Photo credit: Harrison Keller ’18
Article and Interview by Madison Callinan ’18:
Hailing all the way from California, Tim Timmons and his band performed their original religious anthems to inspire the students at Kellenberg Memorial on Friday, January 21, 2016. The musicians performed numerous catchy and upbeat songs of praise and self-discovery to the two assemblies that ranged from eighth graders to seniors. The sets featured popular tracks such as “Starts With Me,” “Christ in Me,” and “Great Reward” from his debut album Cast My Cares which came out in June 2013. Several hits from his second, most recent album, Awake Our Souls, were extremely entertaining and uplifting, such as the title track, “Everywhere I Go,” and “All I Really Want.” Students were encouraged to sing along with Timmons, as the lyrics were projected on a screen.
Tim Timmons’ message is clear; inspire others to grow closer to God and appreciate everything that God had given us. Timmons advocates that believing and trusting in God’s message, love, and unwavering mercy can completely change our lives. Throughout his performance, he talked about how we should let Jesus take care of our worries and stress. He believes that “surrendering [to God’s will] is one of the keys to living in the Kingdom of God.” Despite being diagnosed with terminal cancer, Timmons continues to use his talent to spread the Good News to the Kellenberg community and wants to continue to inspire others through his music and story.
Backstage with Tim Timmons:
Madison Callinan: What particular aspect of your faith do you draw the most strength from?
Tim Timmons: I try to focus on Jesus’ words, living as though the same spirit that rose Jesus from the dead lives inside of me.
MC: How would you give advice to people who are, as you have coined it, “soul tired”?
TT: We try to control the outcome of everything, but Jesus says to take it one day at a time and not to worry because if we are seeking his kingdom then he’s “got this.” Our job should be to love. “Soul tired” means trying too hard to be good all the time. If we are filled with the immense joy from God’s love, then we will feel free and energized.
MC: How would you explain these “constant worries”?
TT: Fruit of the Spirit is different from the fruit of your labor. Trying to be good, trying to control the outcome of everything, and what everyone thinks about you, creates constant worry to the state of exhaustion! We should turn to Jesus for relief and comfort.
MC: What is your favorite religious quote?
TT: “It’s the Holy Spirit’s job to convict, God’s job to judge and my job to love.” – Billy Graham
MC: How did you react when you were signed to Reunion Records in 2013?
TT: My aim was not to try and get signed, but Jesus started opening doors and exciting things started to unfold. I don’t need to be the next big thing! My true goal is to be an influencer, to invite people/believers to become followers of Jesus.
MC: How do your two albums, Cast My Cares and Awake Our Souls, compliment each other?
TT: Honestly, they’re really just a journey. I’m trying to find out how to practically follow Jesus, by seeking first the kingdom of God and to actually live it out.
MC: If you were on a deserted island, what three things would you take and why?
TT: My guitar, my family, and a machete
MC: If you were to make a religious duet with anyone, who would it be and why?
TT: Tay Tay (Taylor Swift) or Adele
MC: Favorite comfort food?
TT: I love peanut butter and jelly sandwiches.
MC: Favorite dessert?
TT: Definitely Oreos and Reese’s.
MC: Are you excited about your new TV show Timmons Pantry Raid with K-LOVE TV?
TT: Currently two episodes are already released with two to three coming out, and I’m very excited! I really like the show because every other week a different celebrity comes over and cooks with me!
MC: How do you effortlessly mix cooking and Christian music?
TT: I just see it as another way to be creative through forms of art.
MC: Who do you watch in relation to cooking shows?
TT: Rick Bayless!