BOB PEDEN
In his book “Called to the Fire” Chet Bush tells the life story of Rev. Charles Johnson, who has pastored Fitkins Memorial Church of the Nazarene here in Meridian for more than 50 years. Bush tells of a time in Rev. Johnson's life when he was finishing Bible School in West Virginia and preparing for his first appointment. He had made it clear to at least 3 people and to God himself, that the one place he did not want to serve was in Mississippi. He had heard about Mississippi. But when he sat down with his superintendent, Meridian, Mississippi, was where he was to be sent.
This is Bob Peden of Central United Methodist Church. I can't tell you how many times in my life I have told God “I will go anywhere for you but . . . or I will do anything for you but . .” and then it has turned out, that was exactly where and what God wanted for me. I pray that, as God calls me, I, like Rev. Johnson, will walk into the fire, with Jesus at my side. I also pray that one day I will learn to not tell God what I will not do.
Tuesday, April 30, 2013
Monday, April 29, 2013
Monday, April 29, 2013
SABRINA
Recently, listening to the radio, I learned that the only creatures a bear will allow to eat with them is a skunk. The commentator pointed out that perhaps the reason is obvious - the cost of not living in peace with skunks is just too high!
There are many things in life that, if we give in to, will cost us far too much. The cost of unforgiveness is a prime example. How much pain is generated when we are unable to forgive - in marriages, with families, friends, between nations. We pray, forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us. Not only did Jesus forgive those who crucified him over 2000 years ago, He continues to forgive us when we crucify with thoughts, words, and deeds.
Perhaps the secret of learning to forgive is most clearly seen in the life of Jesus. If today finds you harboring unforgiveness, I encourage you to take that first step and forgive those who you feel have wronged you. You will be the one freed...Go today forgiving as you have been forgiven.
Recently, listening to the radio, I learned that the only creatures a bear will allow to eat with them is a skunk. The commentator pointed out that perhaps the reason is obvious - the cost of not living in peace with skunks is just too high!
There are many things in life that, if we give in to, will cost us far too much. The cost of unforgiveness is a prime example. How much pain is generated when we are unable to forgive - in marriages, with families, friends, between nations. We pray, forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us. Not only did Jesus forgive those who crucified him over 2000 years ago, He continues to forgive us when we crucify with thoughts, words, and deeds.
Perhaps the secret of learning to forgive is most clearly seen in the life of Jesus. If today finds you harboring unforgiveness, I encourage you to take that first step and forgive those who you feel have wronged you. You will be the one freed...Go today forgiving as you have been forgiven.
Friday, April 26, 2013
Friday, April 26, 2013
RAY DURDEN
Good Morning!
In Romans Chapter 12, verse 5, we read: "In Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others."
That tells me I am called to belong, not just believe. Even in the perfect, sinless environment of Eden, God said, "It is not good for man to be alone." We are created for community, fashioned for fellowship, formed for family, and none of us can fulfill God's purposes by ourselves.
While your relationship to Christ is personal, God never intends it to be private. In God's family you are connected to every other believer, and we will belong to each other for eternity.
If you do not have a church home, we invite you to visit Central United Methodist Church. Worship services are at 8:30 a.m. and 10:55 a.m. Sunday mornings. Come and belong to the family of Christ.
Good Morning!
In Romans Chapter 12, verse 5, we read: "In Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others."
That tells me I am called to belong, not just believe. Even in the perfect, sinless environment of Eden, God said, "It is not good for man to be alone." We are created for community, fashioned for fellowship, formed for family, and none of us can fulfill God's purposes by ourselves.
While your relationship to Christ is personal, God never intends it to be private. In God's family you are connected to every other believer, and we will belong to each other for eternity.
If you do not have a church home, we invite you to visit Central United Methodist Church. Worship services are at 8:30 a.m. and 10:55 a.m. Sunday mornings. Come and belong to the family of Christ.
Thursday, April 25, 2013
Thursday, April 25, 2013
SABRINA
Before the Civil War, a farmer hired a young man named Jim. Jim, the son of a widow, worked for the man milking cows, chopping wood, working in the fields. He slept in the hayloft and ate with the family. Over the course of the summer, he fell in love with the farmer's daughter and asked to marry her. The farmer, however, replied, “You have no money, no prospects, and no solid goal in life. I'm sorry, but I can't let you marry my daughter.”
The summer ended, Jim packed his bags and left. Some thirty years later, the farmer tore down his old barn to build a bigger one. When he did, he found, carved in the loft where Jim slept, his full name, James A. Garfield, then the 20th President of the United States.
How often do we judge too quickly when reflecting on others? Society has placed value and importance on lives. In God's eyes no one human being is more important than the other. We should all strive to live Jesus words, “when you have done it to the least of these, you have done it unto me.”
Before the Civil War, a farmer hired a young man named Jim. Jim, the son of a widow, worked for the man milking cows, chopping wood, working in the fields. He slept in the hayloft and ate with the family. Over the course of the summer, he fell in love with the farmer's daughter and asked to marry her. The farmer, however, replied, “You have no money, no prospects, and no solid goal in life. I'm sorry, but I can't let you marry my daughter.”
The summer ended, Jim packed his bags and left. Some thirty years later, the farmer tore down his old barn to build a bigger one. When he did, he found, carved in the loft where Jim slept, his full name, James A. Garfield, then the 20th President of the United States.
How often do we judge too quickly when reflecting on others? Society has placed value and importance on lives. In God's eyes no one human being is more important than the other. We should all strive to live Jesus words, “when you have done it to the least of these, you have done it unto me.”
Wednesday, April 24, 2013
Wednesday, April 24, 2013
JIM CAIN
Good Morning!
"Let your speech always be with grace, as though seasoned with salt, so that you will know how you should respond to each person." - Colossians 4:6
I love the Bible's reference to seasoning our grace with salt when sharing your life with someone around you. If somebody sprinkles salt on food and makes it taste good, you really appreciate it. But if somebody hands you a spoon of salt and says, "Take this all at once," it's really hard to swallow, difficult to digest, and it's not very good for the heart.
Well, think how the non-Christian feels when all you do is talk about God and church and Jesus. You never talk about baseball. You never talk about the office. You never talk about politics. You never talk about the struggles in the neighborhood. You never talk about your family. You never talk about the everyday concerns that a non-believer has. On the other hand, if you talk about all of these things and occasionally sprinkle in a little word about the Lord when there's the right opportunity to mention some insight you had from a sermon, their curiosity may be aroused, and longer, deeper conversations may follow.
When you have the opportunity, just sprinkle the conversation with a little spiritual salt. It adds zest and flavor to life, without hardening the heart.
Good Morning!
"Let your speech always be with grace, as though seasoned with salt, so that you will know how you should respond to each person." - Colossians 4:6
I love the Bible's reference to seasoning our grace with salt when sharing your life with someone around you. If somebody sprinkles salt on food and makes it taste good, you really appreciate it. But if somebody hands you a spoon of salt and says, "Take this all at once," it's really hard to swallow, difficult to digest, and it's not very good for the heart.
Well, think how the non-Christian feels when all you do is talk about God and church and Jesus. You never talk about baseball. You never talk about the office. You never talk about politics. You never talk about the struggles in the neighborhood. You never talk about your family. You never talk about the everyday concerns that a non-believer has. On the other hand, if you talk about all of these things and occasionally sprinkle in a little word about the Lord when there's the right opportunity to mention some insight you had from a sermon, their curiosity may be aroused, and longer, deeper conversations may follow.
When you have the opportunity, just sprinkle the conversation with a little spiritual salt. It adds zest and flavor to life, without hardening the heart.
Tuesday, April 23, 2013
Tuesday, April 23, 2013
GLENDA
Good Morning:
The world today is full of bad news. It's a time of trouble alright, but for us believers, it's never as bad as it seems. There's the story of the cowboy who is driving down the road, his dog riding in the back of his pickup, and a horse in the trailer behind. Suddenly he loses control of his vehicle and there is a terrible accident. A police officer comes upon the scene, sees the horse first and realizes what terrible condition the horse is in and shoots him to get him out of his misery. Then he finds the dog. Same thing with the dog. Finally the officer locates the cowboy who has suffered multiple injuries and can barely breathe. The police officer says, “Hey, are you okay?” The cowboy takes a look at the smoking gun and quickly replies, “Never felt better!”
We Christians are like that cowboy. When the world approaches us with a smoking gun, ready to put us out of our misery, we can find supernatural strength in our God who loves us and say, “I never felt better!” Have a wonderful day!
Good Morning:
The world today is full of bad news. It's a time of trouble alright, but for us believers, it's never as bad as it seems. There's the story of the cowboy who is driving down the road, his dog riding in the back of his pickup, and a horse in the trailer behind. Suddenly he loses control of his vehicle and there is a terrible accident. A police officer comes upon the scene, sees the horse first and realizes what terrible condition the horse is in and shoots him to get him out of his misery. Then he finds the dog. Same thing with the dog. Finally the officer locates the cowboy who has suffered multiple injuries and can barely breathe. The police officer says, “Hey, are you okay?” The cowboy takes a look at the smoking gun and quickly replies, “Never felt better!”
We Christians are like that cowboy. When the world approaches us with a smoking gun, ready to put us out of our misery, we can find supernatural strength in our God who loves us and say, “I never felt better!” Have a wonderful day!
Monday, April 22, 2013
Monday, April 22, 2013
OWEN
Good morning! I am Owen Weddle, the Associate Pastor at Central United Methodist.
Do you have any memories of a word or phrase someone told you that you have remember for years? Does it constantly pop into your head, influence what you do and say? Maybe it was advice from your parents, or an uplifting word from a friend. Or, it may be a harsh, untrue word that has made you judge yourselves or lash out at others. One word or phrase can mean all the difference for people; there are those words, few and simply as they may be, that can change the entire course of your life.
In the Gospels, when Jesus would approach his soon to be disciples, he would say a simple phrase “Follow me!”Jesus didn't give them a whole list of commandments to follow to know first. He simply gave them a phrase that would ring in their ears long after Jesus left the earth. “Follow me.” Those simple words changed the entire course of the disciples' lives; they went from being people like fishermen and tax collectors to preachers, leaders, and ambassadors for Christ. Those few words changed the disciples' lives as their entire life would be about “Following Jesus.”
Want to see the course of your life change? Hear and remember the word Jesus speaks to your heart, “Follow me!”
May God Bless You!
Good morning! I am Owen Weddle, the Associate Pastor at Central United Methodist.
Do you have any memories of a word or phrase someone told you that you have remember for years? Does it constantly pop into your head, influence what you do and say? Maybe it was advice from your parents, or an uplifting word from a friend. Or, it may be a harsh, untrue word that has made you judge yourselves or lash out at others. One word or phrase can mean all the difference for people; there are those words, few and simply as they may be, that can change the entire course of your life.
In the Gospels, when Jesus would approach his soon to be disciples, he would say a simple phrase “Follow me!”Jesus didn't give them a whole list of commandments to follow to know first. He simply gave them a phrase that would ring in their ears long after Jesus left the earth. “Follow me.” Those simple words changed the entire course of the disciples' lives; they went from being people like fishermen and tax collectors to preachers, leaders, and ambassadors for Christ. Those few words changed the disciples' lives as their entire life would be about “Following Jesus.”
Want to see the course of your life change? Hear and remember the word Jesus speaks to your heart, “Follow me!”
May God Bless You!
Thursday, April 18, 2013
Thursday, April 18, 2013
JIM CAIN
Good Morning!
If you want to bring me down a notch or two, all you need to do is hand me one of those hidden images pictures--the ones where you attempt to locate the objects hidden in the scenery. I can stare at them for hours with little result. When someone finally points out the objects to me, it's embarrassing to see them--right there in plain view!
On the day of Jesus' resurrection, two of His followers walked the road to the village of Emmaus. A stranger approached them, but this stranger was no stranger at all. It was Jesus, raised from the dead. The two disciples, however, didn't recognize Him. I wonder if Luke purposefully included this detail--allowing us to ponder the many ways we see Jesus without ever really seeing Him.
Whatever the reason for their blindness, Jesus explained “from all the Scriptures the things concerning Himself. Then He gathered them around a table, broke and blessed bread, and offered it to them. In this moment, the pair recognized their Lord! As the scales fell from their eyes, they remembered how their hearts had been aflame when Jesus talked with them on the road. Their eyes were dim, but if they had only paid attention, their hearts would have shown them the truth. Sometimes, our blind eyes need to listen to our fire-lit hearts.
Good Morning!
If you want to bring me down a notch or two, all you need to do is hand me one of those hidden images pictures--the ones where you attempt to locate the objects hidden in the scenery. I can stare at them for hours with little result. When someone finally points out the objects to me, it's embarrassing to see them--right there in plain view!
On the day of Jesus' resurrection, two of His followers walked the road to the village of Emmaus. A stranger approached them, but this stranger was no stranger at all. It was Jesus, raised from the dead. The two disciples, however, didn't recognize Him. I wonder if Luke purposefully included this detail--allowing us to ponder the many ways we see Jesus without ever really seeing Him.
Whatever the reason for their blindness, Jesus explained “from all the Scriptures the things concerning Himself. Then He gathered them around a table, broke and blessed bread, and offered it to them. In this moment, the pair recognized their Lord! As the scales fell from their eyes, they remembered how their hearts had been aflame when Jesus talked with them on the road. Their eyes were dim, but if they had only paid attention, their hearts would have shown them the truth. Sometimes, our blind eyes need to listen to our fire-lit hearts.
Wednesday, April 17, 2013
Wednesday, April 17, 2013
BOB RAMBO
Hi! I'm Bob Rambo, Lead Pastor at Central United Methodist Church. In the last half of the 2nd century, two PLAGUES swept through the Roman Empire. One-third of the population died as a result.
Cities were the hardest-hit; those who were able fled, leaving the sick and dying behind. But one group stayed behind to help - the Christians. They stayed because Jesus had told a story about showing compassion to those in need - the story of the Good Samaritan.
Many of the Christians who stayed got sick and died too - but their actions had a tremendous impact on everyone, and many chose to follow Jesus because of what they had witnessed.
Sometimes we lose sight of what it means to be a Christian. It's not about believing the “right” things or “defending our faith” against all the “undesirables” in the world. Being a Christian means loving God and loving others in the name of Jesus. It means showing compassion - helping those in need when we can.
Today - let's be people of compassion.
MAKE IT A GREAT DAY!
Tuesday, April 16, 2013
Tuesday, April 16, 2013
OWEN
Good morning! I am Owen Weddle, the Associate Pastor at Central United Methodist.
On this day, we remember one of the worst shootings in American history, where 32 people lost their lives and 23 others were injured in the Virginia Tech massacre. Violence is on our minds over the past few years, as the media brings us gruesome images, tear-drenched faces, and cries for justice from this gun-related violence. We all still feel the sting of Sandy Hook and the darkness that came over our entire nation. Regardless of what we think about guns, the one thing we can all agree is that the violence needs to stop.
The most critical way to achieve that isn't some government legislation or us arming up. The best way to fight against violence is compassion. Most people do to others as has been done to them their entire lives. When Jesus said do to others as you would have them to do you, he wasn't just saying “be nice.” He was saying the way to change what others do is to give them an example of how they should treat you. The vast majority of violence escalates, because people feel repeatedly ignored and threatened. But with one act of kindness, you might melt a heart turned cold by the cold responses they have received from others.
May God Bless You!
Good morning! I am Owen Weddle, the Associate Pastor at Central United Methodist.
On this day, we remember one of the worst shootings in American history, where 32 people lost their lives and 23 others were injured in the Virginia Tech massacre. Violence is on our minds over the past few years, as the media brings us gruesome images, tear-drenched faces, and cries for justice from this gun-related violence. We all still feel the sting of Sandy Hook and the darkness that came over our entire nation. Regardless of what we think about guns, the one thing we can all agree is that the violence needs to stop.
The most critical way to achieve that isn't some government legislation or us arming up. The best way to fight against violence is compassion. Most people do to others as has been done to them their entire lives. When Jesus said do to others as you would have them to do you, he wasn't just saying “be nice.” He was saying the way to change what others do is to give them an example of how they should treat you. The vast majority of violence escalates, because people feel repeatedly ignored and threatened. But with one act of kindness, you might melt a heart turned cold by the cold responses they have received from others.
May God Bless You!
Monday, April 15, 2013
Monday, April 15, 2013
SABRINA
Psalms 139:10 is one of my favorite verses. “If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast.” I find great comfort in knowing that no matter where I go, from the moment of my conception to the day of my death, God is always there. He is there to guide me and sustain me. Even when I'm in places I am not supposed to be, doing things I am not supposed to do, He is still there. I can turn to him in repentance and receive His grace. I can turn to Him in need and receive His strength. I can turn to God and know I am not alone.
If today finds you in a place where you are afraid, alone, or perhaps ill, find security in knowing that God is with you. If today you are on the mountaintop, take a moment to thank the God who holds each of us in the palm of his hand. But always remember, whether you are in the valley or on the mountain top, God is surely there, rising on the wings of the dawn, no more than a breath away...holding us...sustaining us.
Psalms 139:10 is one of my favorite verses. “If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast.” I find great comfort in knowing that no matter where I go, from the moment of my conception to the day of my death, God is always there. He is there to guide me and sustain me. Even when I'm in places I am not supposed to be, doing things I am not supposed to do, He is still there. I can turn to him in repentance and receive His grace. I can turn to Him in need and receive His strength. I can turn to God and know I am not alone.
If today finds you in a place where you are afraid, alone, or perhaps ill, find security in knowing that God is with you. If today you are on the mountaintop, take a moment to thank the God who holds each of us in the palm of his hand. But always remember, whether you are in the valley or on the mountain top, God is surely there, rising on the wings of the dawn, no more than a breath away...holding us...sustaining us.
Friday, April 12, 2013
Friday, April 12, 2013
JIM CAIN
Good Morning!
The author of the Chronicles of Narnia, C. S. Lewis once said something about the church that I believe is important. He said that the model many of us have in our minds for the church is the same model we have for secular organizations. That is, we think of the church as an organization that we join. Then we do what members of an organization normally do, we come to meetings and pay dues. Maybe, occasionally, we read the organization's newsletter, if we have time. This is not Christ's model for the church.
Christ's intent is that his people will be joined to his church in the same way that members of a physical body are joined to that body. It is a living relationship. The body gives life to its members and they, in turn, are indispensable to the body. For the person in whom Christ dwells, being actively involved in church is not merely an option anymore than an eye has an option about being involved with a physical body. Losing an eye is a tragedy for both the eye and for the body. Christ is saying that each of us is indispensable. We all have a place in his family.
I would like to personally invite you to be a part of our family At Central UMC this Sunday morning as we worship at 8:30 am and 10:55, you'll be glad you did!
Good Morning!
The author of the Chronicles of Narnia, C. S. Lewis once said something about the church that I believe is important. He said that the model many of us have in our minds for the church is the same model we have for secular organizations. That is, we think of the church as an organization that we join. Then we do what members of an organization normally do, we come to meetings and pay dues. Maybe, occasionally, we read the organization's newsletter, if we have time. This is not Christ's model for the church.
Christ's intent is that his people will be joined to his church in the same way that members of a physical body are joined to that body. It is a living relationship. The body gives life to its members and they, in turn, are indispensable to the body. For the person in whom Christ dwells, being actively involved in church is not merely an option anymore than an eye has an option about being involved with a physical body. Losing an eye is a tragedy for both the eye and for the body. Christ is saying that each of us is indispensable. We all have a place in his family.
I would like to personally invite you to be a part of our family At Central UMC this Sunday morning as we worship at 8:30 am and 10:55, you'll be glad you did!
Thursday, April 11, 2013
Thursday, April 11, 2013
GLENDA
Good Morning:
This week at the Children's Center, we have been involved in a fundraiser for St. Jude's Children's Hospital. Our theme for the week is “Children Helping Children.” Today we will reward our children's hard work in collecting donations by having a very special activities day full of fun and festivities. Tomorrow we will have a sidewalk parade at 11:00 a.m. beginning in front of the church, walking downtown and then back to the church. There will be floats made from little red wagons, children in costumes, and lots of enthusiasm. We invite you to come on downtown and join in the fun. Come watch our children and give them your support. Your young children will love it! And, if you'd like to make a donation to St. Jude, just make a check out to St. Jude Children's Hospital and mail it to the church. St. Jude Hospital is worth it! Have a wonderful day.
Good Morning:
This week at the Children's Center, we have been involved in a fundraiser for St. Jude's Children's Hospital. Our theme for the week is “Children Helping Children.” Today we will reward our children's hard work in collecting donations by having a very special activities day full of fun and festivities. Tomorrow we will have a sidewalk parade at 11:00 a.m. beginning in front of the church, walking downtown and then back to the church. There will be floats made from little red wagons, children in costumes, and lots of enthusiasm. We invite you to come on downtown and join in the fun. Come watch our children and give them your support. Your young children will love it! And, if you'd like to make a donation to St. Jude, just make a check out to St. Jude Children's Hospital and mail it to the church. St. Jude Hospital is worth it! Have a wonderful day.
Wednesday, April 10, 2013
Wednesday, April 10, 2013
RAY DURDEN
Good Morning!
A photographer showed his friend a photo of a magnificent sunset reflected in a lake. Then his friend said, "Oh how beautiful." The photographer smiled and said, "You are looking at it upside down." It was difficult to tell which was earth and which was sky.
We often see our images in a similar twisted way. We see ourselves as too fat, too short, too sensitive, too young, too old, or too something. We invert our image, placing our inadequacies at the top of the list.
We are quick to forget we're created in God's image. It's important to remember that each of us, with our own special and unique abilities is fearfully and wonderfully created by God. So, why compare yourself with others? No one in the entire world can do a better job of being you than you.
Good Morning!
A photographer showed his friend a photo of a magnificent sunset reflected in a lake. Then his friend said, "Oh how beautiful." The photographer smiled and said, "You are looking at it upside down." It was difficult to tell which was earth and which was sky.
We often see our images in a similar twisted way. We see ourselves as too fat, too short, too sensitive, too young, too old, or too something. We invert our image, placing our inadequacies at the top of the list.
We are quick to forget we're created in God's image. It's important to remember that each of us, with our own special and unique abilities is fearfully and wonderfully created by God. So, why compare yourself with others? No one in the entire world can do a better job of being you than you.
Tuesday, April 9, 2013
Tuesday, April 9, 2013
BOR RAMBO
Hi! I'm Bob Rambo, Lead Pastor at Central United Methodist Church. In the movie Open Range, cowboys Robert Duvall and Kevin Costner square off against a nasty land baron. Fighting back is their only option.
Sometimes - whether it's the bully at school or a rogue nation with nuclear weapons - fighting back is our ONLY option.
But in day-to-day relationships, Jesus tells us: Don't resist an evil person; love your enemies! Jesus isn't advocating rolling over and being a victim; he's asking his followers to make the DELIBERATE choice to show mercy to those who don't deserve it. He asks this because THAT'S how God treats us. In his letter to the Christians at Rome, the Apostle Paul says: When we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
When mercy is shown to someone who doesn't deserve it - it can create possibilities for change NO ONE thought possible.
So today - WHO can YOU show mercy to?
Make it a GREAT day!
Hi! I'm Bob Rambo, Lead Pastor at Central United Methodist Church. In the movie Open Range, cowboys Robert Duvall and Kevin Costner square off against a nasty land baron. Fighting back is their only option.
Sometimes - whether it's the bully at school or a rogue nation with nuclear weapons - fighting back is our ONLY option.
But in day-to-day relationships, Jesus tells us: Don't resist an evil person; love your enemies! Jesus isn't advocating rolling over and being a victim; he's asking his followers to make the DELIBERATE choice to show mercy to those who don't deserve it. He asks this because THAT'S how God treats us. In his letter to the Christians at Rome, the Apostle Paul says: When we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
When mercy is shown to someone who doesn't deserve it - it can create possibilities for change NO ONE thought possible.
So today - WHO can YOU show mercy to?
Make it a GREAT day!
Monday, April 8, 2013
Monday, April 8, 2013
OWEN
Good morning! I am Owen Weddle, the Associate Pastor at Central United Methodist.
In Matthew 8:14-15, a brief story is told of how Jesus heals the mother-in-law of Peter, one of Jesus' disciples. As soon as she was healed, what do you think happened? She immediately got up and went to serve Jesus. She didn't stay in bed for a little while longer: no one would have blamed her, since she had just been sick. Nor did she just say “Thank you” or provide a small token of thanks and went along with her day. Nor did she go and make a big deal and try to outdo what Jesus did for her. All she did is immediately got up and served Jesus.
It is the picture of gratitude; of returning the favor, as small as it might be. It is too easy for us to take for granted what people do for us or for us to want to outdo something kind someone else has done for us. Whether we do nothing or go to the extreme, we are acting out of our own egotistical reasons: either we don't care or we make our personality the center. But appropriate gratitude is an opportunity to continue to build a relationship with those who help us, God and other people. The next time someone helps you, ask: how can I genuinely return the favor without making it about me?
May God bless you!
Good morning! I am Owen Weddle, the Associate Pastor at Central United Methodist.
In Matthew 8:14-15, a brief story is told of how Jesus heals the mother-in-law of Peter, one of Jesus' disciples. As soon as she was healed, what do you think happened? She immediately got up and went to serve Jesus. She didn't stay in bed for a little while longer: no one would have blamed her, since she had just been sick. Nor did she just say “Thank you” or provide a small token of thanks and went along with her day. Nor did she go and make a big deal and try to outdo what Jesus did for her. All she did is immediately got up and served Jesus.
It is the picture of gratitude; of returning the favor, as small as it might be. It is too easy for us to take for granted what people do for us or for us to want to outdo something kind someone else has done for us. Whether we do nothing or go to the extreme, we are acting out of our own egotistical reasons: either we don't care or we make our personality the center. But appropriate gratitude is an opportunity to continue to build a relationship with those who help us, God and other people. The next time someone helps you, ask: how can I genuinely return the favor without making it about me?
May God bless you!
Friday, April 5, 2013
Friday, April 5, 2013
SABRINA
Recently, Brett and Hunter, two of our grandsons, were at the house playing. An argument ensued and Hunter comes running to tell me saying Brett said something ugly.
After trying to get the truth out of the boys, Brett finally looks at me with big five year old eyes and says, “B, IF my voice said it, my ears did NOT hear it.” From this small child came an insightful look at how we, as adults, often reason within ourselves.
Do our ears REALLY hear what our voice says? - to our parents, to our spouse, our friends, our co-workers? The tongue is the most powerful muscle in our body.
How is our “voice” HEARD by OTHERS? Do our words, the tone of our voice, build others up or tear them down.
Today, as I still smile thinking of Brett's dilemma with truth that day, I am reminded of Psalm 19:14 “May the WORDS of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing and acceptable to you O Lord my Rock and my Redeemer.”
Have a blessed day!
Recently, Brett and Hunter, two of our grandsons, were at the house playing. An argument ensued and Hunter comes running to tell me saying Brett said something ugly.
After trying to get the truth out of the boys, Brett finally looks at me with big five year old eyes and says, “B, IF my voice said it, my ears did NOT hear it.” From this small child came an insightful look at how we, as adults, often reason within ourselves.
Do our ears REALLY hear what our voice says? - to our parents, to our spouse, our friends, our co-workers? The tongue is the most powerful muscle in our body.
How is our “voice” HEARD by OTHERS? Do our words, the tone of our voice, build others up or tear them down.
Today, as I still smile thinking of Brett's dilemma with truth that day, I am reminded of Psalm 19:14 “May the WORDS of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing and acceptable to you O Lord my Rock and my Redeemer.”
Have a blessed day!
Thursday, April 4, 2013
Thursday, April 4, 2013
BOB PEDEN
Good morning. This is Bob Peden of Central United Methodist Church. This past Sunday, Easter, we sang these words: “Our God is risen, He is alive, He won the victory, He reigns on high.” I bet most churches sang something very similar.
But many of us are singing a different tune on Monday morning. Our God may be risen, but he has gone somewhere else. He may be alive, but I haven't heard from him lately. He may have won the victory back then, but life is overwhelming me now. And yes, he reigns on high, but he does not have any influence here, in my world.
Is that your song too? Then, I would encourage you to re-examine your relationship with the God who is as alive and active in our world as he has ever been. He is my present help and my faithful friend. And I try my very best to walk with him throughout every day. If you want to know this kind of very real God, get involved in a church like Central United Methodist and in its mission; and if you are seeking Him, he will find you.
Good morning. This is Bob Peden of Central United Methodist Church. This past Sunday, Easter, we sang these words: “Our God is risen, He is alive, He won the victory, He reigns on high.” I bet most churches sang something very similar.
But many of us are singing a different tune on Monday morning. Our God may be risen, but he has gone somewhere else. He may be alive, but I haven't heard from him lately. He may have won the victory back then, but life is overwhelming me now. And yes, he reigns on high, but he does not have any influence here, in my world.
Is that your song too? Then, I would encourage you to re-examine your relationship with the God who is as alive and active in our world as he has ever been. He is my present help and my faithful friend. And I try my very best to walk with him throughout every day. If you want to know this kind of very real God, get involved in a church like Central United Methodist and in its mission; and if you are seeking Him, he will find you.
Wednesday, April 3, 2013
Wednesday, April 3, 2013
GLENDA
Good Morning:
Two hunters came across a bear so big that they dropped their rifles and ran for cover. One man climbed a tree while the other ran into a nearby cave. The bear was in no hurry to eat, so he just sat down between the tree and the cave. Suddenly the man in the cave came running out, saw the bear still there and ran back in the cave. Then the same thing happened a second time. Then a third time. The man in the tree yelled for him to stay in the cave. The man from the cave yelled, “Can't! There's another bear in there!”
Ever feel like fear is giving us the run around? There are a lot of scary things going on in the world around us, but Psalms 27:1 says this about fear: “The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?” So, let's say “no” to fear and put our hope in the Lord.
Have a wonderful day!
Good Morning:
Two hunters came across a bear so big that they dropped their rifles and ran for cover. One man climbed a tree while the other ran into a nearby cave. The bear was in no hurry to eat, so he just sat down between the tree and the cave. Suddenly the man in the cave came running out, saw the bear still there and ran back in the cave. Then the same thing happened a second time. Then a third time. The man in the tree yelled for him to stay in the cave. The man from the cave yelled, “Can't! There's another bear in there!”
Ever feel like fear is giving us the run around? There are a lot of scary things going on in the world around us, but Psalms 27:1 says this about fear: “The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?” So, let's say “no” to fear and put our hope in the Lord.
Have a wonderful day!
Tuesday, April 2, 2013
Tuesday, April 2, 2013
OWEN
Good morning! I am Owen Weddle, the Associate Pastor at Central United Methodist.
Ever been put into a situation where you don't see any way out of the darkness and you don't know how you got there in the first place? Have you ever been in a situation where you were innocent, but you felt like everyone was against you? The reality is many of us go through different periods of our life where things just seem unfair and out of control. We can get angry, frustrated, scared, or apathetic. But those situations offer you an opportunity. How will you personally respond?
One option we have is to shout “This is unfair!” and to viciously lash out at those who hurt you. But that is like struggling while in quicksand: the more you struggle, the more you will sink. Another option is the path that Jesus Christ took. 1 Peter 2:23 says “When Jesus was abused, he did not return abuse; when he suffered, he did not threaten; but he entrusted himself to the one who judges justly.” Instead of getting vengeance and justice, Jesus endured evil, because he knew that God's opinion of him was more important than anyone else's. Jesus rose from the dead, knowing that patience and love were more important to him than even his own life.
May God bless you!
Good morning! I am Owen Weddle, the Associate Pastor at Central United Methodist.
Ever been put into a situation where you don't see any way out of the darkness and you don't know how you got there in the first place? Have you ever been in a situation where you were innocent, but you felt like everyone was against you? The reality is many of us go through different periods of our life where things just seem unfair and out of control. We can get angry, frustrated, scared, or apathetic. But those situations offer you an opportunity. How will you personally respond?
One option we have is to shout “This is unfair!” and to viciously lash out at those who hurt you. But that is like struggling while in quicksand: the more you struggle, the more you will sink. Another option is the path that Jesus Christ took. 1 Peter 2:23 says “When Jesus was abused, he did not return abuse; when he suffered, he did not threaten; but he entrusted himself to the one who judges justly.” Instead of getting vengeance and justice, Jesus endured evil, because he knew that God's opinion of him was more important than anyone else's. Jesus rose from the dead, knowing that patience and love were more important to him than even his own life.
May God bless you!
Monday, April 1, 2013
Monday, April 1, 2013
RAY DURDEN
I heard about a young boy who had been naughty. During family devotions the father prayed for his son and mentioned a number of bad things the boy had done. Soon afterward, the mother heard the six-year-old sobbing. When asked what was wrong, the boy said, "Daddy always tells God the bad things about me. He never tells God the good things I do."
What happened to this child underscores a shortcoming that is common to many of us. Instead of recognizing the good in people, we tend to notice their faults. We could learn from the example of the apostle Paul. In first Thessalonians, Paul tells the people that he gives thanks to God always for them. He also remembers their work of faith, labor of love, and patience of hope.
May our prayer be that we would commend rather than
condemn others.
I heard about a young boy who had been naughty. During family devotions the father prayed for his son and mentioned a number of bad things the boy had done. Soon afterward, the mother heard the six-year-old sobbing. When asked what was wrong, the boy said, "Daddy always tells God the bad things about me. He never tells God the good things I do."
What happened to this child underscores a shortcoming that is common to many of us. Instead of recognizing the good in people, we tend to notice their faults. We could learn from the example of the apostle Paul. In first Thessalonians, Paul tells the people that he gives thanks to God always for them. He also remembers their work of faith, labor of love, and patience of hope.
May our prayer be that we would commend rather than
condemn others.
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