Bob Peden
Good morning:
The African Children’s Choir will be in Meridian this weekend. This group of 16 children will be performing Saturday evening at 7:00 pm in the Fellowship Hall at Central United Methodist Church in downtown Meridian. And then again on Sunday morning at 8:30 in our regular worship service. A love offering will be taken at both performances. This offering is used for Africa’s neediest most vulnerable children. The more than 12 million orphans. The Choir shows the world that its members, like the millions of abandoned and traumatized children in Africa, have beauty, dignity and unlimited potential. Everyone is welcome. Come to enjoy the lively music. Come to support this vital mission among Africa’s children.
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Jim Cain
GOOD MORNING!
Russ had worked all of his life and his money. Just before he died, he told his wife, "Listen, when I die, I want you to take all my money and place it in the casket with me" Not knowing what to say his wife agreed.
When he died they had a memorial service for him. There in the front was a rich mahogany casket with Russ stretched out in the casket, Tanya was sitting there in black next to her brother. When they finished the ceremony, and the undertaker, got ready to close the casket, the wife said "Wait just a minute!" She bent down over the casket and slipped something inside her husband’s coat.
As they rolled the casket away, her brother said, "I hope you weren't crazy enough to put all that money in the casket with him."
"Yes," Tanya said, "I promised him that I was going to put that money in that casket with him and I did."
"You mean to tell me you put every cent of his money in there?"
"I sure did. I got it all together, put it into my account and I wrote him a check."
Is life writing you checks that you just can’t cash? Then I’d like to encourage you to refill your spiritual account with us tonight at Central. Wednesday services begin at 6 pm!
GOOD MORNING!
Russ had worked all of his life and his money. Just before he died, he told his wife, "Listen, when I die, I want you to take all my money and place it in the casket with me" Not knowing what to say his wife agreed.
When he died they had a memorial service for him. There in the front was a rich mahogany casket with Russ stretched out in the casket, Tanya was sitting there in black next to her brother. When they finished the ceremony, and the undertaker, got ready to close the casket, the wife said "Wait just a minute!" She bent down over the casket and slipped something inside her husband’s coat.
As they rolled the casket away, her brother said, "I hope you weren't crazy enough to put all that money in the casket with him."
"Yes," Tanya said, "I promised him that I was going to put that money in that casket with him and I did."
"You mean to tell me you put every cent of his money in there?"
"I sure did. I got it all together, put it into my account and I wrote him a check."
Is life writing you checks that you just can’t cash? Then I’d like to encourage you to refill your spiritual account with us tonight at Central. Wednesday services begin at 6 pm!
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Jim Wall
Good Morning!
Isn’t it funny how tiring it is to serve God for one hour, but how quickly a team plays sixty minutes of basketball? Isn’t it funny how long a couple of hours spent at church are, but how short they are when watching a movie? Isn’t it funny how thrilled we get when a basketball game goes extra endings, but we complain when a sermon is longer than usual? Isn’t it funny how we can’t think of anything to say when we pray, but how easy it is to chat with a friend? Isn’t it funny how we want a front seat at a concert, but scramble to get a back seat at church?
Attitude is everything. We choose how we think about each event in life. In Psalm 100 we read, “Serve the Lord with gladness; Come before Him with joyful singing and enter His gates with Thanksgiving.” We can have an attitude of gratitude or bitterness. The choice is ours to make.
Good Morning!
Isn’t it funny how tiring it is to serve God for one hour, but how quickly a team plays sixty minutes of basketball? Isn’t it funny how long a couple of hours spent at church are, but how short they are when watching a movie? Isn’t it funny how thrilled we get when a basketball game goes extra endings, but we complain when a sermon is longer than usual? Isn’t it funny how we can’t think of anything to say when we pray, but how easy it is to chat with a friend? Isn’t it funny how we want a front seat at a concert, but scramble to get a back seat at church?
Attitude is everything. We choose how we think about each event in life. In Psalm 100 we read, “Serve the Lord with gladness; Come before Him with joyful singing and enter His gates with Thanksgiving.” We can have an attitude of gratitude or bitterness. The choice is ours to make.
Monday, March 28, 2011
Monday, March 28, 2011
Glenda Thomas
Good morning!
We are a bunch of whiners. Things don’t go the way we think they should, and we more or less give up. For instance, we say, “It’s impossible”, but God says “All things are possible”. We say, “Nobody really loves me”, but God says, “I love you.” We say, “I can’t do it.” But God says, “You can do all things”. We say, “I can’t forgive myself.” God says, “I can forgive you.” We say, “I’m afraid.” God says, “I have not given you a spirit of fear.” We say, “I feel all alone.” God says, “I will never leave you or forsake you.” So, what’s the solution? A memory and attitude adjustment. Let’s remember that God is always there for us. He is our biggest cheerleader-- always supporting us and loving us. So, when we get those “down in the dumps” attitudes, let’s let God pull us up and change that attitude to gratitude. Have wonderful day!
Good morning!
We are a bunch of whiners. Things don’t go the way we think they should, and we more or less give up. For instance, we say, “It’s impossible”, but God says “All things are possible”. We say, “Nobody really loves me”, but God says, “I love you.” We say, “I can’t do it.” But God says, “You can do all things”. We say, “I can’t forgive myself.” God says, “I can forgive you.” We say, “I’m afraid.” God says, “I have not given you a spirit of fear.” We say, “I feel all alone.” God says, “I will never leave you or forsake you.” So, what’s the solution? A memory and attitude adjustment. Let’s remember that God is always there for us. He is our biggest cheerleader-- always supporting us and loving us. So, when we get those “down in the dumps” attitudes, let’s let God pull us up and change that attitude to gratitude. Have wonderful day!
Friday, March 25, 2011
Friday, March 25, 2011
Sabrina Williams
Do you remember often enough that worship is an offering of your life to God in response to His life in you? In Exodus 34:6 we are told “God passed in front of Moses and called out, “God, God, a God of mercy and grace, endlessly patient - so much love, so deeply true.” Hearing these words, Moses bowed his head, bent his knee and worshiped the one who had shown His presence. Truly, worship is the only reasonable response when you begin to know God.
Worship is an offering of your life to God in response to his life in you. When God passed in front of Moses, God chose to talk about His incredible mercy, patience and love. It is the same with each of us. With God’s presence in our lives, how can we help but respond in like manner? If you do not have a church home, I invite you to join me in worship at Central this Sunday. We have Contemporary Worship at 8:30.. Sunday School at 9:30...Traditional worship at 10:55... Central is a family friendly church with two distinct styles of worship. Come...and worship...finding friendship, fellowship and acceptance as you worship God...the God of peace and life.
Do you remember often enough that worship is an offering of your life to God in response to His life in you? In Exodus 34:6 we are told “God passed in front of Moses and called out, “God, God, a God of mercy and grace, endlessly patient - so much love, so deeply true.” Hearing these words, Moses bowed his head, bent his knee and worshiped the one who had shown His presence. Truly, worship is the only reasonable response when you begin to know God.
Worship is an offering of your life to God in response to his life in you. When God passed in front of Moses, God chose to talk about His incredible mercy, patience and love. It is the same with each of us. With God’s presence in our lives, how can we help but respond in like manner? If you do not have a church home, I invite you to join me in worship at Central this Sunday. We have Contemporary Worship at 8:30.. Sunday School at 9:30...Traditional worship at 10:55... Central is a family friendly church with two distinct styles of worship. Come...and worship...finding friendship, fellowship and acceptance as you worship God...the God of peace and life.
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Amy Roller
Good morning.
Right now the Christian church is in the middle of the season that we call Lent. Lent is the 40 days before Easter, not counting Sundays, when we focus on repentance, forgiveness, and Jesus’ journey to the cross.
We remember that the journey that Jesus traveled was a sacrificial one, a path that involves difficulty and sacrifice for us today too. Lent is also a time for all Christians to come together and focus on the things we have in common.
You are invited today to join some of the downtown Meridian churches for a Lenten luncheon and worship time, held at Saint Patrick’s Catholic Church.
Any donations collected for the lunch will be given to the Fishes and Loaves ministry of the Wesley House community center.
Please come as you are able and observe this holy season together.
Good morning.
Right now the Christian church is in the middle of the season that we call Lent. Lent is the 40 days before Easter, not counting Sundays, when we focus on repentance, forgiveness, and Jesus’ journey to the cross.
We remember that the journey that Jesus traveled was a sacrificial one, a path that involves difficulty and sacrifice for us today too. Lent is also a time for all Christians to come together and focus on the things we have in common.
You are invited today to join some of the downtown Meridian churches for a Lenten luncheon and worship time, held at Saint Patrick’s Catholic Church.
Any donations collected for the lunch will be given to the Fishes and Loaves ministry of the Wesley House community center.
Please come as you are able and observe this holy season together.
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Bob Peden
In his gospel the apostle John tells us that after Jesus’ death “Joseph of Arimathea, who had been a secret disciple of Jesus because he feared the Jewish leaders, asked Pilate for permission to take Jesus' body down. When Pilate gave him permission, he came and took the body away.
Nicodemus, the man who had come to Jesus at night, also came, bringing about seventy-five pounds of embalming ointment made from myrrh and aloes.” The power of the Cross is demonstrated in the lives of these two men, neither of whom showed himself fully to be a disciple of Jesus in his ministry. Now in his death, they make sure he is given a proper burial, proving themselves loyal to the Lord at the most dangerous time for them to do so. The Cross touched them when nothing else could, just as it has touched me! Have you allowed it to touch you?
In his gospel the apostle John tells us that after Jesus’ death “Joseph of Arimathea, who had been a secret disciple of Jesus because he feared the Jewish leaders, asked Pilate for permission to take Jesus' body down. When Pilate gave him permission, he came and took the body away.
Nicodemus, the man who had come to Jesus at night, also came, bringing about seventy-five pounds of embalming ointment made from myrrh and aloes.” The power of the Cross is demonstrated in the lives of these two men, neither of whom showed himself fully to be a disciple of Jesus in his ministry. Now in his death, they make sure he is given a proper burial, proving themselves loyal to the Lord at the most dangerous time for them to do so. The Cross touched them when nothing else could, just as it has touched me! Have you allowed it to touch you?
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Jim Wall
Good Morning!
A mother was teaching her three-year-old daughter the Lord’s Prayer. For several evenings, she repeated it after her mother. One night she said she was ready to try it on her own. Her mother glowed with pride and listened to each word. The little girl sweetly prayed, “And lead us not into temptation but deliver us some email. Amen”
Did you hear that? “Deliver us some email.” How often do we email others, talk on our cell phones and surf the Internet? We can become so consumed with using all of the advances in technology that we forget to save time for the most important thing in life, which is spending time with God.
My prayer is that from our busy hectic schedules, we choose to carve out time for our Heavenly Father, to meditate on his word, to pray to Him, and to praise Him.
Good Morning!
A mother was teaching her three-year-old daughter the Lord’s Prayer. For several evenings, she repeated it after her mother. One night she said she was ready to try it on her own. Her mother glowed with pride and listened to each word. The little girl sweetly prayed, “And lead us not into temptation but deliver us some email. Amen”
Did you hear that? “Deliver us some email.” How often do we email others, talk on our cell phones and surf the Internet? We can become so consumed with using all of the advances in technology that we forget to save time for the most important thing in life, which is spending time with God.
My prayer is that from our busy hectic schedules, we choose to carve out time for our Heavenly Father, to meditate on his word, to pray to Him, and to praise Him.
Monday, March 21, 2011
Monday, March 21, 2011
Bob Rambo
Hi! I’m Bob Rambo, Lead Pastor at Central United Methodist Church. Later this morning, my wife Susie and I will return to the Queen City after spending the last 2 weeks studying together in Israel and Jordan with 14 others from Meridian.
The lands of the Bible are often referred to as the “5th gospel”. What is meant by this is that knowing something about the lands of the Bible helps us understand Scripture more clearly. So for the past 20 years, I’ve led groups there so people can see for themselves and hear the Bible stories where they took place.
Every student comes home with a different “favorite” place. For some, it will be Bethlehem in Judea; for others, it’s Bethsaida in Galilee or Petra in the land of Edom.
But while traveling to the Holy Lands is a spiritual experience – you don’t have to travel to the Middle East to experience God’s presence. God is with us wherever we are. So today – let’s give thanks. GOD IS WITH US.
Have a great day!
Hi! I’m Bob Rambo, Lead Pastor at Central United Methodist Church. Later this morning, my wife Susie and I will return to the Queen City after spending the last 2 weeks studying together in Israel and Jordan with 14 others from Meridian.
The lands of the Bible are often referred to as the “5th gospel”. What is meant by this is that knowing something about the lands of the Bible helps us understand Scripture more clearly. So for the past 20 years, I’ve led groups there so people can see for themselves and hear the Bible stories where they took place.
Every student comes home with a different “favorite” place. For some, it will be Bethlehem in Judea; for others, it’s Bethsaida in Galilee or Petra in the land of Edom.
But while traveling to the Holy Lands is a spiritual experience – you don’t have to travel to the Middle East to experience God’s presence. God is with us wherever we are. So today – let’s give thanks. GOD IS WITH US.
Have a great day!
Friday, March 18, 2011
Friday, March 18, 2011
BOB RAMBO
Hi! I’m Bob Rambo, Lead Pastor at Central United Methodist Church. One month from now, Central will host Dr. Ben Witherington III, one of the most highly-respected Biblical scholars of our time. Dr. Witherington teaches at Asbury Theological Seminary, has written over 40 books, and is in great demand around the world as a speaker.
He will speak at Central on “The Gospel of John” on Friday April 15, Saturday April 16, and Sunday April 17. The cost for the FRI-SAT events is $50 [if you register before April 1; after April 1, the cost is $75]. Dr. Witherington will speak at both worship services on April 17 and you are invited to be our guests that day.
This event is for pastors, teachers, and lay persons alike. You’ll find this stimulating, spiritually enriching, and challenging. For more information about this event, call our office at 601.693.1521 or visit our website at www.cumcmdn.org.
Have a great day!
Hi! I’m Bob Rambo, Lead Pastor at Central United Methodist Church. One month from now, Central will host Dr. Ben Witherington III, one of the most highly-respected Biblical scholars of our time. Dr. Witherington teaches at Asbury Theological Seminary, has written over 40 books, and is in great demand around the world as a speaker.
He will speak at Central on “The Gospel of John” on Friday April 15, Saturday April 16, and Sunday April 17. The cost for the FRI-SAT events is $50 [if you register before April 1; after April 1, the cost is $75]. Dr. Witherington will speak at both worship services on April 17 and you are invited to be our guests that day.
This event is for pastors, teachers, and lay persons alike. You’ll find this stimulating, spiritually enriching, and challenging. For more information about this event, call our office at 601.693.1521 or visit our website at www.cumcmdn.org.
Have a great day!
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Thursday, March 17, 2011
JIM CAIN
“But even if you should suffer for the sake of righteousness, you are blessed AND DO NOT FEAR THEIR INTIMIDATION, AND DO NOT BE TROUBLED”
1 Peter 3:14
Gary Gaetti was a member of the Minnesota Twins when he became a Christian. Gaetti hit a home run in his first-ever Major League at bat. He also won a World Series championship with Minnesota in 1987 and was the MVP of that year's American League Championship Series.
Before he gave his life to Christ, Gary spent a lot of time partying and carousing. Once he gave his life to Christ, he began to concentrate more on baseball. However, many Twins fans felt like Gary’s faith made him a “soft” player. Soon they and the media began criticizing him.
Sometimes when we do right we get treated wrong.
Have you suffered for doing the right thing? According to Peter, if that happens, then you are” blessed". You are privileged in God’s eyes for you have suffered for his name.
“But even if you should suffer for the sake of righteousness, you are blessed AND DO NOT FEAR THEIR INTIMIDATION, AND DO NOT BE TROUBLED”
1 Peter 3:14
Gary Gaetti was a member of the Minnesota Twins when he became a Christian. Gaetti hit a home run in his first-ever Major League at bat. He also won a World Series championship with Minnesota in 1987 and was the MVP of that year's American League Championship Series.
Before he gave his life to Christ, Gary spent a lot of time partying and carousing. Once he gave his life to Christ, he began to concentrate more on baseball. However, many Twins fans felt like Gary’s faith made him a “soft” player. Soon they and the media began criticizing him.
Sometimes when we do right we get treated wrong.
Have you suffered for doing the right thing? According to Peter, if that happens, then you are” blessed". You are privileged in God’s eyes for you have suffered for his name.
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Glenda Thomas
Good Morning: Ecclesiastes 3:1 tells us “To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under heaven.” God planned it all--Summer, Fall, Winter, Spring. Sunday, March 20, is the first day of Spring--my favorite time of the year. This is the time you can really see God at work. Everything is beginning to turn green, flowers will be blooming, the sky will be the bluest ever and the weather is changing--not too cold, not too hot.
I think this is the time of year that most resembles the Creation Story. Remember, each day that God added something, he looked at what he had done and said, “It is good.” That’s the way I feel about Spring. It’s a good time to remember that God is in control; that God is our Creator; that God can do anything. So, when driving in your car, walking down the street, jogging through your neighborhood or any of those other things that get you outside, take the time to look and see what God has done. Put a spring in your step and enjoy all that God has given us! Have a wonderful day!
Good Morning: Ecclesiastes 3:1 tells us “To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under heaven.” God planned it all--Summer, Fall, Winter, Spring. Sunday, March 20, is the first day of Spring--my favorite time of the year. This is the time you can really see God at work. Everything is beginning to turn green, flowers will be blooming, the sky will be the bluest ever and the weather is changing--not too cold, not too hot.
I think this is the time of year that most resembles the Creation Story. Remember, each day that God added something, he looked at what he had done and said, “It is good.” That’s the way I feel about Spring. It’s a good time to remember that God is in control; that God is our Creator; that God can do anything. So, when driving in your car, walking down the street, jogging through your neighborhood or any of those other things that get you outside, take the time to look and see what God has done. Put a spring in your step and enjoy all that God has given us! Have a wonderful day!
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Amy
Good morning.
The Gospel of John is the most unique of the 4 biblical gospels and contains beloved stories of Jesus not found in the other three.
I invite you to come to Central United Methodist church to hear world renowned New Testament scholar and prolific writer, Dr. Ben Witherington III of Asbury Theological Seminary lecture on the Gospel of John on April 15-17.
I had the privilege of taking one of Dr. Witherington’s classes in seminary, and I am thrilled that Meridian has the opportunity to learn from him too. He is considered one of the top evangelical scholars in the world, yet his down home sense of humor and North Carolina accent make his presentation understandable and enjoyable for all.
You can register online at www.cumcmdn.org or in our church office. This weekend event is $50 if you register before April 1st. Come and let Dr. Witherington’s insightful and entertaining presentation feed your mind and your heart.
Good morning.
The Gospel of John is the most unique of the 4 biblical gospels and contains beloved stories of Jesus not found in the other three.
I invite you to come to Central United Methodist church to hear world renowned New Testament scholar and prolific writer, Dr. Ben Witherington III of Asbury Theological Seminary lecture on the Gospel of John on April 15-17.
I had the privilege of taking one of Dr. Witherington’s classes in seminary, and I am thrilled that Meridian has the opportunity to learn from him too. He is considered one of the top evangelical scholars in the world, yet his down home sense of humor and North Carolina accent make his presentation understandable and enjoyable for all.
You can register online at www.cumcmdn.org or in our church office. This weekend event is $50 if you register before April 1st. Come and let Dr. Witherington’s insightful and entertaining presentation feed your mind and your heart.
Monday, March 14, 2011
Thursday, March 14, 2011
JIM WALL
Good Morning!
An Arab Leader once gave a banquet for all his friends. To help with the expense, he asked each guest to bring a beverage to share at the feast. The day arrived and one by one each guest lined up to empty his wineskin into a bowl. But much to the embarrassment of the host, each of the wineskins contained not a festive beverage but only water. Each guest had neglected his responsibility, assuming the others would provide the beverage and that his small contribution wouldn’t be missed.
This is a temptation all believers face – thinking that our service for the Lord is insignificant, that no one will know the difference if we don’t take part. While your part may seem small, never underestimate the value of your contribution in the work of the Lord.
Ask God to help you fulfill your responsibility as a Christian in service to him.
Good Morning!
An Arab Leader once gave a banquet for all his friends. To help with the expense, he asked each guest to bring a beverage to share at the feast. The day arrived and one by one each guest lined up to empty his wineskin into a bowl. But much to the embarrassment of the host, each of the wineskins contained not a festive beverage but only water. Each guest had neglected his responsibility, assuming the others would provide the beverage and that his small contribution wouldn’t be missed.
This is a temptation all believers face – thinking that our service for the Lord is insignificant, that no one will know the difference if we don’t take part. While your part may seem small, never underestimate the value of your contribution in the work of the Lord.
Ask God to help you fulfill your responsibility as a Christian in service to him.
Friday, March 11, 2011
Friday, March 11, 2011
Amy
Good morning.
Isaiah 64:8 says “you Lord are our Father, We are the clay, you are the potter, we are all the work of your hand.” This potter and clay image has always been a meaningful biblical image for me.
During our recent “I am the Clay” spiritual life retreat here at Central, potter and spiritual director, Jane Knight, led us in a creative reflection of the profound image of God as the potter and us as the clay.
We each chose a pottery-related phrase to be our prayer for the retreat such as “center me, form me, open me, hold me, shape me, fill me, trim me, use me.” All of these phrases represent ways that God the Potter works in our lives.
As a potter forms and shapes the clay into a vessel, so God forms and shapes us. Some of us are in the stage of being trimmed, some of us just need to be held for awhile.
Regardless of where you are on your spiritual journey, consider making one of these phrases your prayer today, and
may we all continue to grow to be more like our Divine Potter.
Good morning.
Isaiah 64:8 says “you Lord are our Father, We are the clay, you are the potter, we are all the work of your hand.” This potter and clay image has always been a meaningful biblical image for me.
During our recent “I am the Clay” spiritual life retreat here at Central, potter and spiritual director, Jane Knight, led us in a creative reflection of the profound image of God as the potter and us as the clay.
We each chose a pottery-related phrase to be our prayer for the retreat such as “center me, form me, open me, hold me, shape me, fill me, trim me, use me.” All of these phrases represent ways that God the Potter works in our lives.
As a potter forms and shapes the clay into a vessel, so God forms and shapes us. Some of us are in the stage of being trimmed, some of us just need to be held for awhile.
Regardless of where you are on your spiritual journey, consider making one of these phrases your prayer today, and
may we all continue to grow to be more like our Divine Potter.
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Thursday, March 10, 2011
BOB PEDEN
The little book of Jonah ends with God asking Jonah a question. “Should I not have concern for the great city of Nineveh, in which there are more than a hundred and twenty thousand people who cannot tell their right hand from their left—and also many animals?”
If God was concerned about the evil city of Nineveh, shouldn't we have concern for the great cities and countries of our age, no matter how they feel about us and our culture, our countries, and our Christ? You see, the greatest desire of God is for us to celebrate with him when the lost of every language, tribe, people, and culture are saved and join together in praise of Jesus. So what are we doing to demonstrate that concern and share God's grace?
The little book of Jonah ends with God asking Jonah a question. “Should I not have concern for the great city of Nineveh, in which there are more than a hundred and twenty thousand people who cannot tell their right hand from their left—and also many animals?”
If God was concerned about the evil city of Nineveh, shouldn't we have concern for the great cities and countries of our age, no matter how they feel about us and our culture, our countries, and our Christ? You see, the greatest desire of God is for us to celebrate with him when the lost of every language, tribe, people, and culture are saved and join together in praise of Jesus. So what are we doing to demonstrate that concern and share God's grace?
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
BOB RAMBO
Hi! I’m Bob Rambo, Lead Pastor at Central United Methodist Church. Today is “Ash Wednesday”, the beginning of LENT. Lent is a 40-day season of the Christian year that parallels Jesus’ 40 days in the wilderness. As Jesus prayed and sought God’s guidance for his ministry, Lent is a time of prayer and preparation for us so we might fully experience the joy of Easter resurrection and new life in Jesus Christ.
During Lent, the Church proclaims the mystery of what God does in the suffering, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. We are confronted with our HUMANITY [our tendency to choose our ways over God’s ways] and our MORTALITY [the reality that one day all of us will die].
So tonight at 6:00 in the Sanctuary at Central, we are invited to gather together, to acknowledge our sinfulness, to ask God’s mercy, and to have ashes [symbols of our mortality] put on our foreheads.
If you don’t have a place to help you on this Lenten journey, join us at Central – where everyone is welcome!
Hi! I’m Bob Rambo, Lead Pastor at Central United Methodist Church. Today is “Ash Wednesday”, the beginning of LENT. Lent is a 40-day season of the Christian year that parallels Jesus’ 40 days in the wilderness. As Jesus prayed and sought God’s guidance for his ministry, Lent is a time of prayer and preparation for us so we might fully experience the joy of Easter resurrection and new life in Jesus Christ.
During Lent, the Church proclaims the mystery of what God does in the suffering, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. We are confronted with our HUMANITY [our tendency to choose our ways over God’s ways] and our MORTALITY [the reality that one day all of us will die].
So tonight at 6:00 in the Sanctuary at Central, we are invited to gather together, to acknowledge our sinfulness, to ask God’s mercy, and to have ashes [symbols of our mortality] put on our foreheads.
If you don’t have a place to help you on this Lenten journey, join us at Central – where everyone is welcome!
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
JIM CAIN
In baseball, it’s pitching. In football, it’s a strong defense. I’m talking about the foundation of success in sports.
Every successful team knew what was required in order to achieve success, and started building on those components.
Always keep in mind that it is possible to build the wrong kind of base. Sometimes baseball teams think they can win on pure power, alone so management assembles a bunch of sluggers and run scorers only to find out in the play-offs if not sooner, that their pitching wasn’t good enough to carry them all the way. They built on the wrong base.
We, like sports teams, do that too. We can build our lives on the wrong foundation or on no foundation at all. Then, when trouble hits, our lives crumble around us. What we thought was strong foundation- money, relationships, religion, good deeds, does not hold us up.
In life there can be only one true foundation: Jesus. 1Corinthians 3:11 says, “For no man can lay a foundation other than the one which is laid, which is Jesus Christ.”
Even Christians can be fooled by good things, thinking those things will give them security. But someday that building material will be tested and found inferior.
In baseball, it’s pitching. In football, it’s a strong defense. I’m talking about the foundation of success in sports.
Every successful team knew what was required in order to achieve success, and started building on those components.
Always keep in mind that it is possible to build the wrong kind of base. Sometimes baseball teams think they can win on pure power, alone so management assembles a bunch of sluggers and run scorers only to find out in the play-offs if not sooner, that their pitching wasn’t good enough to carry them all the way. They built on the wrong base.
We, like sports teams, do that too. We can build our lives on the wrong foundation or on no foundation at all. Then, when trouble hits, our lives crumble around us. What we thought was strong foundation- money, relationships, religion, good deeds, does not hold us up.
In life there can be only one true foundation: Jesus. 1Corinthians 3:11 says, “For no man can lay a foundation other than the one which is laid, which is Jesus Christ.”
Even Christians can be fooled by good things, thinking those things will give them security. But someday that building material will be tested and found inferior.
Monday, March 7, 2011
Monday, March 7, 2011
SABRINA
Good Morning!
There are times when we find ourselves in a spiritual "dry" spell. No rhyme or reason, just something that happens to us all. Some call it "depression," others just tired and uninspired.
Sometimes it is like being alone in the desert under a hot sun, nothing to drink or eat, not even knowing what it is we need. We just know that we need SOMEthing.
In those times we often do not even want to pray. The desert experience, however, can be a POSITIVE thing! Spiritual growth takes place during these dry spells. It is during these times we are reminded of God’s sovereignty and power in our lives.
Isaiah 51:3 reminds us: “Indeed, the LORD will comfort... the wilderness He will make like Eden, the desert like the garden of the LORD; Joy and gladness WILL be found, Thanksgiving and sound of a melody.”
If today you find yourself in the desert, know that you are not alone. God... God who knows your innermost needs, walks with you, comforting, loving, and holding you as you turn to him for solace. And coming out of the desert you will look back realizing you are better for having gone through! Have a blessed day.
Good Morning!
There are times when we find ourselves in a spiritual "dry" spell. No rhyme or reason, just something that happens to us all. Some call it "depression," others just tired and uninspired.
Sometimes it is like being alone in the desert under a hot sun, nothing to drink or eat, not even knowing what it is we need. We just know that we need SOMEthing.
In those times we often do not even want to pray. The desert experience, however, can be a POSITIVE thing! Spiritual growth takes place during these dry spells. It is during these times we are reminded of God’s sovereignty and power in our lives.
Isaiah 51:3 reminds us: “Indeed, the LORD will comfort... the wilderness He will make like Eden, the desert like the garden of the LORD; Joy and gladness WILL be found, Thanksgiving and sound of a melody.”
If today you find yourself in the desert, know that you are not alone. God... God who knows your innermost needs, walks with you, comforting, loving, and holding you as you turn to him for solace. And coming out of the desert you will look back realizing you are better for having gone through! Have a blessed day.
Friday, March 4, 2011
Friday, March 4, 2011
BOB PEDEN
Good Morning!
Jesus stepped out of the boat onto the shore of the Sea of Galilee and was confronted by a naked man covered in sores and possessed by a host of demonic minions that tormented and controlled him. With just a word, Jesus orders the demons to leave the man.
As the encounter between Jesus and the man draws to a close, we find the formerly demon possessed man fully clothed and in his right mind. He asks to come with Jesus, but Jesus does not allow it, instead sending the man back to his own people to tell them of what God has done for him.
This is what Jesus asks of us as well, that wherever we find ourselves, we tell those around us of what God has done for us. It is a simple request, really. It doesn’t take years of schooling, it doesn’t require days of careful preparation, it really doesn’t take great courage. So, why is it that we do not tell everyone we meet about what God has done for us?
Good Morning!
Jesus stepped out of the boat onto the shore of the Sea of Galilee and was confronted by a naked man covered in sores and possessed by a host of demonic minions that tormented and controlled him. With just a word, Jesus orders the demons to leave the man.
As the encounter between Jesus and the man draws to a close, we find the formerly demon possessed man fully clothed and in his right mind. He asks to come with Jesus, but Jesus does not allow it, instead sending the man back to his own people to tell them of what God has done for him.
This is what Jesus asks of us as well, that wherever we find ourselves, we tell those around us of what God has done for us. It is a simple request, really. It doesn’t take years of schooling, it doesn’t require days of careful preparation, it really doesn’t take great courage. So, why is it that we do not tell everyone we meet about what God has done for us?
Thursday, March 3, 2011
Thursday, March 3, 2011
SABRINA
Good Morning!
Our world is full of state of the art communication...cell phones put family and friends...thousands of miles away, just seconds away.
Have you stopped to think, of prayer, as a direct-connect line of communication .
Jesus urged us to pray continually. In John 15:7 “If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you will, and it will be given to you.”
Like all of the cell phone gadgets, here are some tips to help keep your prayer strategy organized. During the morning, perhaps on your commute, pray for family members and issues... friends and others, on the way home. Place prayer reminders in your daily planner or include them as to do prompts in your phone or on your computer. Have a friend who needs prayer for a doctor’s appt or a child having a test? Use your phone alarm to remind you to say a prayer at that time. Make a list of prayer concerns and place them on the dashboard of your car.
God is truly only a prayer away. I encourage you to use this incredible, interactive tool...it will recharge your life! Have a blessed day!
________________
Good Morning!
Our world is full of state of the art communication...cell phones put family and friends...thousands of miles away, just seconds away.
Have you stopped to think, of prayer, as a direct-connect line of communication .
Jesus urged us to pray continually. In John 15:7 “If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you will, and it will be given to you.”
Like all of the cell phone gadgets, here are some tips to help keep your prayer strategy organized. During the morning, perhaps on your commute, pray for family members and issues... friends and others, on the way home. Place prayer reminders in your daily planner or include them as to do prompts in your phone or on your computer. Have a friend who needs prayer for a doctor’s appt or a child having a test? Use your phone alarm to remind you to say a prayer at that time. Make a list of prayer concerns and place them on the dashboard of your car.
God is truly only a prayer away. I encourage you to use this incredible, interactive tool...it will recharge your life! Have a blessed day!
________________
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Glenda Thomas
Good Morning: One day during school, I heard a child crying so I went to see what was wrong. It was a child in one of our two year classes who was very upset that her Mother had come early to pick her up and she did not want to go!! Although I wasn’t happy to see her so upset, I did feel a sense of pride in our program since she obviously did not want to leave us.
I have to admit, I feel that pride often because of the quality program we have, our wonderful facility, the hard work of our teaching staff, the interaction with our parents, and the Christian environment.
At Central’s Children’s Center, today is our first day of registration for the fall term which begins in August. If you have or know someone with a child between the ages of 1 and 4, and are interested in a fun, active, Christian preschool for your child, please call the church and ask for me, Glenda Thomas. I’ll be glad to talk with you and would like the opportunity to give you a tour of our facility. Have a wonderful day!
Good Morning: One day during school, I heard a child crying so I went to see what was wrong. It was a child in one of our two year classes who was very upset that her Mother had come early to pick her up and she did not want to go!! Although I wasn’t happy to see her so upset, I did feel a sense of pride in our program since she obviously did not want to leave us.
I have to admit, I feel that pride often because of the quality program we have, our wonderful facility, the hard work of our teaching staff, the interaction with our parents, and the Christian environment.
At Central’s Children’s Center, today is our first day of registration for the fall term which begins in August. If you have or know someone with a child between the ages of 1 and 4, and are interested in a fun, active, Christian preschool for your child, please call the church and ask for me, Glenda Thomas. I’ll be glad to talk with you and would like the opportunity to give you a tour of our facility. Have a wonderful day!
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
JIM WALL
Good Morning!
“Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I say rejoice!”
Philippians 4:4
Did you know that there are some 800 “rejoicing texts” in the Bible reminding us to “Be glad in the Lord,” “Rejoice greatly,” and “Shout for Joy”? There are many reasons to rejoice and celebrate in the Lord, but sometimes we forget with the burdens of everyday life weighing us down and the seemingly hopeless world we now live in.
But the Lord says in Philippians 4:8, “Whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is gracious, if there is anything worthy of praise, meditate on these things.”
Count your blessings everyday, and remember all of the many reasons to rejoice and be glad in the Lord. If God took the trouble to tell us 800 times to rejoice, it must be important to Him that we do so.
Good Morning!
“Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I say rejoice!”
Philippians 4:4
Did you know that there are some 800 “rejoicing texts” in the Bible reminding us to “Be glad in the Lord,” “Rejoice greatly,” and “Shout for Joy”? There are many reasons to rejoice and celebrate in the Lord, but sometimes we forget with the burdens of everyday life weighing us down and the seemingly hopeless world we now live in.
But the Lord says in Philippians 4:8, “Whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is gracious, if there is anything worthy of praise, meditate on these things.”
Count your blessings everyday, and remember all of the many reasons to rejoice and be glad in the Lord. If God took the trouble to tell us 800 times to rejoice, it must be important to Him that we do so.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)