Spirituality Matters with Rev Karla

Where is God in the Unknown

In this episode, Rev Karla discusses how spiritual growth can happen in this time of the unknown. "Normal" is likely to not return, but we can change what "normal" is – for the better. Rev Karla also answers the question: Do you support other religions such as witchcraft, Buddhism, or Islam? You can read more from Rev Karla on this topic in her blog post.

Rev Karla's sources for this episode include:Coronavirus Has Quieted the Earth, The Pandemic is Turning the Natural World Upside Down, Fake Animal News Abounds on Social Media, Why Public Education isn't Working, Is There a Crisis: Public Education in this Country, US Once a Leader for Healthcare and Education – Now Ranks 27th, Measuring Human Capital, Coping with Stress During the Pandemic, Depression Has Skyrocketed During the Pandemic, These Companies Plan to Make Working From Home the New Normal

Facing the Darkness

In this episode, Rev Karla discusses the autumn equinox, its history, traditions, and spiritual practices to help ground you during this season of change. Grab your journal and your favorite fall drink and reflect on the year so far – it's been an intense one. The shift has begun, Beloved, and there is sacredness all around. Rev Karla answers a popular question: What does it mean to be spiritual but not religious and how do I start my spiritual journey? You can read more from Rev Karla on this topic in her blog post. Rev Karla also recommended What is the Bible by Rob Bell and A History of God by Karen Armstrong for you to check out.

 

When Sin Became Weaponized

In this episode, Rev Karla discusses how sin has been weaponized throughout history, the definition of sin, and how to release yourself from others' judgment of your sins. Sin should never be used as a weapon to condemn others, but rather as an invitation for inner growth. Rev Karla answers the question of how to get your faith back. You can read more on this topic from Rev Karla on her blog at numasoul.com.

The "clobber verses" mentioned in this episode are most often used to judge the LGBTQ humans. Remember those have been taken out of historical context and mistranslated -- and the word "homosexual" never even appeared in the Bible until 1946.  

Genesis 19:4–25 (the story of Sodom and Gomorrah)

Leviticus 18:22 (“You shall not lie with a male as one lies with a female.”)

Leviticus 20:13 (“If there is a man who lies with a male as those who lie with a woman, both of them have committed a detestable act.”)

Romans 1:26–27 (“The men abandoned the natural function of the woman and burned in their desire toward one another, men with men committing indecent acts.”)

1 Corinthians 6:9–11 (“Do not be deceived; neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor homosexuals, nor thieves, nor the covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers, will inherit the kingdom of God.”)

1 Timothy 1:9–10 (“Law is not made for a righteous person, but for those who are lawless and rebellious, for the ungodly and sinners, for the unholy and profane, for those who kill their fathers or mothers, for murderers and immoral men and homosexuals and kidnappers and liars and perjurers, and whatever else is contrary to sound teaching.”)

Books recommended in this episode include Falling Into Grace and Resurrecting Jesus both by Adyashanti. You can find both at numasoul.com.

Other resources for this episode include:

One problem with Kim Burrell's 'hate the sin, love the sinner' argument, Hate the Sin and Love the Sinner, The Bible: So Misunderstood It's a Sin, Homosexuality: Not a Sin, Not a Sickness Part II, Does the Bible NOT oppose Homosexuality, My quest to find the word 'homosexual' in the Bible

Leaving Church: Finding God

In this episode, Rev Karla discusses religious trauma, why people may choose to leave church, and what it means to be spiritual but not religious. Rev Karla asks you to reflect on your spirituality and how you connect to God. If you have thought about leaving church or questioned theology, this episode will be helpful for you. Every relationship with God is uniquely Divine, explore what works for you. You can download Rev Karla's book recommendations on her website. If you want more from Rev Karla on this topic, check out her blog post.

Introduction

Welcome to Spirituality Matters with Rev Karla. In this episode, Rev Karla talks about her religious background and the journey that brought her to starting this podcast. You can learn more about Rev Karla on her website.