RAY DURDEN
Good Morning!
Jas 1:6 But he must ask in faith, without any doubts, for the one who has doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind.
Doubt is often considered a negative trait that we need to erase from our mind. But sometimes "doubt" is a good thing! Doubt can make us question when things go wrong, or we don't
understand. Doubt can also tell a friend that we care enough to find out what's "really" going on in their lives when they tell us "everything's okay, you don't have to worry about me."
Doubt can cause us to question when we hear something that doesn't sound "quite right," and we can avoid going down a wrong path, or believing a lie. Sometimes doubt can help
deepen our faith as we search for answers to questions we can't seem to let go of. Doubt can be healthy . . . if it motivates us to search for truth!
Friday, May 31, 2013
Thursday, May 30, 2013
Thursday, May 30, 2013
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. The
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. Some of the time 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. The
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. Some of the time 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!
Wednesday, May 29, 2013
Wednesday, May 29, 2013
BOR RAMBO
Hi! I'm Bob Rambo, Lead Pastor at Central United Methodist Church.
Next Monday is Memorial Day. It's the “unofficial” beginning of summer. But more than that, Memorial Day is a day to remember those who have given their lives in defense of this
country. We pause on Memorial Day to express our gratitude to those who “gave all”, who made the costliest sacrifice so we might be free.
Every year as Memorial Day approaches, I also think of Jesus. Jesus came to show us how to live, and he gave up his own life to help reconnect a wayward world to God. And because
Jesus “gave all”, we are free to experience a different kind of life - a life of forgiveness, compassion, and justice.
On Memorial Day, amidst the cookouts and the ballgames, let's not forget those who gave their all for us.
And let's give thanks to Jesus, who made the ultimate sacrifice on the cross for us.
Make it a GREAT day!
Hi! I'm Bob Rambo, Lead Pastor at Central United Methodist Church.
Next Monday is Memorial Day. It's the “unofficial” beginning of summer. But more than that, Memorial Day is a day to remember those who have given their lives in defense of this
country. We pause on Memorial Day to express our gratitude to those who “gave all”, who made the costliest sacrifice so we might be free.
Every year as Memorial Day approaches, I also think of Jesus. Jesus came to show us how to live, and he gave up his own life to help reconnect a wayward world to God. And because
Jesus “gave all”, we are free to experience a different kind of life - a life of forgiveness, compassion, and justice.
On Memorial Day, amidst the cookouts and the ballgames, let's not forget those who gave their all for us.
And let's give thanks to Jesus, who made the ultimate sacrifice on the cross for us.
Make it a GREAT day!
Tuesday, May 28, 2013
Tuesday, May 28, 2013
JIM CAIN
Good Morning!
When I hung up the phone I felt helpless. A friend of the family was suffering a great amount of pain after surgery, and there was no way for me to be there to lend my support. There
was over 200 miles that separated her from us, and the phone calls I made to be encouraging just seemed so inadequate under the circumstances of her illness. I prayed for her over the
phone, but I wished there was more I could do to help shoulder her burdens. If only we lived closer I thought time and time again. And then it hit me! Praying for her was not the only
way I could help, it was the best way!
Physical help could be beneficial, but prayer was the greatest way to serve the one I cared about. Showing love and support through prayer made me an active participant in God's work
in the comfort and healing in the life of a friend we held so dear. I know understood that praying for those we love moves God to powerful and compassionate action.
Good Morning!
When I hung up the phone I felt helpless. A friend of the family was suffering a great amount of pain after surgery, and there was no way for me to be there to lend my support. There
was over 200 miles that separated her from us, and the phone calls I made to be encouraging just seemed so inadequate under the circumstances of her illness. I prayed for her over the
phone, but I wished there was more I could do to help shoulder her burdens. If only we lived closer I thought time and time again. And then it hit me! Praying for her was not the only
way I could help, it was the best way!
Physical help could be beneficial, but prayer was the greatest way to serve the one I cared about. Showing love and support through prayer made me an active participant in God's work
in the comfort and healing in the life of a friend we held so dear. I know understood that praying for those we love moves God to powerful and compassionate action.
Monday, May 27, 2013
Monday, May 27, 2013
GLENDA
Good Morning. Today is Memorial Day. Memorial Day is set aside to remember those who have fallen in our nation's wars. Think of the mother and father who lost their son on the
battlefield. Think of the wife whose husband never came home. Think of the children who were left without a parent.
Jesus said, “Greater love has no-one than this, than to lay down one's life for his friend.” Today we honor those who sacrificed themselves so that we could live in freedom and liberty.
They were our friends, our brothers, our sisters, our grandparent, our family. They deserve to be remembered today. And while you are remembering those who are no longer with us,
remember our brave men and women serving in our military today both at home and abroad.
Thank a soldier and Have a wonderful day!
Good Morning. Today is Memorial Day. Memorial Day is set aside to remember those who have fallen in our nation's wars. Think of the mother and father who lost their son on the
battlefield. Think of the wife whose husband never came home. Think of the children who were left without a parent.
Jesus said, “Greater love has no-one than this, than to lay down one's life for his friend.” Today we honor those who sacrificed themselves so that we could live in freedom and liberty.
They were our friends, our brothers, our sisters, our grandparent, our family. They deserve to be remembered today. And while you are remembering those who are no longer with us,
remember our brave men and women serving in our military today both at home and abroad.
Thank a soldier and Have a wonderful day!
Friday, May 24, 2013
Friday, May 24, 2013
BOR RAMBO
Hi! I'm Bob Rambo, Lead Pastor at Central United Methodist Church. Today is a day known to Methodists as “Aldersgate” Day. On this day in 1738, John Wesley, the leader of the
Methodist movement, had a life-changing experience with Jesus Christ while attending a Bible study on Aldersgate Street in London, England. Wesley would later write that “he felt
his heart strangely warmed” and that he “trusted in Christ and Christ alone.”
For the rest of his life, Wesley preached and taught about Jesus, calling people to turn from sin to right living, and teaching them how to live as children of God. One part of his
preaching and teaching was the emphasis on having a personal encounter with God. Wesley feared that if people ONLY went to church and never met God, they would have only a
“form of religion” but never experience God's life-changing power.
On the Aldersgate Day, how is it with YOUR soul? Have you met Jesus, the Risen Lord? Or does your faith consist of merely being a “religious” person? My hope and prayer for you
is that you will know Jesus and follow him.
Make it a GREAT day!
Hi! I'm Bob Rambo, Lead Pastor at Central United Methodist Church. Today is a day known to Methodists as “Aldersgate” Day. On this day in 1738, John Wesley, the leader of the
Methodist movement, had a life-changing experience with Jesus Christ while attending a Bible study on Aldersgate Street in London, England. Wesley would later write that “he felt
his heart strangely warmed” and that he “trusted in Christ and Christ alone.”
For the rest of his life, Wesley preached and taught about Jesus, calling people to turn from sin to right living, and teaching them how to live as children of God. One part of his
preaching and teaching was the emphasis on having a personal encounter with God. Wesley feared that if people ONLY went to church and never met God, they would have only a
“form of religion” but never experience God's life-changing power.
On the Aldersgate Day, how is it with YOUR soul? Have you met Jesus, the Risen Lord? Or does your faith consist of merely being a “religious” person? My hope and prayer for you
is that you will know Jesus and follow him.
Make it a GREAT day!
Thursday, May 23, 2013
Thursday, May 23, 2013
GLENDA
Good Morning: The greatest man in history, Jesus, had no servants, yet they called him Master. He had no degree, yet they called Him Teacher. He had no medicines, yet they called
Him Healer. He had no army, yet kings feared Him. He won no military battles, yet He conquered the world. He committed no crime, yet they crucified Him. He was buried in a tomb,
yet He lives today.
I feel honored to serve such a leader who loves us. If you deny Him, remember these words that He spoke: “If you deny me before men, I will deny you before my Father in Heaven.”
Think on these things and have a wonderful day!
Good Morning: The greatest man in history, Jesus, had no servants, yet they called him Master. He had no degree, yet they called Him Teacher. He had no medicines, yet they called
Him Healer. He had no army, yet kings feared Him. He won no military battles, yet He conquered the world. He committed no crime, yet they crucified Him. He was buried in a tomb,
yet He lives today.
I feel honored to serve such a leader who loves us. If you deny Him, remember these words that He spoke: “If you deny me before men, I will deny you before my Father in Heaven.”
Think on these things and have a wonderful day!
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
SABRINA
When God created humankind, he provided us with something he provided nothing else in creation...the freedom to choose. We make our choices and then our choices make us.
While often we may not be able to control our circumstances, we CAN control our choices.
With this freedom in mind, Central United Methodist church offers Celebrate Recovery, a program that addresses all types of addiction. CR is Christian based and recognizes that there
are many addictions attributed to addictive personalities that simply play out in different forms; in the choice we make. This program addresses addictions of alcohol, drugs, sex, food,
and pornography, gambling - as well as coping with loved ones who struggle with addiction.
If you currently find yourself in a daily struggle with ANY habit or hang up, I encourage you to make the CHOICE to join us on Wednesday evenings at 6PM. Enter through the main
22nd Avenue entrance and follow the directional signs to the 3rd floor Celebrate Recovery room. You may phone our church office at 601-693-1521 for contact information.
When God created humankind, he provided us with something he provided nothing else in creation...the freedom to choose. We make our choices and then our choices make us.
While often we may not be able to control our circumstances, we CAN control our choices.
With this freedom in mind, Central United Methodist church offers Celebrate Recovery, a program that addresses all types of addiction. CR is Christian based and recognizes that there
are many addictions attributed to addictive personalities that simply play out in different forms; in the choice we make. This program addresses addictions of alcohol, drugs, sex, food,
and pornography, gambling - as well as coping with loved ones who struggle with addiction.
If you currently find yourself in a daily struggle with ANY habit or hang up, I encourage you to make the CHOICE to join us on Wednesday evenings at 6PM. Enter through the main
22nd Avenue entrance and follow the directional signs to the 3rd floor Celebrate Recovery room. You may phone our church office at 601-693-1521 for contact information.
Tuesday, May 21, 2013
Tuesday, May 21, 2013
OWEN
Good morning! I am Owen Weddle, the Associate Pastor at Central United Methodist!
Imagine you are a student with a calculus homework assignment. As you work the problems, you realize the back of the book has all the answers. You could write the answers down
from there and turn it in...but when it came time for the exam, you wouldn't know how to do the work.
Sometimes, Christians wonder why they are not exempted from difficult work and God doesn't give us all the answers right now. The answer is simple: Jesus said “Blessed are the
peacemakers.” and to help make people with others through conflict and struggle, including those who are not Christian, you have to go through it yourself and learn the answers
through practice and experience. Otherwise, you can't help others with something you don't know about.
God gifts us with difficult times and hidden answers so that we can have the joy of helping those who do not know Jesus when they go through difficult times. When we face the exam
of responding to someone's pain, God prepares us to pass the test!
May God bless you!
Good morning! I am Owen Weddle, the Associate Pastor at Central United Methodist!
Imagine you are a student with a calculus homework assignment. As you work the problems, you realize the back of the book has all the answers. You could write the answers down
from there and turn it in...but when it came time for the exam, you wouldn't know how to do the work.
Sometimes, Christians wonder why they are not exempted from difficult work and God doesn't give us all the answers right now. The answer is simple: Jesus said “Blessed are the
peacemakers.” and to help make people with others through conflict and struggle, including those who are not Christian, you have to go through it yourself and learn the answers
through practice and experience. Otherwise, you can't help others with something you don't know about.
God gifts us with difficult times and hidden answers so that we can have the joy of helping those who do not know Jesus when they go through difficult times. When we face the exam
of responding to someone's pain, God prepares us to pass the test!
May God bless you!
Friday, May 17, 2013
Friday, May 17, 2013
JIM WALL
Good Morning!
Is it better to give than to receive? A nation wide survey indicates that 92% said they would rather give than receive.
“No doubt some of those would secretly prefer to be on the receiving end.”
What that conclusion failed to take into account is the fact that the question is never a case of one or the other. Giving to someone who is in need almost universally guarantees the giver a reward. How many times have you heard a relief worker express the idea that those who bring help receive as many rewards, spiritually and emotionally, as those who get the gifts?
Giving and getting are not necessarily on opposite ends of the spectrum. If you know of someone who needs your help, step in and give it. You'll be surprised at the rewards you will receive from God's Holy Spirit.
Good Morning!
Is it better to give than to receive? A nation wide survey indicates that 92% said they would rather give than receive.
“No doubt some of those would secretly prefer to be on the receiving end.”
What that conclusion failed to take into account is the fact that the question is never a case of one or the other. Giving to someone who is in need almost universally guarantees the giver a reward. How many times have you heard a relief worker express the idea that those who bring help receive as many rewards, spiritually and emotionally, as those who get the gifts?
Giving and getting are not necessarily on opposite ends of the spectrum. If you know of someone who needs your help, step in and give it. You'll be surprised at the rewards you will receive from God's Holy Spirit.
Thursday, May 16, 2013
Thursday, May 16, 2013
BOR RAMBO
Hi! I'm Bob Rambo, Lead Pastor at Central United Methodist Church.
BE PREPARED. That's the motto of Scouting. It's good advice for everyone else, too. We ALL need to be prepared:
with an emergency kit in the case of a natural disaster
with food for a quick meal for unexpected company
with a money reserve for an unforeseen emergency
It pays to be prepared.
Jesus understood the importance of being “prepared” too. Jesus knew that life is fragile and none of us know when we might draw our last breath. That's why Jesus told his followers to “repent.”
Repent is a word we often see or hear on billboards and signs. It doesn't mean to “feel sorry” or to “try harder.” It means to turn around and go in a new direction.
What direction is your life headed in? Do you need to turn around? If you do, God will help you. So can we. We're Central United Methodist Church in downtown Meridian.
Make it a GREAT day!
Wednesday, May 15, 2013
Wednesday, May 15, 2013
GLENDA
Good Morning:
An elderly woman returned to her home one evening and caught a man in the act of robbing her home. “Stop!” she yelled. “Act:2:38!” The burglar stopped dead in his tracks and froze as the woman calmly called the police and explained the situation. As the officer was handcuffing him, he asked the burglar, “Just out of curiosity, why did you just stand there? All the old lady did was yell a scripture at you.” “Scripture?!” gasped the burglar. “She said she had an ax and two 38's!!”
It's a funny joke, but on a serious note, we often underestimate the power of the Word of God. We forget to read our Bibles and use what we have learned. Let's make it a point to start spending regular time in reading the Word of God, learning it and speaking it over and over in our lives again and again. We need to be a walking testimony of God's power and victory.
Good Morning:
An elderly woman returned to her home one evening and caught a man in the act of robbing her home. “Stop!” she yelled. “Act:2:38!” The burglar stopped dead in his tracks and froze as the woman calmly called the police and explained the situation. As the officer was handcuffing him, he asked the burglar, “Just out of curiosity, why did you just stand there? All the old lady did was yell a scripture at you.” “Scripture?!” gasped the burglar. “She said she had an ax and two 38's!!”
It's a funny joke, but on a serious note, we often underestimate the power of the Word of God. We forget to read our Bibles and use what we have learned. Let's make it a point to start spending regular time in reading the Word of God, learning it and speaking it over and over in our lives again and again. We need to be a walking testimony of God's power and victory.
Tuesday, May 14, 2013
Tuesday, May 14, 2013
SABRINA
As the weather warms, ice cream commercials and ads are everywhere. While there are so many flavors, I am often tempted to stick with Vanilla. I know how it tastes, I know I like it!
You know, we as Christians come in assorted flavors. God likes a variety. In 1 Corinthians 12 we are reminded “There are different kinds of gifts, but the same spirit. There are different kinds of working, but the same God works all of them in all men. The body is a unit made up of many parts, forming one body. So it is with Christ.” We don't all need to be vanilla Christians! Keep in mind that as Christians we only disagree on about 10% of doctrine. That means we agree on 90%! We come in lots of flavors! Don't limit the work of God. He has lots of flavors seen in each of us! Remember that the next time you order or pick up your favorite flavor of ice cream!
Have a blessed day!
As the weather warms, ice cream commercials and ads are everywhere. While there are so many flavors, I am often tempted to stick with Vanilla. I know how it tastes, I know I like it!
You know, we as Christians come in assorted flavors. God likes a variety. In 1 Corinthians 12 we are reminded “There are different kinds of gifts, but the same spirit. There are different kinds of working, but the same God works all of them in all men. The body is a unit made up of many parts, forming one body. So it is with Christ.” We don't all need to be vanilla Christians! Keep in mind that as Christians we only disagree on about 10% of doctrine. That means we agree on 90%! We come in lots of flavors! Don't limit the work of God. He has lots of flavors seen in each of us! Remember that the next time you order or pick up your favorite flavor of ice cream!
Have a blessed day!
Monday, May 13, 2013
Monday, May 13, 2013
BOB PEDEN
Good morning this is Bob Peden of Central United Methodist Church. The Muslim people have a phrase they use in worship and other settings: Allah Akbar. It simply means God is great. Allah is not the name of their God but rather the Arabic word for God. Akbar means great or the greatest.
We Christians also affirm that God is great, but we learn in our earliest prayers that not only is God great, but God is good. Indeed, God who is great but is not good is one to be feared and avoided at all costs. But God who is good as well as great is someone we can trust with our very lives. And indeed, God is not just good, or even very good, God is love.
At Central United Methodist Church we know and worship this God who is love. We trust and serve him knowing that he always wants what is best for us. And we love him with all our hearts, because he is the one who put love in our hearts and showed us his love for us on the cross of Calvary. Yes God is great - but more importantly, God is good, and I thank him for his love.
Good morning this is Bob Peden of Central United Methodist Church. The Muslim people have a phrase they use in worship and other settings: Allah Akbar. It simply means God is great. Allah is not the name of their God but rather the Arabic word for God. Akbar means great or the greatest.
We Christians also affirm that God is great, but we learn in our earliest prayers that not only is God great, but God is good. Indeed, God who is great but is not good is one to be feared and avoided at all costs. But God who is good as well as great is someone we can trust with our very lives. And indeed, God is not just good, or even very good, God is love.
At Central United Methodist Church we know and worship this God who is love. We trust and serve him knowing that he always wants what is best for us. And we love him with all our hearts, because he is the one who put love in our hearts and showed us his love for us on the cross of Calvary. Yes God is great - but more importantly, God is good, and I thank him for his love.
Friday, May 10, 2013
Friday, May 10, 2013
SABRINA
The first Mother's Day in1912 was an attempt to recognize a mother's importance in our culture and lives. Yet, all mothers are not the same. My mother was absolutely wonderful, but I am mindful that is not the case with all. If not your mother, there was most probably a grandmother, aunt, or neighbor who WAS that mother figure for you. What IS a normal mother?
I have a sign that hangs outside my backdoor that states “Around here normal is just a setting on the washing machine.” The truth is mothers “celebrate, struggle, fail, start over, and repeat that cycle over and over. What is normal for one is not for the other. Each day IS, however, a new beginning of what lies before us. We have destiny, purpose, and the power to do and be all that we are called to be. But it is only when we realize God's love for us that we can we truly love our families and those around us with an unconditional love.
As we celebrate Mother's Day this weekend, let us thank God for the presence of mothers, birth or otherwise, in our lives!
The first Mother's Day in1912 was an attempt to recognize a mother's importance in our culture and lives. Yet, all mothers are not the same. My mother was absolutely wonderful, but I am mindful that is not the case with all. If not your mother, there was most probably a grandmother, aunt, or neighbor who WAS that mother figure for you. What IS a normal mother?
I have a sign that hangs outside my backdoor that states “Around here normal is just a setting on the washing machine.” The truth is mothers “celebrate, struggle, fail, start over, and repeat that cycle over and over. What is normal for one is not for the other. Each day IS, however, a new beginning of what lies before us. We have destiny, purpose, and the power to do and be all that we are called to be. But it is only when we realize God's love for us that we can we truly love our families and those around us with an unconditional love.
As we celebrate Mother's Day this weekend, let us thank God for the presence of mothers, birth or otherwise, in our lives!
Thursday, May 9, 2013
Thursday, May 9, 2013
JIM CAIN
Good Morning!
“No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able
..." - 1 Corinthians 10:13
Have you ever wondered why bad things seem to happen to good people? There were 3 Hebrew boys in the Third Chapter of Daniel who asked themselves this very question when they refused to worship the idols of the Babylonian King Nebuchadnezzar. Even though they were threatened with being thrown in a furnace, they held fast in their devotion to God. Their response: "God can spare us from the fiery furnace; He has that power. But, even if He does not, we'll never serve your gods or bow down to your statue."
Were they afraid? Yes, but they chose to trust God even when it made no earthly sense to do so. And, much to the amazement of their captors, God repaid their faith and they were not harmed by the fires in that furnace.
Yes, bad things do happen to good people, but God will never take us through a time of testing that is too tough for us to deal with. No matter how difficult our trials, we can count on His promise. Not one situation is too great for us to face with the power of God. He will give us a way to endure it, to resist it, or to get through it if only we will lean on Him.
Good Morning!
“No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able
..." - 1 Corinthians 10:13
Have you ever wondered why bad things seem to happen to good people? There were 3 Hebrew boys in the Third Chapter of Daniel who asked themselves this very question when they refused to worship the idols of the Babylonian King Nebuchadnezzar. Even though they were threatened with being thrown in a furnace, they held fast in their devotion to God. Their response: "God can spare us from the fiery furnace; He has that power. But, even if He does not, we'll never serve your gods or bow down to your statue."
Were they afraid? Yes, but they chose to trust God even when it made no earthly sense to do so. And, much to the amazement of their captors, God repaid their faith and they were not harmed by the fires in that furnace.
Yes, bad things do happen to good people, but God will never take us through a time of testing that is too tough for us to deal with. No matter how difficult our trials, we can count on His promise. Not one situation is too great for us to face with the power of God. He will give us a way to endure it, to resist it, or to get through it if only we will lean on Him.
Wednesday, May 8, 2013
Wednesday, May 8, 2013
GLENDA
Good Morning:
Laughter really is the best medicine. Look around you at the children in your life. Most are happy, and for the most part, in good health. Did you know that children reportedly laugh 300 to 400 times a day while we adults laugh only a mere 15 times a day! Believe it or not, experts say that laughing aids indigestion, lowers blood pressure, reduces stress hormones, increases muscle flexion, boosts the immune system, triggers the release of endorphins which are the body's natural painkillers, heals broken relationships and produces a general sense of well-being.
I heard of an instance when a man was in the hospital very ill. His wife loaded up on some very funny videos, brought them to the hospital, and together they watched and laughed and laughed. Incredibly, the man began to heal faster then his doctors expected.
Proverbs 17:22 says: “A merry heart doeth good like a medicine.” So, if you are feeling down today, find something to laugh about. Plus, if you are happy, it makes those around you happy, too.
Have a laughter filled day.
Good Morning:
Laughter really is the best medicine. Look around you at the children in your life. Most are happy, and for the most part, in good health. Did you know that children reportedly laugh 300 to 400 times a day while we adults laugh only a mere 15 times a day! Believe it or not, experts say that laughing aids indigestion, lowers blood pressure, reduces stress hormones, increases muscle flexion, boosts the immune system, triggers the release of endorphins which are the body's natural painkillers, heals broken relationships and produces a general sense of well-being.
I heard of an instance when a man was in the hospital very ill. His wife loaded up on some very funny videos, brought them to the hospital, and together they watched and laughed and laughed. Incredibly, the man began to heal faster then his doctors expected.
Proverbs 17:22 says: “A merry heart doeth good like a medicine.” So, if you are feeling down today, find something to laugh about. Plus, if you are happy, it makes those around you happy, too.
Have a laughter filled day.
Tuesday, May 7, 2013
Tuesday, May 7, 2013
BOB PEDEN
Good morning, this is Bob Peden of Central United Methodist Church to tell you that: God sees. God hears. God knows. And God cares. God sees our needs, our problems, our hurts, our shame, our hypocrisy, our struggles, our seeking, and our desire for answers.
God hears our words, but beyond our words, we know he hears our hearts, our hearts yearning for things we cannot even put into words. God knows what our deepest needs are -- whether those needs are hungry stomachs, abusive parents, or courage in the tempest of life's greatest storms. God cares about all of our mess -- good stuff, bad stuff, and just stuff stuff.
God sees. God hears. God knows. God cares. But most of all God loves. And at Central United Methodist Church, we are striving to share this good news and this love with Meridian, Lauderdale County and around the world. We would welcome you to come to Central and learn about and meet this kind of God; and then you too can share His love.
Good morning, this is Bob Peden of Central United Methodist Church to tell you that: God sees. God hears. God knows. And God cares. God sees our needs, our problems, our hurts, our shame, our hypocrisy, our struggles, our seeking, and our desire for answers.
God hears our words, but beyond our words, we know he hears our hearts, our hearts yearning for things we cannot even put into words. God knows what our deepest needs are -- whether those needs are hungry stomachs, abusive parents, or courage in the tempest of life's greatest storms. God cares about all of our mess -- good stuff, bad stuff, and just stuff stuff.
God sees. God hears. God knows. God cares. But most of all God loves. And at Central United Methodist Church, we are striving to share this good news and this love with Meridian, Lauderdale County and around the world. We would welcome you to come to Central and learn about and meet this kind of God; and then you too can share His love.
Monday, May 6, 2013
Monday, May 6, 2013
OWEN
Good morning! I am Owen Weddle, the Associate Pastor at Central United Methodist.
In America, we are having an increasing problem with mental health issues such as depression. But an interesting study came out a while ago that said, if we see locations on our drives and objects we use and link them with positive memories, this has been helpful in combating depression. The struggle with depression is in large part due to us remembering all the negatives, but not remembering the happy and hopeful memories. It isn't that our life is all bad or that good things don't happen to us, but we don't remember them.
In the Old Testament, every time God appear and talked, the people would designate that place as a sacred place. Sacred places were places where God had appeared and was hoped that He might appear again; sacred places were places that gave us hope to combat the difficulties of life. And when we see our fellow Christians, we know who God has used to help us, we are seeing 'places' where God aided us; people who are sacred because God is present in them. Those people will give us memories of hope that can combat the hopelessness we feel all too often in life.
If you don't have those sacred people and places in your life, I would invite you to come to worship with us at Central on Sunday to have a sacred visit with God in your life.
May God Bless You!
Good morning! I am Owen Weddle, the Associate Pastor at Central United Methodist.
In America, we are having an increasing problem with mental health issues such as depression. But an interesting study came out a while ago that said, if we see locations on our drives and objects we use and link them with positive memories, this has been helpful in combating depression. The struggle with depression is in large part due to us remembering all the negatives, but not remembering the happy and hopeful memories. It isn't that our life is all bad or that good things don't happen to us, but we don't remember them.
In the Old Testament, every time God appear and talked, the people would designate that place as a sacred place. Sacred places were places where God had appeared and was hoped that He might appear again; sacred places were places that gave us hope to combat the difficulties of life. And when we see our fellow Christians, we know who God has used to help us, we are seeing 'places' where God aided us; people who are sacred because God is present in them. Those people will give us memories of hope that can combat the hopelessness we feel all too often in life.
If you don't have those sacred people and places in your life, I would invite you to come to worship with us at Central on Sunday to have a sacred visit with God in your life.
May God Bless You!
Friday, May 3, 2013
Friday, May 3, 2013
JIM CAIN
Good Morning!
Did you know that most people who make decisions to follow Jesus are teenagers? Of all the age groups in our society, teens are most susceptible to peer pressure. No other age group cares more about what others their age think and believe. Potentially, teenagers have the greatest opportunity for reaching and impacting other teens - because they spend a lot of time together and can relate to the struggles and issues that teens wrestle with.
For years now, one of our county schools has seen scores of students come to know the Lord during the school year. Who is responsible for this? Is it an influential teacher or a Christian Club? Actually, it is a student who is responsible for leading dozens of his friends to Christ. How does he accomplish this great ministry? It's actually pretty simple. He invites his fellow students to come to church with him. Many accept the invitation, begin attending regularly, and become involved in the church. This student is a great missionary by simply bringing his friends to church and then letting God take it from there.
Won't you follow his lead this weekend and bring someone to church with you? If you don't have a church home please join us at Central in either the 8:30 or the 10:55 service!
Good Morning!
Did you know that most people who make decisions to follow Jesus are teenagers? Of all the age groups in our society, teens are most susceptible to peer pressure. No other age group cares more about what others their age think and believe. Potentially, teenagers have the greatest opportunity for reaching and impacting other teens - because they spend a lot of time together and can relate to the struggles and issues that teens wrestle with.
For years now, one of our county schools has seen scores of students come to know the Lord during the school year. Who is responsible for this? Is it an influential teacher or a Christian Club? Actually, it is a student who is responsible for leading dozens of his friends to Christ. How does he accomplish this great ministry? It's actually pretty simple. He invites his fellow students to come to church with him. Many accept the invitation, begin attending regularly, and become involved in the church. This student is a great missionary by simply bringing his friends to church and then letting God take it from there.
Won't you follow his lead this weekend and bring someone to church with you? If you don't have a church home please join us at Central in either the 8:30 or the 10:55 service!
Thursday, May 2, 2013
Thursday, May 2, 2013
GLENDA
Good Morning:
Today is National Day of Prayer day. This annual day of observance was designated by the United States Congress, when people are asked to turn to God in prayer and meditation. The modern law formalizing its annual observance was enacted in 1952, although its historical origins began with President George Washington, our very first president.
In President Ronald Reagan's 1983 declaration, he says this: “From George Washington's struggle at Valley Forge to the present, this Nation has fervently sought and received divine guidance as it pursued the course of history. This occasion provides our Nation with an opportunity to further recognize the source of our blessings, and to seek His help for the challenges we face today and in the future.”
Our nation needs your prayers today more than ever. Join me today in praying for our country and its leaders. Have a wonderful prayer filled day!
Good Morning:
Today is National Day of Prayer day. This annual day of observance was designated by the United States Congress, when people are asked to turn to God in prayer and meditation. The modern law formalizing its annual observance was enacted in 1952, although its historical origins began with President George Washington, our very first president.
In President Ronald Reagan's 1983 declaration, he says this: “From George Washington's struggle at Valley Forge to the present, this Nation has fervently sought and received divine guidance as it pursued the course of history. This occasion provides our Nation with an opportunity to further recognize the source of our blessings, and to seek His help for the challenges we face today and in the future.”
Our nation needs your prayers today more than ever. Join me today in praying for our country and its leaders. Have a wonderful prayer filled day!
Wednesday, May 1, 2013
Wednesday, May 1, 2013
JIM WALL
Good Morning!
“You're as old as you feel,” or so they say. Here's how General Douglas MacArthur described old age:
Nobody grows old by merely living a number of years. People grow old only by deserting their ideals. Years may wrinkle the skin but to give up interest wrinkles the soul. Worry, doubt, self-distrust, fear, and despair…these are the long, long years that bow the head and turn the growing spirit back to dust…. You are as young as your faith, as old as your doubt; as young as your self-confidence, as old as your fear; as young as your hope, as old as your despair.
Whatever your age, realize that your life will never end. The question is, where will you spend your life in the hereafter? In heaven with God? Make sure of your eternal destiny and trust Christ today.
Good Morning!
“You're as old as you feel,” or so they say. Here's how General Douglas MacArthur described old age:
Nobody grows old by merely living a number of years. People grow old only by deserting their ideals. Years may wrinkle the skin but to give up interest wrinkles the soul. Worry, doubt, self-distrust, fear, and despair…these are the long, long years that bow the head and turn the growing spirit back to dust…. You are as young as your faith, as old as your doubt; as young as your self-confidence, as old as your fear; as young as your hope, as old as your despair.
Whatever your age, realize that your life will never end. The question is, where will you spend your life in the hereafter? In heaven with God? Make sure of your eternal destiny and trust Christ today.
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