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 UMC
• Encounter Worship Fort Worth 
• Thomas J. Oord
• Dan McClellan
• Tripp Fuller
• Tim on Bluesky 
• Radical Sacred at Wild Goose
• Epiphany by Sophie Strand
• Remember by Joy Harjo 

Chapters
00:00 The Power of Love and Connection
06:29 Endurance and Personal Growth
10:55 The Nature of Love
15:45 Theological Reflections on Power
20:00 Endurance Sports and Spiritual Resilience
28:00 The Importance of Self-Care in Ministry
29:53 Overcoming Cynicism Through Endurance
31:23 Guides on the Journey: Theological and Athletic
34:03 Finding Inspiration in Community
35:17 The Meditative Nature of Endurance Sports
37:04 Rest and Hobbies: Balancing Life and Wellness
40:16 Creation as a Route Away from Cynicism
42:30 Integrating Theology and Daily Life
43:00 Connecting Through Community and Events