystic Website | FaceBook| YouTube | PayPal

In this week's episode we continue Jesus as a mystic. In this episode we explore Jesus' relationship with the Father and Spirit as He matured and was tested. Support Urban Mystic Website | FaceBook| YouTube | PayPal

In this week's episode where begin exploring Jesus as a mystic. I'm well aware that views of Jesus are incredibly diverse, and venturing into this territory can sometimes challenge deeply held opinions. However, our aim isn't to diminish or redefine His significance. Instead, we'll approach Jesus as our ultimate example and model, particularly focusing on the profound interpersonal dynamics between Him, the Father, and the Holy Spirit. It's precisely in understanding these intimate relationships that we can begin to grapple with the rich concept of Jesus as a mystic, revealing a deeper dimension of His life and teachings for our own spiritual growth. Support Urban Mystic Website | FaceBook| YouTube | PayPal

In this week's episode we explore Jeanne Guyon's Song of Songs. Guyon understands and expresses through the lens of the Song of Songs/Solomon. Support Urban Mystic Website | FaceBook| YouTube | PayPal Song of Songs by Jeanne Guyon is available in plain English for the contemporary reader in print and ebook.

In this week's episode we explore Brother Lawrence and The Practice of the Presence of God. Brother Lawrence epitomizes the intimacy with God that Teresa of Avila and John of the Cross sought for themselves and others. Support Urban Mystic Website | FaceBook| YouTube | PayPal The Practice of the Presence of God by Brother Lawrence is available in plain English for the contemporary reader in print and ebook.

In this week's episode we explore John of the Cross and engage some of her thinking. John is among the great mystics who value intimacy with God. Steve and Tim discuss the dark night of the senses and dark night of the spirit in the context of spiritual maturation and the attainment of authentic intimacy with God. From The Dark Night on the the dark night of the senses and dark night of the spirit, by John of the Cross. Support Urban Mystic Website | FaceBook| YouTube | PayPal

In this week's episode we explore Teresa of Avila and engage some of her thinking. Teresa is among the great mystics who value intimacy with God. Steve and Tim discuss spiritual growth, intimacy with God, and the role of mysticism in spirituality, drawing from the teachings of Teresa of Avila. They explore the ‘Interior Castle’ metaphor and the importance of personal experience in spiritual development. Here's the key quote from the episode: "It is as if the soul were a garden in which the Lord Himself delights to walk, and He enters it not by steps, but at a single bound, and takes possession of the will, which is the gate by which He enters. And how He enters, I cannot explain. But the soul is very well aware of His presence. It is not a vision; there is neither image nor form. But the soul feels Him so clearly that it cannot possibly doubt that He is there. It is a presence so certain that it is impossible to describe it in words." From The Interior Castle on the Fourth Mansion, by Teresa of Avila. Support Urban Mystic Website | FaceBook| YouTube | PayPal

This conversation delves into the complexities of intimacy in relationships, both human and divine. The speakers explore how genuine intimacy requires effort and presence from both parties, emphasizing the importance of being fully engaged in the moment. They discuss the challenges of maintaining intimacy, the significance of recognizing absence, and the pursuit of a deeper connection with God. The dialogue also touches on the nuances of spiritual practices and the need for a relational approach to spirituality, moving beyond mere transactional interactions to foster genuine connection. Support Urban Mystic Website | FaceBook| YouTube | PayPal

Thank you for all the listens, encouragements, and support for the Podcast of the Urban Mystic. This is just a short year-end message to say thank you and let you know that we're taking a short break. We'll be back early in the new year. Happy holidays, Merry Christmas, and peace to all. Support Urban Mystic Website | FaceBook| YouTube | PayPal