Current Series

Give And It Will Be Given

10.3 - 10.24.2021

For those who live in abundance, the centuries old practice of humanitarian aid has been one of the more impactful ways of making a difference in the world. The practice of human kindness through tangible giving has and continues to address regional and global health concerns, disease, thirst, and hunger. Those of us who live in first world nations and regions have the opportunity (some would say the obligation) to do our part in helping others both here and afar. Secondarily, research also shows that people who routinely practice giving away financial resources experience improved physical and mental health. Such benefits range from lowered blood pressure, increased self-esteem, lower levels of depression, lower stress, increased longevity, greater contentment, and happiness. For those of us who claim to follow Jesus Christ, stewardship is our way of being faithful to God’s command to “give our tithes and offerings.” I’m not suggesting that we do this because of what we gain, those are simply fringe benefits. I am suggesting that we do this because it first honors God and second it shows that we are aware of the current situation in our world and believe we are called to make a difference. I pray that this series will help us link this act of faith with our community of faith that attempts to live this out in multiple ways and that it will draw us to be even more committed to giving knowing that God will disburse our gifts for divine purposes.

Previous Series

Be A Good Neighbor

9.5 - 9.26.2021

We are all familiar with the parable of the Good Samaritan. He was the unlikely stranger who gave of his time and resources to rescue a wounded stranger. Jesus’ parable shapes our image of what it means to be a good neighbor and who we define as our neighbor. I think about the various mission efforts here at St. John’s UMC who have the vision to share compassion with our neighbor. One of them is actually titled Neighbor to Neighbor. All that we do in the name of Jesus is vital work and certainly is part of the ministry that Jesus calls us to. I would also suggest that it is literally half of the picture of what it means to be a good neighbor. While we may be good at reaching out to those who live in an under-resourced neighborhood, how good are we are reaching out to the person or family that lives next door or across the street. I’ve come to believe that Jesus wants us to make as much of an impact on our block as we do in other parts of our community. We need to be a good neighbor to those who literally live right next door. For the next four weeks, we will be discussing what it means to be a good neighbor and how we can share the love of God with those who live right around us.