Probably most today believe that science and psychology offer better solutions to our modern problems than a piece of art or literature. But what if we have misdiagnosed our core problems?

What if we are too focused on eliminating what does not belong that we fail to see what does belong—and the great story in which we are participating?

Having spoken about the outer panels of The Isenheim Altarpiece, we now turn to the inner panels, which depict the mystery of Christ from Annunciation to Ascension—or Alpha to Omega, as Jack says. These exceptionally beautiful and mysterious panels, which were painted by Matthias Grunewald between 1512 and 1516, reveal the profound metaphysical reality that surrounds us. As we are able to participate in this story, we find rest and healing for our souls.

To conclude the episode, Seth reads the poem “Descending Theology: The Resurrection,” by the wonderful poet Mary Karr.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Prayer 01:13 Recap of Previous Episode and Discussion of Lambs and Goats 03:03 Overview of the Central Panels and Discussion of the Hospital Setting 04:29 Reflections on the Crucifixion Scene and the Feet of Christ 05:41 Discussion of the Song 'Undone' and Acceptance of Truth 07:12 Introduction to the Central Panels and Discussion of Curtains 08:13 Overview of the Central Panels and Discussion of the Annunciation 09:04 Discussion of the Angelic Choir Scene and the Cosmic Nature of the Altarpiece 57:24 Interpretations of the Green Figure 01:05:15 The Power of Worship and Participation 01:09:35 The Vastness of the Surroundings 01:14:35 The Incarnational Light and Color 01:17:40 The Significance of Christ's Wounds and Scars 01:18:23 The Hiddenness of God and the Presence in Creation 01:19:29 Suffering and Resurrection: A Testimony of God's Faithfulness 01:22:15 Appreciating the Beauty and Wonder of the World 01:28:08 Participating in the Story of God's Redemption

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