TIM - LOVE OUR ENEMIES
Good morning, I’m Tim Wise, Sanctuary Choir Director at Central. Leviticus 19:18 says to love your neighbor. Easy, right? Well who is your neighbor? In the Old Testament times, this meant loving a fellow Jew. Not always easy, but still important. Well Jesus turns this command into one even more difficult. He says don’t just love your neighbors, but love your enemies too. WOAH JESUS! Sit back down a second…you’re telling me to love someone I consider my enemy. I don’t even like them! How can I love them??? Loving our enemies means loving someone who doesn’t look like us, act like us, or speak like us. Heck they don’t even like us OR love us! That doesn’t matter. Jesus’ command is plain and simple. Love those who are against us even when it is difficult . I know what you’re thinking… “If only you knew this person…if only you felt the pain they cause.” It doesn’t matter. We have to look at that person through God’s eyes. Perhaps we should also remember how Jesus looked at us even when we turn against Him.
Tuesday, October 31, 2017
Monday, October 30, 2017
Monday, October 30, 2017
BENJI
One of the most prolific images of this autumn season is the pumpkin. It’s everywhere, in centerpieces, family pictures in pumpkin patches, pumpkin spice EVERYTHING. But my favorite is the Jack O’ Lantern, and it’s not just the fun our family has making them.
It’s a lesson about myself that I see in the whole process. It starts with a lowly pumpkin sitting in a patch, waiting to fulfill its purpose. Will it be on a table, in a pie, in a latte? Then one day it’s chosen, it is given a purpose. To be put out on a porch for the world to see. Just like us in a way.
God finds us and gives us a purpose. God steps in and removes all the smelly goop inside us, our sins, places a light within us, the Holy Spirit, and removes unneeded parts of us so that light may shine for all to see.
Thanks to Jesus’ death on a cross for the forgiveness of our sins, as 1 Cor 5:17 says, we are a new creation, just like that humble Jack o lantern.
Be safe, and God’s peace be with you.
Friday, October 27, 2017
Friday, October 27, 2017
SABRINA
This Sunday evening from 4:30 - 6:00 p.m., Central will once again host a much-loved fellowship time within our community of faith with Trunk or Treat - taking place on 10th Street between 22nd and 23rd Avenues in downtown Meridian.
Our church family and friends decorate their cars and trunks, offering games and candy at each venue. Family friendly costumes, face painting, music, hamburgers, hotdogs, cotton candy, laser tag, jumpies – all the makings of a small town street carnival will fill the air in downtown Meridian. We do this as a time of both fellowship and as an extension of God’s love within our community.
At Central, we value family - whether you are a family of one or ten, we extend an invitation to you for both Trunk or Treat or to worship with us on any given Sunday. For more information about Central or about this Sunday’s event, you can visit our website at www.cumcmdn.org! We hope to see you Sunday!
Thursday, October 26, 2017
Thursday, October 26, 2017
GLENDA
Good Morning! I've told this story before, but it is so special to me that I wanted to tell it again. A few years ago, our three-year classes at the Children's Center had quite an adventure. They were riding the elevator to the third floor when all of a sudden, the elevator stopped and they were stuck between floors. Mr. John was called to the rescue. As he worked on the elevator from the outside, the children inside were being reminded by their teachers who they were supposed to call on when they needed help. Gracie folded her hands, and said, “God help us, Amen”. At that moment, the elevators doors opened, and Mr. John looked down on them. One of the teachers laughingly said, “We didn't know that God looked like Mr. John.” What a wonderful way to teach our children that God looks exactly like Mr. John. Anytime we do something to help others, anytime we are kind to others, anytime we reach out to others, God is using us and showing himself through us. Remember that and have a wonderful day!
Good Morning! I've told this story before, but it is so special to me that I wanted to tell it again. A few years ago, our three-year classes at the Children's Center had quite an adventure. They were riding the elevator to the third floor when all of a sudden, the elevator stopped and they were stuck between floors. Mr. John was called to the rescue. As he worked on the elevator from the outside, the children inside were being reminded by their teachers who they were supposed to call on when they needed help. Gracie folded her hands, and said, “God help us, Amen”. At that moment, the elevators doors opened, and Mr. John looked down on them. One of the teachers laughingly said, “We didn't know that God looked like Mr. John.” What a wonderful way to teach our children that God looks exactly like Mr. John. Anytime we do something to help others, anytime we are kind to others, anytime we reach out to others, God is using us and showing himself through us. Remember that and have a wonderful day!
Wednesday, October 25, 2017
Wednesday, October 25, 2017
BOB
Good morning! This is Bob Peden of Central, a United Methodist Community here in Meridian.
Jesus said to His disciples, Ait is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the Kingdom of God!" Jesus is emphatic: it is extremely difficult for the rich to embrace the radical call of discipleship in the Kingdom of God. But, salvation does not depend upon our ability, but God's generous grace.
From our vantage point, it is impossible. The key point for us, however, is to be reminded about the dangers of wealth and possessions. They can become our God, our stumbling block, our choking point, our diversion, and our downfall if they become the thing we will not give up to follow Jesus.
With God, all things are possible, even giving up that which keeps us from passing through the eye of a needle.
Tuesday, October 24, 2017
Tuesday, October 24, 2017
BENJI
Psalm 46:10: Be still, and know that I am God. I don’t think this passage is saying that movement is a bad thing. Exercise, dancing, progress, these are all good things. What I do think we should consider regarding this is the busy-ness of business, the physical and mental movement required to fulfill every obligation, stay to every itinerary, maintain every responsibility, make every appointment, reach goals, seize hopes, and the list goes on.
This can be exhausting, paralyzing even! In this passage, God is calling us to take purposeful time to stop. To still our bodies from toil, quiet our busy hearts and minds, and remember that God is in control.
It may seem difficult to stop, you might think that things will fall apart, but it is necessary or else we run the risk of falling apart ourselves and burning out.
Find a day of rest each week to take care of yourself, to spend with your family, and to connect fully and intentionally with God who grants us peace.
Monday, October 23, 2017
Monday, October 23, 2017
DENNIS
Good morning everyone. I am Dennis Gossett with Central United Methodist Church. I often wonder why some people who are caught doing wrong get so upset when they are punished for it. It is only logical that there must be something in place to hold people accountable for their actions. Have you thought about the reason why people do bad things? Well, Jesus taught that the reason was the sin. Our bad actions don’t just begin with the bad things we do. It started way before that. The Bible says that bad things start in the heart. No one can decide not to sin anymore. It just isn’t that simple. Whether it is in our actions or in our hearts, we are constantly living a life of rebellion. The faster we come to terms with the enormity of our condition, the faster we can understand our need for God’s grace. See, God’s grace is unconditional regardless of your past. He loves us as we are. It also transforms what we do and what we think about doing. God doesn’t want to leave us in the same sinful state. Even now, grace is calling you to God and inviting you into a much deeper relationship with Jesus Christ. Will you accept this grace?
Good morning everyone. I am Dennis Gossett with Central United Methodist Church. I often wonder why some people who are caught doing wrong get so upset when they are punished for it. It is only logical that there must be something in place to hold people accountable for their actions. Have you thought about the reason why people do bad things? Well, Jesus taught that the reason was the sin. Our bad actions don’t just begin with the bad things we do. It started way before that. The Bible says that bad things start in the heart. No one can decide not to sin anymore. It just isn’t that simple. Whether it is in our actions or in our hearts, we are constantly living a life of rebellion. The faster we come to terms with the enormity of our condition, the faster we can understand our need for God’s grace. See, God’s grace is unconditional regardless of your past. He loves us as we are. It also transforms what we do and what we think about doing. God doesn’t want to leave us in the same sinful state. Even now, grace is calling you to God and inviting you into a much deeper relationship with Jesus Christ. Will you accept this grace?
Friday, October 20, 2017
Friday, October 20, 2017
SABRINA
There was a story in the news this summer about a family vacationing in Panama City Beach when two of the children ventured too far into the water and became caught in a riptide. As the parents and other family members tried to save them, there suddenly were nine people caught in this riptide, dragging them further out. Some people on shore saw what was happening and an 80 person human chain was formed resulting in all nine family members being saved. While this is truly a feel-good story, it speaks to us as for how Christ would have us live. During Jesus’ time on earth, He did not “go it alone” but rather gathered a group of men together, walked with them, talked and prayed with them. From very different walks of life, they were tied together in Christ, and because of that went into the world offering Christ and making disciples. What they accomplished together far exceeded anything they could have done alone. Jesus KNEW they would need each other.
There was a story in the news this summer about a family vacationing in Panama City Beach when two of the children ventured too far into the water and became caught in a riptide. As the parents and other family members tried to save them, there suddenly were nine people caught in this riptide, dragging them further out. Some people on shore saw what was happening and an 80 person human chain was formed resulting in all nine family members being saved. While this is truly a feel-good story, it speaks to us as for how Christ would have us live. During Jesus’ time on earth, He did not “go it alone” but rather gathered a group of men together, walked with them, talked and prayed with them. From very different walks of life, they were tied together in Christ, and because of that went into the world offering Christ and making disciples. What they accomplished together far exceeded anything they could have done alone. Jesus KNEW they would need each other.
Thursday, October 19, 2017
Thursday, October 19, 2017
TIM -
COVERED BY GRACE
Jesus was sitting by a well waiting for his disciples when she arrives. At this time of day, most avoid the well, but this woman prefers it. It's quiet. She is alone. There is no one to condemn or judge her. You see she is well known around the town and her story is full of shame. This woman came to the well thirsty - but not just for water. For something more. She feels empty. She has been searching for satisfaction in relationships, but it all turns to brokenness and baggage and pain. Jesus already knows her story, and when she realizes this, she doesn’t flee in embarrassment or shame. She is excited and wants to know more. So, how is it possible that revealing all of her baggage would lead to fulfillment? One word – GRACE. It is when we experience the grace of God that our shame turns into a yearning for him. If shame is the driving force in your life, you’ll never feel reprieved. Come before Jesus and see what happens when your shame is met with his Grace.
Jesus was sitting by a well waiting for his disciples when she arrives. At this time of day, most avoid the well, but this woman prefers it. It's quiet. She is alone. There is no one to condemn or judge her. You see she is well known around the town and her story is full of shame. This woman came to the well thirsty - but not just for water. For something more. She feels empty. She has been searching for satisfaction in relationships, but it all turns to brokenness and baggage and pain. Jesus already knows her story, and when she realizes this, she doesn’t flee in embarrassment or shame. She is excited and wants to know more. So, how is it possible that revealing all of her baggage would lead to fulfillment? One word – GRACE. It is when we experience the grace of God that our shame turns into a yearning for him. If shame is the driving force in your life, you’ll never feel reprieved. Come before Jesus and see what happens when your shame is met with his Grace.
Wednesday, October 18, 2017
Wednesday, October 18, 2017
GLENDA
Good Morning! “When I am afraid, I will put my trust in You.” Psalm 56:3. That's the Bible verse for the month of October at the Children's Center. During the next few days, children all over Meridian will be hearing about ghosts and goblins and all kinds of scary things. At the Children's Center, we have been stressing the importance of having a good time during Halloween, but we also want them to learn about the difference between make believe and the real thing: God. There's nothing wrong with pretending. In fact, most children learn a lot through play and in pretending. It's our job as adults to teach them what pretending is and give them an alternative. That alternative is the Love and Care of God for each one of us. So, if you have fears in your life, just repeat that Bible verse: “When I am afraid, I will put my trust in you” and teach that to your children. It helps when you are scared and feel all alone. It will remind you that you are not alone and through your trust in God, your fears can be erased. Have a wonderful day!
Good Morning! “When I am afraid, I will put my trust in You.” Psalm 56:3. That's the Bible verse for the month of October at the Children's Center. During the next few days, children all over Meridian will be hearing about ghosts and goblins and all kinds of scary things. At the Children's Center, we have been stressing the importance of having a good time during Halloween, but we also want them to learn about the difference between make believe and the real thing: God. There's nothing wrong with pretending. In fact, most children learn a lot through play and in pretending. It's our job as adults to teach them what pretending is and give them an alternative. That alternative is the Love and Care of God for each one of us. So, if you have fears in your life, just repeat that Bible verse: “When I am afraid, I will put my trust in you” and teach that to your children. It helps when you are scared and feel all alone. It will remind you that you are not alone and through your trust in God, your fears can be erased. Have a wonderful day!
Tuesday, October 17, 2017
Tuesday, October 17, 2017
JOHN
Good Morning! I’m John Branning the Lead Pastor of Central United Methodist Church. During the great depression, many families could scarcely afford the basic essentials, much less Christmas presents. One father suggested to his family that they could use their imagination and make pictures of the presents they would like to give to one another. For the next few days, each member of the family worked secretly, but joyfully. On Christmas morning the family gathered to exchange their creative gifts. Dad got a shiny black limousine and a red motorboat. Mom received a diamond bracelet and a new hat. Little Pete received a drawing of a swimming pool and pictures of toys. When it was Pete’s turn to give his present to his parents with great delight, he handed them a brightly colored crayon drawing of three people – a man, a woman, and a little boy. They had their arms around one another and under the picture was one word: US! Maybe we have forgotten truly what should be most important.
Good Morning! I’m John Branning the Lead Pastor of Central United Methodist Church. During the great depression, many families could scarcely afford the basic essentials, much less Christmas presents. One father suggested to his family that they could use their imagination and make pictures of the presents they would like to give to one another. For the next few days, each member of the family worked secretly, but joyfully. On Christmas morning the family gathered to exchange their creative gifts. Dad got a shiny black limousine and a red motorboat. Mom received a diamond bracelet and a new hat. Little Pete received a drawing of a swimming pool and pictures of toys. When it was Pete’s turn to give his present to his parents with great delight, he handed them a brightly colored crayon drawing of three people – a man, a woman, and a little boy. They had their arms around one another and under the picture was one word: US! Maybe we have forgotten truly what should be most important.
Monday, October 16, 2017
Monday, October 16, 2017
BOB Good morning! This is Bob Peden of Central, a United Methodist Community here in Meridian. In the days of the old west, when cattle were allowed to roam free and rounded up only once a year, some of the steers became rather wild and could not be herded. Occasionally, a steer would become too wild to drive and too strong to be drug in behind a horse. On these occasions, the cowboys would often take a small burro and tie it by a rope to the steer. The steer would throw the burro around unmercifully, but each time the burro got up, he would take a step or two towards home. In a few days’ time, the two would show up at the ranch. The steer sorry and worn out. The burro clearly happy to be home. You see the steer was unclear as to where he wanted to go. But the burro was focused on one thing - getting back home. Jesus calls us to that kind of focus upon His kingdom. Where is your focus today?
Friday, October 13, 2017
Friday October 13, 2017
BENJI
I was talking with a friend of mine the other day, and he shared something insightful with me that I would like to pass on to you. He said that his family was immensely important to him, it is what gets him through, but not all his family is related to him.
You see we all need support structures in our lives, and our families are only a piece of a greater whole. Co-workers, friends, fellow members of our civic organizations and churches, all are important people to have alongside us in life, to love and support, encourage and edify, and also to lovingly speak truth into our lives when need to hear it most. And if you are looking for the welcome and support of a church family, I would like to invite you to join us at Central for one of our services this Sunday, at eight thirty, nine forty-five, and ten fifty-five, and see for yourself that in Christ life really is better connected.
May God’s peace be with you today.
Thursday, October 12, 2017
Thursday, October 12, 2017
DENNIS
Good morning everyone. I am Dennis Gossett with Central United Methodist Church. We live in a society where the majority of people do not want to have any rules placed on their lives. There is a belief that Christianity is an outdated piece of history that has nothing to say in our technologically advanced lives. Maybe you are one of those individuals. After all, why does anyone need to be forgiven? And certainly, we all know right from wrong. After all, any reasonable person knows the rules of the town they live in. They know what not to do to keep them out of trouble with the police. However, what good behavior and rules fail to do is foster love. For example, most people do not steal out of fear of punishment and not out of love for the other person. Some even think of the Bible in the same way. But the Bible shows us that God’s way not only teaches us to do good but to love our neighbor. God wants to give us a fresh start and put love into our hearts so that we can truly be the person that we were created to be. Without him, we will never really know how to love people.
Good morning everyone. I am Dennis Gossett with Central United Methodist Church. We live in a society where the majority of people do not want to have any rules placed on their lives. There is a belief that Christianity is an outdated piece of history that has nothing to say in our technologically advanced lives. Maybe you are one of those individuals. After all, why does anyone need to be forgiven? And certainly, we all know right from wrong. After all, any reasonable person knows the rules of the town they live in. They know what not to do to keep them out of trouble with the police. However, what good behavior and rules fail to do is foster love. For example, most people do not steal out of fear of punishment and not out of love for the other person. Some even think of the Bible in the same way. But the Bible shows us that God’s way not only teaches us to do good but to love our neighbor. God wants to give us a fresh start and put love into our hearts so that we can truly be the person that we were created to be. Without him, we will never really know how to love people.
Wednesday, October 11, 2017
Wednesday, October 11, 2017
JOHN
Good Morning! I’m John Branning the Lead Pastor of Central United Methodist Church. Lewis Grizzard often wrote about growing up in a little Methodist church in Georgia and how helpful it was to him in his childhood. Once, they had a couple of rowdy brothers in town who were the town’s juvenile offenders. They started coming to the youth group at church. On the first night they went, they beat up two-fifth graders and threw a hymnal at the lady who was the youth leader. She ducked just in time. She looked squarely in their devilish eyes and said, soft as an angel: “I don’t approve of what you boys did here tonight and neither does Jesus. But if he can forgive you, I guess I’ll have to.” She handed them a plate of cookies. Grizzard said: “And the last I heard-both those boys grew up to be daddies with steady jobs and they never missed a Sunday at church. That was the first miracle I ever saw.” Miracles happen in places of love, acceptance, and forgiveness.
Good Morning! I’m John Branning the Lead Pastor of Central United Methodist Church. Lewis Grizzard often wrote about growing up in a little Methodist church in Georgia and how helpful it was to him in his childhood. Once, they had a couple of rowdy brothers in town who were the town’s juvenile offenders. They started coming to the youth group at church. On the first night they went, they beat up two-fifth graders and threw a hymnal at the lady who was the youth leader. She ducked just in time. She looked squarely in their devilish eyes and said, soft as an angel: “I don’t approve of what you boys did here tonight and neither does Jesus. But if he can forgive you, I guess I’ll have to.” She handed them a plate of cookies. Grizzard said: “And the last I heard-both those boys grew up to be daddies with steady jobs and they never missed a Sunday at church. That was the first miracle I ever saw.” Miracles happen in places of love, acceptance, and forgiveness.
Tuesday, October 10, 2017
Tuesday, October 10, 2017
TIM-FORGIVE
Good morning - I’m Tim Wise, Sanctuary Choir Director at Central. I’m sure that many of you watching these devotions put on by Central are already familiar with The Lord’s Prayer. I want to focus on one very important line. “Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us.” The word “as” in that line of the prayer implies that we cannot be forgiven until we offer that very same forgiveness to others around us. Jesus makes it clear in the following verses that Your Father in Heaven will not forgive your sins if you do not forgive men of their sins. Forgiving someone who has sinned against you is not easy. It takes divine assistance to offer true forgiveness to someone who has caused you pain. But God commands us to do it. As you go on throughout your day, while you take note of those sins committed against you, learn to accept your own sins and forgive those around you. Offer forgiveness, receive forgiveness.
Good morning - I’m Tim Wise, Sanctuary Choir Director at Central. I’m sure that many of you watching these devotions put on by Central are already familiar with The Lord’s Prayer. I want to focus on one very important line. “Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us.” The word “as” in that line of the prayer implies that we cannot be forgiven until we offer that very same forgiveness to others around us. Jesus makes it clear in the following verses that Your Father in Heaven will not forgive your sins if you do not forgive men of their sins. Forgiving someone who has sinned against you is not easy. It takes divine assistance to offer true forgiveness to someone who has caused you pain. But God commands us to do it. As you go on throughout your day, while you take note of those sins committed against you, learn to accept your own sins and forgive those around you. Offer forgiveness, receive forgiveness.
Tuesday, October 10, 2017
JOHN
Good Morning! I’m John Branning the Lead Pastor of Central United Methodist Church. Tomorrow is a significant day. On the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918, the Allies and Germany called a cease-fire, bringing an end to World War I. There was no victor. Both sides simply agreed to stop fighting due to heavy loss of lives on both sides. Thus began Veteran’s Day, also known internationally as Armistice Day. War carries a high price. However, when humans are destroyed by the ruthless acts of another, life must be defended. God calls us to stand up for life, to defend life, to protect it at all costs. Proverbs 24:11 says, “Rescue those who are unjustly sentenced to die; save them as they stagger to their death.” As thousands of men and women toil daily in the fight against oppression while protecting us, we must not forget the One who shed His own blood for our freedom and lives. Jesus showed us that he loved us to the cross and beyond the grave. May we remember all those who have protected us and the one who saves us.
Good Morning! I’m John Branning the Lead Pastor of Central United Methodist Church. Tomorrow is a significant day. On the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918, the Allies and Germany called a cease-fire, bringing an end to World War I. There was no victor. Both sides simply agreed to stop fighting due to heavy loss of lives on both sides. Thus began Veteran’s Day, also known internationally as Armistice Day. War carries a high price. However, when humans are destroyed by the ruthless acts of another, life must be defended. God calls us to stand up for life, to defend life, to protect it at all costs. Proverbs 24:11 says, “Rescue those who are unjustly sentenced to die; save them as they stagger to their death.” As thousands of men and women toil daily in the fight against oppression while protecting us, we must not forget the One who shed His own blood for our freedom and lives. Jesus showed us that he loved us to the cross and beyond the grave. May we remember all those who have protected us and the one who saves us.
Monday, October 9, 2017
Monday, October 9, 2017
GLENDA
Good Morning! Today is Columbus Day. It is meant to commemorate Oct. 12, 1492, the day when the Italian explorer, Christopher Columbus, sailed from Spain and “discovered” the Americas. It is one of the oldest holidays in the United States. In the last few years, there has been a lot of controversy about celebrating this day. In spite of the controversy, there is a deeper meaning behind this holiday. It really doesn't matter when people knew America existed. We already have a holiday for that. It's the Fourth of July. It doesn't matter who set foot here first. The fact is, Columbus Day is more about discovery. It's an idea that rings true even today; just as life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness ring true for every American. Discovery is the belief that the unknown is still out there. That kind of imagination and determination created a country where everyone is entitled to self-expression, freedom of religion, and the right to vote. Where would we be today if we hadn't discovered our own America for ourselves. God bless America and have a happy Columbus Day!
Good Morning! Today is Columbus Day. It is meant to commemorate Oct. 12, 1492, the day when the Italian explorer, Christopher Columbus, sailed from Spain and “discovered” the Americas. It is one of the oldest holidays in the United States. In the last few years, there has been a lot of controversy about celebrating this day. In spite of the controversy, there is a deeper meaning behind this holiday. It really doesn't matter when people knew America existed. We already have a holiday for that. It's the Fourth of July. It doesn't matter who set foot here first. The fact is, Columbus Day is more about discovery. It's an idea that rings true even today; just as life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness ring true for every American. Discovery is the belief that the unknown is still out there. That kind of imagination and determination created a country where everyone is entitled to self-expression, freedom of religion, and the right to vote. Where would we be today if we hadn't discovered our own America for ourselves. God bless America and have a happy Columbus Day!
Friday, October 6, 2017
Friday, October 6, 2017
TIM-USE AN UMBRELLA
Good morning, I’m Tim Wise, Sanctuary Choir Director at Central. Have you ever heard the expression, “When it rains, it pours?” I’m certain you have. It's referring to when bad things happen, they seem to happen in abundance. There is even a country song by Luke Combs that describes a broken relationship based around that same phrase. So, what can we do when it feels like we’re being drenched in the bad? Use an umbrella! Psalm 46 says “God is our protection and strength. He always helps in times of trouble. So, we will not be afraid.” If we remember that during our times of trouble, when we are being consumed by negativity, that God will cover us during those hard times, we will feel comforted. God will take care of you through every day, and through every trial you experience. Don’t be dismayed. Take cover under your umbrella.
Good morning, I’m Tim Wise, Sanctuary Choir Director at Central. Have you ever heard the expression, “When it rains, it pours?” I’m certain you have. It's referring to when bad things happen, they seem to happen in abundance. There is even a country song by Luke Combs that describes a broken relationship based around that same phrase. So, what can we do when it feels like we’re being drenched in the bad? Use an umbrella! Psalm 46 says “God is our protection and strength. He always helps in times of trouble. So, we will not be afraid.” If we remember that during our times of trouble, when we are being consumed by negativity, that God will cover us during those hard times, we will feel comforted. God will take care of you through every day, and through every trial you experience. Don’t be dismayed. Take cover under your umbrella.
Thursday, October 5, 2017
Thursday, October 5, 2017
BOB
Good morning this is Bob Peden of Central, a United Methodist Community here in Meridian. In the latter part of the fourth chapter of Acts we met Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus whom the Apostles called Barnabas, which means son of encouragement. Here was a man who spent so much of his time encouraging others in their work in the Lord that encouragement became his nickname. We all need to hear words of encouragement from others. In the 15th chapter of Romans, we learn that God gives us endurance and encouragement. Often times that encouragement comes in the words of those around us. Next time you see someone doing a good deed. Take a moment to praise them. It will cost you nothing, and the pleasure you receive from encouraging another will last you all day long. Be a Barnabas - a son of encouragement today.
Good morning this is Bob Peden of Central, a United Methodist Community here in Meridian. In the latter part of the fourth chapter of Acts we met Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus whom the Apostles called Barnabas, which means son of encouragement. Here was a man who spent so much of his time encouraging others in their work in the Lord that encouragement became his nickname. We all need to hear words of encouragement from others. In the 15th chapter of Romans, we learn that God gives us endurance and encouragement. Often times that encouragement comes in the words of those around us. Next time you see someone doing a good deed. Take a moment to praise them. It will cost you nothing, and the pleasure you receive from encouraging another will last you all day long. Be a Barnabas - a son of encouragement today.
Wednesday, October 4, 2017
Wednesday, October 4, 2017
SABRINA If you are waking this morning wondering or dreading what lies ahead for the day, here are two scriptures to help. Psalm 27:13 tells us “Yet I am confident, I will see the Lord’s goodness while I am here in the land of the living,” and Psalm 23:6 reminds “Surely goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life.” With those words, know you can make it through today. Our schedules may be full, we may face difficult issues, and not even yet know what obstacles lie ahead, but we CAN know things will be all right. Why? Because we rest in assurance that God’s goodness is with us. He will comfort us in those difficult moments and strengthen us for what is ahead. No matter what today holds, God is indeed with you. Put your confidence in Him and take time to LOOK for His goodness.
Monday, October 2, 2017
Monday, October 2, 2017
DENNIS
Good morning everyone. I am Dennis Gossett with Central United Methodist Church. Often when you hear people talk about God’s grace, they talk about the forgiveness of sins. However, there is more to it than just being pardoned. God’s grace also has the power to change our lives. By it, we are offered the chance to spiritually grow, as we come to know Jesus more fully. As we grow spiritually, we are empowered to live the life of an authentic disciple of Jesus. Did you know that Jesus is calling you into authentic discipleship? He wants you to help change the world, one person at a time. Grace gives us the power to believe, love, and serve God. Without it, we can do nothing, and we are completely lost. We will remain burdened down with hate, anger, suspicion, jealousy, and all the other things that control daily life. However, when grace is found, we understand that all past sins are forgiven and our relationship with God has been restored. Have you experienced his grace? If not, then seek it with all your heart. Then get involved in a faith community where you can continue to grow in his grace. God bless.
Good morning everyone. I am Dennis Gossett with Central United Methodist Church. Often when you hear people talk about God’s grace, they talk about the forgiveness of sins. However, there is more to it than just being pardoned. God’s grace also has the power to change our lives. By it, we are offered the chance to spiritually grow, as we come to know Jesus more fully. As we grow spiritually, we are empowered to live the life of an authentic disciple of Jesus. Did you know that Jesus is calling you into authentic discipleship? He wants you to help change the world, one person at a time. Grace gives us the power to believe, love, and serve God. Without it, we can do nothing, and we are completely lost. We will remain burdened down with hate, anger, suspicion, jealousy, and all the other things that control daily life. However, when grace is found, we understand that all past sins are forgiven and our relationship with God has been restored. Have you experienced his grace? If not, then seek it with all your heart. Then get involved in a faith community where you can continue to grow in his grace. God bless.
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