SABRINA
It is, indeed, Christmas time in the city. Meridian's annual Downtown Christmas Parade will take place tomorrow evening at 5:30 p.m. Because at Central we are excited to be a part of Downtown Meridian, we are opening the doors of our church to the community. We will open at 5:00, offering homemade soup, hot chocolate, popcorn, train rides for the children, along with a visit from Santa.
For those who are torn between the Christmas Parade and the SEC Championship game...worry not...we will have the game on the big screen in our Fellowship Hall. All of this is just our way of inviting you into our lives...a gift from us to the community.
Come join us as we celebrate the sights, sounds and smells of the season!
If you do not have a church home, we invite you to return and worship with us on Sunday morning. We have two services...a Contemporary Service at 8:30, followed by Sunday School, and a Traditional Worship Service at 10:55.
We hope to see you tomorrow evening...and maybe again on Sunday! Have a blessed day!
Friday, November 30, 2012
Thursday, November 29, 2012
Thursday, November 29, 2012
JIM WALL
Good Morning!
The Bible speaks of Jesus Christ as the Lion of the tribe of Judah. It's quite a daunting title - fierce and commanding. And yet, Jesus told his disciples that He was “gentle and humble in heart.” So, which description is true? Each is true.
You may think gentleness equates to weakness. But that simply isn't so. Gentleness is actually controlled strength. It is the ability to choose to reach out to another person with tenderness and caring when it is within your power to crush and destroy.
Choose to be gentle with those whom God has placed in your life - your spouse, your children, and your co-workers. In that way, you will be following in the footsteps of Christ.
When you encounter difficulties and contradictions, do not try to break them, but bend them with gentleness and time.
Good Morning!
The Bible speaks of Jesus Christ as the Lion of the tribe of Judah. It's quite a daunting title - fierce and commanding. And yet, Jesus told his disciples that He was “gentle and humble in heart.” So, which description is true? Each is true.
You may think gentleness equates to weakness. But that simply isn't so. Gentleness is actually controlled strength. It is the ability to choose to reach out to another person with tenderness and caring when it is within your power to crush and destroy.
Choose to be gentle with those whom God has placed in your life - your spouse, your children, and your co-workers. In that way, you will be following in the footsteps of Christ.
When you encounter difficulties and contradictions, do not try to break them, but bend them with gentleness and time.
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
OWEN
Good morning! I am Owen Weddle, Associate Pastor at Central!
“Ask and it will be given to you. Search and you will find. Knock and the door will be open.” These familiar words of Jesus are the very definition of what a prayer life is about. They speak of the expectation that if we come to God with our requests, we will find an answer. But for many of us, our prayer life is “one and done.” As a result, we may act as if Jesus says, “Ask once... search once... and knock once...”
But the Christian prayer life is a persistent, constant, never ceasing practice that always brings our requests to God. The time we spend in prayer about something represents its genuine importance to us. Sometimes we pray for something simply because we want it at that moment or we feel obliged to because someone asked. But tomorrow, it is forgotten from our minds.
If something is important enough for God to do, it is important enough for us to make it a priority in our constant prayer.
May God bless you!
Good morning! I am Owen Weddle, Associate Pastor at Central!
“Ask and it will be given to you. Search and you will find. Knock and the door will be open.” These familiar words of Jesus are the very definition of what a prayer life is about. They speak of the expectation that if we come to God with our requests, we will find an answer. But for many of us, our prayer life is “one and done.” As a result, we may act as if Jesus says, “Ask once... search once... and knock once...”
But the Christian prayer life is a persistent, constant, never ceasing practice that always brings our requests to God. The time we spend in prayer about something represents its genuine importance to us. Sometimes we pray for something simply because we want it at that moment or we feel obliged to because someone asked. But tomorrow, it is forgotten from our minds.
If something is important enough for God to do, it is important enough for us to make it a priority in our constant prayer.
May God bless you!
Tuesday, November 27, 2012
Tuesday, November 27, 2012
BOB RAMBO
Hi! I'm Bob Rambo, Lead Pastor at Central United Methodist Church. Last Friday was “Black Friday” - the official start of the Christmas shopping season. Many businesses count on the weeks before Christmas to help them make a profit, to end the year “in the black.” So they offer special sales and promotions to encourage us to shop.
In the midst of all this “hustle and bustle,” it's easy to get caught up buying things we don't need or things we can't afford. It's a good thing to remember that “things” cannot bring us joy; true happiness and contentment come from living life simply, honestly, compassionately. The Apostle Paul reminds us that “Godly living and being content with what we have” is a priceless gift.”
During this holiday season, may you find “space” to celebrate this season for what it truly means - a gracious God who stooped low and came down to earth to live among us.
Make it a GREAT day!
Hi! I'm Bob Rambo, Lead Pastor at Central United Methodist Church. Last Friday was “Black Friday” - the official start of the Christmas shopping season. Many businesses count on the weeks before Christmas to help them make a profit, to end the year “in the black.” So they offer special sales and promotions to encourage us to shop.
In the midst of all this “hustle and bustle,” it's easy to get caught up buying things we don't need or things we can't afford. It's a good thing to remember that “things” cannot bring us joy; true happiness and contentment come from living life simply, honestly, compassionately. The Apostle Paul reminds us that “Godly living and being content with what we have” is a priceless gift.”
During this holiday season, may you find “space” to celebrate this season for what it truly means - a gracious God who stooped low and came down to earth to live among us.
Make it a GREAT day!
Monday, November 26, 2012
Monday, November 26, 2012
JIM CAIN
Nehemiah's countrymen, the Jews, were living in destitution. The once powerful walls of Jerusalem were little more than scattered rubble and her great gates that once protected the people and welcomed their friends were reduced to char & ash. This broke him, and he began praying earnestly for God to work mightily on the Jew's behalf. However, Nehemiah didn't stop there; rather, he started planning for the day when God would answer his prayer.
Many of us wait for God to work and answer prayer, like Nehemiah, but unlike him, we aren't prepared for when he does. God uses that time of waiting to prepare us, which he did with Nehemiah. Nehemiah served king Xerxes as a cup bearer, a trusted position. The king, sensing his brokenness, asked him, “Why is your face sad, seeing you are not sick?” Nehemiah didn't retell the sad tale, but gave the king a well planned solution.
Are we preparing for the day when God moves? Have we been praying for revival as a church, but not preparing ourselves for when it occurs? Start planning today for your answered prayers.
Nehemiah's countrymen, the Jews, were living in destitution. The once powerful walls of Jerusalem were little more than scattered rubble and her great gates that once protected the people and welcomed their friends were reduced to char & ash. This broke him, and he began praying earnestly for God to work mightily on the Jew's behalf. However, Nehemiah didn't stop there; rather, he started planning for the day when God would answer his prayer.
Many of us wait for God to work and answer prayer, like Nehemiah, but unlike him, we aren't prepared for when he does. God uses that time of waiting to prepare us, which he did with Nehemiah. Nehemiah served king Xerxes as a cup bearer, a trusted position. The king, sensing his brokenness, asked him, “Why is your face sad, seeing you are not sick?” Nehemiah didn't retell the sad tale, but gave the king a well planned solution.
Are we preparing for the day when God moves? Have we been praying for revival as a church, but not preparing ourselves for when it occurs? Start planning today for your answered prayers.
Friday, November 23, 2012
Friday, November 23, 2012
GLENDA
Good Morning:
Well, one more Thanksgiving Day under our belt...and I do mean under our belt. If you are like me, yesterday was all about food, family, and fun. Hopefully, you didn't forget to count your blessings and to give God thanks for all of them. Often, we get so caught up in the food and family that we forget about God.
All of us, no matter our situation, have things for which we are thankful. Psalm 62:1 tells us "It is good to give thanks to the Lord." Psalm 100:4 says to come into His presence with Thanksgiving. There are many verses in the Bible that tell us to be thankful and to thank God. If you forgot yesterday, do it today. Count your blessings. Take the time to say, Thank you, God; and then remember to thank God for something every single day. God, our Heavenly Father, loves to hear from His children.
Have a wonderful day!
Good Morning:
Well, one more Thanksgiving Day under our belt...and I do mean under our belt. If you are like me, yesterday was all about food, family, and fun. Hopefully, you didn't forget to count your blessings and to give God thanks for all of them. Often, we get so caught up in the food and family that we forget about God.
All of us, no matter our situation, have things for which we are thankful. Psalm 62:1 tells us "It is good to give thanks to the Lord." Psalm 100:4 says to come into His presence with Thanksgiving. There are many verses in the Bible that tell us to be thankful and to thank God. If you forgot yesterday, do it today. Count your blessings. Take the time to say, Thank you, God; and then remember to thank God for something every single day. God, our Heavenly Father, loves to hear from His children.
Have a wonderful day!
Thursday, November 22, 2012
Thursday, November 22, 2012
SABRINA
How ironic I thought, that I would be doing a Reflection TODAY. While I am VERY thankful, my family dynamic has drastically changed in the past few years. My mother, my daddy, and now my brother have died.
Holiday family gatherings are different now. There are memories of past dinners. But now we also have 7 beautiful grandchildren...that INDEED changes the dynamic, and gives us a glimpse of the future.
While today is a NATIONAL holiday, as Christians, we are keenly aware of the many things God has given to us. God has given us family, friends, memories, futures - no matter what your political preference, your denominational affiliation - we are a blessed people. We are each a part of God's perfect plan. We are a part of God's future - as surely as Noah and Abraham. And we have been blessed to be a blessing to others. Let us ALL give thanks!
How ironic I thought, that I would be doing a Reflection TODAY. While I am VERY thankful, my family dynamic has drastically changed in the past few years. My mother, my daddy, and now my brother have died.
Holiday family gatherings are different now. There are memories of past dinners. But now we also have 7 beautiful grandchildren...that INDEED changes the dynamic, and gives us a glimpse of the future.
While today is a NATIONAL holiday, as Christians, we are keenly aware of the many things God has given to us. God has given us family, friends, memories, futures - no matter what your political preference, your denominational affiliation - we are a blessed people. We are each a part of God's perfect plan. We are a part of God's future - as surely as Noah and Abraham. And we have been blessed to be a blessing to others. Let us ALL give thanks!
Wednesday, November 21, 2012
Wednesday, December 21, 2012
OWEN
Good morning! I am Owen Weddle, Associate Pastor at Central!
In Acts 20:35, a phrase familiar to many of our ears is remembered from the mouth of Jesus: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” These are true words to remember for this holiday season. While we do give gifts to others on Christmas, we often spend more time anticipating what we are going to get rather than how someone will respond to the gift we give them. During the holidays, we are trained to give gifts to people to receive gifts back in return.
But the story of God becoming a human like us is a story of a gift that can never be fully paid back. In Jesus, God saves us when we cannot help ourselves, much less pay God back. Giving without expecting to receive is at the very center of God's heart... that is the great truth of Jesus' birth.
As you celebrate the Christmas season, ask yourself the question: is there anyone in need that you can give to without expecting in return? That is how we can fully celebrate the birth of our Savior.
May God bless you!
Good morning! I am Owen Weddle, Associate Pastor at Central!
In Acts 20:35, a phrase familiar to many of our ears is remembered from the mouth of Jesus: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” These are true words to remember for this holiday season. While we do give gifts to others on Christmas, we often spend more time anticipating what we are going to get rather than how someone will respond to the gift we give them. During the holidays, we are trained to give gifts to people to receive gifts back in return.
But the story of God becoming a human like us is a story of a gift that can never be fully paid back. In Jesus, God saves us when we cannot help ourselves, much less pay God back. Giving without expecting to receive is at the very center of God's heart... that is the great truth of Jesus' birth.
As you celebrate the Christmas season, ask yourself the question: is there anyone in need that you can give to without expecting in return? That is how we can fully celebrate the birth of our Savior.
May God bless you!
Wednesday, November 21, 2012
OWEN
Good morning! I am Owen Weddle, Associate Pastor at Central!
Tomorrow is Thanksgiving, and many of us will be gathering around for a day of food and family. And as the name suggests, many of us will be coming to the holiday with a mindset of trying to acknowledge the things we are thankful for.
Thankfulness is a good thing, but in Colossians 4:2, the Apostle Paul takes it a bit further: “Devote yourselves to prayer, keeping alert in it with thanksgiving.” For Paul, being thankful isn't simply about having a celebration. It is about keeping our eyes and ears open to what is happening around us. When our prayers to God are focused on what God has done for us, we realize what we have is not truly our own. What God has given us is something God wants others to enjoy also. By giving thanks in our constant prayers, we become alert to give to others the very things God has given us.
So, when you give thanks for your many blessings, think also of the poor and needy. Be alert to how you can help them as God has done for you. After all, what God has given you is something God wants to give to someone else.
May God bless you!
Good morning! I am Owen Weddle, Associate Pastor at Central!
Tomorrow is Thanksgiving, and many of us will be gathering around for a day of food and family. And as the name suggests, many of us will be coming to the holiday with a mindset of trying to acknowledge the things we are thankful for.
Thankfulness is a good thing, but in Colossians 4:2, the Apostle Paul takes it a bit further: “Devote yourselves to prayer, keeping alert in it with thanksgiving.” For Paul, being thankful isn't simply about having a celebration. It is about keeping our eyes and ears open to what is happening around us. When our prayers to God are focused on what God has done for us, we realize what we have is not truly our own. What God has given us is something God wants others to enjoy also. By giving thanks in our constant prayers, we become alert to give to others the very things God has given us.
So, when you give thanks for your many blessings, think also of the poor and needy. Be alert to how you can help them as God has done for you. After all, what God has given you is something God wants to give to someone else.
May God bless you!
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
BOB PEDEN
Good morning!
In the very first chapter of the Bible, we are taken to the chaos before time began. In the formless and dark void prior to the completion of creation, we find the Spirit of God hovering over the chaos waiting for God to speak his creative word. This creative word set the power of the Spirit into creative work, ordering and making our universe and our world within it. Yet, isn't it so sadly ironic that in the chaos of our lives we so seldom cry out to God and ask for his Holy Spirit to come into our lives and bring the Lord's creative order?
Let's ask for God's Spirit, hovering above our messes, to enter into our world and lead us to where we need to be, and to bring the Father the glory he deserves! Only God can create order out of the chaos in which we live.
Good morning!
In the very first chapter of the Bible, we are taken to the chaos before time began. In the formless and dark void prior to the completion of creation, we find the Spirit of God hovering over the chaos waiting for God to speak his creative word. This creative word set the power of the Spirit into creative work, ordering and making our universe and our world within it. Yet, isn't it so sadly ironic that in the chaos of our lives we so seldom cry out to God and ask for his Holy Spirit to come into our lives and bring the Lord's creative order?
Let's ask for God's Spirit, hovering above our messes, to enter into our world and lead us to where we need to be, and to bring the Father the glory he deserves! Only God can create order out of the chaos in which we live.
Monday, November 19, 2012
Monday, November 19, 2012
JIM CAIN
Good Morning!
Now the rabble that was among them had a strong craving. And the people of Israel also wept again and said, “Oh that we had meat to eat! We remember the fish we ate in Egypt that cost nothing, the cucumbers, the melons, the leeks, the onions, and the garlic. But now our strength is dried up, and there is nothing at all but this manna to look at.” Numbers 11:4-6
There are few things in life more repulsive than ungratefulness. Whether it's a spoiled child screaming for more, or an adult who is unappreciative of another's giving, ungratefulness is ugly! Remember God's provision of manna for the Israelites in the wilderness? This food appeared every morning, except on the Sabbath, enough to feed the nation. If the Lord had not produced the manna, people would have starved.
Oddly enough, the people weren't grateful. They bemoaned that the “fish they ate in Egypt cost nothing”-nothing but their freedom. Gratefulness should abound when we witness God's provision in our lives. Next time you are compelled to complain about something, like your job, family, or anything in between, look at it in the light of God's provision.
Don't complain about your manna!
Good Morning!
Now the rabble that was among them had a strong craving. And the people of Israel also wept again and said, “Oh that we had meat to eat! We remember the fish we ate in Egypt that cost nothing, the cucumbers, the melons, the leeks, the onions, and the garlic. But now our strength is dried up, and there is nothing at all but this manna to look at.” Numbers 11:4-6
There are few things in life more repulsive than ungratefulness. Whether it's a spoiled child screaming for more, or an adult who is unappreciative of another's giving, ungratefulness is ugly! Remember God's provision of manna for the Israelites in the wilderness? This food appeared every morning, except on the Sabbath, enough to feed the nation. If the Lord had not produced the manna, people would have starved.
Oddly enough, the people weren't grateful. They bemoaned that the “fish they ate in Egypt cost nothing”-nothing but their freedom. Gratefulness should abound when we witness God's provision in our lives. Next time you are compelled to complain about something, like your job, family, or anything in between, look at it in the light of God's provision.
Don't complain about your manna!
Friday, November 16, 2012
Friday, November 16, 2012
JIM CAIN
GOOD MORNING!
With Thanksgiving less than a week away, I asked my youngest son what were some things he was thankful for. He thought for a moment and said “the little things” like warm beds, socks, and electricity.
Thomas Edison created the Edison Electric Illuminating Company on December 17, 1880, to produce and sell electricity. This came after Edison made over 900 light bulbs that didn’t work. 900 times he went to all the trouble of making a light bulb, plugging it in, flipping the switch, and watching while nothing happened. According to Edison, every time he made a light bulb that didn’t work, he found, “one more way not to make a light bulb.” Eventually, he made a light producing bulb. As a result, he is known as one of the greatest inventors of all times.
So it is with our faith. Most Christians failed many times before arriving at where they are today. Even the Apostle Paul confessed when he said, “For what I am doing, I do not understand; for I am not practicing what I would like to do, but I am doing the very thing I hate.” Thankfully, Paul like Edison never gave up. As Believers we must be committed to our faith and not give up, learning from our mistakes one more way not to live the Christian life.
GOOD MORNING!
With Thanksgiving less than a week away, I asked my youngest son what were some things he was thankful for. He thought for a moment and said “the little things” like warm beds, socks, and electricity.
Thomas Edison created the Edison Electric Illuminating Company on December 17, 1880, to produce and sell electricity. This came after Edison made over 900 light bulbs that didn’t work. 900 times he went to all the trouble of making a light bulb, plugging it in, flipping the switch, and watching while nothing happened. According to Edison, every time he made a light bulb that didn’t work, he found, “one more way not to make a light bulb.” Eventually, he made a light producing bulb. As a result, he is known as one of the greatest inventors of all times.
So it is with our faith. Most Christians failed many times before arriving at where they are today. Even the Apostle Paul confessed when he said, “For what I am doing, I do not understand; for I am not practicing what I would like to do, but I am doing the very thing I hate.” Thankfully, Paul like Edison never gave up. As Believers we must be committed to our faith and not give up, learning from our mistakes one more way not to live the Christian life.
Thursday, November 15, 2012
Thursday, November 15, 2012
BOB RAMBO
Hi! I’m Bob Rambo, Lead Pastor at Central United Methodist Church. Recently, our church installed two AEDs – automated external defibrillators – in case of an emergency. The AED delivers an electrical charge to help “re-start” a heart that has stopped beating. They can be the difference between life and death.
“Reviving the heart” is also language used in the Bible. In Scripture, the heart doesn’t refer to the ORGAN inside our chests – but to the “center” of a person’s being.
Sometimes, our “hearts” can get HARD or OFF-COURSE and lead us away from God. This usually happens when we live without allowing God to be part of our daily lives. In those cases, our “hearts” need to be softened or “revived”.
How is YOUR “heart” today? Does it beat with passion and desire for God? Or has your heart become HARD?
Give God some “room” in your life – and make it a great day!
Hi! I’m Bob Rambo, Lead Pastor at Central United Methodist Church. Recently, our church installed two AEDs – automated external defibrillators – in case of an emergency. The AED delivers an electrical charge to help “re-start” a heart that has stopped beating. They can be the difference between life and death.
“Reviving the heart” is also language used in the Bible. In Scripture, the heart doesn’t refer to the ORGAN inside our chests – but to the “center” of a person’s being.
Sometimes, our “hearts” can get HARD or OFF-COURSE and lead us away from God. This usually happens when we live without allowing God to be part of our daily lives. In those cases, our “hearts” need to be softened or “revived”.
How is YOUR “heart” today? Does it beat with passion and desire for God? Or has your heart become HARD?
Give God some “room” in your life – and make it a great day!
Wednesday, November 14, 2012
Wednesday, November 14, 2012
BOB PEDEN
Major General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston on June 18, 1865, along with 1800 troops and announced that the Civil War was over.
On June 19th, Granger read a proclamation which stated, in part:
“The people of Texas are informed that in accordance with a Proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are free.”
President Abraham Lincoln had signed the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863. Yet two and a half years later, there were over a quarter of a million slaves in Texas who were unaware of their new freedom.
Celebrations broke out throughout Galveston and across the state. Today, we are surrounded by people who are slaves to sin, caught up in patterns of behavior that control their lives: lust, ambition, greed. Our task, therefore, is to embrace the freedom that Christ offers and announce that freedom to others. We need to help people see that slavery to our own desires is still slavery, and that God offers the only way out of that bondage.
Major General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston on June 18, 1865, along with 1800 troops and announced that the Civil War was over.
On June 19th, Granger read a proclamation which stated, in part:
“The people of Texas are informed that in accordance with a Proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are free.”
President Abraham Lincoln had signed the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863. Yet two and a half years later, there were over a quarter of a million slaves in Texas who were unaware of their new freedom.
Celebrations broke out throughout Galveston and across the state. Today, we are surrounded by people who are slaves to sin, caught up in patterns of behavior that control their lives: lust, ambition, greed. Our task, therefore, is to embrace the freedom that Christ offers and announce that freedom to others. We need to help people see that slavery to our own desires is still slavery, and that God offers the only way out of that bondage.
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
OWEN
Good morning! I am Owen Weddle, Associate Pastor at Central.
Many countries across the world today are celebrating World Kindness Day. Kindness is this great ideal that we long to see it in others. We designate a day for that very reason. But we desire it because we don't see much of it. We create a day because every other day is not a day of kindness. But it is easy to take one day of the year to be kind…and it is easy to work out at the gym only once a year. It doesn't cost a lot in the long run.
But consistent kindness is something nobler... and something harder. Trying to encourage people to do exactly that, the Apostle Paul says in Philippians 2:3, “Do nothing from selfishness or conceit, but in humility regard others as more important than yourselves.” This sounds foreign to some of our ears. But when we treat ourselves as most important, we are continuously feeding ourselves. Eventually, we get out of shape and cannot easily exercise love for others. Anyone can be kind one day. To learn to be consistently kind to others, we have to learn to regard others as more important. That takes time and training!
May God bless you!
Good morning! I am Owen Weddle, Associate Pastor at Central.
Many countries across the world today are celebrating World Kindness Day. Kindness is this great ideal that we long to see it in others. We designate a day for that very reason. But we desire it because we don't see much of it. We create a day because every other day is not a day of kindness. But it is easy to take one day of the year to be kind…and it is easy to work out at the gym only once a year. It doesn't cost a lot in the long run.
But consistent kindness is something nobler... and something harder. Trying to encourage people to do exactly that, the Apostle Paul says in Philippians 2:3, “Do nothing from selfishness or conceit, but in humility regard others as more important than yourselves.” This sounds foreign to some of our ears. But when we treat ourselves as most important, we are continuously feeding ourselves. Eventually, we get out of shape and cannot easily exercise love for others. Anyone can be kind one day. To learn to be consistently kind to others, we have to learn to regard others as more important. That takes time and training!
May God bless you!
Monday, November 12, 2012
Monday, November 12, 2012
JIM CAIN
Granddaddy Cain was on up in years by the time this story takes place, and he didn’t go to many church business meetings anymore; because he thought the young folks, them in their fifties and sixties could handle the church business. But on this particular day, he got word from one of the other “good old boys” that the church was about to add some new program to reach folks outside the church, so he got his grandson to drive him to the meeting at the church.
When he walked in, the church body was already deep in discussion about starting a group for thespians. A woman said, “I move, sir, that we create the group and allow them to meet during choir practice. Someone else said, “I second the motion”. The moderator asked, “Is there any discussion?”
Granddaddy stood up, cleared his throat saying, “Brethren, I want everyone to know up front that if we allow these thespians to come into the church, they’ll try and take over. If we let them use the room and put up a sign I’m not sure anyone knows how to spell it. And most of all, I’m concerned that as bad as we need space, that if we let these thespians meet, then there won’t be anywhere for the church drama group to meet!
Granddaddy Cain was on up in years by the time this story takes place, and he didn’t go to many church business meetings anymore; because he thought the young folks, them in their fifties and sixties could handle the church business. But on this particular day, he got word from one of the other “good old boys” that the church was about to add some new program to reach folks outside the church, so he got his grandson to drive him to the meeting at the church.
When he walked in, the church body was already deep in discussion about starting a group for thespians. A woman said, “I move, sir, that we create the group and allow them to meet during choir practice. Someone else said, “I second the motion”. The moderator asked, “Is there any discussion?”
Granddaddy stood up, cleared his throat saying, “Brethren, I want everyone to know up front that if we allow these thespians to come into the church, they’ll try and take over. If we let them use the room and put up a sign I’m not sure anyone knows how to spell it. And most of all, I’m concerned that as bad as we need space, that if we let these thespians meet, then there won’t be anywhere for the church drama group to meet!
Friday, November 9, 2012
Friday, November 9, 2012
JIM WALL
Good Morning!
God loves you and is intimately concerned with your life to the point that “the very hairs of your head are all numbered.” And God was involved right from the beginning with the creation of your spirit, soul, and body. Who you are is largely determined by your inherited genetic traits and your upbringing, but there is more to you than that.
Spirit, soul, and body, you are a unique creation of God – a person who is known by God and loved by God. God designed you the way you are for a reason. In 1 Peter 4:10, we read that each of us is given a special gift from God to be used in serving others. If you have not discovered your gift, pray to God and ask friends for their thoughts. Then use your uniqueness and special gift to spread joy wherever you go.
Good Morning!
God loves you and is intimately concerned with your life to the point that “the very hairs of your head are all numbered.” And God was involved right from the beginning with the creation of your spirit, soul, and body. Who you are is largely determined by your inherited genetic traits and your upbringing, but there is more to you than that.
Spirit, soul, and body, you are a unique creation of God – a person who is known by God and loved by God. God designed you the way you are for a reason. In 1 Peter 4:10, we read that each of us is given a special gift from God to be used in serving others. If you have not discovered your gift, pray to God and ask friends for their thoughts. Then use your uniqueness and special gift to spread joy wherever you go.
Thursday, November 8, 2012
Thursday, November 8, 2012
SABRINA
I often look at my family and wonder what fingerprints am I leaving on those who will come after me? I am, in part, who I am today because of the legacy my parents left to me. Legacies that were passed down to them.
Legacy is the wisdom, convictions, experiences, and values that have been handed down to us from generations before us. It shapes us, providing wisdom and direction for the next generation.
Legacy is powerful. It is a gift we are compelled to open, but after opening it, we are faced with challenges and choices. Will we accept it, share it, toss it, or rebel against it?
How has your faith been impacted by the legacies of those before, how will you impact the faith of those to come?
God gave us an example of perfect legacy through His Son, forgiving, reaching out to those in need, loving the unlovable. No matter what our past, we all have the power to leave a Christ-like legacy for those yet to come. It is a sobering, yet powerful thought for today.
I often look at my family and wonder what fingerprints am I leaving on those who will come after me? I am, in part, who I am today because of the legacy my parents left to me. Legacies that were passed down to them.
Legacy is the wisdom, convictions, experiences, and values that have been handed down to us from generations before us. It shapes us, providing wisdom and direction for the next generation.
Legacy is powerful. It is a gift we are compelled to open, but after opening it, we are faced with challenges and choices. Will we accept it, share it, toss it, or rebel against it?
How has your faith been impacted by the legacies of those before, how will you impact the faith of those to come?
God gave us an example of perfect legacy through His Son, forgiving, reaching out to those in need, loving the unlovable. No matter what our past, we all have the power to leave a Christ-like legacy for those yet to come. It is a sobering, yet powerful thought for today.
Wednesday, November 7, 2012
Wednesday, November 7, 2012
GLENDA
Good Morning: “We give thanks to you, oh God. We give Thanks!” “It is good to give thanks to God.” “Enter into His gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise. Be thankful unto Him and bless his name.” “Give thanks at the remembrance of His Holy name.” “Oh, give thanks to the Lord. Call upon His name.” “Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good.” These are just a few verses from the Bible that remind us that for all the ways we have been blessed, we are always to thank God.
November is the month for Thankfulness. A time for remembering that first Thanksgiving Day so long ago. It has become the month that we take time to thank God for all He has done for us. This is the month of Thanksgiving. And that's good. But, how about the rest of the year? This November, let this be the start of giving thanks to God every day and all year long. After all, He doesn't just bless us in November. Count your blessings, give God the glory, and tell him simply, “Thanks, God.” Have a wonderful day!
Good Morning: “We give thanks to you, oh God. We give Thanks!” “It is good to give thanks to God.” “Enter into His gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise. Be thankful unto Him and bless his name.” “Give thanks at the remembrance of His Holy name.” “Oh, give thanks to the Lord. Call upon His name.” “Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good.” These are just a few verses from the Bible that remind us that for all the ways we have been blessed, we are always to thank God.
November is the month for Thankfulness. A time for remembering that first Thanksgiving Day so long ago. It has become the month that we take time to thank God for all He has done for us. This is the month of Thanksgiving. And that's good. But, how about the rest of the year? This November, let this be the start of giving thanks to God every day and all year long. After all, He doesn't just bless us in November. Count your blessings, give God the glory, and tell him simply, “Thanks, God.” Have a wonderful day!
Tuesday, November 6, 2012
Tuesday, November 6, 2012
BOB PEDEN
He was the first to answer the call of mission, the first to recognize the specialness, the first to tell someone else of the unique find.
Thirty years later he was at the mercy of the authorities and he must have known that this time his life would be taken from him.
Andrew became one of the four disciples most closely associated with Jesus, he was a speaker on the Day of Pentecost and then he traveled, mostly by foot. Eventually, to be tortured and crucified in the city of Patras on the Peloponnese peninsula of what is now known as Greece. The X shaped cross he was hung on has become known as "Saint Andrew's Cross." From that time by the Sea of Galilee, Andrew saw a lifetime fulfillment of Jesus' promise to make him and Peter fishers of men.
As exemplified in the life of Andrew, being a follower of Jesus is rough and costly, yet the outcome is never in doubt.
Are you following Him at all costs?
He was the first to answer the call of mission, the first to recognize the specialness, the first to tell someone else of the unique find.
Thirty years later he was at the mercy of the authorities and he must have known that this time his life would be taken from him.
Andrew became one of the four disciples most closely associated with Jesus, he was a speaker on the Day of Pentecost and then he traveled, mostly by foot. Eventually, to be tortured and crucified in the city of Patras on the Peloponnese peninsula of what is now known as Greece. The X shaped cross he was hung on has become known as "Saint Andrew's Cross." From that time by the Sea of Galilee, Andrew saw a lifetime fulfillment of Jesus' promise to make him and Peter fishers of men.
As exemplified in the life of Andrew, being a follower of Jesus is rough and costly, yet the outcome is never in doubt.
Are you following Him at all costs?
Monday, November 5, 2012
Monday, November 5, 2012
JIMMY CARLE
Good morning. Life is certainly full of ups and downs. We all go through them. Nobody is exempt. Earlier this year, my wife’s heart stopped beating without warning and life changed in an instant; and then life changed again one hour later when doctors were able to miraculously establish a heartbeat…followed by many more emotional turns during her amazing recovery.
Throughout our life, we lean on Friends, Family and Church to get by; and hopefully we’re leaning heavily on God as well. It’s through these difficult times that we actually become stronger and better prepared. This life is not easy, but it is preparing us for one that is. Use this time wisely, because this life can change in an instant. Revelation 21:4 “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”
Good morning. Life is certainly full of ups and downs. We all go through them. Nobody is exempt. Earlier this year, my wife’s heart stopped beating without warning and life changed in an instant; and then life changed again one hour later when doctors were able to miraculously establish a heartbeat…followed by many more emotional turns during her amazing recovery.
Throughout our life, we lean on Friends, Family and Church to get by; and hopefully we’re leaning heavily on God as well. It’s through these difficult times that we actually become stronger and better prepared. This life is not easy, but it is preparing us for one that is. Use this time wisely, because this life can change in an instant. Revelation 21:4 “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”
Friday, November 2, 2012
Friday, November 2, 2012
OWEN
Good morning! I am Owen Weddle, Associate Pastor at Central.
Relationships with people can be difficult at times. Sometimes it seems that another person's frustration comes out of nowhere. We readily respond to them with anger. Or, in this time of the presidential election, it is like a powder keg; people can explode at each other with just the slightest spark of politics. Or in a few weeks, the Egg Bowl is coming up: Bulldogs and Rebels can move into heated arguments over whose team is better. We are programmed to respond to people the way they respond to us.
But in Luke 6:31, Jesus says “Do to others as you want them to do to you.” But this isn't simply an exercise in moral logic. It is a word of wisdom: if you want people to respond positively to you, do it to them first. When we don't respond to anger with anger, bitterness with bitterness, but instead respond to anger with kindness and bitterness with celebration, then there is hope that the other person's tune will change and a godly, friendly relationship can grow.
May God bless you!
Good morning! I am Owen Weddle, Associate Pastor at Central.
Relationships with people can be difficult at times. Sometimes it seems that another person's frustration comes out of nowhere. We readily respond to them with anger. Or, in this time of the presidential election, it is like a powder keg; people can explode at each other with just the slightest spark of politics. Or in a few weeks, the Egg Bowl is coming up: Bulldogs and Rebels can move into heated arguments over whose team is better. We are programmed to respond to people the way they respond to us.
But in Luke 6:31, Jesus says “Do to others as you want them to do to you.” But this isn't simply an exercise in moral logic. It is a word of wisdom: if you want people to respond positively to you, do it to them first. When we don't respond to anger with anger, bitterness with bitterness, but instead respond to anger with kindness and bitterness with celebration, then there is hope that the other person's tune will change and a godly, friendly relationship can grow.
May God bless you!
Thursday, November 1, 2012
Thursday, November 1, 2012
BOB RAMBO
Hi! I’m Bob Rambo, Lead Pastor at Central United Methodist Church.
Today is All Saints Day. It’s a day Christians have long observed as a time to recognize the connection between God’s people living and those who have gone on in death and now live eternally in God’s presence.
This Sunday at Central, we’ll pause to remember those from our congregation who have died this year; we’ll also celebrate that the Church goes on as we recognize those who have become members in 2012.
On this All Saints Day – who have been the “saints” you remember? Who influenced your life for good? Who made a powerful impact on you?
Today – let’s give thanks for those who have shown us how to live as God’s people. Today – let’s live our lives knowing that others are watching us.
Make it a great day!
Hi! I’m Bob Rambo, Lead Pastor at Central United Methodist Church.
Today is All Saints Day. It’s a day Christians have long observed as a time to recognize the connection between God’s people living and those who have gone on in death and now live eternally in God’s presence.
This Sunday at Central, we’ll pause to remember those from our congregation who have died this year; we’ll also celebrate that the Church goes on as we recognize those who have become members in 2012.
On this All Saints Day – who have been the “saints” you remember? Who influenced your life for good? Who made a powerful impact on you?
Today – let’s give thanks for those who have shown us how to live as God’s people. Today – let’s live our lives knowing that others are watching us.
Make it a great day!
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