JOHN
Good Morning! I’m John Branning the Lead Pastor of Central United
Methodist Church.
Let me begin first by wishing a Happy Thanksgiving to all of you in the
Meridian area. Today, many will gather with family and friends and
celebrate this holiday with plenty of food and laughter. We may even have a
little nostalgia today as we remember past Thanksgivings and the
wonderful memories that we have of the people and places that made it so
special. However, the true purpose of this holiday is for us to stop and give
thanks to our God for all the blessings that he has given unto us.
We have been blessed beyond measure, and I hope we are able to see all that
God has given us. I do hope that this year we will not hoard these blessing
for ourselves. We should share with others that have less than us. Let us
share a meal, a prayer, and a good word to those in need. We are commanded
to love God and our neighbor as ourselves. I invite you to come live a life
that is thankful with us at Central.
Thursday, November 27, 2014
Wednesday, November 26, 2014
Wednesday, November 26, 2014
BOB
Good morning this is Bob Peden of Central - A United Methodist
Community here in Meridian, Mississippi. As Christians we are quick to
talk about the Kingdom of God or our Lord Jesus Christ. But as American
citizens we have very little experience of living in a Kingdom or under the
lordship of a ruler. God in his gracious love has given us the freedom to
choose whether we will live in his kingdom or not. And we make that
choice each and every day of our lives. And our choice today will reflect our
choice for eternity. Unfortunately many of us would really like to have it
both ways. We would like to live for ourselves today and for the Lord in
eternity. But it does not really work that way. Choose today, whom you will
serve. I choose to live today in and for the Kingdom of God.
Good morning this is Bob Peden of Central - A United Methodist
Community here in Meridian, Mississippi. As Christians we are quick to
talk about the Kingdom of God or our Lord Jesus Christ. But as American
citizens we have very little experience of living in a Kingdom or under the
lordship of a ruler. God in his gracious love has given us the freedom to
choose whether we will live in his kingdom or not. And we make that
choice each and every day of our lives. And our choice today will reflect our
choice for eternity. Unfortunately many of us would really like to have it
both ways. We would like to live for ourselves today and for the Lord in
eternity. But it does not really work that way. Choose today, whom you will
serve. I choose to live today in and for the Kingdom of God.
Tuesday, November 25, 2014
Tuesday, November25, 2014
GLENDA
Good Morning:
Thanksgiving Day will soon be here. For most of us, Thanksgiving is all
about food, family, and fun. Often, we get so caught up in the food and
family that we forget about God. Although, we should be thanking God
every day for all our many blessings, we forget.
Thanksgiving reminds us that we need to stop and give thanks. 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. Count your blessings. Take the time to say,
Thank you, God. And then remember to thank God for something every
single day, not just on Thanksgiving. God, our Heavenly Father, loves to
hear from His children. Have a wonderful day!
Good Morning:
Thanksgiving Day will soon be here. For most of us, Thanksgiving is all
about food, family, and fun. Often, we get so caught up in the food and
family that we forget about God. Although, we should be thanking God
every day for all our many blessings, we forget.
Thanksgiving reminds us that we need to stop and give thanks. 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. Count your blessings. Take the time to say,
Thank you, God. And then remember to thank God for something every
single day, not just on Thanksgiving. God, our Heavenly Father, loves to
hear from His children. Have a wonderful day!
Thursday, November 20, 2014
Thursday, November 20, 2014
RAY
Good Morning!
Some Christians mistakenly think they have to be "perfect" before they can
come to Jesus! They believe they must stop sinning, before Jesus could
possibly love them. Stop smoking, drinking, cheating, lying, etc ... But the
truth is: we are all sinners and one sin is no different than another. If we
waited till we were "perfect" to come to Jesus . . . no one would ever get
there, because no one is perfect!
Jesus accepts us with open arms! He doesn't wrinkle up His nose with
disgust at our stench! No! Instead, He covers us with His robe of
righteousness! Jesus LOVES the sinner, but hates the sin! In fact, He loves
each one of us so much that He gave His life for us! He has already paid the
price! He is calling out to all His children,
"Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you
rest!" Won't you come to Jesus today?
Good Morning!
Some Christians mistakenly think they have to be "perfect" before they can
come to Jesus! They believe they must stop sinning, before Jesus could
possibly love them. Stop smoking, drinking, cheating, lying, etc ... But the
truth is: we are all sinners and one sin is no different than another. If we
waited till we were "perfect" to come to Jesus . . . no one would ever get
there, because no one is perfect!
Jesus accepts us with open arms! He doesn't wrinkle up His nose with
disgust at our stench! No! Instead, He covers us with His robe of
righteousness! Jesus LOVES the sinner, but hates the sin! In fact, He loves
each one of us so much that He gave His life for us! He has already paid the
price! He is calling out to all His children,
"Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you
rest!" Won't you come to Jesus today?
Wednesday, November 19, 2014
Wednesday, November 19, 2014
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 thankful. 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 thankful. 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!
Tuesday, November 18, 2014
Tuesday, November 18, 2014
BOB
Good morning this is Bob Peden of Central - A United Methodist
Community here in Meridian, Mississippi. As Christians we are quick to
talk about the Kingdom of God or our Lord Jesus Christ. But as American
citizens we have very little experience of living in a Kingdom or under the
lordship of a ruler. God in his gracious love has given us the freedom to
choose whether we will live in his kingdom or not. And we make that
choice each and every day of our lives. And our choice today will reflect our
choice for eternity. Unfortunately many of us would really like to have it
both ways. We would like to live for ourselves today and for the Lord in
eternity. But it does not really work that way. Choose today, whom you will
serve. I choose to live today in and for the Kingdom of God.
Good morning this is Bob Peden of Central - A United Methodist
Community here in Meridian, Mississippi. As Christians we are quick to
talk about the Kingdom of God or our Lord Jesus Christ. But as American
citizens we have very little experience of living in a Kingdom or under the
lordship of a ruler. God in his gracious love has given us the freedom to
choose whether we will live in his kingdom or not. And we make that
choice each and every day of our lives. And our choice today will reflect our
choice for eternity. Unfortunately many of us would really like to have it
both ways. We would like to live for ourselves today and for the Lord in
eternity. But it does not really work that way. Choose today, whom you will
serve. I choose to live today in and for the Kingdom of God.
Monday, November 17, 2014
Monday, November 17, 2014
DENNIS
Good Morning. I am Dennis Gossett, Associate Pastor of Central United
Methodist Church.
In the bible, Jesus tells the story of 10 young bridesmaids waiting on the
groom to return home with his bride. Five of them were prepared to greet
the new couple, but the others were not. These five did not take enough oil
to keep their lamps lit during the delayed return of the groom. So, they had
to leave in search for more. But, when they returned, it was too late.
In our fast-pace world, we tend to overlook the necessary things in life,
while focusing on the less important. Jesus warns us to not become
negligent in our walk of faith.
One commentator said, “We can ensure that our lamp is always full of oil by
living humbly, being a comfort to others, being merciful, seeking justice
and insisting on peace.”
Do you see areas in your life where you have been negligent? What can you
do this day to ensure your lamp is full of oil?
Central wants to help you in your walk of faith. I invite you to come and be
a part of our community. Worship times are 8:30, 9:45, and 10:55. See you
Sunday. God Bless.
Good Morning. I am Dennis Gossett, Associate Pastor of Central United
Methodist Church.
In the bible, Jesus tells the story of 10 young bridesmaids waiting on the
groom to return home with his bride. Five of them were prepared to greet
the new couple, but the others were not. These five did not take enough oil
to keep their lamps lit during the delayed return of the groom. So, they had
to leave in search for more. But, when they returned, it was too late.
In our fast-pace world, we tend to overlook the necessary things in life,
while focusing on the less important. Jesus warns us to not become
negligent in our walk of faith.
One commentator said, “We can ensure that our lamp is always full of oil by
living humbly, being a comfort to others, being merciful, seeking justice
and insisting on peace.”
Do you see areas in your life where you have been negligent? What can you
do this day to ensure your lamp is full of oil?
Central wants to help you in your walk of faith. I invite you to come and be
a part of our community. Worship times are 8:30, 9:45, and 10:55. See you
Sunday. God Bless.
Friday, November 14, 2014
Friday, November 14, 2014
PEDEN
This is Bob Peden of Central - A United Methodist Community here in Meridian. Have you noticed the changing of the leaves. How could you not have noticed. The red, orange, yellow of the autumn leaves is always a treat. But not all trees embrace that change. Some hold onto their green leaves until winter hits and they just turn brown. And here in Mississippi we are blessed with lots of pine trees that hold onto there old needles until they are pushed away by the new ones sprouting in the spring. People respond to change in those ways too. Some of us turn bright and cheerful at the prospect of something new. We release the old and anticipate the new. Others of us hold onto the old for as long as we possibly can. We avoid any change whatsoever. This fall as you watch the leaves change, think about which kind of tree you are like. God created us all. Change is life. How do you respond to change.
This is Bob Peden of Central - A United Methodist Community here in Meridian. Have you noticed the changing of the leaves. How could you not have noticed. The red, orange, yellow of the autumn leaves is always a treat. But not all trees embrace that change. Some hold onto their green leaves until winter hits and they just turn brown. And here in Mississippi we are blessed with lots of pine trees that hold onto there old needles until they are pushed away by the new ones sprouting in the spring. People respond to change in those ways too. Some of us turn bright and cheerful at the prospect of something new. We release the old and anticipate the new. Others of us hold onto the old for as long as we possibly can. We avoid any change whatsoever. This fall as you watch the leaves change, think about which kind of tree you are like. God created us all. Change is life. How do you respond to change.
Thursday, November 13, 2014
Thursday, November 13, 2014
RAY
Good Morning!
Hank Williams dropped out of school to pursue his dream of being a country music star, but ran into problems with alcoholism. He married Audrey Sheppard at a gas station in Alabama. But when the marriage hit the rocks, Audrey threw Hank out of the house.
Fueled by heartache, Williams wrote the song "I'm So Lonesome I Could Cry." Shortly afterward he died at age 29. His songs of loneliness and heartache made him an American icon, for somehow his sorrowful melodies touched the hearts of those who are so lonely they could cry.
The Bible has a one-word answer for loneliness: Fellowship. That's our opportunity to be best friends with the Lord and part of His worldwide family. It's the divine answer.
If you feel so lonely you could cry, take the focus off yourself. Think of how much God loves you and find another person whom you can serve today.
When we see the light, we have fellowship with one another and the blood of Christ cleanses us from all sin.
Good Morning!
Hank Williams dropped out of school to pursue his dream of being a country music star, but ran into problems with alcoholism. He married Audrey Sheppard at a gas station in Alabama. But when the marriage hit the rocks, Audrey threw Hank out of the house.
Fueled by heartache, Williams wrote the song "I'm So Lonesome I Could Cry." Shortly afterward he died at age 29. His songs of loneliness and heartache made him an American icon, for somehow his sorrowful melodies touched the hearts of those who are so lonely they could cry.
The Bible has a one-word answer for loneliness: Fellowship. That's our opportunity to be best friends with the Lord and part of His worldwide family. It's the divine answer.
If you feel so lonely you could cry, take the focus off yourself. Think of how much God loves you and find another person whom you can serve today.
When we see the light, we have fellowship with one another and the blood of Christ cleanses us from all sin.
Wednesday, November 12, 2014
Wednesday, November 12, 2014
JIM CAIN
I'm not really that great at texting. When I first got my cell phone, students would text me and normally call me back before I would have time to finish typing out my reply. I'm just a little slow at it, although I am getting better. I still prefer hearing someone’s voice on the other end of the line. And the lingo changes so fast that by the time I learn the text messaging abbreviations everyone is using, the new sixth graders in the youth group have a whole new set.
Personally, I prefer real language in actual words myself. I miss the descriptive words and details that we get away from when we email and text so much.
I'm thankful that God didn't leave any details or descriptions out of His Word, and I don't want to miss any of it. God used the writers of the Scripture to put those things down in detail for us. His Word is for us. I think that in this fast paced world that some of us make a regular habit of checking our emails, our text messages, and even our voice mail, but we forget to check those messages that are there for us from the Lord. All those messages we find in His Word were meant for us to learn from. They are important. Every word.
Matthew 4:4 says, "But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God."
I'm not really that great at texting. When I first got my cell phone, students would text me and normally call me back before I would have time to finish typing out my reply. I'm just a little slow at it, although I am getting better. I still prefer hearing someone’s voice on the other end of the line. And the lingo changes so fast that by the time I learn the text messaging abbreviations everyone is using, the new sixth graders in the youth group have a whole new set.
Personally, I prefer real language in actual words myself. I miss the descriptive words and details that we get away from when we email and text so much.
I'm thankful that God didn't leave any details or descriptions out of His Word, and I don't want to miss any of it. God used the writers of the Scripture to put those things down in detail for us. His Word is for us. I think that in this fast paced world that some of us make a regular habit of checking our emails, our text messages, and even our voice mail, but we forget to check those messages that are there for us from the Lord. All those messages we find in His Word were meant for us to learn from. They are important. Every word.
Matthew 4:4 says, "But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God."
Tuesday, November 11, 2014
Tuesday, November 11, 2014
JOHN
Good Morning! I’m John Branning, Lead Pastor of Central United Methodist Church. Today we celebrate Veterans Day, which was first celebrated on November 11, 1919, as Armistice Day and then changed in 1954 to our modern Veterans Day.
On this day, we as the people of the United States set aside time to remember that the price of freedom has been paid by every generation of Americans. It is right for us to remember the sacrifices that service to our nation requires of these men and women. Jesus said that no greater love could one ever have than to be willing to lay down their life for another, and truly that is what every veteran has done through the years.
I hope that today you will take a moment to thank our service men and women. I am proud to say that I am a combat veteran of the United States Army serving in Iraq from 2010-2011, and from one Veteran to another, I hope that this day is blessed above all others and thank you for your service to God and our Country.
Good Morning! I’m John Branning, Lead Pastor of Central United Methodist Church. Today we celebrate Veterans Day, which was first celebrated on November 11, 1919, as Armistice Day and then changed in 1954 to our modern Veterans Day.
On this day, we as the people of the United States set aside time to remember that the price of freedom has been paid by every generation of Americans. It is right for us to remember the sacrifices that service to our nation requires of these men and women. Jesus said that no greater love could one ever have than to be willing to lay down their life for another, and truly that is what every veteran has done through the years.
I hope that today you will take a moment to thank our service men and women. I am proud to say that I am a combat veteran of the United States Army serving in Iraq from 2010-2011, and from one Veteran to another, I hope that this day is blessed above all others and thank you for your service to God and our Country.
Monday, November 10, 2014
Monday, November 10, 2014
SABRINA
I love the book of Psalms. No matter where you find yourself in life, there is a Psalm to meet you where you are. David lived out every human emotion and “talked” with God about it. As we are about to enter the time of year that is centered around thankfulness, the writings of the Psalmist should serve as a reminder, that no matter what the Psalm is about, it almost always begins or ends with a word of gratitude or praise. Even in the darkest of times, the deepest of despair, if we allow ourselves to glimpse – God’s love and action is present even in those times, shaping and molding us in ways we never imagine.
When WE turn loose of our human selves, we can look around and see what God has one in our lives, and like David, sing songs of praise, knowing that even in the midst of trial and tribulation, there is MUCH to be thankful for, for God’s love and peace never leave or fail. So in these days of thanksgiving, let us not forget to give thanks to the One who NEVER leaves our side…in the saddest of times, or the happiest of times – His love and care is always only a breath away!
I love the book of Psalms. No matter where you find yourself in life, there is a Psalm to meet you where you are. David lived out every human emotion and “talked” with God about it. As we are about to enter the time of year that is centered around thankfulness, the writings of the Psalmist should serve as a reminder, that no matter what the Psalm is about, it almost always begins or ends with a word of gratitude or praise. Even in the darkest of times, the deepest of despair, if we allow ourselves to glimpse – God’s love and action is present even in those times, shaping and molding us in ways we never imagine.
When WE turn loose of our human selves, we can look around and see what God has one in our lives, and like David, sing songs of praise, knowing that even in the midst of trial and tribulation, there is MUCH to be thankful for, for God’s love and peace never leave or fail. So in these days of thanksgiving, let us not forget to give thanks to the One who NEVER leaves our side…in the saddest of times, or the happiest of times – His love and care is always only a breath away!
Friday, November 7, 2014
Friday, November 7, 2014
JOHN
Good Morning! I’m John Branning, Lead Pastor of Central United Methodist Church. November is a time that we focus upon thanksgiving, and for most people, that is just one day in this month when they will get together and have a meal with family and friends. However, the Bible constantly talks about the attitude of a follower of Jesus being one who is always thankful.
Thankful people are able to see the beauty in the small things in life and to offer words of hope and encouragement to others. Thankful people are always able to find a blessing that they have received each and every day. Thankful people are those who realize that they deserve nothing and have been given everything.
In our society we are taught to expect to live in nice homes, drive new cars, and travel the world. Yet, the real blessings of life are not the ones that you can buy; they are those that surround you every day. I hope today that you will count your blessings and name them one by one and know truly what God has done.
Good Morning! I’m John Branning, Lead Pastor of Central United Methodist Church. November is a time that we focus upon thanksgiving, and for most people, that is just one day in this month when they will get together and have a meal with family and friends. However, the Bible constantly talks about the attitude of a follower of Jesus being one who is always thankful.
Thankful people are able to see the beauty in the small things in life and to offer words of hope and encouragement to others. Thankful people are always able to find a blessing that they have received each and every day. Thankful people are those who realize that they deserve nothing and have been given everything.
In our society we are taught to expect to live in nice homes, drive new cars, and travel the world. Yet, the real blessings of life are not the ones that you can buy; they are those that surround you every day. I hope today that you will count your blessings and name them one by one and know truly what God has done.
Thursday, November 6, 2014
Thursday, November 6, 2014
GLENDA
Good Morning:
Many years ago when my son was in first grade, I taught 1st, 2nd, and 3rd grade choir at Central. We would meet once a week and since I had no one to keep my 3 year old daughter, she went with me. Turned out, she was one of my best singers; however, she didn't always say the correct words. One of the songs we sang had these words: “Jesus, Jesus, Can I tell you how I feel? You have given me your riches. I love you so.” Tiffanie sang it as “You have given me your britches. I love you so.”
When the other children laughed at her rendition, she got kind of upset. I told her she had the right idea because God would give us what we need —after-all, he gave us the most important gift he had.....His Son, Jesus Christ....why wouldn't he give us His britches if he thought it necessary? I can't sing that song now, without singing it the way Tiff sang it.
God is there for you, whatever your need. Remember that and have a great day!
Good Morning:
Many years ago when my son was in first grade, I taught 1st, 2nd, and 3rd grade choir at Central. We would meet once a week and since I had no one to keep my 3 year old daughter, she went with me. Turned out, she was one of my best singers; however, she didn't always say the correct words. One of the songs we sang had these words: “Jesus, Jesus, Can I tell you how I feel? You have given me your riches. I love you so.” Tiffanie sang it as “You have given me your britches. I love you so.”
When the other children laughed at her rendition, she got kind of upset. I told her she had the right idea because God would give us what we need —after-all, he gave us the most important gift he had.....His Son, Jesus Christ....why wouldn't he give us His britches if he thought it necessary? I can't sing that song now, without singing it the way Tiff sang it.
God is there for you, whatever your need. Remember that and have a great day!
Wednesday, November 5, 2014
Wednesday, November 5, 2014
SABRINA
If I were doing a “commercial” for Central I would tell you that you should come and join us because we have THREE dynamic worship opportunities each Sunday. You can come at 8:30 and experience Contemporary Worship, complete with a Praise Team, reaching families of all ages; OR you can come at 9:45 to our Connect Service – A little “edgier” reaching people who might want to sleep in a little later, who don’t have the pitter patter of little feet to wake them up BRIGHT and early. 10:55 is Traditional Worship, complete with the procession of the Cross, Bible, and a robed Sanctuary Choir.
We have AWESOME Children and Youth, and family Worship opportunities. But I am NOT doing a commercial. I am inviting you to join me at Central, a place where we all struggle, have self doubt, WANT to live as God would have us, but often fail miserably. We are a COMMUNITY – a COMMUNITY of FAITH, walking this often difficult road of life – together! Come and join us in this journey. You will feel love, acceptance and connect with people just like you, no matter where your road has led! Be blessed and have a blessed day!
If I were doing a “commercial” for Central I would tell you that you should come and join us because we have THREE dynamic worship opportunities each Sunday. You can come at 8:30 and experience Contemporary Worship, complete with a Praise Team, reaching families of all ages; OR you can come at 9:45 to our Connect Service – A little “edgier” reaching people who might want to sleep in a little later, who don’t have the pitter patter of little feet to wake them up BRIGHT and early. 10:55 is Traditional Worship, complete with the procession of the Cross, Bible, and a robed Sanctuary Choir.
We have AWESOME Children and Youth, and family Worship opportunities. But I am NOT doing a commercial. I am inviting you to join me at Central, a place where we all struggle, have self doubt, WANT to live as God would have us, but often fail miserably. We are a COMMUNITY – a COMMUNITY of FAITH, walking this often difficult road of life – together! Come and join us in this journey. You will feel love, acceptance and connect with people just like you, no matter where your road has led! Be blessed and have a blessed day!
Tuesday, November 4, 2014
Tuesday, Novemeber 4, 2014
DENNIS
Good Morning. I am Dennis Gossett, Associate Pastor of Central United Methodist Church. There are a lot of people in the world who believe that money and material wealth will provide them with happiness. So often, we strive and strategize in order to get into a certain position in life. Then we soon realize that it was not what we thought it would be. The nice clothes, cars, homes and careers cannot truly satisfy that which is deep down. No amount of money in the world can bring peace to a soul. True happiness does not come from what we have. However, there is a way to gain it. God has a plan that each one of us can follow in order to obtain peace, joy and security.
Catherine of Genoa said this about God’s strategy, “The selfishness that is within us, however, is contrary to God that God cannot induce us to do his will except by clever strategy: promising us greater things than the world can give.”
Jesus once compared the life of two people, a poor man and rich man. The poor man who believed inherited a kingdom, which the unbelieving rich man inherited a place of torment. Friends, true peace can only come from a relationship with Jesus Christ. He does not require you to have a ton of money, a career, or wear nice clothes. All he wants is your heart.
Good Morning. I am Dennis Gossett, Associate Pastor of Central United Methodist Church. There are a lot of people in the world who believe that money and material wealth will provide them with happiness. So often, we strive and strategize in order to get into a certain position in life. Then we soon realize that it was not what we thought it would be. The nice clothes, cars, homes and careers cannot truly satisfy that which is deep down. No amount of money in the world can bring peace to a soul. True happiness does not come from what we have. However, there is a way to gain it. God has a plan that each one of us can follow in order to obtain peace, joy and security.
Catherine of Genoa said this about God’s strategy, “The selfishness that is within us, however, is contrary to God that God cannot induce us to do his will except by clever strategy: promising us greater things than the world can give.”
Jesus once compared the life of two people, a poor man and rich man. The poor man who believed inherited a kingdom, which the unbelieving rich man inherited a place of torment. Friends, true peace can only come from a relationship with Jesus Christ. He does not require you to have a ton of money, a career, or wear nice clothes. All he wants is your heart.
Monday, November 3, 2014
Monday, November, 3, 2014
PEDEN
Good morning this is Bob Peden of Central - a United Methodist Community here in Meridian. Early in the gospel of Luke Jesus uses Peter’s boat to teach the crowds and then has Peter let down his nets, resulting in a miraculous catch of fish. When Peter sees what power Jesus has he says “Go away from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man.” Often when we experience God’s power we react the same. Frightened by the reality of our sinfulness in the face of God’s power. But Jesus invited Peter and invites us to use our skills in a new way, for the good of the gospel. Central is a community of believers who lay our skills and talents before Jesus, asking him to show us how we might use them for good. You are invited to join as at Central. You too may experience the power of the risen Lord and hear his call to use your abilities for His kingdom.
Good morning this is Bob Peden of Central - a United Methodist Community here in Meridian. Early in the gospel of Luke Jesus uses Peter’s boat to teach the crowds and then has Peter let down his nets, resulting in a miraculous catch of fish. When Peter sees what power Jesus has he says “Go away from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man.” Often when we experience God’s power we react the same. Frightened by the reality of our sinfulness in the face of God’s power. But Jesus invited Peter and invites us to use our skills in a new way, for the good of the gospel. Central is a community of believers who lay our skills and talents before Jesus, asking him to show us how we might use them for good. You are invited to join as at Central. You too may experience the power of the risen Lord and hear his call to use your abilities for His kingdom.
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