JOHN
Good Morning! I’m John Branning, Lead Pastor of Central United Methodist Church.
Prayer is talked about a lot among religious people. Books are written about it, and you can even attend seminars and workshops about prayer. The odd thing, most people do not pray regularly.
In our instant-gratification society, prayer seems out of place. We pray for something and expect it to happen immediately – or soon, anyway. The Bible promises answers but not immediate ones.
One day Jesus told his disciples a story to illustrate their need for constant prayer and to show them that they must never give up. "There was a judge in a certain city," he said, "who was a godless man with great contempt for everyone. A widow of that city came to him repeatedly, appealing for justice against someone who had harmed her. The judge ignored her for a while, but eventually she wore him out. `I fear neither God nor man,' he said to himself, `but this woman is driving me crazy. I'm going to see that she gets justice, because she is wearing me out with her constant requests!'"
Jesus said to his disciples to learn from the judge and keep on praying because God is listening.
Friday, December 29, 2017
Thursday, December 28, 2017
Thursday, December 28, 2017
TIM
Good morning, I’m Tim Wise, Sanctuary Choir Director at Central. Proverbs 12:14 says, “From the fruit of their lips people are filled with good things, and the work of their hands brings them reward.” It is our job as followers of the Way to speak right and good things to those around us so that they are lifted up rather than brought down. And when we use our actions to represent those good things as well, we will receive the ultimate prize. Our words are like seeds: if we say things that are upright and wise and pure, we will produce fruits of love and respect. Remember the words you say are assumed to come from the heart, and when you speak evil and hatred, people will view your heart as one filled with evil and hatred. Don’t be known for having a heart of malice and darkness. Be known for good things and positive words. And then use your words along with your actions along your journey to do good things with your hands. During this season where many of us commit to making a difference, consider altering your words and your heart. Be a difference maker in a positive way this New Year.
Good morning, I’m Tim Wise, Sanctuary Choir Director at Central. Proverbs 12:14 says, “From the fruit of their lips people are filled with good things, and the work of their hands brings them reward.” It is our job as followers of the Way to speak right and good things to those around us so that they are lifted up rather than brought down. And when we use our actions to represent those good things as well, we will receive the ultimate prize. Our words are like seeds: if we say things that are upright and wise and pure, we will produce fruits of love and respect. Remember the words you say are assumed to come from the heart, and when you speak evil and hatred, people will view your heart as one filled with evil and hatred. Don’t be known for having a heart of malice and darkness. Be known for good things and positive words. And then use your words along with your actions along your journey to do good things with your hands. During this season where many of us commit to making a difference, consider altering your words and your heart. Be a difference maker in a positive way this New Year.
Wednesday, December 27, 2017
Wednesday, December 27, 2017
GLENDA
Good Morning: Many years ago, a little boy was trying to sell newspapers on a cold, windy, Chicago street. He usually slept in a cardboard box around the corner, but this night was just too cold. He asked a policeman if he knew where a fellow could sleep in a nice warm place for the night. The policeman told him to go to a certain door, knock, and when someone opened the door, say "John 3:16." The little boy did as he was told. An elderly lady opened the door; the boy repeated "John 3:16" as he had been instructed. She brought him in to a warm fire; she fed him; she gave him a nice warm bath and then put him to bed in a big warm bed. The little boy thought to himself, "John 3:16. I don't understand it, but it sure makes a fellow feel warm, full, clean, and rested." Do you know John 3:16? "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten son; That whosoever believes in Him shall not perish but have everlasting life." I hope you feel the warmth, love, and comfort that this verse can give you as it did that young boy. Have a wonderful day!
Good Morning: Many years ago, a little boy was trying to sell newspapers on a cold, windy, Chicago street. He usually slept in a cardboard box around the corner, but this night was just too cold. He asked a policeman if he knew where a fellow could sleep in a nice warm place for the night. The policeman told him to go to a certain door, knock, and when someone opened the door, say "John 3:16." The little boy did as he was told. An elderly lady opened the door; the boy repeated "John 3:16" as he had been instructed. She brought him in to a warm fire; she fed him; she gave him a nice warm bath and then put him to bed in a big warm bed. The little boy thought to himself, "John 3:16. I don't understand it, but it sure makes a fellow feel warm, full, clean, and rested." Do you know John 3:16? "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten son; That whosoever believes in Him shall not perish but have everlasting life." I hope you feel the warmth, love, and comfort that this verse can give you as it did that young boy. Have a wonderful day!
Tuesday, December 26, 2017
Tuesday, December 26, 2017
DENNIS
Good morning everyone. I am Dennis Gossett with Central United Methodist Church. In the Letter to the Colossians, Paul references the “old self” and the “new self.” Another way of stating it could be the false self and the true self. The false self is the image of ourselves that we manage to cobble together over time to generate a sense of identity and self-worth or none at all. The new or true self is the image of God alive or waiting to be awakened in our inmost being. Real Christianity is the journey from the old or false self to the new or true self. Until we embark on this journey, we are destined to live a lie. This old or false self must be taken off, deconstructed, crucified, dead, and buried. This only happens when we dare to believe the gloriously beautiful truth about ourselves. We are created in the image of God. We are deeply known by God and we are profoundly loved by God, and because God loves us, we are, in fact, lovable and worthy of love. When we believe and are renewed in the knowledge of God and the Gospel, we then can proclaim to our old self that “I am no longer a slave to fear. I am a child of God.” Have a blessed day.
Good morning everyone. I am Dennis Gossett with Central United Methodist Church. In the Letter to the Colossians, Paul references the “old self” and the “new self.” Another way of stating it could be the false self and the true self. The false self is the image of ourselves that we manage to cobble together over time to generate a sense of identity and self-worth or none at all. The new or true self is the image of God alive or waiting to be awakened in our inmost being. Real Christianity is the journey from the old or false self to the new or true self. Until we embark on this journey, we are destined to live a lie. This old or false self must be taken off, deconstructed, crucified, dead, and buried. This only happens when we dare to believe the gloriously beautiful truth about ourselves. We are created in the image of God. We are deeply known by God and we are profoundly loved by God, and because God loves us, we are, in fact, lovable and worthy of love. When we believe and are renewed in the knowledge of God and the Gospel, we then can proclaim to our old self that “I am no longer a slave to fear. I am a child of God.” Have a blessed day.
Friday, December 22, 2017
Friday, December 22, 2017
BOB
Good morning! This is Bob Peden of Central, a United Methodist Community here in downtown Meridian. This Sunday is Christmas Eve around the world. At Central, in addition to our usual 3-morning worship services at 8:30, 9:45 and 10:55 a.m., we will also offer three very special Christmas Eve services that will include special music, the Christmas story read from Matthew and Luke, Holy Communion, and candle lighting. Everyone is invited to come to Central United Methodist Church on 22nd and 23rd Avenues at 10th Street for any of these marvelous celebrations of the birth of Jesus Christ, our creator, redeemer savior, Emmanuel, the one who is with us throughout our lives. O, come, let us adore Him, Christ the Lord.
Good morning! This is Bob Peden of Central, a United Methodist Community here in downtown Meridian. This Sunday is Christmas Eve around the world. At Central, in addition to our usual 3-morning worship services at 8:30, 9:45 and 10:55 a.m., we will also offer three very special Christmas Eve services that will include special music, the Christmas story read from Matthew and Luke, Holy Communion, and candle lighting. Everyone is invited to come to Central United Methodist Church on 22nd and 23rd Avenues at 10th Street for any of these marvelous celebrations of the birth of Jesus Christ, our creator, redeemer savior, Emmanuel, the one who is with us throughout our lives. O, come, let us adore Him, Christ the Lord.
Thursday, December 21, 2017
Thursday, December 21, 2017
TIM
Good morning, I’m Tim Wise, Sanctuary Choir Director at Central. Have you ever imagined how you might react if an angel came down to you and told you “do not be afraid…”? I think we can all agree that we would do quite the opposite...we would be very afraid. Often times, God will call us to do things that may seem difficult or downright impossible. In my personal experience, God likes to do that. He likes to make us uncomfortable. If you can honestly tell me you have read the Bible and have not found anything uncomfortable, then I want to read your Bible because mine must be very different. When God calls us out of our comfort zones, we cannot resist. We have to recognize that we are His body, and he needs us to do things we may not like. When the angel of the Lord appeared to Mary and told her she would conceive Jesus, her response was, “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.” So, if you find yourself afraid of what God has called you to do, it’s okay. Be afraid. But accept the calling and acknowledge that you are his servant.
Good morning, I’m Tim Wise, Sanctuary Choir Director at Central. Have you ever imagined how you might react if an angel came down to you and told you “do not be afraid…”? I think we can all agree that we would do quite the opposite...we would be very afraid. Often times, God will call us to do things that may seem difficult or downright impossible. In my personal experience, God likes to do that. He likes to make us uncomfortable. If you can honestly tell me you have read the Bible and have not found anything uncomfortable, then I want to read your Bible because mine must be very different. When God calls us out of our comfort zones, we cannot resist. We have to recognize that we are His body, and he needs us to do things we may not like. When the angel of the Lord appeared to Mary and told her she would conceive Jesus, her response was, “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.” So, if you find yourself afraid of what God has called you to do, it’s okay. Be afraid. But accept the calling and acknowledge that you are his servant.
Wednesday, December 20, 2017
Wednesday, December 20, 2017
BENJI
I love this time of year, and the memories of Christmas past. Yet, we seem to be more focused on the future and the next best thing. This time of year seems to center around the next gaming console, the next smartphone, the next toy that our kids just have to have, only to find they enjoy the box it came in instead. Each year around this time, we rush to get to the next store, to get that next item, to get past the holiday, and to get to next year. Can we do something different this week? Let’s not let “the next” get in the way of celebrating the past and seeing the awe-inspiring moments of comfort and joy that manifest this time of year. Many of our homes will be brimming with family and friends. Hit the pause on life, if just for a moment, and be present for them. Also, know that many homes will be quite empty, so open yours to those who are alone this Christmas. And if that person is you, please know that you are not alone, for God traveled from heaven to earth to a manger to bring us heavenly peace.
I love this time of year, and the memories of Christmas past. Yet, we seem to be more focused on the future and the next best thing. This time of year seems to center around the next gaming console, the next smartphone, the next toy that our kids just have to have, only to find they enjoy the box it came in instead. Each year around this time, we rush to get to the next store, to get that next item, to get past the holiday, and to get to next year. Can we do something different this week? Let’s not let “the next” get in the way of celebrating the past and seeing the awe-inspiring moments of comfort and joy that manifest this time of year. Many of our homes will be brimming with family and friends. Hit the pause on life, if just for a moment, and be present for them. Also, know that many homes will be quite empty, so open yours to those who are alone this Christmas. And if that person is you, please know that you are not alone, for God traveled from heaven to earth to a manger to bring us heavenly peace.
Tuesday, December 19, 2017
Tuesday, December 19, 2017
SABRINA
We all hate to wait…whether it be at a stop light, in line at the store, or for someone to answer a door. We are just impatient. While the world waited for years for Jesus birth, we have this time of Advent to wait and prepare for the celebration of our Lord and Savior. All the while remembering that because of that birth over two thousand years ago, our world forever changed. Close your eyes for a moment. Take a deep breath. Thank God for the many, many blessings He has bestowed upon you. Then as you continue through your day, waiting in the long lines or in the traffic, remember this is a time of joyful anticipation of a birth that was foretold to a people desperate for hope and salvation. Is it really any different today? Paraphrasing the angel's message to the shepherds - “For unto you, was born a Savior, Christ the Lord”. Go in peace.
We all hate to wait…whether it be at a stop light, in line at the store, or for someone to answer a door. We are just impatient. While the world waited for years for Jesus birth, we have this time of Advent to wait and prepare for the celebration of our Lord and Savior. All the while remembering that because of that birth over two thousand years ago, our world forever changed. Close your eyes for a moment. Take a deep breath. Thank God for the many, many blessings He has bestowed upon you. Then as you continue through your day, waiting in the long lines or in the traffic, remember this is a time of joyful anticipation of a birth that was foretold to a people desperate for hope and salvation. Is it really any different today? Paraphrasing the angel's message to the shepherds - “For unto you, was born a Savior, Christ the Lord”. Go in peace.
Monday, December 18, 2017
Monday, December 18, 2017
JOHN
Good Morning! I’m John Branning, Lead Pastor of Central United Methodist Church. During a trip to the Holy Land in 1865, Philips Brooks went to the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem on Christmas Eve and worshiped there. He was deeply moved by this experience. Three years later, while pastoring the Holy Trinity Church in Philadelphia, Brooks desired to have a special carol for the children to sing in their Sunday school Christmas program. Recalling the peaceful scene in the little town of Bethlehem, Brooks completed the writing of the text in just one evening. He gave a copy of the words to his organist, Lewis R. Redner, and requested him to compose a melody that would be easy for the children to sing. On the evening just before the program was to be given, Redner awakened suddenly from his sleep with the present melody in his mind, and he quickly wrote it out. "O Little Town of Bethlehem" has been a favorite with children and adults around the world since that time. May this Christmas bring you the peace that Philip Brooks experienced.
Good Morning! I’m John Branning, Lead Pastor of Central United Methodist Church. During a trip to the Holy Land in 1865, Philips Brooks went to the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem on Christmas Eve and worshiped there. He was deeply moved by this experience. Three years later, while pastoring the Holy Trinity Church in Philadelphia, Brooks desired to have a special carol for the children to sing in their Sunday school Christmas program. Recalling the peaceful scene in the little town of Bethlehem, Brooks completed the writing of the text in just one evening. He gave a copy of the words to his organist, Lewis R. Redner, and requested him to compose a melody that would be easy for the children to sing. On the evening just before the program was to be given, Redner awakened suddenly from his sleep with the present melody in his mind, and he quickly wrote it out. "O Little Town of Bethlehem" has been a favorite with children and adults around the world since that time. May this Christmas bring you the peace that Philip Brooks experienced.
Friday, December 15, 2017
Friday, December 15, 2017
TIM
Good morning, I’m Tim Wise, Sanctuary Choir Director at Central. By now, you have probably spent a lot of time, energy, and money on holiday preparations. You’ve shopped for food, bought your presents, and cleaned the house just in time for company. But have you taken time to focus on the birth of our Savior and made time for him in your preparations? “Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel which means God with us.” This Sunday, December 17, during our 10:55 worship service, our Sanctuary Choir and Holiday Orchestra will present our Christmas Program “Behold Him”. Scripture will be read. Carols will be sung. Music will aid our preparation for the coming of the Christ child. Perhaps you should make the time to prepare your heart and mind as well? Join us this Sunday for our Sanctuary Christmas Program: “Behold Him” and let the focus of your Christmas preparations not be on yourself but on Jesus. Come and adore him, Christ the Lord.
Good morning, I’m Tim Wise, Sanctuary Choir Director at Central. By now, you have probably spent a lot of time, energy, and money on holiday preparations. You’ve shopped for food, bought your presents, and cleaned the house just in time for company. But have you taken time to focus on the birth of our Savior and made time for him in your preparations? “Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel which means God with us.” This Sunday, December 17, during our 10:55 worship service, our Sanctuary Choir and Holiday Orchestra will present our Christmas Program “Behold Him”. Scripture will be read. Carols will be sung. Music will aid our preparation for the coming of the Christ child. Perhaps you should make the time to prepare your heart and mind as well? Join us this Sunday for our Sanctuary Christmas Program: “Behold Him” and let the focus of your Christmas preparations not be on yourself but on Jesus. Come and adore him, Christ the Lord.
Thursday, December 14, 2017
Thursday, December 14, 2017
GLENDA
Today, I want to tell you about some Christmas traditions. First of all, it’s the most important birthday of all times, and it’s celebrated all over the world. It’s a celebration that brings joy, gifts, and the singing of traditional worship songs while feasting with a joyous connection to family and friends. Did you know the white lights on the Christmas tree represent the purity of Christ and the heart that lives for Him? And how about the holly? It’s an evergreen plant and it represents eternal life. This is what we are promised through Jesus Christ. Candles represent the light and life of Christ that shines upon all men. One thing that Jesus loved to do when He was on earth was to eat with those He loved thus the tradition of family feasting, and those wonderful Christmas carols draw loved ones together and fill the heart with praise for our Savior. It is purely about bringing Jesus honor and loving those whom God has blessed us with. My hope for you this Christmas is that you remember that Jesus is the reason for the season. Merry Christmas!
Today, I want to tell you about some Christmas traditions. First of all, it’s the most important birthday of all times, and it’s celebrated all over the world. It’s a celebration that brings joy, gifts, and the singing of traditional worship songs while feasting with a joyous connection to family and friends. Did you know the white lights on the Christmas tree represent the purity of Christ and the heart that lives for Him? And how about the holly? It’s an evergreen plant and it represents eternal life. This is what we are promised through Jesus Christ. Candles represent the light and life of Christ that shines upon all men. One thing that Jesus loved to do when He was on earth was to eat with those He loved thus the tradition of family feasting, and those wonderful Christmas carols draw loved ones together and fill the heart with praise for our Savior. It is purely about bringing Jesus honor and loving those whom God has blessed us with. My hope for you this Christmas is that you remember that Jesus is the reason for the season. Merry Christmas!
Wednesday, December 13, 2017
Wednesday, December 13, 2017
JOHN
Good Morning! I’m John Branning, Lead Pastor of Central United Methodist Church. Well, there’s this old legend about a nice old candymaker in Indiana. He loved to make candy, especially for little boys and girls. One Christmas, he decided to make a special kind of candy that would tell a special story, the story of Jesus. The nice old candymaker from Indiana took a stick of pure white, hard candy. The color white reminds us that he never sinned. If you ever ate a candy cane you know how hard it is, right? Like a rock. Mr. Candymaker made it hard – to remind us that Jesus is our shelter—like a rocky cave. And what letter does it look like? Yes, a “J”! Which not only represents the name Jesus, but also the staff of the “Good Shepherd.” A shepherd picks up sheep with the rounded end then fights off wild animals with the other. Jesus helps us and keeps us safe. Finally, the candymaker put three red stripes around it to remind us of the pain Jesus went through on the cross for our sins, all so that we can be with God forever and have a life of peace. So, that’s the legend of the candy cane. It tells us of Jesus and his great love for each of us. It also tells us of the peace we can have in life because of what he did.
Good Morning! I’m John Branning, Lead Pastor of Central United Methodist Church. Well, there’s this old legend about a nice old candymaker in Indiana. He loved to make candy, especially for little boys and girls. One Christmas, he decided to make a special kind of candy that would tell a special story, the story of Jesus. The nice old candymaker from Indiana took a stick of pure white, hard candy. The color white reminds us that he never sinned. If you ever ate a candy cane you know how hard it is, right? Like a rock. Mr. Candymaker made it hard – to remind us that Jesus is our shelter—like a rocky cave. And what letter does it look like? Yes, a “J”! Which not only represents the name Jesus, but also the staff of the “Good Shepherd.” A shepherd picks up sheep with the rounded end then fights off wild animals with the other. Jesus helps us and keeps us safe. Finally, the candymaker put three red stripes around it to remind us of the pain Jesus went through on the cross for our sins, all so that we can be with God forever and have a life of peace. So, that’s the legend of the candy cane. It tells us of Jesus and his great love for each of us. It also tells us of the peace we can have in life because of what he did.
Monday, December 11, 2017
Monday, December 11, 2017
DENNIS
Good morning everyone. I am Dennis Gossett with Central United Methodist Church. In the Psalms, David reveals his deep anguish before God about his sins. It is important to notice how the language of his psalms of repentance has filtered down into the liturgies we have inherited in the church. In Psalm 38, David describes that he feels weighed down by his sins, saying “your hand has come down upon me” (vs. 2). His health is suffering because of his sin. David says, “There is no health in my body; my bones have no soundness because of my sin.” Finally, he says the guilt he is experiencing has become “a burden too heavy to bear.” In our communion liturgy, we say with the psalm, “Almighty and most merciful Father, we have wandered and strayed from your ways like lost sheep.” David gives the basic language of the repentant life. He knew that only God can forgive, heal, and change our hearts and minds. Keeping this understanding in the forefront of our lives is one of the deepest marks or badges of the Christian life. Remember, without Christ, we are nothing more than filthy rags. God bless.
Good morning everyone. I am Dennis Gossett with Central United Methodist Church. In the Psalms, David reveals his deep anguish before God about his sins. It is important to notice how the language of his psalms of repentance has filtered down into the liturgies we have inherited in the church. In Psalm 38, David describes that he feels weighed down by his sins, saying “your hand has come down upon me” (vs. 2). His health is suffering because of his sin. David says, “There is no health in my body; my bones have no soundness because of my sin.” Finally, he says the guilt he is experiencing has become “a burden too heavy to bear.” In our communion liturgy, we say with the psalm, “Almighty and most merciful Father, we have wandered and strayed from your ways like lost sheep.” David gives the basic language of the repentant life. He knew that only God can forgive, heal, and change our hearts and minds. Keeping this understanding in the forefront of our lives is one of the deepest marks or badges of the Christian life. Remember, without Christ, we are nothing more than filthy rags. God bless.
Friday, December 8, 2017
Friday, December 8, 2017
BOB
Good morning, I am Bob Peden of Central, a United Methodist Community here in Meridian. Christmas is a wonder-filled time of the year. The lights, the greetings, the joy, and especially the music all inspire wonder in us. This Sunday at Central, our worship bands will lead us in an explosion of worship that will include beautiful contemporary Christian Christmas music, words that will inspire us to reflect on the coming of Christ into the world, video, and lighting. That is this Sunday morning at 8:30 until 10:30 in the Fellowship Hall at Central on the corner of 22nd Avenue and 10th street. Knowing that many of you watching are involved in your own churches on Sunday morning, we will repeat this program on Monday evening, December 11th at 6:30 p.m. Start a new tradition this year and come to Central for an exciting Christmas worship experience either Sunday morning or Monday evening.
Good morning, I am Bob Peden of Central, a United Methodist Community here in Meridian. Christmas is a wonder-filled time of the year. The lights, the greetings, the joy, and especially the music all inspire wonder in us. This Sunday at Central, our worship bands will lead us in an explosion of worship that will include beautiful contemporary Christian Christmas music, words that will inspire us to reflect on the coming of Christ into the world, video, and lighting. That is this Sunday morning at 8:30 until 10:30 in the Fellowship Hall at Central on the corner of 22nd Avenue and 10th street. Knowing that many of you watching are involved in your own churches on Sunday morning, we will repeat this program on Monday evening, December 11th at 6:30 p.m. Start a new tradition this year and come to Central for an exciting Christmas worship experience either Sunday morning or Monday evening.
Thursday, December 7, 2017
Thursday, December 7, 2017
GLENDA
Good Morning: How cool is it that the same God who created mountains, oceans, stars, and galaxies, looked at you and thought the world needed one of you, too? Have you ever thought about that? Why are you here? What do you think God had in mind for you? Look around you. What in the world is going on here? Do you think the way we are going right now is what God had in mind? I certainly don't! What God created is beautiful...even you and me! The sad thing is that he gave us free will. That means that WE decide what happens in our lives. Evidently, a lot of us have forgotten that we were made by God, in His image, for His glory. What if we started living up to God's expectations! We could change the world. I am challenging each of you today to do one kind thing for someone else and tell them, “God loves you!” You may make all the difference in someone's life today and Meridian could be the start of something good which spreads around the world. Let's try it! Have a wonderful day!
Good Morning: How cool is it that the same God who created mountains, oceans, stars, and galaxies, looked at you and thought the world needed one of you, too? Have you ever thought about that? Why are you here? What do you think God had in mind for you? Look around you. What in the world is going on here? Do you think the way we are going right now is what God had in mind? I certainly don't! What God created is beautiful...even you and me! The sad thing is that he gave us free will. That means that WE decide what happens in our lives. Evidently, a lot of us have forgotten that we were made by God, in His image, for His glory. What if we started living up to God's expectations! We could change the world. I am challenging each of you today to do one kind thing for someone else and tell them, “God loves you!” You may make all the difference in someone's life today and Meridian could be the start of something good which spreads around the world. Let's try it! Have a wonderful day!
Wednesday, December 6, 2017
Wednesday, December 6, 2017
BENJI
This world can sometimes be a harsh, cold, disquieting place to live in. We wonder how humanity can be the recipients, as well as the perpetrators of such Tragedy and Pain. This becomes all the more evident during the holiday season, especially Christmas. There is no greater time than ever to be reminded of what this season stands for. Of what God has done and still is doing in this world. We have not been left alone, and our Hope stands firm in Christ. We can be agents of change, as we see in 1 Corinthians Chapter 13, that when we serve others, with our motivation as love and not our own selfish wishes, God can use us to transform the world. God has promised that just as the dark turns to dawn, so to will Joy overcome sorrow, and throughout all this darkness, pain, and tragedy, the words of Jesus found in John 14:27 stand true “do not let your hearts be troubled, do not fear, for I give you my peace.”
This world can sometimes be a harsh, cold, disquieting place to live in. We wonder how humanity can be the recipients, as well as the perpetrators of such Tragedy and Pain. This becomes all the more evident during the holiday season, especially Christmas. There is no greater time than ever to be reminded of what this season stands for. Of what God has done and still is doing in this world. We have not been left alone, and our Hope stands firm in Christ. We can be agents of change, as we see in 1 Corinthians Chapter 13, that when we serve others, with our motivation as love and not our own selfish wishes, God can use us to transform the world. God has promised that just as the dark turns to dawn, so to will Joy overcome sorrow, and throughout all this darkness, pain, and tragedy, the words of Jesus found in John 14:27 stand true “do not let your hearts be troubled, do not fear, for I give you my peace.”
Monday, December 4, 2017
Monday, December 4, 2017
DENNIS
Good morning everyone. I am Dennis Gossett with Central United Methodist Church. Consider this: Gentile lives matter. Barbarian lives matter. Slave lives matter. Of course, they do, but not why we think. What’s interesting is the Apostle Paul doesn’t choose this approach in his correspondence. He begins where he always begins, with Jesus, the image of the invisible God. He does not start with historical realities, sociological categories, economic disparities, political concerns or justice issues. He starts with theology. He begins with the Kingdom of God. In the Kingdom of God there are many distinctions between people, but there is no difference. Why? Because all are created in the image of God. In fact, it takes all of us to reflect the image of God. Only the image of God reflects such diverse distinctiveness while unifying it all in the same essence. If we do not start with Jesus in these matters of our distinctiveness, we will never get to Jesus. The cross became all-inclusive by making Christ in all. So today, let me encourage you to look upon everyone through the unity of the cross of Jesus Christ.
Good morning everyone. I am Dennis Gossett with Central United Methodist Church. Consider this: Gentile lives matter. Barbarian lives matter. Slave lives matter. Of course, they do, but not why we think. What’s interesting is the Apostle Paul doesn’t choose this approach in his correspondence. He begins where he always begins, with Jesus, the image of the invisible God. He does not start with historical realities, sociological categories, economic disparities, political concerns or justice issues. He starts with theology. He begins with the Kingdom of God. In the Kingdom of God there are many distinctions between people, but there is no difference. Why? Because all are created in the image of God. In fact, it takes all of us to reflect the image of God. Only the image of God reflects such diverse distinctiveness while unifying it all in the same essence. If we do not start with Jesus in these matters of our distinctiveness, we will never get to Jesus. The cross became all-inclusive by making Christ in all. So today, let me encourage you to look upon everyone through the unity of the cross of Jesus Christ.
Friday, December 1, 2017
Friday, December 1, 2017
SABRINA
Christmas is indeed in the air. Meridian’s annual Downtown Christmas Parade will take place tomorrow evening at 5:00 p.m. Because at Central we are excited to be a part of the Downtown Meridian Community, we are once again opening the doors of our church to you. Our doors will open at 4:30, and we will have homemade soup, hot chocolate, cookies, and popcorn. Word has it that Santa will also be around. The SEC Championship game will also be on the big screen in our Fellowship Hall. All of this is just our way of inviting you into our lives...a gift from us to the Meridian community. Come join us as we celebrate the sights, sounds, and smells of the season! Since we are at the end of the parade route, if you have a parade participant, it’s a great place to arrange to meet up with them. If you do not have a church home, we invite you to return and worship with us on Sunday morning at 8:30, 9:45 or 10:55. We hope to see you tomorrow evening - and maybe again on Sunday. Don’t forget in these busy days of the season to pause daily and remember the REASON we celebrate - God’s love for us made flesh!
Christmas is indeed in the air. Meridian’s annual Downtown Christmas Parade will take place tomorrow evening at 5:00 p.m. Because at Central we are excited to be a part of the Downtown Meridian Community, we are once again opening the doors of our church to you. Our doors will open at 4:30, and we will have homemade soup, hot chocolate, cookies, and popcorn. Word has it that Santa will also be around. The SEC Championship game will also be on the big screen in our Fellowship Hall. All of this is just our way of inviting you into our lives...a gift from us to the Meridian community. Come join us as we celebrate the sights, sounds, and smells of the season! Since we are at the end of the parade route, if you have a parade participant, it’s a great place to arrange to meet up with them. If you do not have a church home, we invite you to return and worship with us on Sunday morning at 8:30, 9:45 or 10:55. We hope to see you tomorrow evening - and maybe again on Sunday. Don’t forget in these busy days of the season to pause daily and remember the REASON we celebrate - God’s love for us made flesh!
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