Last week I introduced you to InScribed (the new book collection from Thomas Nelson Publishers) with a special giveaway. I am spending most of my time these days working on my book for the InScribed Collection, but one day each week I devote several hours to studying Ezra and podcasting with my friend, A. J. Farley. Every Thursday we get together via Skype (because he’s in Tennessee and I’m who-knows-where), and we record a 20 to 30-minute episode of “Living in Exile.” It is an opportunity for us to stretch our exegetical muscle, discuss how Scripture pertains to today’s church culture, and have a lot fun. I always look forward to this moment of meaningful levity in my week, and I want to share it with you!

Head over to The Podcast page on my website, and you’ll find links to the 5 episodes we’ve published so far. The first is an introduction to A. J. and me, and the next two are a great interview with David Capes PhD about the genesis, production, and impact of The Voice Bible translation, which A. J. and I use for the podcast. After that A. J. and I launch into our discussion of Ezra. I know, I know: Ezra is a strange choice for a podcast series, but listen for a few minutes and you’ll be intrigued by just how much the Jewish exiles of 500 BC have in common with the modern church.

Once you’ve listened to an episode or two (or five!), come back to The Podcast page and leave me a comment with your insights. They can regard your own thoughts on Christian culture and Scripture interpretation, suggestions for how we can improve our podcast, or anything else you’d like to share with us. Next Friday, when we release Episode 6 of “Living in Exile,” I’ll randomly draw a name from all the commentators and announce the newest winner of an InScribed necklace. (Guys–don’t count yourselves out of the giveaway. This Lisa Leonard design is a $40 value and would make an excellent gift for any lady in your life. Christmas is coming faster than you think; be prepared this year!)