BOB RAMBO
Hi! I'm Bob Rambo, Lead Pastor at Central United Methodist Church. Recently our family went to the beach for vacation. While there, I was invited to go deep-sea fishing. We traveled about 20 miles offshore, and on this particular day, the waves were 5 feet high. They tossed our boat around pretty good. In fact, of the 9 passengers who went fishing that particular day, 5 got sea-sick [fortunately, I wasn't one of them].
If you've ever been sea-sick or suffered from motion sickness, you can sympathize with the queasiness my companions felt that day. But this kind of unsettled feeling can happen in other areas of our lives, too. In the Book of James, we read: If you need wisdom… ask [God] and he will gladly tell you. But … be sure that you really expect him to answer, for a doubtful mind is as unsettled as a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind.
Life can be volatile at times; it can make us queasy and leave us weak-kneed. But God is trustworthy and we can rely on him - today and every day.
Have a great day!
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
JIM WALL
Good Morning!
A child writes this note to God:
Dear God, I wish you would not make it so easy for people to come apart. I have to have three stitches and a shot! Love, Janet.
I, too, wish that people would not come apart so easily. But, unfortunately, we can't get stitched for emotional wounds and a doctor can't give a shot of faith.
We know how to care for physical needs, but what about our emotional and spiritual needs?
Trusting and believing in God along with belonging to a Christian church family promotes spiritual and emotional health. The Bible says we are joined together in love. We are not on our own anymore when we accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. And, hopefully, the love that surpasses all understanding will keep us together always.
Good Morning!
A child writes this note to God:
Dear God, I wish you would not make it so easy for people to come apart. I have to have three stitches and a shot! Love, Janet.
I, too, wish that people would not come apart so easily. But, unfortunately, we can't get stitched for emotional wounds and a doctor can't give a shot of faith.
We know how to care for physical needs, but what about our emotional and spiritual needs?
Trusting and believing in God along with belonging to a Christian church family promotes spiritual and emotional health. The Bible says we are joined together in love. We are not on our own anymore when we accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. And, hopefully, the love that surpasses all understanding will keep us together always.
Monday, August 29, 2011
Monday, August 29. 2011
JIM CAIN
GOOD MORNING!
“BUT THE WORD OF THE LORD ENDURES FOREVER.” 1Peter 1:25
During the height of the hysteria surrounding America's entrance into WWII, this story began to make the rounds as a true encounter between a navy vessel and a civilian
“We recommend you divert your course 15 degrees to the south to avoid a collision.”
“No sir, this is the aircraft carrier Enterprise. We're a large warship of the U.S. department of the navy. Divert your course 15 degrees to the north to avoid a collision.”
“Well sir, we recommend you divert your course 15 degrees to the south to avoid a collision. This is a lighthouse. Your call.”
God's laws are like the lighthouse. Some say they're outdated and old fashioned. They can say what they want and ignore the warnings, but that doesn't make them go away. God's word will last forever. You can either heed its warnings or ignore them and be crushed against the jagged coastline of life. It's totally your call.
GOOD MORNING!
“BUT THE WORD OF THE LORD ENDURES FOREVER.” 1Peter 1:25
During the height of the hysteria surrounding America's entrance into WWII, this story began to make the rounds as a true encounter between a navy vessel and a civilian
“We recommend you divert your course 15 degrees to the south to avoid a collision.”
“No sir, this is the aircraft carrier Enterprise. We're a large warship of the U.S. department of the navy. Divert your course 15 degrees to the north to avoid a collision.”
“Well sir, we recommend you divert your course 15 degrees to the south to avoid a collision. This is a lighthouse. Your call.”
God's laws are like the lighthouse. Some say they're outdated and old fashioned. They can say what they want and ignore the warnings, but that doesn't make them go away. God's word will last forever. You can either heed its warnings or ignore them and be crushed against the jagged coastline of life. It's totally your call.
Friday, August 26, 2011
Friday, August 26, 2011
BOB RAMBO
Hi! I'm Bob Rambo, Lead Pastor at Central United Methodist Church.
Last month Congress voted to raise the national debt ceiling and keep our country from defaulting on its loans and obligations. The agreement came about because the House of Representatives and the Senate agreed to a legislative “compromise” - both political parties GOT something they wanted and both parties GAVE UP something they wanted.
Sometimes - as in politics - compromise is a necessary thing. “Compromise” isn't always a “bad word”. But there are other times when we're asked to make compromises just to be accepted by others. Long ago in the land of Babylon, 3 friends - Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego - were asked to compromise their faith in God in order to be accepted. However, they refused to compromise their faith, even though it meant life would be harder for them.
Today, we need to remember that SOME things can be compromised - but other things are non-negotiable. Do you know the difference?
Have a great day!
Hi! I'm Bob Rambo, Lead Pastor at Central United Methodist Church.
Last month Congress voted to raise the national debt ceiling and keep our country from defaulting on its loans and obligations. The agreement came about because the House of Representatives and the Senate agreed to a legislative “compromise” - both political parties GOT something they wanted and both parties GAVE UP something they wanted.
Sometimes - as in politics - compromise is a necessary thing. “Compromise” isn't always a “bad word”. But there are other times when we're asked to make compromises just to be accepted by others. Long ago in the land of Babylon, 3 friends - Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego - were asked to compromise their faith in God in order to be accepted. However, they refused to compromise their faith, even though it meant life would be harder for them.
Today, we need to remember that SOME things can be compromised - but other things are non-negotiable. Do you know the difference?
Have a great day!
Thursday, August 25, 2011
Thursday, August 25, 2011
BOB PEDEN
If I say that I have faith in my doctor, what image does that bring to your mind? Am I saying that I believe that his diploma is real, that he really is certified to practice medicine? Or am I saying something more?
Suppose that one day I come to you with a terrible cough. I tell you that my doctor says that I have strep throat and has prescribed a certain medication. I proclaim the praises of this doctor, repeating again what faith I have in him. But when you ask me if I'm going to take the prescribed medicine, I reply, “What for? That stuff won't do me any good.” What would you think of my “faith” at that point?
True faith is more than an intellectual exercise. Faith affects not only beliefs, but actions. A faith that is not acted on is no faith at all. Or as the Bible says, “faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.”
This is Bob Peden of Central United Methodist Church. If we truly believe in God, we will do what He has told us to do. If our lives are not lives of obedience, they are not lives of faith at all.
If I say that I have faith in my doctor, what image does that bring to your mind? Am I saying that I believe that his diploma is real, that he really is certified to practice medicine? Or am I saying something more?
Suppose that one day I come to you with a terrible cough. I tell you that my doctor says that I have strep throat and has prescribed a certain medication. I proclaim the praises of this doctor, repeating again what faith I have in him. But when you ask me if I'm going to take the prescribed medicine, I reply, “What for? That stuff won't do me any good.” What would you think of my “faith” at that point?
True faith is more than an intellectual exercise. Faith affects not only beliefs, but actions. A faith that is not acted on is no faith at all. Or as the Bible says, “faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.”
This is Bob Peden of Central United Methodist Church. If we truly believe in God, we will do what He has told us to do. If our lives are not lives of obedience, they are not lives of faith at all.
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
JIM WALL
Good Morning!
God sometimes uses sharp setbacks to get our attention focused on Him and to redirect our lives. A man once walked down a windy street in a small northeastern town, unaware that ahead lay a high voltage wire which had been blown form its pole. A witness, seeing what was about to happen, tried to yell at the man, but he was unable to get his attention over the howling wind. So, he decided upon more drastic measures. He spotted a nearby rock and hurled it directly at the chest of the man approaching the wire. Stunned, the man looked up just in time to see the wire and avoid certain tragedy.
Has God seemed to deal you a low blow? Perhaps he is hoping to draw your attention to some need not now being addressed in your life.
Look for God's leading in all things and seek God's will in all matters affecting your life.
Good Morning!
God sometimes uses sharp setbacks to get our attention focused on Him and to redirect our lives. A man once walked down a windy street in a small northeastern town, unaware that ahead lay a high voltage wire which had been blown form its pole. A witness, seeing what was about to happen, tried to yell at the man, but he was unable to get his attention over the howling wind. So, he decided upon more drastic measures. He spotted a nearby rock and hurled it directly at the chest of the man approaching the wire. Stunned, the man looked up just in time to see the wire and avoid certain tragedy.
Has God seemed to deal you a low blow? Perhaps he is hoping to draw your attention to some need not now being addressed in your life.
Look for God's leading in all things and seek God's will in all matters affecting your life.
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Tuesday, Augest 23, 2011
SABRINA
If you are a woman, particularly one who works in the downtown Meridian area...never quite knowing what to do during your lunch-time, let me invite you to come and join LILIES (Ladies In the Lord in Every Situation).
Lilies meets at Central United Methodist Church for lunch on Thursday of each week to study God's Word and to develop friendships with other women who are seeking to become all that God designed us to be.
Our fall study begins this week and is based on Priscilla Shirer's book And We Are Changed.
Following our time of study, we pray for each other and for our families. LILIES
is committed to growing in the Lord and to becoming the women God designed us to be.
You may bring your own lunch or we have a sign-up for a light lunch that is provided at the church. For more information about the noontime lunch study, please visit our website at www.cumcmdn.org
If you are a woman, particularly one who works in the downtown Meridian area...never quite knowing what to do during your lunch-time, let me invite you to come and join LILIES (Ladies In the Lord in Every Situation).
Lilies meets at Central United Methodist Church for lunch on Thursday of each week to study God's Word and to develop friendships with other women who are seeking to become all that God designed us to be.
Our fall study begins this week and is based on Priscilla Shirer's book And We Are Changed.
Following our time of study, we pray for each other and for our families. LILIES
is committed to growing in the Lord and to becoming the women God designed us to be.
You may bring your own lunch or we have a sign-up for a light lunch that is provided at the church. For more information about the noontime lunch study, please visit our website at www.cumcmdn.org
Monday, August 22, 2011
Monday, August 22, 2011
GLENDA
Good Morning:
There was a woman who woke up one morning, looked in the mirror, and saw that she had only three hairs on her head. “Great”, she said, “I think I'll braid my hair today.” So she did and had a wonderful day. The next day, she woke up with only two hairs on her head. “Great”, she said, “I guess I'll just part my hair down the middle.” and she had a wonderful day! The next day she woke up with only 1 hair on her head. “Wow”, she said, “today I get to wear my hair in a pony tail.” So she did, and had a wonderful day. The next day, she woke up, looked in the mirror and saw that there wasn't a single hair on her dead. “Thank god”, she exclaimed. “I was running out of things to do with my hair!”
Attitude is everything! Let's be grateful for the things God has given us and have a wonderful day!
Good Morning:
There was a woman who woke up one morning, looked in the mirror, and saw that she had only three hairs on her head. “Great”, she said, “I think I'll braid my hair today.” So she did and had a wonderful day. The next day, she woke up with only two hairs on her head. “Great”, she said, “I guess I'll just part my hair down the middle.” and she had a wonderful day! The next day she woke up with only 1 hair on her head. “Wow”, she said, “today I get to wear my hair in a pony tail.” So she did, and had a wonderful day. The next day, she woke up, looked in the mirror and saw that there wasn't a single hair on her dead. “Thank god”, she exclaimed. “I was running out of things to do with my hair!”
Attitude is everything! Let's be grateful for the things God has given us and have a wonderful day!
Thursday, August 18, 2011
Thursday, August 18, 2011
JIM WALL
I heard a mother of a first-grader say of her own little girls,
“I never tell Betsy that she’s pretty. I wouldn’t want it to go to her head.”
Hearing that made me sad. How bad could it be for Betsy to know that her mother thinks she is pretty?
It really seems a shame, doesn’t it, that a mother is afraid to tell her daughter that she admires her? If you can’t compliment a six-year old, will it be any easier to tell a 12-year-old you’re proud of his athletic ability? Or an 18-year-old that you’re pleased that her good grades have won her a scholarship? Or a 40-year-old that she’s the best wife anyone could ever hope for?
Tell people you love how pretty or smart or talented you think they are. People need to hear that – directly from you – they may begin to believe it’s true.
Let it go to their heads! It is good for people to feel confident!
I heard a mother of a first-grader say of her own little girls,
“I never tell Betsy that she’s pretty. I wouldn’t want it to go to her head.”
Hearing that made me sad. How bad could it be for Betsy to know that her mother thinks she is pretty?
It really seems a shame, doesn’t it, that a mother is afraid to tell her daughter that she admires her? If you can’t compliment a six-year old, will it be any easier to tell a 12-year-old you’re proud of his athletic ability? Or an 18-year-old that you’re pleased that her good grades have won her a scholarship? Or a 40-year-old that she’s the best wife anyone could ever hope for?
Tell people you love how pretty or smart or talented you think they are. People need to hear that – directly from you – they may begin to believe it’s true.
Let it go to their heads! It is good for people to feel confident!
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
JIM CAIN
Good Morning!
“Even a fool, when he keeps silent, is considered wise;
When he closes his lips, he is considered prudent.” Proverbs 17:28
John Maxwell, noted author on American Leadership and management recently said, “In hundreds of interviews with people at all levels, I’ve made this discovery; The higher ranking the person, the more apt he is to encourage you to talk; the lower ranking the person, the more apt he is to preach to you.
Management monopolizes the listening; the rank and file monopolize the talking!”
There is a reason God gave us 2 ears and 1 mouth. Good leaders are great listeners, as are good friends. Are you more concerned with hearing or being heard?
Good Morning!
“Even a fool, when he keeps silent, is considered wise;
When he closes his lips, he is considered prudent.” Proverbs 17:28
John Maxwell, noted author on American Leadership and management recently said, “In hundreds of interviews with people at all levels, I’ve made this discovery; The higher ranking the person, the more apt he is to encourage you to talk; the lower ranking the person, the more apt he is to preach to you.
Management monopolizes the listening; the rank and file monopolize the talking!”
There is a reason God gave us 2 ears and 1 mouth. Good leaders are great listeners, as are good friends. Are you more concerned with hearing or being heard?
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
GLENDA
Good Morning: Well, most of us teachers and school children are back in our old yearly routine again.--back to the classroom. I can truly say, I look forward to this time every year. I love my summer vacation--but I also look forward to another great year with another great group of children. For those of you who don’t work with children, I’m sorry, for you don’t know what you are missing! One of the greatest gifts God has given us are children. We are blessed when we have children of our own; we are blessed when we have children in our care; we are blessed when we know any child; and all adults are asked to be responsible for them. God lovingly placed them in our care and the least we can do is our best to bring them up in a Godly manner. So, as a parent, send them to school each morning with a prayer asking God to keep them safe, to give them a learning spirit, and to let them find joy in their day. And all you other adults, pray for the children in our community. That’s the best gift you can give any child. Have a wonderful prayer filled day!
Good Morning: Well, most of us teachers and school children are back in our old yearly routine again.--back to the classroom. I can truly say, I look forward to this time every year. I love my summer vacation--but I also look forward to another great year with another great group of children. For those of you who don’t work with children, I’m sorry, for you don’t know what you are missing! One of the greatest gifts God has given us are children. We are blessed when we have children of our own; we are blessed when we have children in our care; we are blessed when we know any child; and all adults are asked to be responsible for them. God lovingly placed them in our care and the least we can do is our best to bring them up in a Godly manner. So, as a parent, send them to school each morning with a prayer asking God to keep them safe, to give them a learning spirit, and to let them find joy in their day. And all you other adults, pray for the children in our community. That’s the best gift you can give any child. Have a wonderful prayer filled day!
Monday, August 15, 2011
Monday, August 15, 2011
BOB PEDEN
This is Bob Peden of Central United Methodist Church. I believe that God exists with every fiber of my being. I have given my life to following that conviction. But I cannot prove that He exists by scientific standards. How can I? If He is God the Creator, how can those he created understand and prove His existence? I am not sure I would want to follow a God so ordinary that His Creation could prove His existence. So my decision to believe in God is very much an act of faith.
This is the kind of faith the apostle Paul is talking about when he says, “Faith is the assurance of things hoped for.” We cannot prove the existence of God, but when we have faith in him we see evidence of his existence everywhere. And we anticipate the day when our faith will become sight. When we shall see him face to face. That is why I follow him. Will you?
This is Bob Peden of Central United Methodist Church. I believe that God exists with every fiber of my being. I have given my life to following that conviction. But I cannot prove that He exists by scientific standards. How can I? If He is God the Creator, how can those he created understand and prove His existence? I am not sure I would want to follow a God so ordinary that His Creation could prove His existence. So my decision to believe in God is very much an act of faith.
This is the kind of faith the apostle Paul is talking about when he says, “Faith is the assurance of things hoped for.” We cannot prove the existence of God, but when we have faith in him we see evidence of his existence everywhere. And we anticipate the day when our faith will become sight. When we shall see him face to face. That is why I follow him. Will you?
Friday, August 12, 2011
Friday, August 12, 2011
JIM CAIN
Good Morning!
Do you remember playing with Lego’s when you were a child? It probably wasn’t that long ago, was it? Well, you can fit together two eight stud bricks in 24 different ways. Three of them will fit together 1,060 ways. But 6 of those same 8 stud bricks offer 102,981, 500 opportunities for connection!
The more good, strong spiritual connections we make in our relationships, the stronger the walls of what we construct in life will be. And in the end, we will have built a tower that serves as a model to the next generation.
For it is as Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 1:10
“I have a serious concern to bring up with you, my brothers, using the authority of Jesus, our Master. I'll put it as urgently as I can: You must get along with each other. You must learn to be considerate of one another, cultivating a life in common.”
Good Morning!
Do you remember playing with Lego’s when you were a child? It probably wasn’t that long ago, was it? Well, you can fit together two eight stud bricks in 24 different ways. Three of them will fit together 1,060 ways. But 6 of those same 8 stud bricks offer 102,981, 500 opportunities for connection!
The more good, strong spiritual connections we make in our relationships, the stronger the walls of what we construct in life will be. And in the end, we will have built a tower that serves as a model to the next generation.
For it is as Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 1:10
“I have a serious concern to bring up with you, my brothers, using the authority of Jesus, our Master. I'll put it as urgently as I can: You must get along with each other. You must learn to be considerate of one another, cultivating a life in common.”
Thursday, August 11, 2011
Thursday, August 11, 2011
BOB PEDEN
When the children come to Jesus, the gospel of Mark tells us that Jesus accepted them “took them into his arms, placed his hands upon them, and blessed them.” In doing so, Jesus showed us that loving children is tactile…it involves our physical touch…it means that our hearts move our hands to bless, comfort, welcome, and encourage little ones.
While there are all sorts of ways of helping children through offering our money, real love finds a way to be tactile — to actually care for another personally, face-to-face, through human touch.
If we call ourselves followers of Jesus, then we must do as he did and reach out to those around us in need. We must get close enough to touch them, actually place our hands on them, and bless them in real touchable ways.
This is Bob Peden of Central United Methodist Church, and I challenge you to reach out to someone who needs a loving, caring touch today.
When the children come to Jesus, the gospel of Mark tells us that Jesus accepted them “took them into his arms, placed his hands upon them, and blessed them.” In doing so, Jesus showed us that loving children is tactile…it involves our physical touch…it means that our hearts move our hands to bless, comfort, welcome, and encourage little ones.
While there are all sorts of ways of helping children through offering our money, real love finds a way to be tactile — to actually care for another personally, face-to-face, through human touch.
If we call ourselves followers of Jesus, then we must do as he did and reach out to those around us in need. We must get close enough to touch them, actually place our hands on them, and bless them in real touchable ways.
This is Bob Peden of Central United Methodist Church, and I challenge you to reach out to someone who needs a loving, caring touch today.
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
Thursday, August 10, 2011
JIM WALL
Years ago in Java, a United Nations worker witnessed men digging a canal with shovels and hauling the dirt off in bamboo baskets. The UN Worker suggested to another observer that they bring in bulldozers and other heavy equipment to assist. He was warned not to interfere with the project. Understand this is their canal. For the first time, they will have something of their own, which they owe no one.
Once they learn to believe in themselves, maybe then they will be proud to have our help and not be demoralized by it.
Our loving God allows us to dig through a mountain of problems. We want to work it out ourselves, don’t we?
But, when it gets to be too much, “Cast your burdens upon the Lord, and He will sustain you; He will never allow the righteous to be shaken.”
Psalms 55:22.
Years ago in Java, a United Nations worker witnessed men digging a canal with shovels and hauling the dirt off in bamboo baskets. The UN Worker suggested to another observer that they bring in bulldozers and other heavy equipment to assist. He was warned not to interfere with the project. Understand this is their canal. For the first time, they will have something of their own, which they owe no one.
Once they learn to believe in themselves, maybe then they will be proud to have our help and not be demoralized by it.
Our loving God allows us to dig through a mountain of problems. We want to work it out ourselves, don’t we?
But, when it gets to be too much, “Cast your burdens upon the Lord, and He will sustain you; He will never allow the righteous to be shaken.”
Psalms 55:22.
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
BOB RAMBO
Hi! I’m Bob Rambo, Lead Pastor at Central United Methodist Church.
Anthropologists have long recognized the FAMILY as the basic unit of human society. Sociologists also tell us that family is the first experience of “community” for many of us.
All of us come from a “family” – natural, adoptive, or foster. When families are healthy, they give us identity, values, and self-esteem. But when families don’t exist or are dysfunctional, we seek out a “substitute” – a gang, a cult, a sports team, a youth group at church, even a civic club. We all long for “community” – deep connections with others.
When Jesus came, he formed a “new community” that came to be known as the “family of God”, or the Church. The Church isn’t perfect – far from it – but the Church is God’s vision of what family CAN BE.
We don’t do “church” perfectly at Central, but we’re trying. If you’d like to try with us, why not join us this Sunday for worship at 8:30 or 10:55?
Have a great day!
Hi! I’m Bob Rambo, Lead Pastor at Central United Methodist Church.
Anthropologists have long recognized the FAMILY as the basic unit of human society. Sociologists also tell us that family is the first experience of “community” for many of us.
All of us come from a “family” – natural, adoptive, or foster. When families are healthy, they give us identity, values, and self-esteem. But when families don’t exist or are dysfunctional, we seek out a “substitute” – a gang, a cult, a sports team, a youth group at church, even a civic club. We all long for “community” – deep connections with others.
When Jesus came, he formed a “new community” that came to be known as the “family of God”, or the Church. The Church isn’t perfect – far from it – but the Church is God’s vision of what family CAN BE.
We don’t do “church” perfectly at Central, but we’re trying. If you’d like to try with us, why not join us this Sunday for worship at 8:30 or 10:55?
Have a great day!
Monday, August 8, 2011
Friday, August 8, 2011
SABRINA
Good Morning!
Worship - the ORIGIN of the word comes from Old English, and means 'worthiness, or acknowledgment of worth'. In noun form worship is defined as a religious rite or ceremony. When used as a verb, we find it means to show reverence and adoration. Have you ever thought about it...you can use the word in one sentence in both forms. You can come to worship to worship!!! In other words, Come to the ceremony in order to express reverence and adoration!
At Central we offer many opportunities to do both. We have contemporary worship at 8:30, Sunday School at 9:45, traditional worship at 10:55. If you would like more information about Central United Methodist Church, visit our website at www.cumcmdn.org, or come to worship this Sunday and WORSHIP, showing God the love, adoration, and reverence He so richly deserves! Have a blessed day!
Good Morning!
Worship - the ORIGIN of the word comes from Old English, and means 'worthiness, or acknowledgment of worth'. In noun form worship is defined as a religious rite or ceremony. When used as a verb, we find it means to show reverence and adoration. Have you ever thought about it...you can use the word in one sentence in both forms. You can come to worship to worship!!! In other words, Come to the ceremony in order to express reverence and adoration!
At Central we offer many opportunities to do both. We have contemporary worship at 8:30, Sunday School at 9:45, traditional worship at 10:55. If you would like more information about Central United Methodist Church, visit our website at www.cumcmdn.org, or come to worship this Sunday and WORSHIP, showing God the love, adoration, and reverence He so richly deserves! Have a blessed day!
Monday, August 8, 2011
SABRINA
This week marks the beginning of a new school year for most.Whether you are a teacher or a student, it’s always scary to start a new school year; because you just don’t know what you are getting. If you are a teacher, a nice group of children can make for an awesome year; one or two extreme behavior problems can be enough to run you down and ruin your attitude from now until June.
If you are a student, you may have just found out that you have the “dreaded teacher” and already see the handwriting on the wall.
Whether your are a student or teacher, let me encourage you to begin the year with a fresh start with your attitude. Don’t let comments from others taint your view of your teachers or your students.
When you are tempted to complain, ask God to give you a positive attitude and stay focused on seeing this year as part of His divine plan.
God will give you all the strength you need to fulfill His purpose for your life and the lives of others around you.
This week marks the beginning of a new school year for most.Whether you are a teacher or a student, it’s always scary to start a new school year; because you just don’t know what you are getting. If you are a teacher, a nice group of children can make for an awesome year; one or two extreme behavior problems can be enough to run you down and ruin your attitude from now until June.
If you are a student, you may have just found out that you have the “dreaded teacher” and already see the handwriting on the wall.
Whether your are a student or teacher, let me encourage you to begin the year with a fresh start with your attitude. Don’t let comments from others taint your view of your teachers or your students.
When you are tempted to complain, ask God to give you a positive attitude and stay focused on seeing this year as part of His divine plan.
God will give you all the strength you need to fulfill His purpose for your life and the lives of others around you.
Friday, August 5, 2011
Friday, August 5, 2011
BOB RAMBO
Hi! I’m Bob Rambo, Lead Pastor at Central United Methodist Church.
Earlier this year, I asked members of our congregation: If you could ask God one question, what would it be? I received several hundred responses. I’ve gone through them, and beginning on August 21st I’ll share some of those questions in a new sermon series entitled “ONE QUESTION”.
Each Sunday for six weeks, we’ll look at one of these questions, questions that cover a variety of issues – from What does it mean to be a Christian? to Why is there evil in the world? to What can I do for God?
If you don’t have a place where you worship regularly, then I invite you to join us for the “ONE QUESTION” series, which begins August 21st. Join us at Central – where everyone is welcome.
Have a great day!
Hi! I’m Bob Rambo, Lead Pastor at Central United Methodist Church.
Earlier this year, I asked members of our congregation: If you could ask God one question, what would it be? I received several hundred responses. I’ve gone through them, and beginning on August 21st I’ll share some of those questions in a new sermon series entitled “ONE QUESTION”.
Each Sunday for six weeks, we’ll look at one of these questions, questions that cover a variety of issues – from What does it mean to be a Christian? to Why is there evil in the world? to What can I do for God?
If you don’t have a place where you worship regularly, then I invite you to join us for the “ONE QUESTION” series, which begins August 21st. Join us at Central – where everyone is welcome.
Have a great day!
Thursday, August 4, 2011
Thursday, August 4, 2011
JIM CAIN
GOOD MORNING!
For decades, one of the best selling newspapers in the nation was, “The National Enquire. During the 1980s the tabloid's slogan in radio and TV ads was, "Enquiring minds want to know." With a circulation topping 6 million at its peak, there were indeed people waiting to hear the Enquirer’s version of the truth each week.
Using paid informants, rumors, shady sources, it fed off of the dark nature of humanity exposing people’s deepest, darkest, secrets to the world at large.
Though “rags” like this one tend to have a large audience, I doubt many of their reporters are very proud of what they do. And I am sure they wouldn’t want anyone to do a front page, hold the presses, story on their personal lives.
Let’s not engage in “National Enquire” relationships with others. There are confidences that are meant to be kept. I’m not talking about lying or covering up sin, especially not sin that involves or might hurt other people. Simply put, if you want to keep your friends then keep your mouth shut. For the Bible states in Proverbs 25:9, “Argue your case with your neighbor, and do not reveal the secret of another,”
Words to live by if ever I’ve heard them!
GOOD MORNING!
For decades, one of the best selling newspapers in the nation was, “The National Enquire. During the 1980s the tabloid's slogan in radio and TV ads was, "Enquiring minds want to know." With a circulation topping 6 million at its peak, there were indeed people waiting to hear the Enquirer’s version of the truth each week.
Using paid informants, rumors, shady sources, it fed off of the dark nature of humanity exposing people’s deepest, darkest, secrets to the world at large.
Though “rags” like this one tend to have a large audience, I doubt many of their reporters are very proud of what they do. And I am sure they wouldn’t want anyone to do a front page, hold the presses, story on their personal lives.
Let’s not engage in “National Enquire” relationships with others. There are confidences that are meant to be kept. I’m not talking about lying or covering up sin, especially not sin that involves or might hurt other people. Simply put, if you want to keep your friends then keep your mouth shut. For the Bible states in Proverbs 25:9, “Argue your case with your neighbor, and do not reveal the secret of another,”
Words to live by if ever I’ve heard them!
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
Monday, August 3, 2011
BOB PEDEN
Kyle Idleman recently released a book entitled “Not a Fan.” In it he cites one example after another of people coming to Jesus, telling him what a great teacher, healer, and leader he is. Time after time, Jesus challenges them to leave everything and follow him. And most often, they turn away. For you see in Jesus’ day, as in ours, there are many people who are fans of Jesus; who want to tell him how great he is; cheer him on; even sing his praises.
But there are few who are willing to do what it takes to be a follower of Jesus. Jesus did not come seeking fans - he came seeking followers. How about you are you a fan of Jesus Christ, showing up each Sunday to sing about Jesus and learn a little more about him, or are you a follower of Jesus. One who seeks to do his will each and everyday in every detail of your life.
This is Bob Peden of Central United Methodist Church and I am not a fan.
Kyle Idleman recently released a book entitled “Not a Fan.” In it he cites one example after another of people coming to Jesus, telling him what a great teacher, healer, and leader he is. Time after time, Jesus challenges them to leave everything and follow him. And most often, they turn away. For you see in Jesus’ day, as in ours, there are many people who are fans of Jesus; who want to tell him how great he is; cheer him on; even sing his praises.
But there are few who are willing to do what it takes to be a follower of Jesus. Jesus did not come seeking fans - he came seeking followers. How about you are you a fan of Jesus Christ, showing up each Sunday to sing about Jesus and learn a little more about him, or are you a follower of Jesus. One who seeks to do his will each and everyday in every detail of your life.
This is Bob Peden of Central United Methodist Church and I am not a fan.
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
GLENDA
Good Morning: We all have days when we feel overwhelmed with life’s many problems. However, complaining about them doesn’t change a thing, but our attitude can make a huge difference. If we put on a smile instead of a frown, people around us respond differently. Before we know it, we also feel different. You know the old saying: Smile and the world smiles with you, frown and you frown alone. It’s true. In the Old Testament when God brought his people back to Jerusalem after being exiled from there for many years, this is what they said, “Our mouths were filled with laughter, our tongues with songs of joy for the Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy.” God has done great things for us. Let us be glad and rejoice in them. Have a wonderful, joy filled day!
Good Morning: We all have days when we feel overwhelmed with life’s many problems. However, complaining about them doesn’t change a thing, but our attitude can make a huge difference. If we put on a smile instead of a frown, people around us respond differently. Before we know it, we also feel different. You know the old saying: Smile and the world smiles with you, frown and you frown alone. It’s true. In the Old Testament when God brought his people back to Jerusalem after being exiled from there for many years, this is what they said, “Our mouths were filled with laughter, our tongues with songs of joy for the Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy.” God has done great things for us. Let us be glad and rejoice in them. Have a wonderful, joy filled day!
Monday, August 1, 2011
Monday, August 1, 2011
SABRINA
Good Morning!
Cell phones!!!! Convenience or curse????? We live in a time where we can be reached anytime of the day or night! I love it when I need to get in touch with someone in a hurry, but am not so fond of instant gratification when I am trying to buy groceries, or visit with a friend, only to be interrupted by a ringing phone 2 or 3 times within minutes of each other.
Many times our lives as Christians mirror our cell phone dilemma. When we need God....it’s like picking up that phone ...we need to talk to God...right then. But what about doing the things that God calls on us to do? Reaching out to those unlike ourselves, visiting a elderly neighbor, righting a wrong? Just as cell phones work both ways, so should our lives as Christians. Let your cell phone be a reminder to “phone God,” thanking God and lifting up concerns. But...also let it be a reminder to allow God to “phone in”! Go and have a blessed day!
Good Morning!
Cell phones!!!! Convenience or curse????? We live in a time where we can be reached anytime of the day or night! I love it when I need to get in touch with someone in a hurry, but am not so fond of instant gratification when I am trying to buy groceries, or visit with a friend, only to be interrupted by a ringing phone 2 or 3 times within minutes of each other.
Many times our lives as Christians mirror our cell phone dilemma. When we need God....it’s like picking up that phone ...we need to talk to God...right then. But what about doing the things that God calls on us to do? Reaching out to those unlike ourselves, visiting a elderly neighbor, righting a wrong? Just as cell phones work both ways, so should our lives as Christians. Let your cell phone be a reminder to “phone God,” thanking God and lifting up concerns. But...also let it be a reminder to allow God to “phone in”! Go and have a blessed day!
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