The CloudCast

Joseph’s time in prison seems like a footnote—until you slow down and notice what’s at the center. In Genesis 40, dreams of bread and wine, judgment and mercy, forgetfulness and hope all converge on a single plea: “Remember me.” Pastors David Buchs and Joshua Reber explore how this overlooked chapter quietly points forward to Christ, the sacraments, and the strange way God works through waiting.Along the way, the conversation ranges from literary structure and biblical dreams to pastoral theology, Christmas preaching, and why God so often does His best work in the middle of the story. • Genesis 40 overview: Joseph, the cupbearer, and the baker • What is a chiasm? Why the center of the passage matters most • “Remember me” (Gen. 40:14): Joseph’s honest cry from prison • Dreams and interpretation: Natural reason vs. God’s revelation • Bread and wine in Scripture: From Genesis to the Lord’s Supper • Judgment, patience, and delay: Why God’s timing feels unbearable • Pastoral reflections: Baptism, faith, and God’s bound promises • Christmas connections: Bethlehem, bread, and the Lamb of GodThe CloudCast is a weekly theology podcast hosted by Pastor David Buchs (Grace Lutheran Church, Little Rock, AR) and Pastor Joshua Reber (Faith Lutheran Church, St. Cloud, MN & Trinity Lutheran Church, Clear Lake, MN). Each episode walks chapter-by-chapter through Genesis, connecting the ancient text to modern faith, culture, and everyday Christian life.#GenesisPodcast #ChristianTheology #LutheranPodcast #BibleStudy#GraceLutheranLittleRock #FaithLutheranStCloud #TrinityLutheranClearLake#JosephStory #BiblicalDreams #WordAndSacrament #PastoralTheology

Loyalty, Euthanasia, and Playing by the RulesIn this wide-ranging and thoughtful conversation on Genesis 39, Pastors David Buchs and Joshua Reber explore Joseph’s faithfulness under pressure—especially his refusal of Potiphar’s wife—and what true loyalty looks like in a world shaped by power, pleasure, and politics. Along the way, they connect Joseph’s story to modern ethical debates, cultural decadence, assisted suicide, forgiveness, and the quiet strength of Christian endurance. This episode invites listeners to reconsider success, suffering, and what it means to live faithfully when God’s presence is hidden—but real.⏱️ Key Discussion Points & Approximate Timestamps • 00:00–05:00 – Christmas movies, angels, and why sentimentality can still provoke real theological reflection • 05:00–12:30 – Assisted suicide, naming reality truthfully, and why words matter in ethics and law • 12:30–19:30 – Hedonism, teleology, and why pleasure cannot be the goal of human life • 19:30–27:30 – Loyalty vs. faithfulness: forgiveness, disavowal, and ordering our loves • 27:30–36:30 – Genesis 39 overview: “The Lord was with Joseph” and the theology of the hand, power, and stewardship • 36:30–44:30 – Potiphar’s wife, false accusation, politics, and the cost of telling the truth • 44:30–52:30 – Joseph, Pilate, and the illusion of “no other choice” • 52:30–59:30 – Joseph as the righteous sufferer: resisting forbidden fruit and prefiguring Christ • 59:30–1:05:00 – Sons of Abraham, Jacob, Joseph—and Jesus • 1:05:00–end – Catechesis, children’s faith, liturgy, and why the Christian story is beautifully simpleFormerly known as The CloudCast, this weekly theology podcast is hosted by Pastor David Buchs (Grace Lutheran Church, Little Rock, AR) and Pastor Joshua Reber (Faith Lutheran Church, St. Cloud, MN & Trinity Lutheran Church, Clear Lake, MN). Each episode explores a chapter of Genesis with pastoral warmth, confessional Lutheran theology, and honest conversation about faith and life in the modern world.#GenesisPodcast #JosephGenesis39 #LutheranTheology#GraceLutheranLittleRock #FaithLutheranStCloud #TrinityLutheranClearLake#ChristianPodcast #BibleStudyPodcast #PastoralConversation#FaithAndCulture #BiblicalEthics #GodWithUs #ConfessionalLutheran

What do UFOs, non-alcoholic wine, and Judah’s family scandal have in common? In this wide-ranging and lively episode, Pastors David Buchs and Joshua Reber are joined by Pastor Luke Otten (Holy Cross Lutheran Church & Christ the King Lutheran Church, Racine, WI) to tackle Genesis 38—one of the Bible’s most uncomfortable, misunderstood, and surprisingly Christ-centered chapters.Along the way, the conversation moves from UFOs and Christian faith, to closed communion and pastoral discipline, to Onan, inheritance, and how God brings salvation through deeply broken people. Expect theological depth, pastoral honesty, and plenty of laughter as the hosts wrestle seriously with Scripture while refusing to sanitize it.Key Discussion Points / Timestamps • 00:00 – Welcome & banter: Dual parishes, Midwest Lutheranism, and taking things personally • 02:30 – UFOs, UAPs, and Christianity: Would aliens threaten the faith? • 06:00 – The state of the Synod: Worship practices, clergy, and discipline • 11:30 – Closed communion: Pastoral responsibility and the care of consciences • 16:00 – Bread, wine, and “natural wine”: What does Scripture actually require? • 22:30 – Alcoholism, conscience, and the Lord’s Supper • 35:45 – Genesis 38 overview: Judah, Tamar, and moral collapse • 38:30 – “You reap what you sow”: Narrative justice in Genesis • 44:00 – Levirate marriage: Inheritance, name, and messianic promise • 52:00 – Onan and birth control: What this passage does—and doesn’t—teach • 1:02:00 – Signet, cord, and staff: Christological symbols hiding in plain sight • 1:06:30 – Grace in the genealogy: Why Tamar belongs in Matthew 1About the ShowFormerly known as The CloudCast, this weekly theology podcast is hosted by Pastor David Buchs (Grace Lutheran Church, Little Rock, AR) and Pastor Joshua Reber (Faith Lutheran Church, St. Cloud, MN & Trinity Lutheran Church, Clear Lake, MN). Each episode walks through a chapter of Genesis, connecting Scripture to faith, culture, and pastoral life with clarity, honesty, and good humor.Hashtags#GenesisPodcast #LutheranTheology #BibleStudyPodcast #ChristianPodcast#GraceLutheranLittleRock #FaithLutheranStCloud #TrinityLutheranClearLake#PastorsTalkingBible #LCMS #OldTestament #ChristianFaith #Genesis38

SummaryThis conversation delves into various theological topics, including the perpetual virginity of Mary, interpretations of hell, the presence of Christ throughout history, and the significance of biblical narratives, particularly the story of Joseph. The speakers explore the implications of these themes for contemporary faith and practice, emphasizing the importance of scripture in understanding doctrine and the role of providence in biblical events.Chapters00:00 Exploring Mariology and Perpetual Virginity02:58 The Nature of Hell and Afterlife05:46 Understanding the Presence of Christ08:53 Biblical Interpretation and Extra-Biblical Notions11:37 The Role of Joseph in Scripture14:44 Typological Connections Between Josephs17:39 The Significance of Garments in Joseph's Story20:31 The Waterless Pit and Its Symbolism23:24 Conscience and Guilt in the Joseph Narrative33:00 The Significance of Names in the Bible35:47 Divine Providence and Guidance38:52 The Role of Jacob and Joseph's Dreams42:04 Christological Connections in Joseph's Story46:15 The Symbolism of Foreigners in Joseph's Narrative51:28 Theological Reflections on Life and Providence55:32 Cultural References and Their Biblical RootsKeywordsPerpetual Virginity, Lutheranism, Afterlife, Christ's Presence, Biblical Interpretation, Closed Communion, Typology, Joseph, Providence, Gratitude

Join Pastors David Buchs and Joshua Reber as they delve into the rich history of Protestantism, exploring its roots and how it connects to modern faith and culture. This episode takes a deep dive into Genesis 36, discussing the genealogy of Esau and its implications for today's believers. With engaging discussions on biblical interpretation, church history, and the role of gratitude, this episode promises to enlighten and inspire.Key Discussion Points: • Introduction to Protestant history and its significance. • The story of Esau's genealogy and its lessons. • The importance of gratitude in faith. • Reflections on church discipline and biblical interpretation.About the Show:Hosted by Pastors David Buchs and Joshua Reber, this podcast explores the chapters of Genesis, connecting ancient texts to contemporary life. Tune in for thoughtful discussions and theological insights.Hashtags:#ProtestantHistory #Genesis36 #FaithJourney #GraceLutheranChurch #LittleRock #FaithLutheranChurch #StCloud #TrinityLutheranChurch #ClearLake

The CloudCast 34: Genesis 35 In this episode, Pastors David Buchs and Joshua Reber delve into Genesis 35, exploring the profound themes of true worship and the hidden idols that can infiltrate our lives. As they reflect on Jacob's journey back to Bethel, emphasizing the importance of putting away our own "foreign gods" for the sake of true worship. The discussion also touches on the theological implications of Rachel's death and its echoes throughout biblical history.Key Discussion Points: • [00:00] Introduction and overview of Genesis 35 • [10:15] The significance of Jacob's return to Bethel • [20:30] The challenge of identifying and removing modern idols • [35:45] Rachel's death and its impact on biblical narratives • [50:00] The role of true worship in sanctifying our livesAbout the Show:Join Pastors David Buchs and Joshua Reber as they explore the Book of Genesis, connecting ancient scripture to contemporary life and faith. Grace Lutheran Church, Little Rock, AR, Faith Lutheran Church, St. Cloud, MN, and Trinity Lutheran Church, Clear Lake, MN.#GenesisStudy #LittleRock #StCloud #ClearLake

This week, Pastors David Buchs and Joshua Reber welcome back Rory Martin for a lively and charitable deep dive into Genesis 34 and the story of Dinah, Simeon, and Levi. Along the way, they unpack dispensationalism vs. amillennialism, the purpose of prophecy, and what happens when holy things get used for unholy ends.From mini-fridges on Capitol Hill to violence, vengeance, and the meaning of worship—this episode’s got everything.Timestamps & Highlights: • 00:00 – Introducing our Baptist friend (and his lobby for congressional mini-fridges) • 01:30 – Dispensationalism 101: what it is, what it’s not, and why hope—not fear—matters • 07:45 – Amillennialism vs. Premillennialism: the thousand-year question • 19:30 – When Baptists quote Lutherans: worship, divine service, and grace • 33:00 – Genesis 34: Dinah, justice, and when zeal goes too far • 40:00 – Outward compliance vs. inward sincerity—why sincerity matters for faith and politics • 56:00 – Vengeance, justice, and promises broken: the deeper sin beneath sexual sin • 1:02:00 – Christ crucified and the destruction of the wicked • 1:04:00 – What we’re reading: Gene Veith, Dostoevsky, and Growth & Change • 1:08:00 – Baldness, frostbite, and the Levitical blessing About the Show:Hosted by Pastor David Buchs (Grace Lutheran Church, Little Rock, AR) and Pastor Joshua Reber (Faith Lutheran Church, St. Cloud, MN / Trinity Lutheran Church, Clear Lake, MN), this theology podcast walks through Genesis one chapter at a time, exploring how ancient texts speak to life, faith, and culture today. Formerly known as The CloudCast.#GraceLutheranLittleRock #FaithLutheranStCloud #TrinityLutheranClearLake #Genesis34 #BiblePodcast #ChristianPodcast #LutheranTheology #Dispensationalism #Amillennialism #FaithAndCulture #ArkansasChurch #MinnesotaChurch #PastorPodcast #ChristCrucified #ModernFaith #ChristianDiscussion

Rev. Josh Reber – Faith Lutheran Church, St. Cloud, MN & Trinity Lutheran Church, Clear Lake, MNRev. David Buchs – Grace Lutheran Church, Little Rock, AR

Rev. Josh Reber – Faith Lutheran Church, St. Cloud, MN & Trinity Lutheran Church, Clear Lake, MNRev. David Buchs – Grace Lutheran Church, Little Rock, AR Call in and leave a message! (501) 777-7810 Or e-mail at: thecloudcast@proton.me

Rev. Josh Reber – Faith Lutheran Church, St. Cloud, MN & Trinity Lutheran Church, Clear Lake, MNRev. David Buchs – Grace Lutheran Church, Little Rock, ARCall in and leave a message! (501) 777-7810 Or e-mail at: thecloudcast@proton.me

Rev. Josh Reber – Faith Lutheran Church, St. Cloud, MN & Trinity Lutheran Church, Clear Lake, MNRev. David Buchs – Grace Lutheran Church, Little Rock, ARPastor Joshua Foster – Church Ambassador Network, St. Paul, MN

Rev. Josh Reber – Faith Lutheran Church, St. Cloud, MN & Trinity Lutheran Church, Clear Lake, MNRev. David Buchs – Grace Lutheran Church, Little Rock, AR Call in and leave a message! (501) 777-7810 Or e-mail at: thecloudcast@proton.me

Rev. Nate Konkel –Peace, Finlayson, MN & St. Paul, Bruno, MNRev. Josh Reber –Faith Lutheran Church, St. Cloud, MN & Trinity Lutheran Church, Clear Lake,MNRev. David Buchs –Grace Lutheran Church, Little Rock, AR

Rev. Josh Reber – Faith Lutheran Church, St. Cloud, MN & Trinity Lutheran Church, Clear Lake, MNRev. David Buchs – Grace Lutheran Church, Little Rock, ARCall in and leave a message! (501) 777-7810Or e-mail at: thecloudcast@proton.me

Rev. Josh Reber –Faith Lutheran Church, St. Cloud, MN & Trinity Lutheran Church, Clear Lake,MNRev. David Buchs – Grace Lutheran Church, Little Rock, AR Rev. Josh Reber – Faith Lutheran Church, St. Cloud, MN & Trinity Lutheran Church, Clear Lake, MNRev. David Buchs – Grace Lutheran Church, Little Rock, AR Call in and leave a message! (501) 777-7810 Or e-mail at: thecloudcast@proton.me

Rev. Josh Reber – Faith Lutheran Church, St. Cloud, MN & Trinity Lutheran Church, Clear Lake, MNRev. David Buchs – Concordia Lutheran Church, Fairhaven, MN

Rev. Josh Reber – Faith Lutheran Church, St. Cloud, MN & Trinity Lutheran Church, Clear Lake, MNRev. David Buchs – Concordia Lutheran Church, Fairhaven, MN

Rev. Josh Reber – Faith Lutheran Church, St. Cloud, MN & Trinity Lutheran Church, Clear Lake, MNRev. David Buchs – Concordia Lutheran Church, Fairhaven, MN

Rev. Josef Muench - Trinity Lutheran Church, Nokomis, ILRev. Josh Reber – Faith Lutheran Church, St. Cloud, MN & Trinity Lutheran Church, Clear Lake, MNRev. David Buchs – Concordia Lutheran Church, Fairhaven, MN

Rev. Josh Reber – Faith Lutheran Church, St. Cloud, MN & Trinity Lutheran Church, Clear Lake, MNRev. David Buchs – Concordia Lutheran Church, Fairhaven, MN