Rebecca sits down with Karen Swallow Prior to explore vocation that comes from outside us, the goodness of “ordinary” faithfulness, and why pursuing the true, the good, and the beautiful gives shape to our work in every season. They reflect on biblical portraits of calling (Paul, Moses, Jonah), the role of community in discernment, and how serving others—not chasing status—aligns our lives with Jesus. Resources mentioned: Karen's Website: karenswallowprior.com You Have a Calling: Finding Your Vocation in the True, Good, and Beautiful (Karen Swallow Prior) On Reading Well: Finding the Good Life Through Great Books (Karen Swallow Prior) The Evangelical Imagination: How Stories, Images, and Metaphors Created a Culture in Crisis (Karen Swallow Prior) Bible passages: Acts 9 (Paul’s calling) Exodus 3–4 (Moses) Jonah (running from calling) Colossians 3:23–24 (work as unto the Lord) 0:00 Exploring Vocation and Identity in Confronting Christianity Podcast 2:34 Understanding Life's Callings and Their External Origins 7:23 Discerning Personal Calling Amidst Biblical and Modern Examples 13:57 Discovering Your Calling Through Truth and Community 14:52 Jesus's Teachings on Power and Christian Vocation 17:47 Redefining Life's Calling Beyond Glamorous Achievements 24:09 Christian Perspectives on Vocation and Service 28:42 Finding Purpose in Serving Others Over Personal Ambitions 33:28 Finding Purpose in Caring for Creation 36:07 A Humbling Experience in a School Swimming Contest 36:56 Discovering Personal Callings Through Community and Encouragement 40:39 Exploring Beauty and Vocation Through a Christian Lens Sign up for weekly emails at RebeccaMcLaughlin.org/Subscribe Follow Us on Instagram and X Produced by The Good Podcast Co.
