SABRINA
We now live in a world of digital technology. From computers, to cell phones, to cameras. And because of technology, what you see may not be an accurate account of an image. Digital imaging allows those who have not been present in a picture to be placed in the photograph or to be placed in a location they never visited. A false, yet seemingly accurate image can be produced.
The fact is, however, it is only an image. Digital Imaging can change a picture, but not the reality.
Jesus was not interested in enhanced images. He had a vision of what love can do...changing the real world, enhancing real life. This can't be done with a computer. This cannot be done by simply being in church. It can only be done as we actively participate in being what Jesus intended...being not hearers only...but doers. Walk today in the reality of God's love, willing to change and enhance the real image of God's world!
Have a blessed day!
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Monday, May 30, 2011
Monday, May 30, 2011
JIM Wall
Good Morning!
On May 26, 1942, these words were broadcasted over Radio Tokyo. “The British and American fleets cannot appear on the oceans. The Japanese people can look forward to a triumphant march into London and a victory march in New York.” How different the world would be today if the other side had gained the victory in World War II. The prayers of thousands of God's people contributed to the Allied victory.
Today is Memorial Day. I hope you will join me in thanking God for all the brave men and women who have given their lives that we may be free and safe. Young U.S. military personnel die every day in an effort to make the world a better place to live. You are free to pray for them if you wish.
Good Morning!
On May 26, 1942, these words were broadcasted over Radio Tokyo. “The British and American fleets cannot appear on the oceans. The Japanese people can look forward to a triumphant march into London and a victory march in New York.” How different the world would be today if the other side had gained the victory in World War II. The prayers of thousands of God's people contributed to the Allied victory.
Today is Memorial Day. I hope you will join me in thanking God for all the brave men and women who have given their lives that we may be free and safe. Young U.S. military personnel die every day in an effort to make the world a better place to live. You are free to pray for them if you wish.
Friday, May 27, 2011
Friday, May 27,2011
BOB PEDEN
This is Bob Peden of Central United Methodist Church. I often hear people say that they have a difficult time understanding the Bible. I have some advice for you if you have trouble figuring out what the Bible is saying to you. First, know that you are in good company. Peter, in one of his epistles, even says that Paul's writing is difficult to understand.
Second find a good translation in today's English. The English language is changing so rapidly and new discoveries of ancient texts of the Bible are being found so regularly that anything much over 20 or 30 years old may be needlessly difficult to understand.
Third, remember that this is God's story telling of his relationship with His creation. It is not a list of rules or guidelines or a self help book. It is much better, it is God's own story.
Finally, find a good Christian friend or group to read along with you. You won't understand everything perfectly, but these suggestions will help.
This is Bob Peden of Central United Methodist Church. I often hear people say that they have a difficult time understanding the Bible. I have some advice for you if you have trouble figuring out what the Bible is saying to you. First, know that you are in good company. Peter, in one of his epistles, even says that Paul's writing is difficult to understand.
Second find a good translation in today's English. The English language is changing so rapidly and new discoveries of ancient texts of the Bible are being found so regularly that anything much over 20 or 30 years old may be needlessly difficult to understand.
Third, remember that this is God's story telling of his relationship with His creation. It is not a list of rules or guidelines or a self help book. It is much better, it is God's own story.
Finally, find a good Christian friend or group to read along with you. You won't understand everything perfectly, but these suggestions will help.
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Hi! I'm Bob Rambo, Lead Pastor at Central United Methodist Church.
In the last few months, there have been an unbelievable number of natural disasters at home and around the world. Flooding along the Mississippi River, tornadoes in Mississippi and Alabama, and a major earthquake in Japan have left many reeling. People wonder - Where is God in all this? - as if God somehow causes these events.
We live in a world that is inherently RISKY, a world in which things sometimes just happen. God is seldom responsible and certainly not to blame. However, we CAN often see God's presence - in the AFTERMATH: in the loving, caring, helping acts of those who come to aid those in need; in the ways people come together and face crisis in unity.
If you want to see God's presence - and if you want others to see Him too - then let God work through you to help those in need.
In the last few months, there have been an unbelievable number of natural disasters at home and around the world. Flooding along the Mississippi River, tornadoes in Mississippi and Alabama, and a major earthquake in Japan have left many reeling. People wonder - Where is God in all this? - as if God somehow causes these events.
We live in a world that is inherently RISKY, a world in which things sometimes just happen. God is seldom responsible and certainly not to blame. However, we CAN often see God's presence - in the AFTERMATH: in the loving, caring, helping acts of those who come to aid those in need; in the ways people come together and face crisis in unity.
If you want to see God's presence - and if you want others to see Him too - then let God work through you to help those in need.
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
JIM CAIN
This message is for all our high school and college graduates this morning.
The Guinness Book of World Records contains examples of the unusual things people will do to be famous, even if for only their 15 minutes. One man grew a 7'10' mustache! Another stood on one foot for 12 hours, 12 minutes, and 12 seconds! A teenager in India ate 2 rose bushes in 90 minute: another time he ate 625 chilies in 90 minutes! As you leave home in search of fame and fortune,
eager to leave your mark on the world remember
the Bible teaches that those who lead others to righteousness are like the stars in heaven and their glory will shine forever and ever. I encourage you now to use your life and influence to lead others to God and you will win respect, and your reward will last forever. Thank you class of 2011 for what you have already given us and for what yet lies ahead.
This message is for all our high school and college graduates this morning.
The Guinness Book of World Records contains examples of the unusual things people will do to be famous, even if for only their 15 minutes. One man grew a 7'10' mustache! Another stood on one foot for 12 hours, 12 minutes, and 12 seconds! A teenager in India ate 2 rose bushes in 90 minute: another time he ate 625 chilies in 90 minutes! As you leave home in search of fame and fortune,
eager to leave your mark on the world remember
the Bible teaches that those who lead others to righteousness are like the stars in heaven and their glory will shine forever and ever. I encourage you now to use your life and influence to lead others to God and you will win respect, and your reward will last forever. Thank you class of 2011 for what you have already given us and for what yet lies ahead.
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
JIM Wall
Good Morning!
I remember seeing a painting of an old fisherman seated in a boat with a young girl beside him. Both the elderly man and the child have their hands on huge oars. The fisherman is looking down lovingly at the girl. Apparently, the man has told her that she may assist him in rowing the boat, and in her desire to help, she feels as though she is doing a great share of the task. However, it's obvious that it's his strong arms that are moving the heavy oars through the water.
Christ has granted to us the privilege of sharing in His work here on earth. We must never forget, however, that we cannot perform our task through our abilities alone, but only as God works in and through us.
Let's recognize our own weakness and echo the cry of the psalmist, “I will go in the strength of the Lord God.”
Good Morning!
I remember seeing a painting of an old fisherman seated in a boat with a young girl beside him. Both the elderly man and the child have their hands on huge oars. The fisherman is looking down lovingly at the girl. Apparently, the man has told her that she may assist him in rowing the boat, and in her desire to help, she feels as though she is doing a great share of the task. However, it's obvious that it's his strong arms that are moving the heavy oars through the water.
Christ has granted to us the privilege of sharing in His work here on earth. We must never forget, however, that we cannot perform our task through our abilities alone, but only as God works in and through us.
Let's recognize our own weakness and echo the cry of the psalmist, “I will go in the strength of the Lord God.”
Monday, May 23, 2011
Monday, May 23, 2011
GLENDA
Good Morning:
Daddy worked in the fields from sun-up to sun-down. It was hot that summer day. Mama sent me to take his lunch. I'll never forget the smell of that freshly turned dirt and seeing my daddy far on the other side on his tractor working away.
There was one lone tree in the middle of that field that spread its branches big and strong. That's where I met him with his lunch. I sat with him while he ate and soaked up the warm sun, the shade from that beautiful old tree, and the smell. If heaven were like that I would be content, but Jesus said it's even better. He said, “I go to prepare a place for you where the streets are lined with gold and there are many mansions.” I'm glad that I believe in the kind of heavenly father who loves me and promises me so much.
That promise is for you, too. All you have to do is believe. Have a wonderful day!
Good Morning:
Daddy worked in the fields from sun-up to sun-down. It was hot that summer day. Mama sent me to take his lunch. I'll never forget the smell of that freshly turned dirt and seeing my daddy far on the other side on his tractor working away.
There was one lone tree in the middle of that field that spread its branches big and strong. That's where I met him with his lunch. I sat with him while he ate and soaked up the warm sun, the shade from that beautiful old tree, and the smell. If heaven were like that I would be content, but Jesus said it's even better. He said, “I go to prepare a place for you where the streets are lined with gold and there are many mansions.” I'm glad that I believe in the kind of heavenly father who loves me and promises me so much.
That promise is for you, too. All you have to do is believe. Have a wonderful day!
Friday, May 20, 2011
Friday, May 20, 2011
BOB RAMBO
Last month our nation observed the 150th anniversary of the start of the Civil War – a conflict that tore our nation apart and killed more soldiers than all other wars in our history combined. The Civil War left deep scars on our country, sometimes dividing families and friends. As a matter of fact, I sometimes meet people who act as though the Civil War is still being fought!
Whenever there are deep divisions among people, it can be hard to move beyond them. Like a wound to our bodies, wounds of the soul can become infected and threaten our spiritual health.
The Apostle Paul had these simple but profound words for the Christians in Ephesus, a city in ancient Turkey:
Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of malicious behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.
When we forgive – when we are forgiven – the healing begins.
Have a great day!
Last month our nation observed the 150th anniversary of the start of the Civil War – a conflict that tore our nation apart and killed more soldiers than all other wars in our history combined. The Civil War left deep scars on our country, sometimes dividing families and friends. As a matter of fact, I sometimes meet people who act as though the Civil War is still being fought!
Whenever there are deep divisions among people, it can be hard to move beyond them. Like a wound to our bodies, wounds of the soul can become infected and threaten our spiritual health.
The Apostle Paul had these simple but profound words for the Christians in Ephesus, a city in ancient Turkey:
Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of malicious behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.
When we forgive – when we are forgiven – the healing begins.
Have a great day!
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Amy
Good morning.
Author, Sue Monk Kidd, tells the story of being in downtown Atlanta on a cold winter day, standing outside a soup kitchen where there were hungry and homeless people gathered.
She and her husband had gone to help serve a meal. As she approached the door, Sue noticed a woman wearing a thin coat, a ski cap, and one glove. The homeless lady clasped her cold naked hand in her gloved hand, trying to rub some warmth into it.
Sue approached her and said, “I see you lost a glove.” The lady smiled and replied, “No ma’am, I found a glove.”
We so often take the things that we have for granted and focus on what we don’t have. I invite you to look beyond yourself and find ways to serve those in need in the Meridian area.
There are many agencies in the community through which you can serve. Consider contacting Love’s Kitchen, Wesley House, the Salvation Army, and other organizations to see how you can make a difference.
Good morning.
Author, Sue Monk Kidd, tells the story of being in downtown Atlanta on a cold winter day, standing outside a soup kitchen where there were hungry and homeless people gathered.
She and her husband had gone to help serve a meal. As she approached the door, Sue noticed a woman wearing a thin coat, a ski cap, and one glove. The homeless lady clasped her cold naked hand in her gloved hand, trying to rub some warmth into it.
Sue approached her and said, “I see you lost a glove.” The lady smiled and replied, “No ma’am, I found a glove.”
We so often take the things that we have for granted and focus on what we don’t have. I invite you to look beyond yourself and find ways to serve those in need in the Meridian area.
There are many agencies in the community through which you can serve. Consider contacting Love’s Kitchen, Wesley House, the Salvation Army, and other organizations to see how you can make a difference.
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
BOB PEDEN
Jesus came proclaiming, “The Kingdom of Heaven is near.” This is his Good News for us today, The Kingdom of Heaven is among us here and now. Sometimes we Christians become so focused on Jesus’ presence 2000 years ago that we act as though He took the Kingdom with Him when he returned to the Father.
Sometimes we become so focused on what we need to do to get to heaven after we die, that we forget about working to further the Kingdom of Heaven now. Sometimes we get so focused on the second coming of Jesus, that we forget he has never abandoned us at all. God is with us. By the power of the Holy Spirit we are able to live and work in God’s kingdom and for God’s will to be accomplished on earth, as it is in heaven. Jesus would not teach us to pray for something God would not provide.
The Kingdom of Heaven is here, now. Will you choose to live in that kingdom today?
Jesus came proclaiming, “The Kingdom of Heaven is near.” This is his Good News for us today, The Kingdom of Heaven is among us here and now. Sometimes we Christians become so focused on Jesus’ presence 2000 years ago that we act as though He took the Kingdom with Him when he returned to the Father.
Sometimes we become so focused on what we need to do to get to heaven after we die, that we forget about working to further the Kingdom of Heaven now. Sometimes we get so focused on the second coming of Jesus, that we forget he has never abandoned us at all. God is with us. By the power of the Holy Spirit we are able to live and work in God’s kingdom and for God’s will to be accomplished on earth, as it is in heaven. Jesus would not teach us to pray for something God would not provide.
The Kingdom of Heaven is here, now. Will you choose to live in that kingdom today?
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
GLENDA
Good Morning:
After God created Heaven and Earth, God created Adam and Eve. The first thing he said to them was “Don’t!” “Don’t what?” Adam replied. “Don’t eat the forbidden fruit.” said God. Well, you know the rest of the story. They couldn’t resist the temptation and they ate it. When God asked why they had disobeyed him, of course, they each blamed the other. Having had it with the two of them, part of God’s punishment was that Adam and Eve should have children of their own.
Thus the pattern was set and it has never changed. However, if you have persistently and lovingly tried to give your children wisdom and they haven’t taken it; don’t be so hard on yourself. After all, if God had trouble raising children, what makes you think it would be a piece of cake for you?
That’s a funny take on the story of Adam and Eve, but the good news is God loved them anyway. He took care of them; He blessed them; He gave them a second chance. He didn’t give up on them and He continued to guide them. A good lesson for all of us parents. Have a wonderful day!
Good Morning:
After God created Heaven and Earth, God created Adam and Eve. The first thing he said to them was “Don’t!” “Don’t what?” Adam replied. “Don’t eat the forbidden fruit.” said God. Well, you know the rest of the story. They couldn’t resist the temptation and they ate it. When God asked why they had disobeyed him, of course, they each blamed the other. Having had it with the two of them, part of God’s punishment was that Adam and Eve should have children of their own.
Thus the pattern was set and it has never changed. However, if you have persistently and lovingly tried to give your children wisdom and they haven’t taken it; don’t be so hard on yourself. After all, if God had trouble raising children, what makes you think it would be a piece of cake for you?
That’s a funny take on the story of Adam and Eve, but the good news is God loved them anyway. He took care of them; He blessed them; He gave them a second chance. He didn’t give up on them and He continued to guide them. A good lesson for all of us parents. Have a wonderful day!
Monday, May 16, 2011
Monday, May 16, 2011
SABRINA
Each morning, as we wake, we have an option. We can choose to be discouraged or to hope. This is an especially difficult choice this morning if you have not slept well, are sick, grieving, or face a busy day full of challenges. It is still, however, a decision that remains in each of our power.
We can each govern our attitude - especially when meditating on and believing in the God who can turn everything around. Circumstances need not dictate our moods....in fact...many times our moods affect our circumstances. More times than not, you will find that when you choose your attitude, you will be better able to affect how your day turns out.
Does this morning find you discouraged, at loose ends? Put hour hope in God...put God in the center of your life this morning...it will change your attitude...perhaps not your circumstances...but your re-action to them and therefore change your day!
Each morning, as we wake, we have an option. We can choose to be discouraged or to hope. This is an especially difficult choice this morning if you have not slept well, are sick, grieving, or face a busy day full of challenges. It is still, however, a decision that remains in each of our power.
We can each govern our attitude - especially when meditating on and believing in the God who can turn everything around. Circumstances need not dictate our moods....in fact...many times our moods affect our circumstances. More times than not, you will find that when you choose your attitude, you will be better able to affect how your day turns out.
Does this morning find you discouraged, at loose ends? Put hour hope in God...put God in the center of your life this morning...it will change your attitude...perhaps not your circumstances...but your re-action to them and therefore change your day!
Friday, May 13, 2011
Friday, May 13, 2011
BOB PEDEN
Where is your heart this morning? Now I trust your physical heart is firmly planted within your chest cavity. But I am not asking about your physical heart. Where is your spiritual heart this morning? Jesus has much to say about human hearts.
Hearts that are hardened against His Good News. Hearts that are far from Him. Jesus says “where your treasure is there your heart is also.” If your heart is for God’s will then you will place your treasure there also.
Jesus gives us one command. “Love your God with all your HEART, all your soul, all your mind, and all your strength, and love your neighbor as yourself. Do you love God and neighbor with all your heart this morning? Is His will your heart’s desire today? Have you hardened your heart against God’s children in need? Where is your heart?
Where is your heart this morning? Now I trust your physical heart is firmly planted within your chest cavity. But I am not asking about your physical heart. Where is your spiritual heart this morning? Jesus has much to say about human hearts.
Hearts that are hardened against His Good News. Hearts that are far from Him. Jesus says “where your treasure is there your heart is also.” If your heart is for God’s will then you will place your treasure there also.
Jesus gives us one command. “Love your God with all your HEART, all your soul, all your mind, and all your strength, and love your neighbor as yourself. Do you love God and neighbor with all your heart this morning? Is His will your heart’s desire today? Have you hardened your heart against God’s children in need? Where is your heart?
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
SABRINA
I have fond memories of summers at my grandparents home in Lauderdale. My grandmother would take me to the springs to fill jars with fresh, cool, clear, drinking water. My grandfather worked for the County, and in the afternoons; I would ride with him to light roadside flares.
After that, we would go to the garden, just as the sun was setting, eating watermelon straight from the vine. That is where he taught me to call the whippoorwills.
What wonderful memories of a time when I begin to learn, through my grandparents, to appreciate the beautiful world that God had prepared for me.
I think of those times in the cool quiet evenings at my country home and each time I sing the hymn “This is My Father’s World.”
I encourage you to take some time this summer for yourself and those you love and enjoy some quiet moments away from daily life. Reflect on the beauty and peace of this world that God has created. Then take a moment to thank Him for it!
I have fond memories of summers at my grandparents home in Lauderdale. My grandmother would take me to the springs to fill jars with fresh, cool, clear, drinking water. My grandfather worked for the County, and in the afternoons; I would ride with him to light roadside flares.
After that, we would go to the garden, just as the sun was setting, eating watermelon straight from the vine. That is where he taught me to call the whippoorwills.
What wonderful memories of a time when I begin to learn, through my grandparents, to appreciate the beautiful world that God had prepared for me.
I think of those times in the cool quiet evenings at my country home and each time I sing the hymn “This is My Father’s World.”
I encourage you to take some time this summer for yourself and those you love and enjoy some quiet moments away from daily life. Reflect on the beauty and peace of this world that God has created. Then take a moment to thank Him for it!
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Amy
Good Morning! Have you heard the hymn, “Fill my cup Lord”? This song includes the illustration of a cup to represent our lives that long to be filled with God’s spirit. I have grown up with this image in my mind, but recently I encountered another illustration that made more sense.
Instead of our spiritual lives being represented by a cup where we seem to contain God’s Spirit, consider the picture of a pipe, pipe open at both ends, where God’s Spirit can enter and fill us, yet can flow through and out of us to reach others.
A pipe represents the fact that God’s work in the world is always alive, moving, and fluid. We can never possess or contain it.
Instead of us being filled and God’s work being completed, the image of a pipe reminds us that God is continually flowing into us and out of us for the sake of others, if we are open.
God’s work is never done. So may your pipe be open to God’s Spirit today.
Good Morning! Have you heard the hymn, “Fill my cup Lord”? This song includes the illustration of a cup to represent our lives that long to be filled with God’s spirit. I have grown up with this image in my mind, but recently I encountered another illustration that made more sense.
Instead of our spiritual lives being represented by a cup where we seem to contain God’s Spirit, consider the picture of a pipe, pipe open at both ends, where God’s Spirit can enter and fill us, yet can flow through and out of us to reach others.
A pipe represents the fact that God’s work in the world is always alive, moving, and fluid. We can never possess or contain it.
Instead of us being filled and God’s work being completed, the image of a pipe reminds us that God is continually flowing into us and out of us for the sake of others, if we are open.
God’s work is never done. So may your pipe be open to God’s Spirit today.
Monday, May 9, 2011
Monday, May 9, 2011
JIM WALL
Good Morning!
“You’re as old as you feel,” or so they say. Here’s how General Douglas MacArthur described old age:
Nobody grows old by merely living a number of years. People grow old only by deserting their ideals. Years may wrinkle the skin but to give up interest wrinkles the soul. Worry, doubt, self-distrust, fear, and despair…these are the long, long years that bow the head and turn the growing spirit back to dust.... You are as young as your faith, as old as your doubt; as young as your self-confidence, as old as your fear; as young as your hope, as old as your despair.
Whatever your age, realize that your life will never end. The question is, “Where will you spend your life in the hereafter? In Heaven with God?” Make sure of your eternal destiny, and trust Christ today!
Good Morning!
“You’re as old as you feel,” or so they say. Here’s how General Douglas MacArthur described old age:
Nobody grows old by merely living a number of years. People grow old only by deserting their ideals. Years may wrinkle the skin but to give up interest wrinkles the soul. Worry, doubt, self-distrust, fear, and despair…these are the long, long years that bow the head and turn the growing spirit back to dust.... You are as young as your faith, as old as your doubt; as young as your self-confidence, as old as your fear; as young as your hope, as old as your despair.
Whatever your age, realize that your life will never end. The question is, “Where will you spend your life in the hereafter? In Heaven with God?” Make sure of your eternal destiny, and trust Christ today!
Friday, May 6, 2011
Friday, May 6, 2011
JIM CAIN
GOOD MORNING!
“Having been firmly rooted and now being built up in Him and established in your faith, just as you were instructed, and overflowing with gratitude.”
Colossians 2:7
Two old friends met each other on the street. One was depressed, and when his friend asked him why, he replied, “Let me tell you brother, 3 weeks ago an uncle died and left me $ 40, 000.
“Wow, that’s a lot of money!” said his friend.
“Yes, but 2 weeks ago a cousin I never knew kicked the bucket and left me $85, 000 free and clear.”
“Sounds like you have been blessed.”
“But you don’t understand!” he interrupted. “Last week my great aunt passed away and I inherited almost a quarter of a million dollars.”
Really confused by now, his friend said, “Then why are you so down and out?”
“This week, nothing!”
Unfortunately, some of us value our possessions more than our friends and family. May it never be said of you.
Have a great day.
GOOD MORNING!
“Having been firmly rooted and now being built up in Him and established in your faith, just as you were instructed, and overflowing with gratitude.”
Colossians 2:7
Two old friends met each other on the street. One was depressed, and when his friend asked him why, he replied, “Let me tell you brother, 3 weeks ago an uncle died and left me $ 40, 000.
“Wow, that’s a lot of money!” said his friend.
“Yes, but 2 weeks ago a cousin I never knew kicked the bucket and left me $85, 000 free and clear.”
“Sounds like you have been blessed.”
“But you don’t understand!” he interrupted. “Last week my great aunt passed away and I inherited almost a quarter of a million dollars.”
Really confused by now, his friend said, “Then why are you so down and out?”
“This week, nothing!”
Unfortunately, some of us value our possessions more than our friends and family. May it never be said of you.
Have a great day.
Thursday, May 5, 2011
Thursday, May 5, 2011
BOB RAMBO
Hi! I’m Bob Rambo, Lead Pastor at Central United Methodist Church. Today is “National Day of Prayer,” a day on which Americans are encouraged to pause and pray for our communities, our nation, and our world. In many places there will be special events that encourage people to gather and pray together.
Prayer is a good thing to engage in as a community; but it’s meant to be more than a one-day emphasis in our lives. Prayer is the most important means we have to be in direct communication with God. Jesus prayed [alone and with others; as a Jew he would have also prayed the community prayers of his people].
Jesus also taught his followers to pray – to praise God; to share our daily needs with God; to pray for forgiveness; to pray for God’s will to become part of the fabric of our lives.
Today – I hope we’ll all take a moment to pray. But I also hope we’ll pray each and every day that we can know God better.
Have a great day!
Hi! I’m Bob Rambo, Lead Pastor at Central United Methodist Church. Today is “National Day of Prayer,” a day on which Americans are encouraged to pause and pray for our communities, our nation, and our world. In many places there will be special events that encourage people to gather and pray together.
Prayer is a good thing to engage in as a community; but it’s meant to be more than a one-day emphasis in our lives. Prayer is the most important means we have to be in direct communication with God. Jesus prayed [alone and with others; as a Jew he would have also prayed the community prayers of his people].
Jesus also taught his followers to pray – to praise God; to share our daily needs with God; to pray for forgiveness; to pray for God’s will to become part of the fabric of our lives.
Today – I hope we’ll all take a moment to pray. But I also hope we’ll pray each and every day that we can know God better.
Have a great day!
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
GLENDA
Good Morning:
A friend sent me this e-mail and I just loved it. I think you will, too. This is what it said: When I woke this morning, lying in bed, I asked myself, “What are some of the secrets of success in life? I found the answer right there in my very room. The fan said, “Be cool”; the roof said: “Aim High”; the window said: “See the world”; the clock said: “Every minute is precious”; the mirror said: “Reflect before you act’; the calendar said: “Be up-to-date”; the door said: “Push hard for your goals”; and the carpet said: “Kneel down and pray”.
This e-mail was cute, but it made me think. God gives us answers in the simplest things if we look for Him in everything. Remember that and have a wonderful day!
Good Morning:
A friend sent me this e-mail and I just loved it. I think you will, too. This is what it said: When I woke this morning, lying in bed, I asked myself, “What are some of the secrets of success in life? I found the answer right there in my very room. The fan said, “Be cool”; the roof said: “Aim High”; the window said: “See the world”; the clock said: “Every minute is precious”; the mirror said: “Reflect before you act’; the calendar said: “Be up-to-date”; the door said: “Push hard for your goals”; and the carpet said: “Kneel down and pray”.
This e-mail was cute, but it made me think. God gives us answers in the simplest things if we look for Him in everything. Remember that and have a wonderful day!
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
JIM WALL
Good Morning!
A little girl named Nan wrote this note to God. “God, I’ll bet it’s very hard for you to love all of everybody in the whole world! There are only four in my family and I can never do it.”
Do you remember the song, “All You Need is Love?” Obviously, love is very important to us. The Bible tells us that God is love. Surely, God gifted us with a great capacity to love. But, like most things, to be good at it we must practice.
God wants his children to be known for their love more than anything else. Jesus said our greatest witness to the world is our love towards one another. Love cannot be learned in isolation. We must be around people; imperfect, irritating, frustrating people. So practice love on everyone you meet. Hopefully, practice makes perfect love.
Good Morning!
A little girl named Nan wrote this note to God. “God, I’ll bet it’s very hard for you to love all of everybody in the whole world! There are only four in my family and I can never do it.”
Do you remember the song, “All You Need is Love?” Obviously, love is very important to us. The Bible tells us that God is love. Surely, God gifted us with a great capacity to love. But, like most things, to be good at it we must practice.
God wants his children to be known for their love more than anything else. Jesus said our greatest witness to the world is our love towards one another. Love cannot be learned in isolation. We must be around people; imperfect, irritating, frustrating people. So practice love on everyone you meet. Hopefully, practice makes perfect love.
Monday, May 2, 2011
Monday, May 2, 2011
SABRINA
One month ago today, we welcomed Christopher Weston Keith, our sixth grandchild into the world. The other evening, as I was holding him, marveling at perfection, it occurred to me that at this point he has no idea how much he is loved. All he knows is that when he cries, his needs are met. As the weeks and months progress, a realization and understanding of love will begin to form.
We often fail to remember that God ‘s love and grace for us came before we entered this world. A prevenient grace....grace before our awareness of God...the kind of grace Weston is now receiving...has always been there for each of us.
If this morning finds you at the top of the world...looking out at the spring wonders of our city...take a moment to thank God for the love and grace bestowed upon you.
If your circumstances find you in a valley...rest in the peaceful knowledge of God’s grace and love...a grace that came before you... for you are truly in the shelter of God’s hands. Have a peaceful and blessed day.
One month ago today, we welcomed Christopher Weston Keith, our sixth grandchild into the world. The other evening, as I was holding him, marveling at perfection, it occurred to me that at this point he has no idea how much he is loved. All he knows is that when he cries, his needs are met. As the weeks and months progress, a realization and understanding of love will begin to form.
We often fail to remember that God ‘s love and grace for us came before we entered this world. A prevenient grace....grace before our awareness of God...the kind of grace Weston is now receiving...has always been there for each of us.
If this morning finds you at the top of the world...looking out at the spring wonders of our city...take a moment to thank God for the love and grace bestowed upon you.
If your circumstances find you in a valley...rest in the peaceful knowledge of God’s grace and love...a grace that came before you... for you are truly in the shelter of God’s hands. Have a peaceful and blessed day.
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