thinking out loud

In this message from Terry Timm, we explore what it means to be created in the image and likeness of God. As Carmen Innes writes, "Being made in God's image is not simply a static identity but an active vocation. It is a call to represent God's character in the world through our actions, choices, and relationships. We are to make the invisible God visible by embodying His values and living out His mission."

In this message from Terry Timm, we're challenged to see our vocations as more than just jobs—they're divine callings designed to manifest God's love in the world (Thomas Merton). Do we view our roles, whether in work, family, or community, as 'kingdom callings.' The message draws from Jeremiah 29, where God instructs the exiled Israelites to flourish in Babylon. This ancient text surprisingly parallels our modern context, reminding us that even in a 'post-Christian' world, we're called to be agents of God's love wherever we are.

This audio guided exercise is designed to help you reflect on the various callings you have received in your life. Grab some paper, a pen, or colored pencils and get ready to look in your rearview mirror.

In this message from Rche Reeder, we explore our vocational journey, being reminded that our primary calling is to follow Jesus and have a restored relationship with God. Our work, while important, is a secondary calling. We're encouraged to see our various roles - paid or unpaid - as opportunities for worship and service. The passage from Ephesians 4:1-6 emphasizes living a life worthy of our calling. Our work as a way to partner with God in bringing flourishing to the world.

Drawing from Psalm 90, Colossians 3, and 1 Corinthians 15, Terry Timm explores the three facets of labor: its pleasure, pain, and potential. Just as we find joy in meaningful work that contributes to the common good, we also encounter struggles and disappointments. Yet, there's immense possibility in our efforts to rearrange our domains for others' flourishing. This mirrors Christ's own labor – His ministry and ultimate sacrifice – which brought both joy and suffering but unlocked incredible potential for humanity's redemption. As we approach our work, let's remember that our efforts, like Christ's, are not in vain but contribute to God's ongoing work in the world.

In this message from Richie Reeder, we delve into the challenging teachings of Jesus in John chapter 6, exploring how His hard words stirred faith, curiosity, and even confusion among His followers. Discover practical insights on how to respond faithfully when faced with spiritual dilemmas and the importance of relying on our history with God.

Listen to Terry Timm interview and commission Caleb Steele into his work as a student director for the Bethel Park High School Marching Band

In this message from John 6, we delve into one of Jesus' most challenging teachings: 'Unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you.' This metaphor of consuming Christ's body and blood invites us to deeply consider what it means to truly internalize Jesus' teachings and sacrifice. We're challenged to move beyond surface-level faith and to 'gnaw' on Christ's words, allowing them to nourish our souls. This message from Terry Timm encourages us to reflect on how we're 'feeding' on Christ daily, not just in formal communion, but in our hearts and actions.

In this message from Katherine Sikma Wadsworth, we explore the symbolism of bread as a universal staple and its connection to Jesus as the 'Bread of Life.' We're reminded that just as bread sustains our physical bodies, Jesus sustains our spirits. The repetition of this theme echoes our need to continually return to Christ for nourishment. We're challenged to recognize God's provision in unexpected forms and to avoid 'grumbling' when His gifts don't match our expectations. This message invites us to open our hearts to new understandings of Jesus, moving beyond familiar theology to embrace a living, dynamic relationship with Him.

In this message from Terry Timm, we explore John 6:25-35, delving into Jesus as the Bread of Life. The passage challenges us to look beyond our physical needs and seek the eternal sustenance that only Christ can provide. We're reminded that Jesus is always present, inviting us to recognize His presence in our daily lives. The text emphasizes the importance of believing in Jesus as the ultimate work of God, rather than focusing on our own efforts. This message encourages us to trust in Christ's sufficiency and to hunger for the spiritual nourishment He offers, which satisfies our deepest longings in ways that material provisions never can.