Rev. Tim Clifford Invites Us to Reengage Joy

This week we chat with Rev. Tim Clifford about his journey out of cynicism and how he’s learning to reengage with joy. Tim’s substack, Theology of a Recovering Cynic, follows his movement back towards a truer version of himself through endurance sports, theology, TTRPG’s, imagination, and more. In these dark times it can be tempting to give into cynicism and hopelessness. Rev. Tim reminds us that we can walk a different path, one that’s intentional and filled with curiosity and connection. Cool stuff we mention this episode (or meant to anyways): Theology of a Recovering Cynic Arlington Heights UMCEncounter Worship Fort Worth Thomas J. OordDan McClellanTripp FullerTim on Bluesky Radical Sacred at Wild GooseEpiphany by Sophie StrandRemember by Joy Harjo Chapters00:00 The Power of Love and Connection06:29 Endurance and Personal Growth10:55 The Nature of Love15:45 Theological Reflections on Power20:00 Endurance Sports and Spiritual Resilience28:00 The Importance of Self-Care in Ministry29:53 Overcoming Cynicism Through Endurance31:23 Guides on the Journey: Theological and Athletic34:03 Finding Inspiration in Community35:17 The Meditative Nature of Endurance Sports37:04 Rest and Hobbies: Balancing Life and Wellness40:16 Creation as a Route Away from Cynicism42:30 Integrating Theology and Daily Life43:00 Connecting Through Community and Events