In this episode of The Biggest Table, I interview Alex Early, a pastor, author, and theology professor who enjoys cooking. We discuss Alex's journey from naivete in ministry to experiencing burnout, which led him to find solace in the kitchen. Alex explains how cooking became a therapeutic and reflective practice, helping him process his thoughts and experience God’s presence in everyday moments. We also delve into the themes of food and hospitality in scripture, the importance of slowing down to genuinely connect with others at the table, and the balance of maintaining relationships in a polarized world. The conversation wraps up with personal reflections on memorable meals and the spiritual significance of shared food experiences.

Dr. Alex Early is an author, pastor, and theology professor who loves to cook! Alex consistently says that “all of his wealth is in his relationships” and therefore the church, kitchen, and dining table all come together toward that end. His books include The Reckless Love of God and The New Believer’s Guide to the Christian Life, The Cross and Kaleidoscope, and Thinking About God. He lives with his wife, Jana, and their two children in Seattle, Washington.

Buy Alex's cookbook Among the Pots and Pans on Amazon.

Regina Schrambling's Lasagna recipe from The NY Times. (subscription may be required)

This episode of the Biggest Table is brought to you in part by Wild Goose Coffee. Since 2008, Wild Goose has sought to build better communities through coffee. For our listeners, Wild Goose is offering a special promotion of 20% off a one time order using the code TABLE at checkout. To learn more and to order coffee, please visit wildgoosecoffee.com.

In this episode of The Biggest Table, host Andrew Camp explores the intersection of faith, food, and sensory experience with guest Jeannine Hanger, an associate professor of the New Testament at Talbot School of Theology. Hanger discusses her latest book, 'Engaging Jesus with Our Senses,' which examines the sensory metaphors in the Gospels and their implications for spiritual practice. The conversation covers the role of taste and how using our senses can deepen our engagement with Scripture and our relationship with Jesus. They also touch on the importance of moving away from purely cognitive approaches to faith, the historical and cultural context of sensory experiences, and practical ways to integrate sensory awareness into communal worship. The episode concludes with personal reflections on favorite foods and the sensory dimensions of faith.

Jeannine Hanger is Associate Professor of New Testament at Talbot School of Theology, Biola University. Her research interests focus on the Gospels, more specifically participation with Christ. Her newest book, Engaging Jesus With Our Senses: An Embodied Approach to the Gospels, published by Baker Academic, is the latest articulation of this. Outside of teaching at Biola, Jeannine has been married for 26 years to her husband Garrick, a pastor at Coastline Covenant Church in Redondo Beach. Together they have three kids, ages 21, 19, and 17.

Buy Engaging Jesus with Our Senses on Amazon.

This episode of the Biggest Table is brought to you in part by Wild Goose Coffee. Since 2008, Wild Goose has sought to build better communities through coffee. For our listeners, Wild Goose is offering a special promotion of 20% off a one time order using the code TABLE at checkout. To learn more and to order coffee, please visit wildgoosecoffee.com.