GLENDA
Good Morning: As you know, I am the Director of the Children's Center at
Central United Methodist Church. It's a wonderful half day program for
children 1 year through 4 years of age. I'm in the process of getting ready for
school to begin again. We still have a few openings left in the four year class.
If you have a 4 year old and you want to get your child ready for
kindergarten, we have just the place for you. Just call the church office and
ask for me. I'll be glad to give you the grand tour and sign you up.
At Central, we believe that children are special and that “specialness” comes
from God. Come see me. I'll be looking for you! Have a wonderful day!
Friday, July 31, 2015
Thursday, July 30, 2015
Thursday, July 30, 2015
RAY
Good Morning!
The phrase “catch-22” refers to a problem that has a solution that is
prohibited by the problem itself. For example, if you need glasses to see, and
you lose your glasses, you can’t find them because you need them to carry out
the search. A typical “catch-22” is when job seekers are denied a job because
of a lack of experience, which they will never get unless they can get a job.
Ponder this theological problem: We cannot be saved with good works, but
neither can we be saved without good works. How is that possible? The Bible
clearly says we are saved by grace through faith, not by works. But it also
says that faith without works is dead. Actually, we can be saved without
good works—like the thief on the cross who died immediately after placing
his faith in Christ. But as a rule, good works are evidence of our faith, a sign
that our faith is alive and well.
Good Morning!
The phrase “catch-22” refers to a problem that has a solution that is
prohibited by the problem itself. For example, if you need glasses to see, and
you lose your glasses, you can’t find them because you need them to carry out
the search. A typical “catch-22” is when job seekers are denied a job because
of a lack of experience, which they will never get unless they can get a job.
Ponder this theological problem: We cannot be saved with good works, but
neither can we be saved without good works. How is that possible? The Bible
clearly says we are saved by grace through faith, not by works. But it also
says that faith without works is dead. Actually, we can be saved without
good works—like the thief on the cross who died immediately after placing
his faith in Christ. But as a rule, good works are evidence of our faith, a sign
that our faith is alive and well.
Thursday, July 30, 2015
Good Morning!
The phrase “catch-22” refers to a problem that has a solution that is
prohibited by the problem itself. For example, if you need glasses to see, and
you lose your glasses, you can’t find them because you need them to carry out
the search. A typical “catch-22” is when job seekers are denied a job because
of a lack of experience, which they will never get unless they can get a job.
Ponder this theological problem: We cannot be saved with good works, but
neither can we be saved without good works. How is that possible? The Bible
clearly says we are saved by grace through faith, not by works. But it also
says that faith without works is dead. Actually, we can be saved without
good works—like the thief on the cross who died immediately after placing
his faith in Christ. But as a rule, good works are evidence of our faith, a sign
that our faith is alive and well.
The phrase “catch-22” refers to a problem that has a solution that is
prohibited by the problem itself. For example, if you need glasses to see, and
you lose your glasses, you can’t find them because you need them to carry out
the search. A typical “catch-22” is when job seekers are denied a job because
of a lack of experience, which they will never get unless they can get a job.
Ponder this theological problem: We cannot be saved with good works, but
neither can we be saved without good works. How is that possible? The Bible
clearly says we are saved by grace through faith, not by works. But it also
says that faith without works is dead. Actually, we can be saved without
good works—like the thief on the cross who died immediately after placing
his faith in Christ. But as a rule, good works are evidence of our faith, a sign
that our faith is alive and well.
Wednesday, July 29, 2015
Wednesday, July 29, 2015
KRISTINA
Good Morning!
I am Kristina Crabtree and I am the Pastor of Mission and Evangelism at
Central UMC.
Today we live in a fast-past, more-is-better type of world. But what does the
Word of God say about this world? What did Jesus teach His disciples about
the Kingdom of Heaven?
We naturally know how to be a part of this world, but being a part of the
Kingdom of Heaven is like a foreign language to us, even those in the church.
John the Baptist proclaims the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand, meaning it is
here and now, among us.
Who, what, when, where and how is this Kingdom of Heaven? Jesus
proclaims to his disciples and to us that ‘the kingdom of heaven is like a
grain of mustard seed that a man took and sowed in his field.” Hear the Good
News. We are all workers in the field. Here it is: It’s “a grain” and “a man.”
So be encouraged you workers in the Kingdom of God here and now on this
earth. It only takes one grain and one person to grow the Kingdom of
Heaven.
Good Morning!
I am Kristina Crabtree and I am the Pastor of Mission and Evangelism at
Central UMC.
Today we live in a fast-past, more-is-better type of world. But what does the
Word of God say about this world? What did Jesus teach His disciples about
the Kingdom of Heaven?
We naturally know how to be a part of this world, but being a part of the
Kingdom of Heaven is like a foreign language to us, even those in the church.
John the Baptist proclaims the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand, meaning it is
here and now, among us.
Who, what, when, where and how is this Kingdom of Heaven? Jesus
proclaims to his disciples and to us that ‘the kingdom of heaven is like a
grain of mustard seed that a man took and sowed in his field.” Hear the Good
News. We are all workers in the field. Here it is: It’s “a grain” and “a man.”
So be encouraged you workers in the Kingdom of God here and now on this
earth. It only takes one grain and one person to grow the Kingdom of
Heaven.
Tuesday, July 28, 2015
Tuesday, July 28, 2015
DENNIS
Good Morning. I am Dennis Gossett with Central United Methodist Church.
Are you falling behind a bit? Have you been neglecting some things that
really need your attention? I think we all can fall into one of these two areas
from time to time.
Most often, we can hunker down and get caught up. We can soon make
amends to get back on track. But this is not so easy when it comes to our
spiritual life. There could be places in our spiritual walk that we have been
neglecting for a very long time. In a story he was telling, Jesus spoke about
scattering seeds on the ground. The seeds were an illustration of the Word of
God and the ground was pointing to our lives. He said the reason some seeds
did not come up or stay for very long was because of neglect.
It is possible to neglect our relationship with God to the point where His
good seeds are not showing up in our lives. However, there is a way to make
them grow. It’s through maintaining a rich and vibrant relationship with the
Son, Jesus Christ. When we begin to follow the teaching of Christ, we also
begin to bear the fruits of those seeds. If you have been neglecting God, now
is the perfect time to reconnect. I invite you to Central where we are
constantly planting seeds.
Good Morning. I am Dennis Gossett with Central United Methodist Church.
Are you falling behind a bit? Have you been neglecting some things that
really need your attention? I think we all can fall into one of these two areas
from time to time.
Most often, we can hunker down and get caught up. We can soon make
amends to get back on track. But this is not so easy when it comes to our
spiritual life. There could be places in our spiritual walk that we have been
neglecting for a very long time. In a story he was telling, Jesus spoke about
scattering seeds on the ground. The seeds were an illustration of the Word of
God and the ground was pointing to our lives. He said the reason some seeds
did not come up or stay for very long was because of neglect.
It is possible to neglect our relationship with God to the point where His
good seeds are not showing up in our lives. However, there is a way to make
them grow. It’s through maintaining a rich and vibrant relationship with the
Son, Jesus Christ. When we begin to follow the teaching of Christ, we also
begin to bear the fruits of those seeds. If you have been neglecting God, now
is the perfect time to reconnect. I invite you to Central where we are
constantly planting seeds.
Monday, July 27, 2015
Monday, July 27, 2015
SABRINA
I am Sabrina Williams, Director of children and family Ministry here at
Central. Our grandson, Weston, recently came running into the room to tattle
on his brother. A bad word had been said. When asked, the look of a big
brown eyed mortified four year old repeated it. Brett said STUPID!
After a brief sigh of relief, I thought. Bad word? What exactly constitutes a
bad word? Society has unacceptable ones. But many times it is NOT the four
letter ones. Sometimes bad words are the ones that leave people feeling bad
or worthless afterward. Maybe it’s a conversation where you leave feeling
discouraged or hopeless because of unkind words, or maybe you leave
feeling guilty because you got pulled into a gossip session.
Ephesians 4:29 reminds us, “Let no evil talk come out of your mouths, but
only what is useful for building up, as there is need, so that your words may
give grace to those who hear.” We need to guard our words - not just the four
letter ones. When we say the right thing at the right time, we lift people up,
show God’s love and grace, and just generally make the world a happier,
better place! Have a blessed day!
I am Sabrina Williams, Director of children and family Ministry here at
Central. Our grandson, Weston, recently came running into the room to tattle
on his brother. A bad word had been said. When asked, the look of a big
brown eyed mortified four year old repeated it. Brett said STUPID!
After a brief sigh of relief, I thought. Bad word? What exactly constitutes a
bad word? Society has unacceptable ones. But many times it is NOT the four
letter ones. Sometimes bad words are the ones that leave people feeling bad
or worthless afterward. Maybe it’s a conversation where you leave feeling
discouraged or hopeless because of unkind words, or maybe you leave
feeling guilty because you got pulled into a gossip session.
Ephesians 4:29 reminds us, “Let no evil talk come out of your mouths, but
only what is useful for building up, as there is need, so that your words may
give grace to those who hear.” We need to guard our words - not just the four
letter ones. When we say the right thing at the right time, we lift people up,
show God’s love and grace, and just generally make the world a happier,
better place! Have a blessed day!
Friday, July 24, 2015
Friday, July 24, 2015
DENNIS
Good Morning. I am Dennis Gossett with Central United Methodist Church.
Have you ever known someone who did something really crazy? Like just
quit their job and start traveling around? Those who do such things know
that doing something crazy takes risk. Taking risk is in fact a part of living.
Did you know that following Jesus takes risk? When Jesus was on the earth,
many people would come from miles around just to hear him preach. There
were a lot of those people who would travel with him. These large crowds
would follow him from town to town, walking miles just to be around Jesus.
Could you imagine what their families, friends and bosses thought? It must
have seemed crazy for someone to leave everything behind to follow a man
around the country.
What these folks understood, that most others did not, is that Jesus had the
words of life. He just did not speak, but demonstrated what he spoke. It was
so powerful that it began changing people’s lives. Walking with Jesus takes
risk. He wants us to abandon ourselves by listening and learning from him.
Just like those ancient people, our lives can be changed as well. Are you
wanting to take a risk? Well then, I invite you to Central to come hear about
the man that changed the world.
Good Morning. I am Dennis Gossett with Central United Methodist Church.
Have you ever known someone who did something really crazy? Like just
quit their job and start traveling around? Those who do such things know
that doing something crazy takes risk. Taking risk is in fact a part of living.
Did you know that following Jesus takes risk? When Jesus was on the earth,
many people would come from miles around just to hear him preach. There
were a lot of those people who would travel with him. These large crowds
would follow him from town to town, walking miles just to be around Jesus.
Could you imagine what their families, friends and bosses thought? It must
have seemed crazy for someone to leave everything behind to follow a man
around the country.
What these folks understood, that most others did not, is that Jesus had the
words of life. He just did not speak, but demonstrated what he spoke. It was
so powerful that it began changing people’s lives. Walking with Jesus takes
risk. He wants us to abandon ourselves by listening and learning from him.
Just like those ancient people, our lives can be changed as well. Are you
wanting to take a risk? Well then, I invite you to Central to come hear about
the man that changed the world.
Thursday, July 23, 2015
Thursday, July 23, 2015
JONATHAN
John 1:14
Good morning! My name is Jonathan Crabtree. I’m the Pastor for Student
Ministry at Central United Methodist Church in downtown Meridian.
I was working with a Church mission team in Central America one summer,
and I am quite sure it was hotter than hot can be. I stayed hydrated, and I
took breaks. Yet, it was still warm. Well, then, I decided to listen to some
Christmas music as a way of cooling down. There I was singing, “Joy to the
World” and “Silent Night” on one of the hottest days I had ever experienced.
The words reminded me of cooler Christmas season memories.
Words mean something, just like in the Christmas songs I heard. Some words
in John’s Gospel remind me that the Word became flesh and lived among us.
That means the resurrected Jesus Christ, now lives among us. He is with us
in joy, grief, and pain. When we read Scripture, we are reminded of God’s
presence with us, because of what God has done in the past. May you read
Scripture today and be reminded of that.
John 1:14
Good morning! My name is Jonathan Crabtree. I’m the Pastor for Student
Ministry at Central United Methodist Church in downtown Meridian.
I was working with a Church mission team in Central America one summer,
and I am quite sure it was hotter than hot can be. I stayed hydrated, and I
took breaks. Yet, it was still warm. Well, then, I decided to listen to some
Christmas music as a way of cooling down. There I was singing, “Joy to the
World” and “Silent Night” on one of the hottest days I had ever experienced.
The words reminded me of cooler Christmas season memories.
Words mean something, just like in the Christmas songs I heard. Some words
in John’s Gospel remind me that the Word became flesh and lived among us.
That means the resurrected Jesus Christ, now lives among us. He is with us
in joy, grief, and pain. When we read Scripture, we are reminded of God’s
presence with us, because of what God has done in the past. May you read
Scripture today and be reminded of that.
Wednesday, July 22, 2015
Wednesday, July 22, 2015
RAY
We often think seconds are not very important. But seconds tick away into minutes, minutes into hours, and hours into days. We have all been amazed at how swiftly days turn into weeks, months, and years.
As small as they are, seconds are precious because they are a creation and a gift of God. How we use even these small time increments makes a difference since our heavenly Father has a plan for each life.
Understanding the value of each moment, the apostle Paul urged us, “Be careful how you walk. . .making the most of your time, because the days are full of temptations. He is instructing us to take advantage of every opportunity God gives us. Time is a precious gift. Most of us hearing this today have used up a lot of that gift and may not have much time left. We need to find the right balance and use what we have wisely, to the glory of God.
We often think seconds are not very important. But seconds tick away into minutes, minutes into hours, and hours into days. We have all been amazed at how swiftly days turn into weeks, months, and years.
As small as they are, seconds are precious because they are a creation and a gift of God. How we use even these small time increments makes a difference since our heavenly Father has a plan for each life.
Understanding the value of each moment, the apostle Paul urged us, “Be careful how you walk. . .making the most of your time, because the days are full of temptations. He is instructing us to take advantage of every opportunity God gives us. Time is a precious gift. Most of us hearing this today have used up a lot of that gift and may not have much time left. We need to find the right balance and use what we have wisely, to the glory of God.
Tuesday, July 21, 2015
Tuesday, July 21, 2015
SUZANNE
I enjoy watching children during the Offering portion of the Worship Service.
When they see that plate headed their direction, they are clamoring to find money to put in it. At our house, when the boys were little, they would remind us, “I need a dollar for offering!”
At what point do we lose that childlike enthusiasm for giving? I see very few adults who chase that plate down if it doesn’t come their way!
Giving should be from an abundance of what the Lord has done for us. Not just financially, but with our energy, time and efforts. Giving back to the Lord should bring Joy in our hearts. Second Corinthians verse 7 tells us, “God loves a cheerful giver!” and verse 11 continues that “your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.” Be cheerful, and give generously!
For Central United Methodist Church, I am Suzanne Cain.
I enjoy watching children during the Offering portion of the Worship Service.
When they see that plate headed their direction, they are clamoring to find money to put in it. At our house, when the boys were little, they would remind us, “I need a dollar for offering!”
At what point do we lose that childlike enthusiasm for giving? I see very few adults who chase that plate down if it doesn’t come their way!
Giving should be from an abundance of what the Lord has done for us. Not just financially, but with our energy, time and efforts. Giving back to the Lord should bring Joy in our hearts. Second Corinthians verse 7 tells us, “God loves a cheerful giver!” and verse 11 continues that “your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.” Be cheerful, and give generously!
For Central United Methodist Church, I am Suzanne Cain.
Monday, July 20, 2015
Monday, July 20, 2015
BOB
This is Bob Peden of Central, a United Methodist Community in Meridian. When the disciple, John, began to tell of Jesus the Messiah, he remembered different events than the other three gospel writers. One of those accounts is of a wedding Jesus attended in Cana. Jesus is portrayed as someone who not only attended parties but would supply wine so that the party might continue. Some even accused him of being a drunkard, a glutton, and friend to sinners.
All through the Bible, God shows that he loves a good party. Much of the worship in the Old Testament involved feasting. When the prophet Isaiah described God's Kingdom, he spoke of a great feast prepared by God himself.
The last book of the Bible, Revelation, describes the end as a great triumphal banquet… a wedding party. So one day, there will be a party to end all parties. God's people will gather from all nations, all languages, and even all times to celebrate the final victory over sin and death.
That's a party that I want to go to. How about you?
This is Bob Peden of Central, a United Methodist Community in Meridian. When the disciple, John, began to tell of Jesus the Messiah, he remembered different events than the other three gospel writers. One of those accounts is of a wedding Jesus attended in Cana. Jesus is portrayed as someone who not only attended parties but would supply wine so that the party might continue. Some even accused him of being a drunkard, a glutton, and friend to sinners.
All through the Bible, God shows that he loves a good party. Much of the worship in the Old Testament involved feasting. When the prophet Isaiah described God's Kingdom, he spoke of a great feast prepared by God himself.
The last book of the Bible, Revelation, describes the end as a great triumphal banquet… a wedding party. So one day, there will be a party to end all parties. God's people will gather from all nations, all languages, and even all times to celebrate the final victory over sin and death.
That's a party that I want to go to. How about you?
Friday, July 17, 2015
Friday, July 17, 2015
DENNIS
Good morning everyone. In the New Testament, there are four stories retelling the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. These stories are written by four different individuals that bears their name. Each author recalls their own experiences with the God-man. Some of their stories overlap and are told from a different perspective.
While there are other stories unique to their gospel. That is why we have the Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Matthew, the Gospel according to Mark, the Gospel according to Luke, and the Gospel according to John. Simply put, these authors were writing to their people and their community, which was situated in their own time.
If you have experienced the gospel of Jesus Christ, are you telling others about it? Did you know you have a powerful gospel experience to tell that will speak for all of those who are caught in the middle of today’s fear and hopelessness? Tell the gospel according to you! Tell people how the Gospel of Jesus Christ has impacted your life. If you haven’t had these experience, that’s OK. I am inviting you to Central to be encouraged hearing about the Christian faith and how others have been transformed by it. I’m Dennis Gossett. God bless.
Good morning everyone. In the New Testament, there are four stories retelling the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. These stories are written by four different individuals that bears their name. Each author recalls their own experiences with the God-man. Some of their stories overlap and are told from a different perspective.
While there are other stories unique to their gospel. That is why we have the Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Matthew, the Gospel according to Mark, the Gospel according to Luke, and the Gospel according to John. Simply put, these authors were writing to their people and their community, which was situated in their own time.
If you have experienced the gospel of Jesus Christ, are you telling others about it? Did you know you have a powerful gospel experience to tell that will speak for all of those who are caught in the middle of today’s fear and hopelessness? Tell the gospel according to you! Tell people how the Gospel of Jesus Christ has impacted your life. If you haven’t had these experience, that’s OK. I am inviting you to Central to be encouraged hearing about the Christian faith and how others have been transformed by it. I’m Dennis Gossett. God bless.
Wednesday, July 15, 2015
Wednesday, July 15, 2015
BOB
Good morning! This is Bob Peden of Central a United Methodist Community here in Meridian. There is often a huge misunderstanding about what Christians want non-believers to do. Sometimes it seems that Christians want everyone to follow a certain moral code. Or that what Christians want is for everyone to go to church. Sometimes it is even said that we want everyone to “become a Christian”, whatever that means.
So what do we Christians want others to do? Actually it is something we are begging others to do. It is to get back together with God. God made you, God loves you, and God wants to be in relationship with you.
So God is in the business of bringing us back together. And he uses his Son, Jesus Christ to do just that. Central is a community of believers that would like to help you reconnect with God through Jesus Christ. In fact, that is what we all are doing. And one of the best ways to do that is to connect with other believers. So come join with us and together we will reconnect with God.
Good morning! This is Bob Peden of Central a United Methodist Community here in Meridian. There is often a huge misunderstanding about what Christians want non-believers to do. Sometimes it seems that Christians want everyone to follow a certain moral code. Or that what Christians want is for everyone to go to church. Sometimes it is even said that we want everyone to “become a Christian”, whatever that means.
So what do we Christians want others to do? Actually it is something we are begging others to do. It is to get back together with God. God made you, God loves you, and God wants to be in relationship with you.
So God is in the business of bringing us back together. And he uses his Son, Jesus Christ to do just that. Central is a community of believers that would like to help you reconnect with God through Jesus Christ. In fact, that is what we all are doing. And one of the best ways to do that is to connect with other believers. So come join with us and together we will reconnect with God.
Tuesday, July 14, 2015
Tuesday, July 14, 2015
GLENDA
Good Morning! Do you know the best thing about being a Christian? Well, to me, it's the fact that Jesus walked this earth and knows exactly what we go through every day. Here are some examples of how He identifies with us: People constantly misunderstood Him; He was rejected and unappreciated by the ones he came to love and die for; He was under a lot of pressure; and many times, He was exhausted and sometimes very lonely. He was tempted by Satan to do wrong. He was hated by some and suffered injustice...though He lived a sinless life, He died a criminal's death. He suffered great pain.
So, whatever you are going through right now, remember that Jesus knows how you feel and sympathizes with your pain and weakness. He is there for you. All you need do is call upon His name. He may not remove the anguish or change your situation, but He will get you through it and you will be stronger because of His great love for you. Have a wonderful day!
Good Morning! Do you know the best thing about being a Christian? Well, to me, it's the fact that Jesus walked this earth and knows exactly what we go through every day. Here are some examples of how He identifies with us: People constantly misunderstood Him; He was rejected and unappreciated by the ones he came to love and die for; He was under a lot of pressure; and many times, He was exhausted and sometimes very lonely. He was tempted by Satan to do wrong. He was hated by some and suffered injustice...though He lived a sinless life, He died a criminal's death. He suffered great pain.
So, whatever you are going through right now, remember that Jesus knows how you feel and sympathizes with your pain and weakness. He is there for you. All you need do is call upon His name. He may not remove the anguish or change your situation, but He will get you through it and you will be stronger because of His great love for you. Have a wonderful day!
Monday, July 13, 2015
Monday, July 13, 2015
RAY
God's word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.
This past Christmas, more than a few parents were up late on Christmas Eve going step by step through the instructions while putting together a child’s toy. The temptation is to look at the picture of the completed item and just “go for it” – which usually results in having to go back to step one and starting over. Instructions are there for a reason. The designers of the product know best how to proceed.
Step by step is the way the Christian life of faith works as well. God is interested in more than the final product; He wants to build our faith as Jesus taught His disciples to pray for “daily bread.” Let God's word guide you a step at a time on your path. He is not in a hurry and neither should we be. He wants to build faith as well as put together the end result.
God's word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.
This past Christmas, more than a few parents were up late on Christmas Eve going step by step through the instructions while putting together a child’s toy. The temptation is to look at the picture of the completed item and just “go for it” – which usually results in having to go back to step one and starting over. Instructions are there for a reason. The designers of the product know best how to proceed.
Step by step is the way the Christian life of faith works as well. God is interested in more than the final product; He wants to build our faith as Jesus taught His disciples to pray for “daily bread.” Let God's word guide you a step at a time on your path. He is not in a hurry and neither should we be. He wants to build faith as well as put together the end result.
Friday, July 10, 2015
Friday, July 10, 2015
SABRINA
It is one of the first verses we learn as a small child -The Golden Rule-
Matthew 7:12 - Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. It is
golden because it's genuine, lasting, and valuable. Imagine how different our
world would be if we practiced this principle -- not just in our "church life,"
but in our daily life ... with our family, ... with our coworkers and employer,
people in the cars next to us, those who wait on us in the stores?
Most of us have experienced the hurt of someone not following the golden
rule, and the grace of being an undeserving recipient of this rule.
There is no deep seeded theological understanding needed for this call in
scripture...How easy would it be to change our family, our town, our
world...one Golden Rule at a time?
Go this morning, pledging today, to begin intentionally claiming Matthew
7:12 as the way to live your life, henceforth...changing our world, one life at a
time! Have a blessed day!
It is one of the first verses we learn as a small child -The Golden Rule-
Matthew 7:12 - Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. It is
golden because it's genuine, lasting, and valuable. Imagine how different our
world would be if we practiced this principle -- not just in our "church life,"
but in our daily life ... with our family, ... with our coworkers and employer,
people in the cars next to us, those who wait on us in the stores?
Most of us have experienced the hurt of someone not following the golden
rule, and the grace of being an undeserving recipient of this rule.
There is no deep seeded theological understanding needed for this call in
scripture...How easy would it be to change our family, our town, our
world...one Golden Rule at a time?
Go this morning, pledging today, to begin intentionally claiming Matthew
7:12 as the way to live your life, henceforth...changing our world, one life at a
time! Have a blessed day!
Thursday, July 9, 2015
Thursday, July 9, 2015
BOB
Good morning. This is Bob Peden of Central a United Methodist Community here in Meridian, MS. Not too long ago I was traveling along I-20 through northeastern Alabama - coming home after a trip of several days. I was excited about getting back home again. I needed some gasoline for my car, so I made a quick stop in Anniston. Being distracted with thoughts of what I needed to do when I got home, I returned to the interstate headed east rather than west. Some miles later a sign indicating how far it was to Atlanta alerted me to my mistake. I was headed away from rather than towards home.
As Christians we sometimes become distracted by the home that lies ahead, and forget to pay attention to the way to get there. Jesus says, “I am the way, the truth and the life.” If we remain focused upon Him, He will lead us on the way that leads to life eternal. At Central we are a community of believers focused on “the way,” connected to one another and to God that we might not become distracted by this world or by dreams of the next.
Good morning. This is Bob Peden of Central a United Methodist Community here in Meridian, MS. Not too long ago I was traveling along I-20 through northeastern Alabama - coming home after a trip of several days. I was excited about getting back home again. I needed some gasoline for my car, so I made a quick stop in Anniston. Being distracted with thoughts of what I needed to do when I got home, I returned to the interstate headed east rather than west. Some miles later a sign indicating how far it was to Atlanta alerted me to my mistake. I was headed away from rather than towards home.
As Christians we sometimes become distracted by the home that lies ahead, and forget to pay attention to the way to get there. Jesus says, “I am the way, the truth and the life.” If we remain focused upon Him, He will lead us on the way that leads to life eternal. At Central we are a community of believers focused on “the way,” connected to one another and to God that we might not become distracted by this world or by dreams of the next.
Wednesday, July 8, 2015
Wednesday, July 8, 2015
DENNIS
Good morning everyone. I’m Dennis Gossett with Central United Methodist Church. Have you ever been put into a situation where you should have spoken up but for whatever reason you did not? Well, it can happen to all of us. Unfortunately, we live in a world that seems to be doing what it can to make you feel ashamed to speak of mercy and grace, because that shows weakness. Speaking in such way shows tolerance and humility instead of might and strength that our culture prides itself on.
However, the Apostle Paul says, “He is not ashamed of the gospel [of Jesus Christ]” (v16). Why is that? He had every right to be ashamed. After all, because of the gospel, Paul had been put into prison, beaten, run out of town, stoned, and shipwrecked in the middle of the ocean for three days. He had every reason one could possibly think of to not speak truth.
On the outside, the world only sees the gospel as being for the weak-minded; but what it cannot see is the inward transformation that has taken place – the assurance of eternity that has been placed in the heart. At Central, we want to encourage you to not be ashamed and speak gospel truth to those around you. God bless.
Good morning everyone. I’m Dennis Gossett with Central United Methodist Church. Have you ever been put into a situation where you should have spoken up but for whatever reason you did not? Well, it can happen to all of us. Unfortunately, we live in a world that seems to be doing what it can to make you feel ashamed to speak of mercy and grace, because that shows weakness. Speaking in such way shows tolerance and humility instead of might and strength that our culture prides itself on.
However, the Apostle Paul says, “He is not ashamed of the gospel [of Jesus Christ]” (v16). Why is that? He had every right to be ashamed. After all, because of the gospel, Paul had been put into prison, beaten, run out of town, stoned, and shipwrecked in the middle of the ocean for three days. He had every reason one could possibly think of to not speak truth.
On the outside, the world only sees the gospel as being for the weak-minded; but what it cannot see is the inward transformation that has taken place – the assurance of eternity that has been placed in the heart. At Central, we want to encourage you to not be ashamed and speak gospel truth to those around you. God bless.
Tuesday, July 7, 2015
Tuesday, July 7, 2015
RAY
Good Morning.
The sun sank below the horizon. The clouds blotted out the stars and moon. Darkness swept over like a canopy. The darkness made the hiker wary--of animals, of losing the trail, of stepping in holes--but he'd come prepared. In his backpack he'd placed a flashlight.
During the day, as the sun lit up the man's surroundings, the flashlight was unnecessary. More a burden than a help. A needless accessory. It wasn't until the darkness descended that he turned to it for light.
Like the hiker, we often cannot appreciate the Light of the world until we are faced with dark circumstances. In the blackness we need the light more than anything else. We need the light of hope. We need the light that only God can give.
Psalm 27:1
The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?
Good Morning.
The sun sank below the horizon. The clouds blotted out the stars and moon. Darkness swept over like a canopy. The darkness made the hiker wary--of animals, of losing the trail, of stepping in holes--but he'd come prepared. In his backpack he'd placed a flashlight.
During the day, as the sun lit up the man's surroundings, the flashlight was unnecessary. More a burden than a help. A needless accessory. It wasn't until the darkness descended that he turned to it for light.
Like the hiker, we often cannot appreciate the Light of the world until we are faced with dark circumstances. In the blackness we need the light more than anything else. We need the light of hope. We need the light that only God can give.
Psalm 27:1
The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?
Monday, July 6, 2015
Monday, July 6, 2015
GLENDA
Good Morning! Did you know that you have a special gift given to you by God? John Wesley, the founder of Methodism, said it this way: “Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, as long as ever you can.”
In the Bible Paul, said it this way: From Romans Chapter 12: “Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, and faithful in prayer. Share with God's people who are in need and practice hospitality.” So today, use that special gift God gave you and serve others. They will feel better because of your care, but most of all, you will feel better, too. Have a wonderful day!
Good Morning! Did you know that you have a special gift given to you by God? John Wesley, the founder of Methodism, said it this way: “Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, as long as ever you can.”
In the Bible Paul, said it this way: From Romans Chapter 12: “Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, and faithful in prayer. Share with God's people who are in need and practice hospitality.” So today, use that special gift God gave you and serve others. They will feel better because of your care, but most of all, you will feel better, too. Have a wonderful day!
Friday, July 3, 2015
Friday, July 3, 2015
JOHN
Good Morning! I’m John Branning, Lead Pastor of Central United Methodist
Church. Tomorrow we celebrate the birth of our Nation. As a Chaplain in the
Mississippi Army National Guard, I am well aware of the cost that many
have paid so that we can say that we live in the land of the free.
From the founding of this Nation, the principle of Sacrifice would be more
than an idea to ponder; instead, it would be a way of life for the citizens of
this Country. In every generation men and women have defended this belief
in freedom. The Christian faith is surrounded by the image of freedom also.
Not only did Jesus teach us to sacrifice for one another, but through his death
and resurrection, he set us free from the bondage of sin and death. This
freedom that comes from Christ allows us to love one another and that when
this life ends, a new one begins.
I hope you enjoy this great holiday, and if you haven’t experienced the
freedom that comes through believing in Jesus Christ, I hope you will come
visit us at Central United Methodist Church and let us share it with you.
Good Morning! I’m John Branning, Lead Pastor of Central United Methodist
Church. Tomorrow we celebrate the birth of our Nation. As a Chaplain in the
Mississippi Army National Guard, I am well aware of the cost that many
have paid so that we can say that we live in the land of the free.
From the founding of this Nation, the principle of Sacrifice would be more
than an idea to ponder; instead, it would be a way of life for the citizens of
this Country. In every generation men and women have defended this belief
in freedom. The Christian faith is surrounded by the image of freedom also.
Not only did Jesus teach us to sacrifice for one another, but through his death
and resurrection, he set us free from the bondage of sin and death. This
freedom that comes from Christ allows us to love one another and that when
this life ends, a new one begins.
I hope you enjoy this great holiday, and if you haven’t experienced the
freedom that comes through believing in Jesus Christ, I hope you will come
visit us at Central United Methodist Church and let us share it with you.
Thursday, July 2, 2015
Thursday, July 2, 2015
DENNIS
Good morning everyone. Have you ever wonder where certain words come from? I do this a lot. Take the word gospel for example. Sometimes it is interpreted as Good News in the bible. Before the bible was put together, the Roman world understood the word gospel to mean the good news that announced the Emperor’s birthday or the birth of a child in the royal family.
In the Apostle Paul’s letters, he uses a word that is familiar to everyone and explains its real meaning. He says that true gospel is the proclamation of the real King of the world, not Caesar. It is not Roman propaganda that spoke of military might or political agenda. Instead, it is the announcement of the Kingdom of God, which was made visible for all the world to see in the form of a poor peasant from an obscure village in Jerusalem. The gospel of Jesus Christ was contrary to the gospel of Rome.
Have you heard about this kind of Good News? At Central United Methodist Church, we believe this gospel cannot be contained and should be shared with everyone. I invite you to come, as you are, and be a part of our community. I’m Dennis Gossett. God bless.
Good morning everyone. Have you ever wonder where certain words come from? I do this a lot. Take the word gospel for example. Sometimes it is interpreted as Good News in the bible. Before the bible was put together, the Roman world understood the word gospel to mean the good news that announced the Emperor’s birthday or the birth of a child in the royal family.
In the Apostle Paul’s letters, he uses a word that is familiar to everyone and explains its real meaning. He says that true gospel is the proclamation of the real King of the world, not Caesar. It is not Roman propaganda that spoke of military might or political agenda. Instead, it is the announcement of the Kingdom of God, which was made visible for all the world to see in the form of a poor peasant from an obscure village in Jerusalem. The gospel of Jesus Christ was contrary to the gospel of Rome.
Have you heard about this kind of Good News? At Central United Methodist Church, we believe this gospel cannot be contained and should be shared with everyone. I invite you to come, as you are, and be a part of our community. I’m Dennis Gossett. God bless.
Wednesday, July 1, 2015
Wednesday, July 1, 2015
SABRINA
When our grandson, Brett, was about two years old, he had a word that he
made up. “Backardsway”
Backardsway had several meanings-do it over, do it this way, not that way, go
back-all the ways in which he used it had the same connotation-
re-do.
Wouldn’t it be great if our lives had a backardsway?” We could “re-do” our
past mistakes, go back and “backardsway” ill spoken, hurtful words? What if
we could backardsway
those times when we resisted the will of God, and instead took the path of
our own choice? I am afraid we all focus too much on the “only ifs.”
The good news is grace. Whatever poor choices that we may have made in
life, are forgiven, covered by God’s grace. It is often in those times that we
have taken the dark path, mis-spoken, that we have grown as a child of
God...deepened our spiritual journey...yet we continue to re-visit our mis-
steps, longing for backardsway, instead of embracing and experiencing the
gifts of forgiveness and grace.
Go today, in peace, knowing you are a forgiven and loved child of God!
When our grandson, Brett, was about two years old, he had a word that he
made up. “Backardsway”
Backardsway had several meanings-do it over, do it this way, not that way, go
back-all the ways in which he used it had the same connotation-
re-do.
Wouldn’t it be great if our lives had a backardsway?” We could “re-do” our
past mistakes, go back and “backardsway” ill spoken, hurtful words? What if
we could backardsway
those times when we resisted the will of God, and instead took the path of
our own choice? I am afraid we all focus too much on the “only ifs.”
The good news is grace. Whatever poor choices that we may have made in
life, are forgiven, covered by God’s grace. It is often in those times that we
have taken the dark path, mis-spoken, that we have grown as a child of
God...deepened our spiritual journey...yet we continue to re-visit our mis-
steps, longing for backardsway, instead of embracing and experiencing the
gifts of forgiveness and grace.
Go today, in peace, knowing you are a forgiven and loved child of God!
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