FIRST STEP is daily Bible reading practice that is designed to guide readers in developing the habit of reading, reflecting and responding to God’s word.

Each morning, for the first 40 days of 2026, readers will receive a text message with the verses of the day, a few questions for reflection, and a prompt to guide them in a simple prayer. It’s designed to be a 5 minute practice that becomes an ongoing habit.

The daily text will offer a way to “expand the horizons” of readers, by taking them into a deeper and more meaningful journey, if they choose.

TIM McCRORY is the author of Expanding Your Horizons. He’s is a volunteer at West Ridge Church, who loves theology, art, history, and seeing people grow in their faith. His words will certainly give you inspiring ideas to consider, and will “expand” what you know – or think you know – in helpful and sometimes provocative ways.

Tim and his wife Sandy live in Elgin and have two adult children. They love warm weather and spend much of their year in places that have more sun and warmer temperatures than Chicago.