Show Notes
In this solo episode, I share a story from my teenage years that unexpectedly shaped how I think about faith, spiritual practices, and knowing God. What began as a reluctant cup of coffee became a metaphor for how our spiritual appetite develops over time—and how many of us settle for a limited experience of God without realizing there is more. Together, we explore what it means to "taste and see" for ourselves, how our formation influences our relationship with God, and why expanding our spiritual practices can deepen both our faith and our connection with others. Join the Practicing Together community here: https://sarahkbutterfield.substack.com/subscribe
More from Theology on Purpose
Every day, we choose what to wear based on where we're going and what the day might hold. But what if we brought that same intentionality to the way we show up in the world? Based on Paul's invitation in Colossians 3 to "clothe" ourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, and love, Sarah explores what it means to intentionally put on the character of Christ—and why we do so not to earn God's love, but because we are already dearly loved.
In this fascinating episode, author and professor Lanta Davis shares with us the important role art and imagination play in shaping our spiritual lives. Based on insights from her book Becoming by Beholding: The Power of Imagination in Spiritual Formation, Lanta shares how the images, stories, art, and ideas we encounter can shape not only what we believe, but who we are becoming. In this episode, you'll: Learn how everyday inputs (media, stories, art) are forming your spiritual life
In a world that runs on noise and self-sufficiency, it's easy to forget the truth sustaining us moment by moment. This episode reflects on the gift of breath as a reminder of God's steady and sustaining nearness. Drawing from a guest reflection by Kayla Craig and the practice of centering prayer, this episode explores what it means to stop striving and simply receive God's presence. Through Scripture, story, and spiritual practice, you'll be invited into a slower, more attentive way of being with God in the middle of ordinary life. Take the Connect with God quiz here
In this episode, Sarah talks with Eric Clayton about his new book Where Wonder Leads and the surprising role imagination plays in our life with God. Drawing from Ignatian spirituality, Eric shares how stepping into stories—whether from Scripture, myth, or even fantasy—can become a meaningful way to pray and discern God's presence. Eric shares his insights about how moving beyond a "right answers" faith can open us to deeper encounter and transformation. In this episode, you'll learn how to: Use imagination as a tool for prayer and spiritual growth
In this episode, Sarah reflects on the limits we resist, the exhaustion that comes from pushing past them, and the invitation to embrace our finiteness as a place of spiritual growth. Rather than barriers to becoming who we're meant to be, our limits may be the very ground where a faithful, embodied life with God takes root.