Would you recognize a god if you saw one?
If they were, say, standing on your doorstep, begging for food or shelter . . . would you recognize them?
Would you welcome them in?
The story of Baucis and Philemon is probably my favorite myth of all time. For me, it is a sacred text — a gospel that I want to share with the world. And, obviously, it might be the kernel of this little podcast here.
But this story goes further. It resonates backwards and forwards in time, spreading ripples across so many other sacred texts.
Funny thing is, unlike a lot of the other myths that Ovid collected and curated in his Metamorphoses, the story of Baucis and Philemon doesn’t show up in the literature preceding Ovid.
Which leads me to wonder… Where did it come from?
Actually, this story leaves me asking a lot of questions. It’s influence on, for instance, the story of Jesus is obvious. And it practically deserves a footnote in the Book of Acts.
And there’s even more. This is an important story — not us to me . . . but to the entire world.
Don’t take my word for it. Give the episode a listen, and let me know what you think.
Like I said in Episode Zero, this is a conversation. You should add your voice to the mix, if you’re so inclined.
‡ You can listen to Episode One on iTunes or download the MP3 or AAC. ‡
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This week, please consider supporting one of a number of deserving charities doing their best change the state of poverty and homelessness in this world. They could use your help.
If you’ve got the means, you absolutely should consider finding a soup kitchen, food bank, or homeless shelter in your town where you can donate (1) your money, (2) your time, or (3) a bag of groceries.
Please consider it. A little gesture can make a huge difference in someone else’s life.