BOB PEDEN
Ian Lewis of Standish, Lancashire, England, was interested in finding out about his family. He spent 30 years tracing his family tree back to the seventeenth century. He traveled all over Britain, talked to 2,000 relatives and planned to write a book about all he had learned. Then he found out he had been adopted when he was a month old and his real name was David Thornton. He resolved to start his family research all over again.
How frustrating for Ian! This is Bob Peden of Central United Methodist Church. This story reminds me that it makes no difference whether we trace our spiritual lineage by way of birth or adoption, because both images are used to express our relationship to God our Father. God is our Father by (re)birth and by adoption, we are both born and chosen into God's family! What a privilege to be a part of His family and share in such a rich inheritance!
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
Monday, January 30, 2012
Monday, January 30, 2012
GLENDA
Good Morning:
A daughter is telling her mother how everything in her life is going wrong; she's failing algebra, her boyfriend broke up with her, and her best friend is moving away.
Meanwhile, her mother is baking a cake and asks her daughter if she'd like a snack. The daughter says, “Absolutely, Mother, I love your cake.” Her mother offers her some cooking oil. “Yuck”, says the daughter. “How about a couple raw eggs?” “Gross, Mom!” “Well, how about some flour, then?” The daughter says, “Mom all those are yucky.” The mother replies, "Yes, all those things seem bad all by themselves. But when you put them together in the right way, they make a wonderfully delicious cake.”
God works the same way. God knows when he puts things together, all in His order, they always work out for good. We just have to trust Him and, eventually, they will all make something wonderful. Remember this, and I hope your day is a piece of cake….God's cake! Have a wonderful day.
Good Morning:
A daughter is telling her mother how everything in her life is going wrong; she's failing algebra, her boyfriend broke up with her, and her best friend is moving away.
Meanwhile, her mother is baking a cake and asks her daughter if she'd like a snack. The daughter says, “Absolutely, Mother, I love your cake.” Her mother offers her some cooking oil. “Yuck”, says the daughter. “How about a couple raw eggs?” “Gross, Mom!” “Well, how about some flour, then?” The daughter says, “Mom all those are yucky.” The mother replies, "Yes, all those things seem bad all by themselves. But when you put them together in the right way, they make a wonderfully delicious cake.”
God works the same way. God knows when he puts things together, all in His order, they always work out for good. We just have to trust Him and, eventually, they will all make something wonderful. Remember this, and I hope your day is a piece of cake….God's cake! Have a wonderful day.
Friday, January 27, 2012
Friday, January 27, 2012
BOB RAMBO
Hi! I'm Bob Rambo, Lead Pastor at Central United Methodist Church. Today our nation celebrates the birthday of a great leader, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Dr. King's life was powered by the vision of an America in which all people received equal treatment and equal rights under the law. His vision was embraced by others and became a movement that galvanized our nation.
Not everyone embraced Dr. King's vision; many people resisted it out of fear. But in a time of tense social change, Dr. King turned to his Christian faith and advocated non-violence as the only authentic way to bring about lasting change.
A compelling vision always moves people in a new direction. Jesus had a vision of God's kingdom, or reign, at work in human life. Jesus dreamed of a world in which we love God, love one another, and forgive our enemies.
Whose vision will YOU live by today?
Have a great day!
Hi! I'm Bob Rambo, Lead Pastor at Central United Methodist Church. Today our nation celebrates the birthday of a great leader, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Dr. King's life was powered by the vision of an America in which all people received equal treatment and equal rights under the law. His vision was embraced by others and became a movement that galvanized our nation.
Not everyone embraced Dr. King's vision; many people resisted it out of fear. But in a time of tense social change, Dr. King turned to his Christian faith and advocated non-violence as the only authentic way to bring about lasting change.
A compelling vision always moves people in a new direction. Jesus had a vision of God's kingdom, or reign, at work in human life. Jesus dreamed of a world in which we love God, love one another, and forgive our enemies.
Whose vision will YOU live by today?
Have a great day!
Thursday, January 26, 2012
Thursday, January 26, 2012
WESLEY
Good Morning! I am Wesley Pepper associate Pastor at Central UMC.
During the Thirty Years' War in the 17th century, German pastor Paul Gerhardt and his family were forced to flee from their home. One night as they stayed in a small village inn, homeless and afraid, his wife broke down and cried openly in despair. To comfort her, Gerhardt reminded her of Scripture promises about God's provision and keeping. Then, going out to the garden to be alone, he too broke down and wept. He felt he had come to his darkest hour.
Soon afterward, Gerhardt felt the burden lifted and sensed anew the Lord's presence. Taking his pen, he wrote a hymn that has brought comfort to many. "Give to the winds thy fears; hope, and be undismayed; God hears thy sighs and counts thy tears; God shall lift up thy head. Through waves and clouds and storms He gently clears the way. Wait thou His time, so shall the night soon end in joyous day."
It is often in our darkest times that God makes His presence known most clearly.
Good Morning! I am Wesley Pepper associate Pastor at Central UMC.
During the Thirty Years' War in the 17th century, German pastor Paul Gerhardt and his family were forced to flee from their home. One night as they stayed in a small village inn, homeless and afraid, his wife broke down and cried openly in despair. To comfort her, Gerhardt reminded her of Scripture promises about God's provision and keeping. Then, going out to the garden to be alone, he too broke down and wept. He felt he had come to his darkest hour.
Soon afterward, Gerhardt felt the burden lifted and sensed anew the Lord's presence. Taking his pen, he wrote a hymn that has brought comfort to many. "Give to the winds thy fears; hope, and be undismayed; God hears thy sighs and counts thy tears; God shall lift up thy head. Through waves and clouds and storms He gently clears the way. Wait thou His time, so shall the night soon end in joyous day."
It is often in our darkest times that God makes His presence known most clearly.
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
BOB PEDEN
Good morning. This is Bob Peden of Central United Methodist Church. Let me begin by sharing an Aesop Fable with you. A rather timid hunter was searching for the tracks of a lion. He came across a woodsman chopping down a huge oak tree and asked him if he had seen any lion tracks during the day, "Oh yeah, I have," said the man, "not only have I seen the tracks, I can show you the lion. I know right where he is.” The hunter, turning very pale, whispered, "No, thank you. I am only looking for the tracks; I do not really want to find the lion."
For many people that defines our relationship with God. We want to see where he has been. What he has done in others' lives. But we really do not want to come face to face with him ourselves. That might involve change, challenge, even danger; we often crave stability, ease and safety. So today, I challenge you to look for the lion; do not settle for the tracks.
Good morning. This is Bob Peden of Central United Methodist Church. Let me begin by sharing an Aesop Fable with you. A rather timid hunter was searching for the tracks of a lion. He came across a woodsman chopping down a huge oak tree and asked him if he had seen any lion tracks during the day, "Oh yeah, I have," said the man, "not only have I seen the tracks, I can show you the lion. I know right where he is.” The hunter, turning very pale, whispered, "No, thank you. I am only looking for the tracks; I do not really want to find the lion."
For many people that defines our relationship with God. We want to see where he has been. What he has done in others' lives. But we really do not want to come face to face with him ourselves. That might involve change, challenge, even danger; we often crave stability, ease and safety. So today, I challenge you to look for the lion; do not settle for the tracks.
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
JIM WALL
Good Morning:
I am sure you have heard people say something like this, “Oh, she is beautiful, inside and out.” Meaning that this person has a wonderful, sweet spirit along with physical beauty. Such was the case of an older lady who was asked what she used to make her complexion so beautiful and her whole being so bright and attractive. She answered this way: “I use for my lips, truth; I use for my voice, kindness; I use for my eyes, compassion; I use for my hands, charity; I use for my figure, uprightness; I use for my heart, love; I use for any who do not like me, prayer.”
You know, inner beauty always makes a person look better. So, if you want to be more attractive, start on the inside and work your way out. Have a beautiful day!
Good Morning:
I am sure you have heard people say something like this, “Oh, she is beautiful, inside and out.” Meaning that this person has a wonderful, sweet spirit along with physical beauty. Such was the case of an older lady who was asked what she used to make her complexion so beautiful and her whole being so bright and attractive. She answered this way: “I use for my lips, truth; I use for my voice, kindness; I use for my eyes, compassion; I use for my hands, charity; I use for my figure, uprightness; I use for my heart, love; I use for any who do not like me, prayer.”
You know, inner beauty always makes a person look better. So, if you want to be more attractive, start on the inside and work your way out. Have a beautiful day!
Monday, January 23, 2012
Monday, January 23, 2012
JIM CAIN
GOOD MORNING!
“In the same way the Spirit also helps our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we should, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words.” Romans 8:26
How do we call on the power of the Holy Spirit? How do we pray when we don't know what to say? Or perhaps it isn't the words that won't come, but the ability and courage to say them out loud.
Paul tells the Roman Christians that the Holy Spirit helps intercede for us, even to the point of articulating to God the Father what we can't put into words! Not only that, but when we point our hearts and requests and thanksgivings to God, the Holy Spirit cleans up our prayers and makes them in line with the will of God! Even in asking for the Spirit to be at work in our lives, the Holy Spirit goes to work for us in and through our prayers!
GOOD MORNING!
“In the same way the Spirit also helps our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we should, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words.” Romans 8:26
How do we call on the power of the Holy Spirit? How do we pray when we don't know what to say? Or perhaps it isn't the words that won't come, but the ability and courage to say them out loud.
Paul tells the Roman Christians that the Holy Spirit helps intercede for us, even to the point of articulating to God the Father what we can't put into words! Not only that, but when we point our hearts and requests and thanksgivings to God, the Holy Spirit cleans up our prayers and makes them in line with the will of God! Even in asking for the Spirit to be at work in our lives, the Holy Spirit goes to work for us in and through our prayers!
Friday, January 20, 2012
Friday, January 20, 2012
BOB PEDEN
This is Bob Peden of Central United Methodist Church. I know life to be a growing collection of God stories. You have more than you know. God is there in every new page of the adventure, whether we feel His presence, or not. We trust his promise, "Never will I leave you ...." Embedded in each trust experience is a faith story. That means, I choose to live life believing that I'm connected to the God of the universe, even when I don't feel like it, or understand it.
Adventure happens in the unexpected and scary times, in the grieving times, in the risky times, and sometimes in the boring stuff. After we've lived awhile, God helps us understand. He reveals new truth, new stuff; and we have a story to tell.
Why not start a journal that collects your faith stories. Look back on your day and search for God's fingerprints. Write down what God reveals. There is more hidden in the past than you remember. Listen for your story in silence ... even in the boring stuff.
This is Bob Peden of Central United Methodist Church. I know life to be a growing collection of God stories. You have more than you know. God is there in every new page of the adventure, whether we feel His presence, or not. We trust his promise, "Never will I leave you ...." Embedded in each trust experience is a faith story. That means, I choose to live life believing that I'm connected to the God of the universe, even when I don't feel like it, or understand it.
Adventure happens in the unexpected and scary times, in the grieving times, in the risky times, and sometimes in the boring stuff. After we've lived awhile, God helps us understand. He reveals new truth, new stuff; and we have a story to tell.
Why not start a journal that collects your faith stories. Look back on your day and search for God's fingerprints. Write down what God reveals. There is more hidden in the past than you remember. Listen for your story in silence ... even in the boring stuff.
Thursday, January 19, 2012
Thursday, January 19, 2011
GLENDA
Good Morning:
There was a little old lady, who every morning stepped onto her front porch, raised her arms to the sky, and shouted, “PRAISE THE LORD!”
One day an atheist moved into the house next door. He became irritated at the little old lady, so each day he yelled after her, “THERE IS NO LORD.” This went on for quite a while.
One day, the old lady stepped out on her porch and cried out, “Praise the Lord! Please Lord, I have no food and I am starving, provide for me, Oh, Lord!”
The next day when she stepped out on her porch there were two huge bags of groceries. “Praise the Lord! She cried out. He has provided groceries for me!”
The atheist neighbor jumped out of the hedges and shouted: “There is no Lord; I bought those groceries.” The little old lady threw up her arms and shouted, “Praise the Lord, He has provided me with groceries and made the devil pay for them!”
Believe! God uses anyone and everyone to do his will. Be alert! He may even use you. Have a wonderful day!
Good Morning:
There was a little old lady, who every morning stepped onto her front porch, raised her arms to the sky, and shouted, “PRAISE THE LORD!”
One day an atheist moved into the house next door. He became irritated at the little old lady, so each day he yelled after her, “THERE IS NO LORD.” This went on for quite a while.
One day, the old lady stepped out on her porch and cried out, “Praise the Lord! Please Lord, I have no food and I am starving, provide for me, Oh, Lord!”
The next day when she stepped out on her porch there were two huge bags of groceries. “Praise the Lord! She cried out. He has provided groceries for me!”
The atheist neighbor jumped out of the hedges and shouted: “There is no Lord; I bought those groceries.” The little old lady threw up her arms and shouted, “Praise the Lord, He has provided me with groceries and made the devil pay for them!”
Believe! God uses anyone and everyone to do his will. Be alert! He may even use you. Have a wonderful day!
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
JIM CAIN
GOOD MORNING!
“Then Job answered the LORD and said, 'I know that You can do all things, And that no purpose of Yours can be thwarted” Job 42:1-2
This past year was riddled with home foreclosures, bankruptcy, repossessions, & unemployment for many of those we love and care about. Family and friends alike have buried children, suffered bad marriages, and seen loved ones go to prison. All around us businesses are closing, churches splitting, the government failing and the list goes on and on.
Can God truly fit the pieces of this past year into a hopeful future? While, circumstances suggest otherwise, circumstances tell tales that are prone to change. And the truth of the matter is: God never changes. His Word never changes. Despite what is happening in life, God can and will reverse, restore, revive and renew.
As we begin the new year, let's be on the lookout for His plans to come to pass. And trust Him that He can take any circumstance and use it for our good and His glory.
GOOD MORNING!
“Then Job answered the LORD and said, 'I know that You can do all things, And that no purpose of Yours can be thwarted” Job 42:1-2
This past year was riddled with home foreclosures, bankruptcy, repossessions, & unemployment for many of those we love and care about. Family and friends alike have buried children, suffered bad marriages, and seen loved ones go to prison. All around us businesses are closing, churches splitting, the government failing and the list goes on and on.
Can God truly fit the pieces of this past year into a hopeful future? While, circumstances suggest otherwise, circumstances tell tales that are prone to change. And the truth of the matter is: God never changes. His Word never changes. Despite what is happening in life, God can and will reverse, restore, revive and renew.
As we begin the new year, let's be on the lookout for His plans to come to pass. And trust Him that He can take any circumstance and use it for our good and His glory.
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
WESLEY
Good Morning! I am Wesley Pepper associate Pastor at Central UMC.
A few years ago in the Rose Bowl parade in Pasadena, a float stalled. Frustrations increased quickly because other floats could not move, and this event was televised around the world. Mechanics quickly descended upon the stalled float, searching all over for the problem. Finally, someone had the presence of mind to check on the fuel level of the vehicle. It was empty, out of gas. This became even more embarrassing when the crowd realized that the float's sponsor was one of the major oil companies.
Did you know that Christians can run out of gas too? It happens all too frequently. A Christian's inner resources can be depleted by struggles, temptations, trouble, and grief. Unless that Christian is receiving fresh resources from a reliable source, he or she will be in trouble.
We have such a source, available and inexhaustible. That source is the Holy Spirit. I Hope this day you invite the Holy Spirit to fill you and be your guide.
Good Morning! I am Wesley Pepper associate Pastor at Central UMC.
A few years ago in the Rose Bowl parade in Pasadena, a float stalled. Frustrations increased quickly because other floats could not move, and this event was televised around the world. Mechanics quickly descended upon the stalled float, searching all over for the problem. Finally, someone had the presence of mind to check on the fuel level of the vehicle. It was empty, out of gas. This became even more embarrassing when the crowd realized that the float's sponsor was one of the major oil companies.
Did you know that Christians can run out of gas too? It happens all too frequently. A Christian's inner resources can be depleted by struggles, temptations, trouble, and grief. Unless that Christian is receiving fresh resources from a reliable source, he or she will be in trouble.
We have such a source, available and inexhaustible. That source is the Holy Spirit. I Hope this day you invite the Holy Spirit to fill you and be your guide.
Monday, January 16, 2012
Monday, January 16, 2012
BOB RAMBO
Hi! I'm Bob Rambo, Lead Pastor at Central United Methodist Church. Today our nation celebrates the birthday of a great leader, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Dr. King's life was powered by the vision of an America in which all people received equal treatment and equal rights under the law. His vision was embraced by others and became a movement that galvanized our nation.
Not everyone embraced Dr. King's vision; many people resisted it out of fear. But in a time of tense social change, Dr. King turned to his Christian faith and advocated non-violence as the only authentic way to bring about lasting change.
A compelling vision always moves people in a new direction. Jesus had a vision of God's kingdom, or reign, at work in human life. Jesus dreamed of a world in which we love God, love one another, and forgive our enemies.
Whose vision will YOU live by today?
Have a great day!
Hi! I'm Bob Rambo, Lead Pastor at Central United Methodist Church. Today our nation celebrates the birthday of a great leader, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Dr. King's life was powered by the vision of an America in which all people received equal treatment and equal rights under the law. His vision was embraced by others and became a movement that galvanized our nation.
Not everyone embraced Dr. King's vision; many people resisted it out of fear. But in a time of tense social change, Dr. King turned to his Christian faith and advocated non-violence as the only authentic way to bring about lasting change.
A compelling vision always moves people in a new direction. Jesus had a vision of God's kingdom, or reign, at work in human life. Jesus dreamed of a world in which we love God, love one another, and forgive our enemies.
Whose vision will YOU live by today?
Have a great day!
Friday, January 13, 2012
Friday, January 13, 2012
SABRINA
Did you make a New Year’s resolution this year? If you did,
have you already broken it? And if so, what has been your
response? More often than not, instead of picking up our resolution the following day, we drop the whole idea and revert to our old ways. It seems the firmness of our initial decision to make a change for the better wilts under the burden of discouragement, guilt, and missed opportunity. How can we maintain a strength of purpose even when, in our eyes, we fail
miserably to do what we said we would do?
Know this about God’s grace in your life- His strength gives power to the weak, the truth of His word is a light to your
path, His presence by his Spirit will never leave you, and His
love for you in Jesus will never end.
The challenge each day is to remember that. Then, let what
we do each day be a faithful response to what God is doing in
us.
Did you make a New Year’s resolution this year? If you did,
have you already broken it? And if so, what has been your
response? More often than not, instead of picking up our resolution the following day, we drop the whole idea and revert to our old ways. It seems the firmness of our initial decision to make a change for the better wilts under the burden of discouragement, guilt, and missed opportunity. How can we maintain a strength of purpose even when, in our eyes, we fail
miserably to do what we said we would do?
Know this about God’s grace in your life- His strength gives power to the weak, the truth of His word is a light to your
path, His presence by his Spirit will never leave you, and His
love for you in Jesus will never end.
The challenge each day is to remember that. Then, let what
we do each day be a faithful response to what God is doing in
us.
Thursday, January 12, 2012
Thursday, January 12, 2012
Wesley
Good morning. I am Wesley Pepper, Associate Pastor at Central UMC!
A young man went to his pastor one day. The pastor asked him to tell a little about himself. He blurted out, “My dad died when I was 10." The pastor stopped him and said, "Tell me about that. What was it like to lose a father at that age?" The young man leaned forward and his eyes filled with tears. He said, "It was devastating. It seemed that every other kid had a dad at the ball field but me. It seemed so unfair." The pastor asked, "Have you ever talked to God about how you felt? Have you ever told God how angry you were?" "No," said the young man, somewhat puzzled. "Okay," said the pastor, "I want you to have a long talk with God before our next meeting. Tell God exactly what it was like to lose a dad at 10. Tell God how angry you were with him for allowing that."
At their next meeting, the young man was totally different. His experience in prayer had been a powerful release. Once that baggage had been aired, the love of God was able to start healing his insides.
God can handle anything that is on your heart. He can heal your deepest scar.
Good morning. I am Wesley Pepper, Associate Pastor at Central UMC!
A young man went to his pastor one day. The pastor asked him to tell a little about himself. He blurted out, “My dad died when I was 10." The pastor stopped him and said, "Tell me about that. What was it like to lose a father at that age?" The young man leaned forward and his eyes filled with tears. He said, "It was devastating. It seemed that every other kid had a dad at the ball field but me. It seemed so unfair." The pastor asked, "Have you ever talked to God about how you felt? Have you ever told God how angry you were?" "No," said the young man, somewhat puzzled. "Okay," said the pastor, "I want you to have a long talk with God before our next meeting. Tell God exactly what it was like to lose a dad at 10. Tell God how angry you were with him for allowing that."
At their next meeting, the young man was totally different. His experience in prayer had been a powerful release. Once that baggage had been aired, the love of God was able to start healing his insides.
God can handle anything that is on your heart. He can heal your deepest scar.
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
BOB PEDEN
The Holy Bible, The Sacred Scriptures, The Word of God – call it what you will, the Bible is a Christian’s ultimate source for information about the God we know and love. Everything else we learn about God we must test against what the Bible tells us about God. Nature rings with God’s glory, His fingerprints can be seen all over His creation. Human preachers also have much to say about God. But it is important for each of us to test what we read, see, and hear against what we read in the Bible about God.
The Bible, taken as a whole, is God’s revelation of himself to each of us.
This is Bob Peden of Central United Methodist Church. Our church suggests that you read the Bible for yourself. We offer a daily plan of reading, Food for the Journey, on our website. When you read it for yourself, you then can test what others say about God or what they say the Bible says and see for yourself what is pure and true and leads to God.
The Holy Bible, The Sacred Scriptures, The Word of God – call it what you will, the Bible is a Christian’s ultimate source for information about the God we know and love. Everything else we learn about God we must test against what the Bible tells us about God. Nature rings with God’s glory, His fingerprints can be seen all over His creation. Human preachers also have much to say about God. But it is important for each of us to test what we read, see, and hear against what we read in the Bible about God.
The Bible, taken as a whole, is God’s revelation of himself to each of us.
This is Bob Peden of Central United Methodist Church. Our church suggests that you read the Bible for yourself. We offer a daily plan of reading, Food for the Journey, on our website. When you read it for yourself, you then can test what others say about God or what they say the Bible says and see for yourself what is pure and true and leads to God.
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
Jim Wall
Good Morning!
Dave Thomas, the founder of Wendy’s restaurants, was in more than 800 television commercials. He offered his homespun humor and “old-fashioned hamburgers” to a worldwide audience. Viewers saw him as friendly, funny, believable, and caring. In spite of his popularity, though, Thomas always said he was “the messenger, not the message.”
That’s good to remember as we witness to our friends and family. While our behavior should always match what we say, our goal is to point others to Jesus and not to ourselves.
John the Baptist knew that his role was to be a messenger for Christ. He said, I indeed baptize you with water, but One mightier than I is coming, whose sandal strap I am not worthy to loose”(Luke 3:16).
Through our words and actions, we testify of Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord. We are His messengers, but He is the message.
Good Morning!
Dave Thomas, the founder of Wendy’s restaurants, was in more than 800 television commercials. He offered his homespun humor and “old-fashioned hamburgers” to a worldwide audience. Viewers saw him as friendly, funny, believable, and caring. In spite of his popularity, though, Thomas always said he was “the messenger, not the message.”
That’s good to remember as we witness to our friends and family. While our behavior should always match what we say, our goal is to point others to Jesus and not to ourselves.
John the Baptist knew that his role was to be a messenger for Christ. He said, I indeed baptize you with water, but One mightier than I is coming, whose sandal strap I am not worthy to loose”(Luke 3:16).
Through our words and actions, we testify of Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord. We are His messengers, but He is the message.
Monday, January 9, 2012
Monday, January 9, 2012
BOB RAMBO
Hi! I’m Bob Rambo, Lead Pastor at Central United Methodist Church.
Well – today’s the BIG day! This evening LSU and Alabama square off for the 2nd time this football season. Back on November 5th, the 2 teams met and LSU won 9-6 in overtime. This time, the stakes are MUCH higher: the winner will be the National Champion and carry home a trophy.
Fans of these two schools are justifiably proud of their accomplishments; but the Bible says there’s another “trophy” we need to know about. The Apostle Paul talks about “the crown of life” that awaits those who “run the race” of faith and complete the course. Paul urges us not to lose sight of the fact that following Jesus and living a life that pleases God and serves others is what matters most.
Tomorrow, the headlines will be filled with stories about the “winner” of tonight’s big game. But in God’s eyes, those who run the race of faith are the ones who will receive the biggest prize.
At Central, we’re trying to run the race. Why not join us?
Have a great day!
Hi! I’m Bob Rambo, Lead Pastor at Central United Methodist Church.
Well – today’s the BIG day! This evening LSU and Alabama square off for the 2nd time this football season. Back on November 5th, the 2 teams met and LSU won 9-6 in overtime. This time, the stakes are MUCH higher: the winner will be the National Champion and carry home a trophy.
Fans of these two schools are justifiably proud of their accomplishments; but the Bible says there’s another “trophy” we need to know about. The Apostle Paul talks about “the crown of life” that awaits those who “run the race” of faith and complete the course. Paul urges us not to lose sight of the fact that following Jesus and living a life that pleases God and serves others is what matters most.
Tomorrow, the headlines will be filled with stories about the “winner” of tonight’s big game. But in God’s eyes, those who run the race of faith are the ones who will receive the biggest prize.
At Central, we’re trying to run the race. Why not join us?
Have a great day!
Friday, January 6, 2012
Friday, January 6, 2012
Wesley
I am Wesley Pepper, Associate Pastor at Central UMC.
The most radical words in the Apostles Creed are the first four- “I believe in God. Notice that we say, “I believe in God” rather than “I know that there is a God.” What we believe is based on faith, but what we know is based on knowledge.
Just suppose that I reach into my pocket and then withdraw my hand. I then tell you that I have something in my hand and invite you to guess what it is. You respond that you think I have a coin in my hand. Now, that’s your opinion. But faith is not the same as opinion.
Now, I’m going to tell you that I have a quarter in my hand. Do you believe me? I hope that you would respond, “I believe you, because I trust you and have found you to be truthful with me in the past.” If that is your response, you are making a statement of faith.
God, for His own reasons, has not subjected himself to proof. Instead, he wants us to live by faith. The Bible says that “without faith it is impossible to please God.”
It is my prayer that today you would place your faith in God through His son Jesus. Faith in Jesus alone will save us in this life and the next.
I am Wesley Pepper, Associate Pastor at Central UMC.
The most radical words in the Apostles Creed are the first four- “I believe in God. Notice that we say, “I believe in God” rather than “I know that there is a God.” What we believe is based on faith, but what we know is based on knowledge.
Just suppose that I reach into my pocket and then withdraw my hand. I then tell you that I have something in my hand and invite you to guess what it is. You respond that you think I have a coin in my hand. Now, that’s your opinion. But faith is not the same as opinion.
Now, I’m going to tell you that I have a quarter in my hand. Do you believe me? I hope that you would respond, “I believe you, because I trust you and have found you to be truthful with me in the past.” If that is your response, you are making a statement of faith.
God, for His own reasons, has not subjected himself to proof. Instead, he wants us to live by faith. The Bible says that “without faith it is impossible to please God.”
It is my prayer that today you would place your faith in God through His son Jesus. Faith in Jesus alone will save us in this life and the next.
Thursday, January 5, 2012
Thursday, January 5, 2012
JIM CAIN
GOOD MORNING!
A young logger approached the foreman of a logging crew and asked for a job. “That depends,” replied the foreman. “Let’s see you fell this tree.” The young man stepped forward, and skillfully felled a great tree. Impressed, the foreman exclaimed, “You can start Monday.”
The next Thursday afternoon the foreman approached the man and said, “Pick up your check on the way out today, you done. Our records indicate that you’ve gone from first place on Monday to last place today on the felling trees.”
“But I’m a hard worker,” the young man cried. “I arrive first, leave late, and have even worked through my breaks.”
Sensing the young man’s integrity the foreman asked,” Have you been sharpening your axe?”
The man replied, “No sir. I’ve been working too hard to take time for that!”
Our lives are like that. We sometimes get so busy that we don’t take time to “sharpen the axe.” Let me encourage you as the year 2012 begins to take time to on a weekly basis to “sharpen your spiritual axe”!
GOOD MORNING!
A young logger approached the foreman of a logging crew and asked for a job. “That depends,” replied the foreman. “Let’s see you fell this tree.” The young man stepped forward, and skillfully felled a great tree. Impressed, the foreman exclaimed, “You can start Monday.”
The next Thursday afternoon the foreman approached the man and said, “Pick up your check on the way out today, you done. Our records indicate that you’ve gone from first place on Monday to last place today on the felling trees.”
“But I’m a hard worker,” the young man cried. “I arrive first, leave late, and have even worked through my breaks.”
Sensing the young man’s integrity the foreman asked,” Have you been sharpening your axe?”
The man replied, “No sir. I’ve been working too hard to take time for that!”
Our lives are like that. We sometimes get so busy that we don’t take time to “sharpen the axe.” Let me encourage you as the year 2012 begins to take time to on a weekly basis to “sharpen your spiritual axe”!
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
GLENDA
Good Morning:
God knew you long before you were born. He thought about you and planned for you! He wanted someone just like you; therefore, you are very special to Him. After all, God has said in Jeremiah 1:5: "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you; before you were born I set you apart." So when you feel discouraged or inadequate, remember that God has always thought of you as very valuable. He is always with you. He loves you dearly, and nothing can separate you from that love!
Never feel that you are unloved, or let one of life's many discouragements set you back, instead; read Phillipians 1:6 and be confident of what it says: He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
So for 2012, let your resolution be that you will be open to all the good things God has planned for you. Happy New Year and have a wonderful day!
Good Morning:
God knew you long before you were born. He thought about you and planned for you! He wanted someone just like you; therefore, you are very special to Him. After all, God has said in Jeremiah 1:5: "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you; before you were born I set you apart." So when you feel discouraged or inadequate, remember that God has always thought of you as very valuable. He is always with you. He loves you dearly, and nothing can separate you from that love!
Never feel that you are unloved, or let one of life's many discouragements set you back, instead; read Phillipians 1:6 and be confident of what it says: He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
So for 2012, let your resolution be that you will be open to all the good things God has planned for you. Happy New Year and have a wonderful day!
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
BOB RAMBO
Hi! I’m Bob Rambo, Lead Pastor at Central United Methodist Church.
On January 8th, we invite you to join us for an 8-week sermon series we call “Lessons from Hollywood.” Each week during this series, we’ll use a movie that demonstrates an important biblical truth or principle.
People sometimes ask me: Why do you use movies? Nothing good comes out of Hollywood! That’s often true. But we need to realize that in our culture, movies tell “stories” – which means they function a lot like “parables.”
Beginning January 8th, we invite you to join us as we use movies – these “modern parables” – to learn more about life, faith, and God.
We worship each Sunday at 8:30 or 10:55. Why not join us at Central, where everyone is welcome?!
Have a great day!
Hi! I’m Bob Rambo, Lead Pastor at Central United Methodist Church.
On January 8th, we invite you to join us for an 8-week sermon series we call “Lessons from Hollywood.” Each week during this series, we’ll use a movie that demonstrates an important biblical truth or principle.
People sometimes ask me: Why do you use movies? Nothing good comes out of Hollywood! That’s often true. But we need to realize that in our culture, movies tell “stories” – which means they function a lot like “parables.”
Beginning January 8th, we invite you to join us as we use movies – these “modern parables” – to learn more about life, faith, and God.
We worship each Sunday at 8:30 or 10:55. Why not join us at Central, where everyone is welcome?!
Have a great day!
Monday, January 2, 2012
Monday, January 2, 2012
Jim Wall
Good Morning!
I thank God for this free country, but I know the greatest freedom is that given by God when he lifts our burden of sin.
As we begin a new year, let us rejoice that as believers, no matter what our background may be, we are no longer enslaved to sin. As John Chapter 8 reminds us, “If the son therefore shall make you free, you shall be free indeed. Throughout this new year, let us celebrate our freedom in Christ and tell others of His love.
May our lifelong prayer be that through word and deed, we may bring honor and glory to His name and kingdom. Through our faithful witness this year, may many people come to know Christ as Lord and Savior.
I pray that God’s Holy Spirit would be your lifelong companion.
Good Morning!
I thank God for this free country, but I know the greatest freedom is that given by God when he lifts our burden of sin.
As we begin a new year, let us rejoice that as believers, no matter what our background may be, we are no longer enslaved to sin. As John Chapter 8 reminds us, “If the son therefore shall make you free, you shall be free indeed. Throughout this new year, let us celebrate our freedom in Christ and tell others of His love.
May our lifelong prayer be that through word and deed, we may bring honor and glory to His name and kingdom. Through our faithful witness this year, may many people come to know Christ as Lord and Savior.
I pray that God’s Holy Spirit would be your lifelong companion.
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