https://simplecast.com We are a United Methodist congregation serving Westerville, Ohio and beyond for over 200 years. At Church of the Messiah we KNOW CHRIST, GROW IN FAITH, and SERVE OTHERS. 2022 en Sun, 10 May 2026 04:00:00 +0000 Mon, 11 May 2026 17:36:26 +0000 https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/41728364-b91f-4b96-b41d-9771e00bd4a0/c756ab18-6716-4246-b362-782996dd8742/3000x3000/messiah-2023-profile3.jpg?aid=rss_feed https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com episodic We are a United Methodist congregation serving Westerville, Ohio and beyond for over 200 years. At Church of the Messiah we KNOW CHRIST, GROW IN FAITH, and SERVE OTHERS. Church of the Messiah UMC false https://feeds.simplecast.com/EtQr2CXC church of the messiah, columbus, john wesley, messiah, methodist, ohio, umc, united methodist, united methodist church, wesley, wesleyan, westerville Church of the Messiah UMC messiahchurch@messiahumc.net 9c732b0f-9d7c-491b-8a44-6bddf6a7a85f Sun, 10 May 2026 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/from-me-to-we-sermon-series-boots-on-pKuvXaVf "From Me to We" Sermon Series - "Boots On" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:14:02 In this message from the From Me to We sermon series, Pastor Pete Elliott preaches from Jeremiah 29:4–5, 7, where God speaks to the people of Judah living in exile in Babylon. Rather than telling them only to wait for rescue, God tells them to build houses, plant gardens, seek the welfare of the city, and pray for the community around them. “Boots On” reminds us that faithfulness often begins right where we are, even when life feels unfamiliar, uncomfortable, or unsettled. In Christ, we are welcomed from isolation into belonging, and we are called to extend that same welcome to others. This sermon invites us to move from “me” to “we” by participating in the welfare of our neighbors, our church, and our wider community. In this message from the From Me to We sermon series, Pastor Pete Elliott preaches from Jeremiah 29:4–5, 7, where God speaks to the people of Judah living in exile in Babylon. Rather than telling them only to wait for rescue, God tells them to build houses, plant gardens, seek the welfare of the city, and pray for the community around them. “Boots On” reminds us that faithfulness often begins right where we are, even when life feels unfamiliar, uncomfortable, or unsettled. In Christ, we are welcomed from isolation into belonging, and we are called to extend that same welcome to others. This sermon invites us to move from “me” to “we” by participating in the welfare of our neighbors, our church, and our wider community. false full 3 46 381de07d-4108-433e-a378-2a59f9e3ceb7 Sun, 3 May 2026 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/from-me-to-we-sermon-series-get-an-oar-8qQcFoL0 "From Me to We" Sermon Series - "Get an Oar" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:25:18 On Consecration Sunday, May 3, 2026, Church of the Messiah welcomed former lead pastor and special guest preacher Rev. Dr. Jim Wilson, District Superintendent of the Olentangy River District of the West Ohio Conference of The United Methodist Church. Preaching from Ephesians 4:1–10, Jim invited the congregation to see the church not as a cruise ship where people sit back and watch, but as a crew boat where everyone has a place, everyone has an oar, and together we row in the same direction. As part of the “From Me to We” sermon series, this message reminds us that Christian faith is participatory and communal. The newly renovated spaces at Messiah are not simply places to admire. They are a launching pad for ministry, connection, welcome, and mission. Jim calls the church to humility, unity, and shared purpose, challenging each person to “get an oar” and walk like a church. On Consecration Sunday, May 3, 2026, Church of the Messiah welcomed former lead pastor and special guest preacher Rev. Dr. Jim Wilson, District Superintendent of the Olentangy River District of the West Ohio Conference of The United Methodist Church. Preaching from Ephesians 4:1–10, Jim invited the congregation to see the church not as a cruise ship where people sit back and watch, but as a crew boat where everyone has a place, everyone has an oar, and together we row in the same direction. As part of the “From Me to We” sermon series, this message reminds us that Christian faith is participatory and communal. The newly renovated spaces at Messiah are not simply places to admire. They are a launching pad for ministry, connection, welcome, and mission. Jim calls the church to humility, unity, and shared purpose, challenging each person to “get an oar” and walk like a church. false full 2 46 a6cb8c40-a6ac-4c4d-9e7c-1021eeefbedf Sun, 26 Apr 2026 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/from-me-to-we-sermon-series-myths-of-the-main-character-JS_2_uT6 "From Me to We" Sermon Series - "Myths of the Main Character" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:26:57 In this sermon from Sunday, April 26, 2026, Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer begins our new series, From Me to We, with a message called “Myths of the Main Character.” Looking at Genesis 2:15–17, 25 and Genesis 3:1–13, 22–24, Pastor Katy explores the garden story as the beginning of a temptation that still shapes us today: the temptation to believe life is about me, my control, my fulfillment, and my story. But the good news of Jesus invites us into a different way of being human. We are not the main character. Jesus is. And because Jesus is at the center, we do not have to define ourselves, sustain ourselves, or hold everything together alone. God comes looking for us in grace, calling us out of isolation and into community, belonging, forgiveness, and a life shaped by love. In this sermon from Sunday, April 26, 2026, Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer begins our new series, From Me to We, with a message called “Myths of the Main Character.” Looking at Genesis 2:15–17, 25 and Genesis 3:1–13, 22–24, Pastor Katy explores the garden story as the beginning of a temptation that still shapes us today: the temptation to believe life is about me, my control, my fulfillment, and my story. But the good news of Jesus invites us into a different way of being human. We are not the main character. Jesus is. And because Jesus is at the center, we do not have to define ourselves, sustain ourselves, or hold everything together alone. God comes looking for us in grace, calling us out of isolation and into community, belonging, forgiveness, and a life shaped by love. false full 1 46 8a8b1a22-5433-4ce7-9cf5-958e06606984 Sun, 19 Apr 2026 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/the-good-shepherd-sunday-april-19-2026-EUkKnH5w The Good Shepherd - Sunday, April 19, 2026 Church of the Messiah UMC 00:19:18 In this message, Rev. Katy Wheat Borhauer reflects on John 10:1–10 and the promise of Jesus as the Good Shepherd. In a world filled with noise, pressure, fear, and competing voices, Jesus reminds us that his sheep know his voice. He knows us by name, leads with love, and offers not scarcity or confusion, but safety, peace, and abundant life. This sermon invites us to ask an important question: whose voice are we really listening to? Whether you are new to faith, returning to church, or have been following Jesus for years, this message offers hope and clarity. Pastor Katy reminds us that not all voices are equal and that the voice of Jesus, though not always the loudest, is the one that speaks truth, compassion, and life. If you are longing to hear God more clearly and follow the voice of the One who knows and loves you, this message is for you. In this message, Rev. Katy Wheat Borhauer reflects on John 10:1–10 and the promise of Jesus as the Good Shepherd. In a world filled with noise, pressure, fear, and competing voices, Jesus reminds us that his sheep know his voice. He knows us by name, leads with love, and offers not scarcity or confusion, but safety, peace, and abundant life. This sermon invites us to ask an important question: whose voice are we really listening to? Whether you are new to faith, returning to church, or have been following Jesus for years, this message offers hope and clarity. Pastor Katy reminds us that not all voices are equal and that the voice of Jesus, though not always the loudest, is the one that speaks truth, compassion, and life. If you are longing to hear God more clearly and follow the voice of the One who knows and loves you, this message is for you. false full 2 45 8cfb970e-48e8-44dc-a99e-537dc29b2f26 Sun, 12 Apr 2026 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/living-hope-sunday-april-12-2026-4Bv550IJ "Living Hope" Sunday, April 12, 2026 Church of the Messiah UMC 00:16:55 This week, Rev. Pete Elliott preached from 1 Peter 1:3-9 and reminded us that because of the resurrection of Jesus Christ, we have been given a living hope. This hope is not shallow optimism or pretending life is easy. It is the deep assurance that Christ is present with us in suffering, questions, uncertainty, and joy. Even when hope feels far away, God continues to meet us where we are and remind us that we belong to one another and to him. In this sermon, we are invited to notice the ways living hope becomes visible through the life of the church: feeding the hungry, caring for others, offering encouragement, and witnessing Christ at work in everyday life. Rev. Pete’s invitation for the week is simple and meaningful: pause and notice where Christ is present in your life, your family, your workplace, your community, and the world. Watch, reflect, and be encouraged by this message of resurrection hope for real life. This week, Rev. Pete Elliott preached from 1 Peter 1:3-9 and reminded us that because of the resurrection of Jesus Christ, we have been given a living hope. This hope is not shallow optimism or pretending life is easy. It is the deep assurance that Christ is present with us in suffering, questions, uncertainty, and joy. Even when hope feels far away, God continues to meet us where we are and remind us that we belong to one another and to him. In this sermon, we are invited to notice the ways living hope becomes visible through the life of the church: feeding the hungry, caring for others, offering encouragement, and witnessing Christ at work in everyday life. Rev. Pete’s invitation for the week is simple and meaningful: pause and notice where Christ is present in your life, your family, your workplace, your community, and the world. Watch, reflect, and be encouraged by this message of resurrection hope for real life. false full 1 45 dc58dd2d-4907-4418-be0d-4655f7d37746 Sun, 5 Apr 2026 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/easter-sunday-message-2026-8hIk_faR Easter Sunday Message 2026 Church of the Messiah UMC 00:21:29 On Easter Sunday, Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer preached on Matthew 28:1-10 and Colossians 3:1-4, bringing a message about fear, joy, and the only voice with true authority to say "do not be afraid." Drawing from the story of the two Marys at the empty tomb, Pastor Katy reminded us that Easter doesn't promise the hard things go away. It promises that the risen Christ walks the road with us. Because he has been through betrayal, grief, abandonment, and death itself, he speaks not from detachment but from experience. And because he is risen, his "fear not" is not wishful thinking. It is victory. Whether you are facing a diagnosis, a broken relationship, economic uncertainty, or simply the weight of an overwhelming world, this message is for you. The resurrection didn't happen just once. It's still happening, every time we listen to his voice and claim his reassurance as our own. We hope this Easter message brings you both the honest acknowledgment of your fear and the deep, lasting joy of the risen Christ. Church of the Messiah United Methodist Church | Westerville, Ohio | messiahumc.net On Easter Sunday, Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer preached on Matthew 28:1-10 and Colossians 3:1-4, bringing a message about fear, joy, and the only voice with true authority to say "do not be afraid." Drawing from the story of the two Marys at the empty tomb, Pastor Katy reminded us that Easter doesn't promise the hard things go away. It promises that the risen Christ walks the road with us. Because he has been through betrayal, grief, abandonment, and death itself, he speaks not from detachment but from experience. And because he is risen, his "fear not" is not wishful thinking. It is victory. Whether you are facing a diagnosis, a broken relationship, economic uncertainty, or simply the weight of an overwhelming world, this message is for you. The resurrection didn't happen just once. It's still happening, every time we listen to his voice and claim his reassurance as our own. We hope this Easter message brings you both the honest acknowledgment of your fear and the deep, lasting joy of the risen Christ. Church of the Messiah United Methodist Church | Westerville, Ohio | messiahumc.net false full 7 44 e6830813-33c8-45e6-9102-d9e96253234d Sun, 29 Mar 2026 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/steps-lenten-sermon-series-palm-sunday-QVTNhPsk "Steps" Lenten Sermon Series, Palm Sunday Church of the Messiah UMC 00:25:42 On Palm Sunday, we join the crowd in asking one of the most important questions in all of Holy Week: Who is this? In Matthew 21:1–11, Jesus enters Jerusalem not as the kind of king people expected, but as the humble King they truly needed. This sermon explores how often we want Jesus to act on our terms, on our timeline, and in ways that make sense to us, while Jesus continues to reveal a deeper kind of power through humility, surrender, peace, and love. As Holy Week begins, this message invites us to examine our own expectations of God and to ask how Christ may be at work in ways we do not immediately recognize. What if Jesus is not only helping us face life as it is, but also teaching us to see what could be through hope? Watch, reflect, and journey with us as we follow Jesus from the palms to the cross and toward the hope of resurrection. On Palm Sunday, we join the crowd in asking one of the most important questions in all of Holy Week: Who is this? In Matthew 21:1–11, Jesus enters Jerusalem not as the kind of king people expected, but as the humble King they truly needed. This sermon explores how often we want Jesus to act on our terms, on our timeline, and in ways that make sense to us, while Jesus continues to reveal a deeper kind of power through humility, surrender, peace, and love. As Holy Week begins, this message invites us to examine our own expectations of God and to ask how Christ may be at work in ways we do not immediately recognize. What if Jesus is not only helping us face life as it is, but also teaching us to see what could be through hope? Watch, reflect, and journey with us as we follow Jesus from the palms to the cross and toward the hope of resurrection. false full 6 44 cdc14560-cd69-4878-8e7e-7c4e92c74648 Sun, 22 Mar 2026 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/steps-lenten-sermon-series-becoming-ready-qZWKlc5V "Steps" Lenten Sermon Series, "Becoming Ready" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:28:46 In this week’s message, “Becoming Ready,” Pastor Pete Elliott reflects on Ephesians 4:21-24 and 5:1-2 and reminds us that the life of faith is not a one-time finish line. It is an ongoing process of renewal. Using the image of house cleaning rather than model building, Pastor Pete shows how discipleship is often repetitive, honest, and unfinished. We are invited to put away the old self, put on the new self, and learn over time what it means to walk in love as Christ loved us. This sermon also points beyond personal faith to communal transformation. Pastor Pete speaks about daily honesty, making amends, deepening our conscious contact with God through prayer and meditation, and sharing the grace we have received with others. We are not made new only for ourselves. We are made new so that God’s love can overflow into our relationships, our communities, and the wider world. In this week’s message, “Becoming Ready,” Pastor Pete Elliott reflects on Ephesians 4:21-24 and 5:1-2 and reminds us that the life of faith is not a one-time finish line. It is an ongoing process of renewal. Using the image of house cleaning rather than model building, Pastor Pete shows how discipleship is often repetitive, honest, and unfinished. We are invited to put away the old self, put on the new self, and learn over time what it means to walk in love as Christ loved us. This sermon also points beyond personal faith to communal transformation. Pastor Pete speaks about daily honesty, making amends, deepening our conscious contact with God through prayer and meditation, and sharing the grace we have received with others. We are not made new only for ourselves. We are made new so that God’s love can overflow into our relationships, our communities, and the wider world. false full 5 44 8b990bb9-2316-40bc-88e5-70ab1ff07ec5 Sun, 15 Mar 2026 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/steps-lenten-sermon-series-into-the-light-ITC1oASA "Steps" Lenten Sermon Series, "Into The Light" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:26:55 In this message, Into the Light, Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer reflects on Romans 12:9–12, 18 and explores what it means for love to be sincere. Drawing from Steps 8 and 9 of recovery, this sermon invites us to move beyond performative apologies and into true repentance—naming the harm we have caused, embracing healthy contrition, and trusting God to transform us from the inside out. This sermon offers practical and spiritual guidance for anyone carrying guilt, unresolved relationships, or the desire to live more truthfully before God and others. Through the stories of Zacchaeus, Psalm 51, and the call to live at peace with everyone as far as it depends on us, Into the Light reminds us that making amends is not about shame. It is about grace, healing, and the new life Jesus makes possible. In this message, Into the Light, Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer reflects on Romans 12:9–12, 18 and explores what it means for love to be sincere. Drawing from Steps 8 and 9 of recovery, this sermon invites us to move beyond performative apologies and into true repentance—naming the harm we have caused, embracing healthy contrition, and trusting God to transform us from the inside out. This sermon offers practical and spiritual guidance for anyone carrying guilt, unresolved relationships, or the desire to live more truthfully before God and others. Through the stories of Zacchaeus, Psalm 51, and the call to live at peace with everyone as far as it depends on us, Into the Light reminds us that making amends is not about shame. It is about grace, healing, and the new life Jesus makes possible. false full 4 44 ebb873a1-2e4e-4310-8c17-c78f9c2381b7 Sun, 8 Mar 2026 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/steps-lenten-sermon-series-defects-of-character-qVxS6mXY "Steps" Lenten Sermon Series, "Defects of Character" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:31:07 In this message from Sunday, March 8, 2026, Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer continues Church of the Messiah’s Lenten sermon series, Steps, with a sermon titled Defects of Character. Preaching from Philippians 3:7-14, Pastor Katy reflects on Paul’s willingness to let go of everything that once defined him so that he could know Christ more deeply. This sermon explores what it means to release not only obvious sins, but also the excuses, emotions, habits, and identity markers that keep our hands too full to receive God’s grace. This message offers a practical and deeply personal invitation for anyone longing for healing, honesty, and spiritual growth. Through the image of opening our hands before God, Pastor Katy reminds us that we cannot hold onto everything and still fully embrace Jesus. Whether you are walking through Lent, exploring recovery themes, or simply longing to live more freely as Christ’s beloved, this sermon offers hope, clarity, and a faithful next step. In this message from Sunday, March 8, 2026, Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer continues Church of the Messiah’s Lenten sermon series, Steps, with a sermon titled Defects of Character. Preaching from Philippians 3:7-14, Pastor Katy reflects on Paul’s willingness to let go of everything that once defined him so that he could know Christ more deeply. This sermon explores what it means to release not only obvious sins, but also the excuses, emotions, habits, and identity markers that keep our hands too full to receive God’s grace. This message offers a practical and deeply personal invitation for anyone longing for healing, honesty, and spiritual growth. Through the image of opening our hands before God, Pastor Katy reminds us that we cannot hold onto everything and still fully embrace Jesus. Whether you are walking through Lent, exploring recovery themes, or simply longing to live more freely as Christ’s beloved, this sermon offers hope, clarity, and a faithful next step. false full 2 12 c986914b-cf87-4754-8fa4-21350f50c0b2 Sun, 1 Mar 2026 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/steps-lenten-sermon-series-a-fearless-inventory-XQd_aRp_ "Steps" Lenten Sermon Series, "A Fearless Inventory" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:32:02 Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer preaches “A Fearless Inventory” at Church of the Messiah UMC in Westerville, Ohio, on Sunday, March 1, 2026. Grounded in Psalm 139:1–7, 23–24, this sermon explores Steps 4 and 5 of the recovery journey and invites all of us into honest self-examination before a God who already knows us fully and loves us completely. This message is for anyone carrying pain, resentment, shame, fear, or patterns they are ready to bring into the light. Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer preaches “A Fearless Inventory” at Church of the Messiah UMC in Westerville, Ohio, on Sunday, March 1, 2026. Grounded in Psalm 139:1–7, 23–24, this sermon explores Steps 4 and 5 of the recovery journey and invites all of us into honest self-examination before a God who already knows us fully and loves us completely. This message is for anyone carrying pain, resentment, shame, fear, or patterns they are ready to bring into the light. false full 7 6 a687e7c3-adea-4c99-8745-e03b17f04ad4 Sun, 22 Feb 2026 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/steps-lenten-sermon-series-the-beginning-of-a-whole-new-life-3fqKKta0 "Steps" Lenten Sermon Series, "The Beginning of a Whole New Life" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:27:30 Pastor Pete Elliott kicks off our Lent series Steps with “The Beginning of a Whole New Life”, rooted in Romans 7:14–25. If you’ve ever felt the tension between who you want to be and what you keep doing, you’re not alone. This message names the struggle honestly, and points to the hope of grace that meets us right where we are. Pastor Pete Elliott kicks off our Lent series Steps with “The Beginning of a Whole New Life”, rooted in Romans 7:14–25. If you’ve ever felt the tension between who you want to be and what you keep doing, you’re not alone. This message names the struggle honestly, and points to the hope of grace that meets us right where we are. false full 1 44 58c6f449-510b-49d6-967e-42099157fd6c Sun, 15 Feb 2026 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/transfiguration-sunday-sunday-february-15-2026-Xw6Nhf_f Transfiguration Sunday - Sunday, February 15, 2026 Church of the Messiah UMC 00:25:04 On Transfiguration Sunday, we hear Matthew 17:1–9 and witness Jesus revealed in glory—shining on the mountain as God declares, “This is my Son… Listen to him.” In this message, Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer explores why the mountaintop moment isn’t meant to become our hiding place. It’s a gift that strengthens trust when life gets complicated, painful, or uncertain. If you’ve ever wanted to stay in a “safe” moment and avoid the hard parts of life, this sermon is for you. The good news is not that Jesus helps us escape—but that Jesus goes with us down the mountain, touches our shoulder, and says, “Do not be afraid.” On Transfiguration Sunday, we hear Matthew 17:1–9 and witness Jesus revealed in glory—shining on the mountain as God declares, “This is my Son… Listen to him.” In this message, Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer explores why the mountaintop moment isn’t meant to become our hiding place. It’s a gift that strengthens trust when life gets complicated, painful, or uncertain. If you’ve ever wanted to stay in a “safe” moment and avoid the hard parts of life, this sermon is for you. The good news is not that Jesus helps us escape—but that Jesus goes with us down the mountain, touches our shoulder, and says, “Do not be afraid.” false full 1 43 722e2a53-ced2-403e-bc5d-566781b57c49 Sun, 8 Feb 2026 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/time-of-your-life-sermon-series-under-the-sun-tmLsUpxY "Time of Your Life" Sermon Series - "Under the Sun" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:24:23 We close our Time of Your Life sermon series with “Under the Sun,” rooted in Ecclesiastes 3:1-8. Pastor Katy reminds us that life comes in seasons, and most of the time we cannot see the whole story from beginning to end. Still, we know a good God who holds every season inside God’s everlasting story, and who is at work even when life feels chaotic, unclear, or heavy. The invitation is simple and brave: do not just aim to be wise, practice wisdom. Name the season you are in, ask God for a wise heart (Psalm 90), and take one small step of faithful action with the time you have been given. If you are new or reconnecting, we would love to help you find your place at Church of the Messiah. We close our Time of Your Life sermon series with “Under the Sun,” rooted in Ecclesiastes 3:1-8. Pastor Katy reminds us that life comes in seasons, and most of the time we cannot see the whole story from beginning to end. Still, we know a good God who holds every season inside God’s everlasting story, and who is at work even when life feels chaotic, unclear, or heavy. The invitation is simple and brave: do not just aim to be wise, practice wisdom. Name the season you are in, ask God for a wise heart (Psalm 90), and take one small step of faithful action with the time you have been given. If you are new or reconnecting, we would love to help you find your place at Church of the Messiah. false full 4 42 bd817513-78fd-497f-82f6-30f9f055d018 Sun, 1 Feb 2026 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/time-of-your-life-sermon-series-when-less-is-more-B2vbupEf "Time of Your Life" Sermon Series - "When Less is More" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:26:11 Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer continues our Time of Your Life series with “When Less is More,” rooted in Ephesians 5:15–17. We all receive the same 1,440 minutes each day, and Scripture calls us to live wisely, make the most of our time, and seek the will of the Lord. This message explores how time is a finite resource from God, and how small deposits of time, made consistently, can shape our lives and deepen our discipleship. Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer continues our Time of Your Life series with “When Less is More,” rooted in Ephesians 5:15–17. We all receive the same 1,440 minutes each day, and Scripture calls us to live wisely, make the most of our time, and seek the will of the Lord. This message explores how time is a finite resource from God, and how small deposits of time, made consistently, can shape our lives and deepen our discipleship. false full 3 42 30528f76-9ca2-49ac-9eac-e785b2a6fa49 Sun, 25 Jan 2026 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/time-of-your-life-sermon-series-at-capacity-OPr2GK9l "Time of Your Life" Sermon Series - "At Capacity" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:12:49 When life feels at capacity, it’s easy to believe the answer is “more time.” In week two of our Time of Your Life series, Pastor Pete Elliott explores Jesus’ words in Matthew 6:25–33, where we’re invited to release worry and seek first the Kingdom of God. Through the “big rocks” illustration, we discover how putting what matters most first creates space for the rest—and how God wants to transform not just our schedules, but all our time. When life feels at capacity, it’s easy to believe the answer is “more time.” In week two of our Time of Your Life series, Pastor Pete Elliott explores Jesus’ words in Matthew 6:25–33, where we’re invited to release worry and seek first the Kingdom of God. Through the “big rocks” illustration, we discover how putting what matters most first creates space for the rest—and how God wants to transform not just our schedules, but all our time. false full 2 42 8a3feb57-1e95-4c62-a3a5-fc07af56f1b8 Sun, 18 Jan 2026 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/time-of-your-life-sermon-series-your-days-are-numbered-nqJq1PPH "Time of Your Life" Sermon Series - "Your Days are Numbered" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:31:20 We kicked off our new sermon series, Time of Your Life, with Psalm 90 and a prayer that can reshape the way we live: “Teach us to number our days that we may gain a heart of wisdom” (Psalm 90:12). Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer invites us to move beyond “What time is it?” and ask the deeper discipleship question: What am I doing with my time? Psalm 90 places our brief lives inside God’s eternal story. When we stop living like hustle is the point and instead live as if God is the point, we find clarity, wisdom, and freedom for how we work, love, give, and show up for our neighbors. Subscribe for more messages from Church of the Messiah UMC (Westerville, Ohio) and join us for worship online or in person. We kicked off our new sermon series, Time of Your Life, with Psalm 90 and a prayer that can reshape the way we live: “Teach us to number our days that we may gain a heart of wisdom” (Psalm 90:12). Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer invites us to move beyond “What time is it?” and ask the deeper discipleship question: What am I doing with my time? Psalm 90 places our brief lives inside God’s eternal story. When we stop living like hustle is the point and instead live as if God is the point, we find clarity, wisdom, and freedom for how we work, love, give, and show up for our neighbors. Subscribe for more messages from Church of the Messiah UMC (Westerville, Ohio) and join us for worship online or in person. false full 1 42 8b73e126-0765-4879-b899-9a39ed18bd4e Sun, 11 Jan 2026 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/state-of-the-church-2025-impact-report-GfMa_6j2 State of the Church 2025 Impact Report Church of the Messiah UMC 00:29:20 In our “State of the Church” message, Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer celebrates what God did through Church of the Messiah in 2025 and shares a clear invitation for 2026. From worship and prayer to mission, discipleship, kids/youth ministry, and generosity, the stories and numbers in the 2025 Impact Report point to God’s faithfulness and the Spirit’s power at work among us. Rooted in Romans 10:14–15 and 1 Corinthians 2:1–5, this sermon calls us beyond comfort into “sent” discipleship—sharing good news with courage, humility, and reliance on God’s power. As we look ahead, the question is simple and personal: will we be in prayer for what is next, and will we be willing to get a little uncomfortable for the sake of the gospel? In our “State of the Church” message, Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer celebrates what God did through Church of the Messiah in 2025 and shares a clear invitation for 2026. From worship and prayer to mission, discipleship, kids/youth ministry, and generosity, the stories and numbers in the 2025 Impact Report point to God’s faithfulness and the Spirit’s power at work among us. Rooted in Romans 10:14–15 and 1 Corinthians 2:1–5, this sermon calls us beyond comfort into “sent” discipleship—sharing good news with courage, humility, and reliance on God’s power. As we look ahead, the question is simple and personal: will we be in prayer for what is next, and will we be willing to get a little uncomfortable for the sake of the gospel? false full 1 41 fcc4879e-b994-4f62-b1ac-a115ca597a5a Sun, 4 Jan 2026 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/epiphany-sunday-2026-_bzYCkc2 Epiphany Sunday 2026 Church of the Messiah UMC 00:23:33 Epiphany Sunday at Church of the Messiah UMC (Westerville): Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer preaches from Ephesians 1:3–14, a reminder that God blesses, chooses, adopts, redeems, and seals us with the Holy Spirit. In a season when we love control, resolutions, and quick results, Epiphany calls us to trust the Light of Christ and remember who truly holds our destiny. You cannot do everything, but because God has chosen you, you can do something. Where is Jesus inviting you to choose God’s way this week: in your family, neighborhood, workplace, or community? Worship with us online at messiahumc.net/online or join us on YouTube. New here? We would love to connect with you and help you take a next step. Epiphany Sunday at Church of the Messiah UMC (Westerville): Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer preaches from Ephesians 1:3–14, a reminder that God blesses, chooses, adopts, redeems, and seals us with the Holy Spirit. In a season when we love control, resolutions, and quick results, Epiphany calls us to trust the Light of Christ and remember who truly holds our destiny. You cannot do everything, but because God has chosen you, you can do something. Where is Jesus inviting you to choose God’s way this week: in your family, neighborhood, workplace, or community? Worship with us online at messiahumc.net/online or join us on YouTube. New here? We would love to connect with you and help you take a next step. false full 7 40 08229295-2d97-4b11-8e7e-509499ef0441 Sun, 28 Dec 2025 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/holy-moment-advent-sermon-series-1st-sunday-after-christmas-a-moment-of-wonder-w2J8KeXu "Holy Moment" Advent Sermon Series - 1st Sunday After Christmas, "A Moment of Wonder" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:17:49 Holy Moments | 1st Sunday After Christmas: “A Moment of Wonder” (Isaiah 63:7–9) — Pastor Pete Elliott | Church of the Messiah UMC (Westerville, OH). In this sermon, we’re invited to notice that holy moments are not limited to extraordinary places or dramatic spiritual experiences. Isaiah teaches us to “recount the grace deeds of the Lord,” and Pastor Pete reminds us that as we remember God’s faithfulness in the past and trust God’s promise for the future, we can meet God in the present, right where we are. If you’re longing for God to feel closer, this message is for you. Take a small step this week: pause, quiet the noise, and listen with your heart. Worship online anytime at messiahumc.net/online. Holy Moments | 1st Sunday After Christmas: “A Moment of Wonder” (Isaiah 63:7–9) — Pastor Pete Elliott | Church of the Messiah UMC (Westerville, OH). In this sermon, we’re invited to notice that holy moments are not limited to extraordinary places or dramatic spiritual experiences. Isaiah teaches us to “recount the grace deeds of the Lord,” and Pastor Pete reminds us that as we remember God’s faithfulness in the past and trust God’s promise for the future, we can meet God in the present, right where we are. If you’re longing for God to feel closer, this message is for you. Take a small step this week: pause, quiet the noise, and listen with your heart. Worship online anytime at messiahumc.net/online. false full 6 40 1c97bc3d-bbc3-4699-b63c-dca6fb179ed4 Wed, 24 Dec 2025 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/holy-moment-advent-sermon-series-christmas-eve-a-moment-of-boldness-C3HTGGLb "Holy Moment" Advent Sermon Series - Christmas Eve, "A Moment of Boldness" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:20:18 Christmas Eve, “A Moment of Boldness” (Holy Moment Advent Sermon Series) | Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer | Luke 2:1–20 (NRSVUE) The Christmas story is not a fairy tale that skips the hard parts of life. It is the good news that God shows up for us. In Luke 2, Jesus is born into ordinary circumstances, and the first people to hear the announcement are shepherds, the ones society overlooked. This message reminds us: Emmanuel means God with us. You matter to God, and you are not alone. When we receive that love, we are invited to respond like the shepherds, with boldness and urgency, showing up for others so the light of Christ keeps spreading. Want to take a next step? Let us know you were here, share a prayer request, or connect with a pastor through our Connect Card: https://www.messiahumc.net/connect. Learn more about worship and ways to connect at https://www.messiahumc.net/visit. Subscribe for weekly messages and worship from Church of the Messiah UMC (Westerville, Ohio). Christmas Eve, “A Moment of Boldness” (Holy Moment Advent Sermon Series) | Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer | Luke 2:1–20 (NRSVUE) The Christmas story is not a fairy tale that skips the hard parts of life. It is the good news that God shows up for us. In Luke 2, Jesus is born into ordinary circumstances, and the first people to hear the announcement are shepherds, the ones society overlooked. This message reminds us: Emmanuel means God with us. You matter to God, and you are not alone. When we receive that love, we are invited to respond like the shepherds, with boldness and urgency, showing up for others so the light of Christ keeps spreading. Want to take a next step? Let us know you were here, share a prayer request, or connect with a pastor through our Connect Card: https://www.messiahumc.net/connect. Learn more about worship and ways to connect at https://www.messiahumc.net/visit. Subscribe for weekly messages and worship from Church of the Messiah UMC (Westerville, Ohio). false full 5 40 3f10222d-afbd-46d0-81fc-95f6ea7b8ace Sun, 21 Dec 2025 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/sermonholy-moment-advent-sermon-series-week-4-a-moment-of-obedience-SJUkJVOk Sermon"Holy Moment" Advent Sermon Series - Week 4, "A Moment of Obedience" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:26:50 In “A Moment of Obedience (Joseph’s Story),” Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer explores Matthew 1:18–25 and Joseph’s brave, ordinary yes to God. When obedience feels like “because I said so,” Joseph reminds us that God’s invitations carry a deeper purpose of love, mercy, and salvation. Where might God be nudging you to trust, even if you cannot see the whole “why” yet? In “A Moment of Obedience (Joseph’s Story),” Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer explores Matthew 1:18–25 and Joseph’s brave, ordinary yes to God. When obedience feels like “because I said so,” Joseph reminds us that God’s invitations carry a deeper purpose of love, mercy, and salvation. Where might God be nudging you to trust, even if you cannot see the whole “why” yet? false full 4 40 c0185279-4f7b-44b9-ba30-7c1291e673a9 Sun, 14 Dec 2025 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/sermonholy-moment-advent-sermon-series-week-3-a-moment-of-memory-MbN24u8w Sermon"Holy Moment" Advent Sermon Series - Week 3, "A Moment of Memory" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:23:56 In Week 3 of our Holy Moments Advent Sermon Series, Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer shares “A Moment of Memory (Elizabeth’s Story)” from Luke 1:11–17, 23–25. This message explores the power of memory, how our past shapes our present, and how remembering where God has been faithful gives us courage to trust God in what comes next. Where do you need hope right now? This sermon invites you to hold onto holy memories, not as nostalgia, but as a living testimony that God keeps God’s promises. If you’re new, want prayer, or want to take a next step at Church of the Messiah (Westerville, Ohio), check the links below to connect with us and find community. In Week 3 of our Holy Moments Advent Sermon Series, Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer shares “A Moment of Memory (Elizabeth’s Story)” from Luke 1:11–17, 23–25. This message explores the power of memory, how our past shapes our present, and how remembering where God has been faithful gives us courage to trust God in what comes next. Where do you need hope right now? This sermon invites you to hold onto holy memories, not as nostalgia, but as a living testimony that God keeps God’s promises. If you’re new, want prayer, or want to take a next step at Church of the Messiah (Westerville, Ohio), check the links below to connect with us and find community. false full 3 40 ca75a5d2-1e11-4eb2-9d0f-6dff309a4280 Sun, 7 Dec 2025 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/holy-moment-advent-sermon-series-week-2-a-moment-of-surrender-vKKJapJd "Holy Moment" Advent Sermon Series - Week 2, "A Moment of Surrender" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:14:20 When life doesn’t go the way we planned, how do we respond? In this Advent message, “A Moment of Surrender,” Pastor Pete Elliott walks with us through Luke 1:26–38, 46–56 and Mary’s journey from “How can this be?” to “My soul magnifies the Lord.” Through her story, we explore faith as trusting surrender, how fear subsides in the presence of trust and hope, and how God meets us in the interruptions and detours we never would have chosen. Recorded at Church of the Messiah United Methodist in Westerville, Ohio, this sermon is part of our Holy Moments Advent series. Whether you’re watching on your own or with a group, we invite you to reflect, pray, and respond with your own “Here am I, Lord.” For more sermons, resources, and ways to connect, visit messiahumc.net and subscribe to our channel for weekly worship services, messages, and stories of God at work in and through our community. When life doesn’t go the way we planned, how do we respond? In this Advent message, “A Moment of Surrender,” Pastor Pete Elliott walks with us through Luke 1:26–38, 46–56 and Mary’s journey from “How can this be?” to “My soul magnifies the Lord.” Through her story, we explore faith as trusting surrender, how fear subsides in the presence of trust and hope, and how God meets us in the interruptions and detours we never would have chosen. Recorded at Church of the Messiah United Methodist in Westerville, Ohio, this sermon is part of our Holy Moments Advent series. Whether you’re watching on your own or with a group, we invite you to reflect, pray, and respond with your own “Here am I, Lord.” For more sermons, resources, and ways to connect, visit messiahumc.net and subscribe to our channel for weekly worship services, messages, and stories of God at work in and through our community. false full 2 40 b33f4ddd-1de5-4c9a-8116-25d77ebd4866 Sun, 30 Nov 2025 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/holy-moment-advent-sermon-series-week-1-a-moment-of-interruption-5b243k2i "Holy Moment" Advent Sermon Series - Week 1, "A Moment of Interruption" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:25:05 In this Advent sermon, “A Moment of Interruption,” Pastor Katy explores Luke 1:5–22 and the story of Zechariah—a faithful priest whose carefully planned life is interrupted by an angel and an impossible promise. As we begin our “Holy Moments” Advent & Christmas series at Church of the Messiah, we ask: What if the interruptions we resent or avoid are actually the very places where God is breaking in? Through Zechariah’s fear, questions, and season of enforced silence, we discover how God meets us at the end of human possibility and invites us into deeper trust. If your life feels full of unexpected detours, delays, or disruptions, this message invites you to see them not just as annoyances, but as potential holy moments—opportunities to grow closer to God, to serve others, and to be reoriented toward God’s hope and purposes. Use this sermon for personal reflection, family conversation, or Life Group discussion as you move through Advent. Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe so you can continue journeying with us through the “Holy Moments” series this season. In this Advent sermon, “A Moment of Interruption,” Pastor Katy explores Luke 1:5–22 and the story of Zechariah—a faithful priest whose carefully planned life is interrupted by an angel and an impossible promise. As we begin our “Holy Moments” Advent & Christmas series at Church of the Messiah, we ask: What if the interruptions we resent or avoid are actually the very places where God is breaking in? Through Zechariah’s fear, questions, and season of enforced silence, we discover how God meets us at the end of human possibility and invites us into deeper trust. If your life feels full of unexpected detours, delays, or disruptions, this message invites you to see them not just as annoyances, but as potential holy moments—opportunities to grow closer to God, to serve others, and to be reoriented toward God’s hope and purposes. Use this sermon for personal reflection, family conversation, or Life Group discussion as you move through Advent. Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe so you can continue journeying with us through the “Holy Moments” series this season. false full 1 40 a1285b96-ee81-4fc9-9744-eba539c68eac Sun, 23 Nov 2025 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/the-impossible-promise-of-enough-sermon-series-the-impossible-promise-of-liberation-_XAWzXTI "The Impossible Promise of Enough" Sermon Series - "The Impossible Promise of Liberation" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:26:54 On Christ the King Sunday, Pastor Katy concludes our Impossible Promise of Enough series with a powerful message about liberation. Drawing from Leviticus 25 and Luke 17:11–19, we explore God’s radical vision of Jubilee—a reset where debts are forgiven, land is restored, and those who are enslaved or excluded are set free. In the healing of ten men with leprosy, Jesus embodies that Jubilee freedom, restoring not only bodies but dignity, community, and hope. We also look at the life of Harriet Tubman, a Methodist woman whose own freedom propelled her to risk everything so that others could be free too. Her story challenges us to do more than receive God’s liberation—it calls us to participate in it. What would it look like for you to practice Jubilee in your finances, relationships, and daily choices? Watch, reflect, and take your next step toward living as a person set free in Christ and an agent of God’s freedom for others. #jubilee #freedominchrist #luke17 #churchofthemessiah #westerville On Christ the King Sunday, Pastor Katy concludes our Impossible Promise of Enough series with a powerful message about liberation. Drawing from Leviticus 25 and Luke 17:11–19, we explore God’s radical vision of Jubilee—a reset where debts are forgiven, land is restored, and those who are enslaved or excluded are set free. In the healing of ten men with leprosy, Jesus embodies that Jubilee freedom, restoring not only bodies but dignity, community, and hope. We also look at the life of Harriet Tubman, a Methodist woman whose own freedom propelled her to risk everything so that others could be free too. Her story challenges us to do more than receive God’s liberation—it calls us to participate in it. What would it look like for you to practice Jubilee in your finances, relationships, and daily choices? Watch, reflect, and take your next step toward living as a person set free in Christ and an agent of God’s freedom for others. #jubilee #freedominchrist #luke17 #churchofthemessiah #westerville false full 5 39 5631c941-8ee2-4a0b-a0f2-8090214b5bd4 Sun, 16 Nov 2025 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/the-impossible-promise-of-enough-sermon-series-commitment-sunday-shg_K2TA "The Impossible Promise of Enough" Sermon Series - Commitment Sunday Church of the Messiah UMC 00:26:55 What if there really is enough for everyone? In this message from our series “The (im)Possible Promise of Enough,” Pastor Katy explores God’s call to leave holy margins in our lives. Drawing from Leviticus 19:9–10, Deuteronomy 24:19–21, and Matthew 5:38–48, we look at the ancient practice of leaving the edges of the field for the poor, the immigrant, the orphan, and the widow—and how that challenges our modern 100% lifestyle of jam-packed schedules, overfull closets, and scarcity thinking. Whether you’re listening on your own or with a Life Group, this sermon invites you to ask: Do I really need the 100% living, 100% taking life? Discover what it might look like to take what you truly need, create margin in your time, money, and energy, and join God in making sure others have what they need too. This message was preached by Pastor Katy at Church of the Messiah (Westerville, Ohio) on November 16, 2025. Like, subscribe, and share if this encourages you—and visit our website to learn more about connecting with our community. What if there really is enough for everyone? In this message from our series “The (im)Possible Promise of Enough,” Pastor Katy explores God’s call to leave holy margins in our lives. Drawing from Leviticus 19:9–10, Deuteronomy 24:19–21, and Matthew 5:38–48, we look at the ancient practice of leaving the edges of the field for the poor, the immigrant, the orphan, and the widow—and how that challenges our modern 100% lifestyle of jam-packed schedules, overfull closets, and scarcity thinking. Whether you’re listening on your own or with a Life Group, this sermon invites you to ask: Do I really need the 100% living, 100% taking life? Discover what it might look like to take what you truly need, create margin in your time, money, and energy, and join God in making sure others have what they need too. This message was preached by Pastor Katy at Church of the Messiah (Westerville, Ohio) on November 16, 2025. Like, subscribe, and share if this encourages you—and visit our website to learn more about connecting with our community. false full 4 39 9f7cf8cf-7b01-4e17-b233-50235ae8bd22 Sun, 9 Nov 2025 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/the-impossible-promise-of-enough-sermon-series-the-impossible-promise-of-resources-zpV3_D1u "The Impossible Promise of Enough" Sermon Series - "The Impossible Promise of Resources" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:21:35 When God stirs willing hearts, ordinary offerings become extraordinary provision. In “The Impossible Promise of Resources,” Pastor Pete Elliott walks through Exodus 35–36 and the tabernacle offering to show how God turns scarcity into more than enough—not just with money, but with our skills, time, relationships, and stories. Jesus models this in the feeding of the multitudes: “You give them something to eat.” Rewatch to be encouraged and commissioned to offer what you have for God’s mission. Scripture: Exodus 35:4–9, 20–21, 29; 36:2–5 When God stirs willing hearts, ordinary offerings become extraordinary provision. In “The Impossible Promise of Resources,” Pastor Pete Elliott walks through Exodus 35–36 and the tabernacle offering to show how God turns scarcity into more than enough—not just with money, but with our skills, time, relationships, and stories. Jesus models this in the feeding of the multitudes: “You give them something to eat.” Rewatch to be encouraged and commissioned to offer what you have for God’s mission. Scripture: Exodus 35:4–9, 20–21, 29; 36:2–5 false full 3 39 e7ea6bfe-ba60-4fa3-a920-e87b2953fc20 Sun, 2 Nov 2025 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/the-impossible-promise-of-enough-sermon-series-the-impossible-promise-of-rest-72jssh1A "The Impossible Promise of Enough" Sermon Series - "The Impossible Promise of Rest" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:21:17 All Saints’ Sunday at Church of the Messiah (Westerville, OH). Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer continues The Impossible Promise of Enough with “The Impossible Promise of Rest,” drawing from Exodus 20; 23 and Mark 2:23–3:6. Sabbath is not another rule to keep—it’s God’s gift that forms us in rest, worship, resistance, and delight as we trust the God who is enough. All Saints’ Sunday at Church of the Messiah (Westerville, OH). Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer continues The Impossible Promise of Enough with “The Impossible Promise of Rest,” drawing from Exodus 20; 23 and Mark 2:23–3:6. Sabbath is not another rule to keep—it’s God’s gift that forms us in rest, worship, resistance, and delight as we trust the God who is enough. false full 2 39 50473d98-ef5c-4b74-884c-af4ef4088b16 Sun, 26 Oct 2025 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/the-impossible-promise-of-enough-sermon-series-the-impossible-promise-of-provision-l0ywmd2D "The Impossible Promise of Enough" Sermon Series - "The Impossible Promise of Provision" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:28:03 The Impossible Promise of Provision | Exodus 16; John 6:24–35 In a world driven by scarcity and self-sufficiency, Jesus declares, “I am the Bread of Life.” Pastor Katy explores how God’s provision shows up—from manna in the wilderness to the daily mercies we often overlook—and how practicing trust reshapes our habits, hope, and generosity. The Impossible Promise of Provision | Exodus 16; John 6:24–35 In a world driven by scarcity and self-sufficiency, Jesus declares, “I am the Bread of Life.” Pastor Katy explores how God’s provision shows up—from manna in the wilderness to the daily mercies we often overlook—and how practicing trust reshapes our habits, hope, and generosity. false full 1 39 3532aca2-e969-4d1b-a2b6-8bc5ede647ea Sun, 19 Oct 2025 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/ive-always-wondered-recurring-2025-sermon-series-what-about-other-religions-9E1C1amq "I've Always Wondered" Recurring 2025 Sermon Series - What about other religions? Church of the Messiah UMC 00:39:02 Yesterday we named a question many of us carry: What about other religions? With Pastor Katy, Pastor Pete, and Dr. Jeff Jaynes, we were reminded that following Jesus in a diverse world isn’t about anxiety or avoidance, it’s about living Romans 12:17–21 in everyday ways: choosing what is right in the eyes of others, letting go of payback, and overcoming evil with good. We can be deeply rooted in Christ and genuinely curious about our neighbors; honest conviction and humble listening can sit at the same table. This week, try one simple step: ask a coworker or classmate from a different tradition about a practice that’s meaningful to them, really listen, and then share briefly how Jesus is shaping your own life. As we do, we make peace visible and give a faithful answer to a beautifully diverse world. Yesterday we named a question many of us carry: What about other religions? With Pastor Katy, Pastor Pete, and Dr. Jeff Jaynes, we were reminded that following Jesus in a diverse world isn’t about anxiety or avoidance, it’s about living Romans 12:17–21 in everyday ways: choosing what is right in the eyes of others, letting go of payback, and overcoming evil with good. We can be deeply rooted in Christ and genuinely curious about our neighbors; honest conviction and humble listening can sit at the same table. This week, try one simple step: ask a coworker or classmate from a different tradition about a practice that’s meaningful to them, really listen, and then share briefly how Jesus is shaping your own life. As we do, we make peace visible and give a faithful answer to a beautifully diverse world. false full 4 30 526a40cd-c4bd-48d8-8bff-4f764a486334 Sun, 12 Oct 2025 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/on-purpose-sermon-series-no-time-is-wasted-RmemOFQR "On Purpose" Sermon Series - "No Time is Wasted" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:23:19 No Time is Wasted | Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer | Exodus 16; Proverbs 8:22–31 Even in wilderness seasons, God is cultivating wonder, creativity, and purpose. This message explores how manna teaches daily trust and how Wisdom invites us to notice God’s presence in ordinary time. If you’re in a season that feels “in between,” this sermon offers practical steps to gather today’s grace. No Time is Wasted | Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer | Exodus 16; Proverbs 8:22–31 Even in wilderness seasons, God is cultivating wonder, creativity, and purpose. This message explores how manna teaches daily trust and how Wisdom invites us to notice God’s presence in ordinary time. If you’re in a season that feels “in between,” this sermon offers practical steps to gather today’s grace. false full 5 38 1616c640-65a0-498a-87e7-d57ed497fd47 Sun, 5 Oct 2025 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/on-purpose-sermon-series-purpose-is-present-5gqTJ1x_ "On Purpose" Sermon Series - "Purpose is Present" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:19:50 “Purpose Is Present” (Week Four of *On Purpose*)—Pastor Pete teaches from Matthew 14:13–21 (the feeding of the 5,000) to show how Jesus meets scarcity with compassion and turns “not enough” into “more than enough.” The sermon’s core idea: our purpose is revealed when we pay attention to what we already have and who needs it right now. “Purpose Is Present” (Week Four of *On Purpose*)—Pastor Pete teaches from Matthew 14:13–21 (the feeding of the 5,000) to show how Jesus meets scarcity with compassion and turns “not enough” into “more than enough.” The sermon’s core idea: our purpose is revealed when we pay attention to what we already have and who needs it right now. false full 4 38 956ed282-d573-4357-ac1a-c18c304b9b71 Sun, 28 Sep 2025 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/on-purpose-sermon-series-who-am-i-i7JLit8s "On Purpose" Sermon Series - "Who Am I?" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:28:08 Who Am I? | Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer | 9.28.25 Yesterday’s message invited us to lay down the labels we’ve carried and receive the name Jesus gives: Beloved. Through Saul’s blinding encounter on the Damascus road (Acts 9:1–19) and Peter’s breakfast of restoration with Jesus (John 21:15–19), we heard that grace doesn’t erase our story—it reclaims it and sends us with purpose. In Christ, your past doesn’t disqualify you; it becomes part of the testimony God uses to love and serve others. Sermon Details Series: On Purpose (Week 3) Title: Who Am I? Preacher: Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer Date: Sunday, September 28, 2025 Scripture: Acts 9:1–19; John 21:15–19 (NRSV) Big Idea: God names you Beloved and then calls you into purpose. Purpose is a response to belovedness—not a way to earn it. Who Am I? | Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer | 9.28.25 Yesterday’s message invited us to lay down the labels we’ve carried and receive the name Jesus gives: Beloved. Through Saul’s blinding encounter on the Damascus road (Acts 9:1–19) and Peter’s breakfast of restoration with Jesus (John 21:15–19), we heard that grace doesn’t erase our story—it reclaims it and sends us with purpose. In Christ, your past doesn’t disqualify you; it becomes part of the testimony God uses to love and serve others. Sermon Details Series: On Purpose (Week 3) Title: Who Am I? Preacher: Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer Date: Sunday, September 28, 2025 Scripture: Acts 9:1–19; John 21:15–19 (NRSV) Big Idea: God names you Beloved and then calls you into purpose. Purpose is a response to belovedness—not a way to earn it. false full 3 38 f888fb75-03fb-4109-87a5-282f4249b411 Sun, 21 Sep 2025 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/on-purpose-sermon-series-what-is-a-purpose-Jtd6Ba_7 "On Purpose" Sermon Series - "What is a purpose?" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:29:44 In week two of our On Purpose series, Pastor Katy explores Jesus’ words, “You are the salt of the earth…you are the light of the world” (Matthew 5:13–16) alongside his call to take up the cross (Matthew 16:24–26), framing purpose not as something we achieve but as a gift we receive—and live for others. You’ll hear practical wisdom (Thurman’s “what makes you come alive,” Buechner’s “deep gladness/deep hunger”) and a simple next step to identify one thing you can do this week to flavor and brighten your corner of the world. Listen to be encouraged, challenged, and equipped to live Mission One (know and worship God), Mission Two (partner with God to bless the world), and Mission Three (use who you uniquely are to do the first two). Stick around for resources and a worship response song to help you put the message into practice. In week two of our On Purpose series, Pastor Katy explores Jesus’ words, “You are the salt of the earth…you are the light of the world” (Matthew 5:13–16) alongside his call to take up the cross (Matthew 16:24–26), framing purpose not as something we achieve but as a gift we receive—and live for others. You’ll hear practical wisdom (Thurman’s “what makes you come alive,” Buechner’s “deep gladness/deep hunger”) and a simple next step to identify one thing you can do this week to flavor and brighten your corner of the world. Listen to be encouraged, challenged, and equipped to live Mission One (know and worship God), Mission Two (partner with God to bless the world), and Mission Three (use who you uniquely are to do the first two). Stick around for resources and a worship response song to help you put the message into practice. false full 2 38 3bb5b85f-76e4-46b6-8c74-fa84ae7d6327 Sun, 14 Sep 2025 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/on-purpose-sermon-series-why-am-i-here-WQGmuzDv "On Purpose" Sermon Series - "Why am I here?" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:23:52 In Why Am I Here? (Week 1 of our On Purpose series), Pastor Katy walks with Nicodemus through John 3:1–9 and names the 3 a.m. questions we all carry—then points to Jesus as the One who awakens us to a purpose we don’t have to manufacture. Drawing on Isaiah 43:1, John 15:16, and Ephesians 2:10, she reminds us that meaning is a gift: to know and worship God, to join God in making the world better, and to bring our unique selves to those callings right where we live, work, and learn. Watch, reflect, and ask: What might it look like this week to let God awaken you to why you’re here? In Why Am I Here? (Week 1 of our On Purpose series), Pastor Katy walks with Nicodemus through John 3:1–9 and names the 3 a.m. questions we all carry—then points to Jesus as the One who awakens us to a purpose we don’t have to manufacture. Drawing on Isaiah 43:1, John 15:16, and Ephesians 2:10, she reminds us that meaning is a gift: to know and worship God, to join God in making the world better, and to bring our unique selves to those callings right where we live, work, and learn. Watch, reflect, and ask: What might it look like this week to let God awaken you to why you’re here? false full 6 37 b2a0763f-04dc-4cf5-95a4-17730d73b822 Sun, 7 Sep 2025 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/ive-always-wondered-recurring-2025-sermon-series-understanding-suffering-E9MY1eKw "I've Always Wondered" Recurring 2025 Sermon Series - Understanding Suffering Church of the Messiah UMC 00:23:19 This Sunday at Church of the Messiah, we were honored to welcome Bishop Hee-Soo Jung, Resident Bishop of the Ohio Episcopal Area, as part of our I’ve Always Wondered sermon series. Preaching from Jeremiah 18:1–11 and Luke 14:25–33, Bishop Jung addressed one of life’s most difficult questions: “Why do bad things happen to good people?” While scripture doesn’t give us a neat and tidy answer, Bishop Jung reminds us of the powerful image of clay in the potter’s hands. Even in seasons of brokenness and hardship, God does not discard us, but patiently reshapes us into something new. “Perhaps the better question is not why do bad things happen, but how shall we live when bad things do happen? Do no harm, do good, stay in love with God.” – Bishop Jung Bishop Jung is known throughout the church for his commitment to racial justice, radical inclusion, and global mission. His ministry has planted new congregations, expanded cross-racial leadership, championed immigration justice, and raised millions for global health initiatives such as Imagine No Malaria. 🙏 Whether you’re watching for the first time or reflecting on the message again, may you be encouraged to trust the One who holds us in tender, shaping hands. 📖 Scripture: Jeremiah 18:1–11; Luke 14:25–33 This Sunday at Church of the Messiah, we were honored to welcome Bishop Hee-Soo Jung, Resident Bishop of the Ohio Episcopal Area, as part of our I’ve Always Wondered sermon series. Preaching from Jeremiah 18:1–11 and Luke 14:25–33, Bishop Jung addressed one of life’s most difficult questions: “Why do bad things happen to good people?” While scripture doesn’t give us a neat and tidy answer, Bishop Jung reminds us of the powerful image of clay in the potter’s hands. Even in seasons of brokenness and hardship, God does not discard us, but patiently reshapes us into something new. “Perhaps the better question is not why do bad things happen, but how shall we live when bad things do happen? Do no harm, do good, stay in love with God.” – Bishop Jung Bishop Jung is known throughout the church for his commitment to racial justice, radical inclusion, and global mission. His ministry has planted new congregations, expanded cross-racial leadership, championed immigration justice, and raised millions for global health initiatives such as Imagine No Malaria. 🙏 Whether you’re watching for the first time or reflecting on the message again, may you be encouraged to trust the One who holds us in tender, shaping hands. 📖 Scripture: Jeremiah 18:1–11; Luke 14:25–33 false full 3 30 6c200b31-bb21-4d46-88e1-e6a9c6abb5e9 Sun, 31 Aug 2025 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/questions-jesus-asked-sermon-series-what-are-you-looking-for-OhlYGnCf "Questions Jesus Asked" Sermon Series - "What are you looking for?" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:19:57 This week’s sermon invites us into the story of John’s disciples who, upon hearing “Look, here is the Lamb of God,” chose to follow Jesus. Instead of giving them an easy answer, Jesus turns to them with the searching question: “What are you looking for?” From there, the message explores how our own expectations, longings, and curiosities shape our journey of faith. Rather than offering a formula, Jesus simply says, “Come and see.” This is a call to experience God’s presence, to abide deeply in Christ, and to allow our lives to intersect with God’s love in ways that transform us and our relationships with others. This week’s sermon invites us into the story of John’s disciples who, upon hearing “Look, here is the Lamb of God,” chose to follow Jesus. Instead of giving them an easy answer, Jesus turns to them with the searching question: “What are you looking for?” From there, the message explores how our own expectations, longings, and curiosities shape our journey of faith. Rather than offering a formula, Jesus simply says, “Come and see.” This is a call to experience God’s presence, to abide deeply in Christ, and to allow our lives to intersect with God’s love in ways that transform us and our relationships with others. false full 5 37 ba17fdeb-90b5-4982-b57b-ae25f2b059f9 Sun, 24 Aug 2025 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/questions-jesus-asked-sermon-series-whom-will-you-love-2ibyDHWM "Questions Jesus Asked" Sermon Series - "Whom Will You Love?" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:26:29 In this week’s sermon, Pastor Katy reflects on Jesus’ teaching in Luke 6:27–36 to “love your enemies” and challenges us to move beyond transactional relationships into the radical mercy and love of God. With relatable stories and practical examples, the message asks us to consider: Who will you love?—especially those we find difficult to love. In this week’s sermon, Pastor Katy reflects on Jesus’ teaching in Luke 6:27–36 to “love your enemies” and challenges us to move beyond transactional relationships into the radical mercy and love of God. With relatable stories and practical examples, the message asks us to consider: Who will you love?—especially those we find difficult to love. false full 4 37 1fed10da-25a6-4727-8c94-bfda7a95205b Sun, 17 Aug 2025 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/questions-jesus-asked-sermon-series-what-do-you-live-for-IfsREYBb Questions Jesus Asked" Sermon Series - "What Do You Live For? Church of the Messiah UMC 00:22:15 In this week’s message from our Questions Jesus Asked series, Pastor Katy explored Jesus’ words in Mark 8:34–38: “What will it profit them to gain the whole world and forfeit their life?” The sermon invited us to reflect on how we define our identity—through roles, passions, and pursuits—and how easy it is to lose sight of our true belovedness in Christ. Jesus calls us to “put first things first,” to deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow him. True life is not found in chasing the world’s definitions of success, but in living from the deep truth that we belong to God. In this week’s message from our Questions Jesus Asked series, Pastor Katy explored Jesus’ words in Mark 8:34–38: “What will it profit them to gain the whole world and forfeit their life?” The sermon invited us to reflect on how we define our identity—through roles, passions, and pursuits—and how easy it is to lose sight of our true belovedness in Christ. Jesus calls us to “put first things first,” to deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow him. True life is not found in chasing the world’s definitions of success, but in living from the deep truth that we belong to God. false full 3 37 c5df089f-710f-46a1-8c59-82daa0f9c2d6 Sun, 10 Aug 2025 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/questions-jesus-asked-sermon-series-why-are-you-so-afraid-YWnho30T "Questions Jesus Asked" Sermon Series - "Why Are You So Afraid?" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:23:14 “May the peace of Christ be with you.” We say this to one another every week as a part of our worship experience. It’s an expression of hope, of courage, and of expectation that God, through Christ, offers a deep and abiding response to our struggles and fears. What makes you afraid? Spiders? Clowns? Public speaking? Mortality? Does it feel rational or irrational? No matter the source, fear is a lingering presence in our human experience. This week we continue our conversation around “Questions Jesus Asked.” In the midst of a storm on the Sea of Galilee, Jesus asks his disciples: “why are you afraid?” The answer seems obvious! The good news is that God does not leave us to be overcome by our fears. We’ll always experience fear sometimes, and, through Jesus, we become able to trust God’s faithfulness and to discover that we can face and live with fear. I look forward to joining with you for worship this Sunday as we explore this question. “May the peace of Christ be with you.” We say this to one another every week as a part of our worship experience. It’s an expression of hope, of courage, and of expectation that God, through Christ, offers a deep and abiding response to our struggles and fears. What makes you afraid? Spiders? Clowns? Public speaking? Mortality? Does it feel rational or irrational? No matter the source, fear is a lingering presence in our human experience. This week we continue our conversation around “Questions Jesus Asked.” In the midst of a storm on the Sea of Galilee, Jesus asks his disciples: “why are you afraid?” The answer seems obvious! The good news is that God does not leave us to be overcome by our fears. We’ll always experience fear sometimes, and, through Jesus, we become able to trust God’s faithfulness and to discover that we can face and live with fear. I look forward to joining with you for worship this Sunday as we explore this question. false full 2 37 1e46c81c-cd48-4243-b70d-bb3f37b91cd1 Sun, 3 Aug 2025 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/questions-jesus-asked-sermon-series-who-do-you-say-that-i-am-xGPT5SQg "Questions Jesus Asked" Sermon Series - "Who Do You Say that I Am?" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:24:11 We begin a brand-new sermon series: Questions Jesus Asked. Throughout the Gospels, Jesus didn’t just give answers—he asked questions. And those questions still speak to us today. Questions like Why are you afraid? and Who do you say that I am? invite us to look inward and consider what really matters. This Sunday, we’ll reflect on the question Who do you say that I am? (Luke 9:18–27) and consider what it means to name who Jesus is—not just in general, but for us personally. Let’s come ready to listen, respond, and let Jesus’ questions shape our lives. We begin a brand-new sermon series: Questions Jesus Asked. Throughout the Gospels, Jesus didn’t just give answers—he asked questions. And those questions still speak to us today. Questions like Why are you afraid? and Who do you say that I am? invite us to look inward and consider what really matters. This Sunday, we’ll reflect on the question Who do you say that I am? (Luke 9:18–27) and consider what it means to name who Jesus is—not just in general, but for us personally. Let’s come ready to listen, respond, and let Jesus’ questions shape our lives. false full 1 37 3ec29c16-8d90-4d08-87db-760c2020c628 Sun, 27 Jul 2025 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/ive-always-wondered-recurring-2025-sermon-series-faith-science-0xZA4SiO "I've Always Wondered" Recurring 2025 Sermon Series - Faith & Science Church of the Messiah UMC 00:32:02 This Sunday in our I’ve Always Wondered series, we’re asking some big, wonderful questions about faith, science, and wonder. Our guest, Dr. Linn Van Woerkom, is a distinguished physicist, longtime professor at The Ohio State University, and a devoted United Methodist who sees no contradiction between his faith and his scientific work—in fact, he sees a conversation. I’ve had the chance to talk with him over the past few weeks, and I can tell you: you’re in for a treat. We’ll explore questions like: Can you really be both a scientist and a Christian? What do science and faith say together that they can’t say alone? How can mystery be a gift, not a problem? Dr. Van Woerkom’s thoughtful, humble approach reminds us that the more we know, the more we realize how vast God is—and that’s good news. This Sunday in our I’ve Always Wondered series, we’re asking some big, wonderful questions about faith, science, and wonder. Our guest, Dr. Linn Van Woerkom, is a distinguished physicist, longtime professor at The Ohio State University, and a devoted United Methodist who sees no contradiction between his faith and his scientific work—in fact, he sees a conversation. I’ve had the chance to talk with him over the past few weeks, and I can tell you: you’re in for a treat. We’ll explore questions like: Can you really be both a scientist and a Christian? What do science and faith say together that they can’t say alone? How can mystery be a gift, not a problem? Dr. Van Woerkom’s thoughtful, humble approach reminds us that the more we know, the more we realize how vast God is—and that’s good news. false full 2 30 1305a330-7dfd-4daf-805f-fe9a233036a9 Sun, 20 Jul 2025 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/volunteer-accelerator-sunday-message-H0KPdhn0 "Volunteer Accelerator" Sunday Message Church of the Messiah UMC 00:28:26 This Sunday is going to be an exciting day at Messiah! We’ll be celebrating and learning about the many ways God has gifted each of us—and how those gifts can make a real difference in our church and community. Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 12, “Now concerning spiritual gifts, brothers and sisters, I do not want you to be uninformed…” He reminds us that we are one body, made up of many parts, and that the Spirit gives each of us gifts—not for our own benefit, but for the good of all. That’s what it means to follow Jesus: to actively live like him, using what we’ve been given to love God and serve others. We may not all have the same passions or skills, but each of us has something unique to bring to the body of Christ. So, we’re asking—what might God do in this season, in you and through you, if we all stepped a little further into using the gifts we’ve been given? To help us discover that together, we’re launching something new this Sunday: the Volunteer Accelerator. It’s a quick, meaningful tool designed to help you find ways to serve that match who you are and what you love to do. Here’s what you need to know: ✅ It IS… A quick 2–4 minute survey you’ll take right in worship. A way to explore what you enjoy doing and the environments you thrive in. A tool that connects your gifts and interests with real ministry opportunities here at Messiah. 🚫 It is NOT… It is NOT a sign-up or commitment—this is just a first step. It is NOT a new church database—it only collects basic contact information and what you share you have a heart for. It is NOT a spiritual gifts inventory—it focuses on what you like doing and where that might meet a need. I can’t wait to see what God will do in and through you as we continue to live as one body with many gifts—building up this community in meaningful, joyful ways. This Sunday is going to be an exciting day at Messiah! We’ll be celebrating and learning about the many ways God has gifted each of us—and how those gifts can make a real difference in our church and community. Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 12, “Now concerning spiritual gifts, brothers and sisters, I do not want you to be uninformed…” He reminds us that we are one body, made up of many parts, and that the Spirit gives each of us gifts—not for our own benefit, but for the good of all. That’s what it means to follow Jesus: to actively live like him, using what we’ve been given to love God and serve others. We may not all have the same passions or skills, but each of us has something unique to bring to the body of Christ. So, we’re asking—what might God do in this season, in you and through you, if we all stepped a little further into using the gifts we’ve been given? To help us discover that together, we’re launching something new this Sunday: the Volunteer Accelerator. It’s a quick, meaningful tool designed to help you find ways to serve that match who you are and what you love to do. Here’s what you need to know: ✅ It IS… A quick 2–4 minute survey you’ll take right in worship. A way to explore what you enjoy doing and the environments you thrive in. A tool that connects your gifts and interests with real ministry opportunities here at Messiah. 🚫 It is NOT… It is NOT a sign-up or commitment—this is just a first step. It is NOT a new church database—it only collects basic contact information and what you share you have a heart for. It is NOT a spiritual gifts inventory—it focuses on what you like doing and where that might meet a need. I can’t wait to see what God will do in and through you as we continue to live as one body with many gifts—building up this community in meaningful, joyful ways. false full 1 36 0133c4c5-ecc4-42f1-94d0-0a7b5d7b0a6c Sun, 13 Jul 2025 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/bible-101-sermon-series-how-do-i-live-it-out-0F_18lPe Bible 101 Sermon Series "How do I live it out?" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:28:17 This Sunday, we continue in our sermon series Bible 101. The Bible isn’t a book we merely study—it’s a story we step into. Jesus didn’t just call us to know what he taught; he invited us to live it. Scripture speaks to our lives today, calling us to grow in love, compassion, and purpose. We’ll also hear from several members of our Messiah community as they share what the Bible means to them and why they read it. This Sunday, we continue in our sermon series Bible 101. The Bible isn’t a book we merely study—it’s a story we step into. Jesus didn’t just call us to know what he taught; he invited us to live it. Scripture speaks to our lives today, calling us to grow in love, compassion, and purpose. We’ll also hear from several members of our Messiah community as they share what the Bible means to them and why they read it. false full 5 35 0f313193-cf65-40a9-b992-9f1a1995587d Sun, 6 Jul 2025 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/bible-101-sermon-series-why-and-how-do-i-study-the-bible-Qkew1zdr Bible 101 Sermon Series "Why (and how) Do I Study the Bible?" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:28:02 This Sunday, we continue with the fourth week of our Bible 101 series: “Why (and how) do I study the Bible? (It’s for us!)” We’ll explore some of the tools that help us interpret Scripture faithfully and thoughtfully. Whether you’re new to Bible study or have been at it for years, we hope this week’s message and the included Bible 101 Study Guide give you practical, sustainable ideas for deepening your engagement with Scripture. This Sunday, we continue with the fourth week of our Bible 101 series: “Why (and how) do I study the Bible? (It’s for us!)” We’ll explore some of the tools that help us interpret Scripture faithfully and thoughtfully. Whether you’re new to Bible study or have been at it for years, we hope this week’s message and the included Bible 101 Study Guide give you practical, sustainable ideas for deepening your engagement with Scripture. false full 4 35 5c618d79-f852-4fc0-a314-1809e39944c8 Sun, 29 Jun 2025 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/bible-101-sermon-series-how-do-i-read-the-bible-lCrffKQH Bible 101 Sermon Series "How do I read the Bible?" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:19:19 This Sunday marks Week Three of our Bible 101 series, and we’re asking a vital question: How do we read the Bible in a way that leads to understanding and transformation? The truth is, we don’t read Scripture alone. The Holy Spirit plays an essential role—both in the writing of Scripture and in our reading of it. As Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 2, God's truth is spiritually discerned. Without the Spirit, Scripture can feel like just words on a page. But when we invite the Spirit to guide our reading, the Word comes alive. The Spirit opens God’s Word to us—and opens us to God’s Word. This Sunday marks Week Three of our Bible 101 series, and we’re asking a vital question: How do we read the Bible in a way that leads to understanding and transformation? The truth is, we don’t read Scripture alone. The Holy Spirit plays an essential role—both in the writing of Scripture and in our reading of it. As Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 2, God's truth is spiritually discerned. Without the Spirit, Scripture can feel like just words on a page. But when we invite the Spirit to guide our reading, the Word comes alive. The Spirit opens God’s Word to us—and opens us to God’s Word. false full 3 35 289420fc-0d09-41c6-b8c2-8a514d2e8f66 Sun, 22 Jun 2025 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/bible-101-sermon-series-whats-the-bible-for-principles-not-rules-fmTt6fea Bible 101 Sermon Series "What's the Bible for? (Principles, not Rules)" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:29:55 This Sunday, we continue with Week 2 of our sermon series Bible 101. This series is all about rediscovering the Bible—what it is, why it matters, and how we can engage with it more deeply in our everyday lives. This week, we’ll explore a question many people have: Is the Bible just a book of rules? While Scripture is authoritative and God speaks through it, the Bible is far more than a list of dos and don’ts. It’s a collection of wisdom, shaped over centuries and cultures, that reveals God’s heart for justice, love, and faithfulness. From Deuteronomy’s call to love God fully to Micah’s invitation to walk humbly, we’ll discover how biblical principles guide us in today’s complex world. This Sunday, we continue with Week 2 of our sermon series Bible 101. This series is all about rediscovering the Bible—what it is, why it matters, and how we can engage with it more deeply in our everyday lives. This week, we’ll explore a question many people have: Is the Bible just a book of rules? While Scripture is authoritative and God speaks through it, the Bible is far more than a list of dos and don’ts. It’s a collection of wisdom, shaped over centuries and cultures, that reveals God’s heart for justice, love, and faithfulness. From Deuteronomy’s call to love God fully to Micah’s invitation to walk humbly, we’ll discover how biblical principles guide us in today’s complex world. false full 2 35 6e870b5f-f6c0-4dcf-a61a-06864c4e271b Sun, 15 Jun 2025 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/bible-101-sermon-series-whats-the-bible-about-TUgWOVK7 Bible 101 Sermon Series "What's the Bible About?" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:25:11 This Sunday, we begin a new five-week sermon series that I’m especially excited about: Bible 101: Understanding the Bible, One Part at a Time. The Bible is the most important book in the Christian life—our primary guide and spiritual resource—but for many of us, it can feel intimidating, unfamiliar, or even confusing. Maybe you’ve wondered: Where do I start? How do I make sense of it all? What does it really mean for my life today? If you’ve ever had those questions, you are not alone—and this series is for you. Throughout Bible 101, we’ll return to the basics. Think of it as a class where we show up not with all the answers, but with curiosity, hope, and a desire to grow. We’ll explore what the Bible is, the role it plays in our lives, and how we can better read and understand it—so that it becomes more than a book on a shelf, but a living part of our everyday walk with Christ. This Sunday, we’ll start with the big foundational question: What’s the Bible all about? We’ll turn to Luke 4 and 2 Timothy 3 and discover that the Bible is a unified story about God and God’s people that ultimately points us to Jesus. It’s not just a rulebook or a collection of inspirational quotes—it’s a living library. It contains both God’s words and the responses of faithful (and sometimes flawed) people through the centuries. As we’ll see, reading the Bible well means reading it in context—paying attention to its time, place, and purpose. Most importantly, we’ll be reminded that the Bible is not just about the past—it’s God’s tool to guide us today and grow us for tomorrow. Whether you’re a opening the Bible for the first time, a seasoned theologian, or simply need a fresh perspective, you are welcome here. I believe that as we explore these questions together, we will all be encouraged and equipped in our journey as disciples of Jesus. This Sunday, we begin a new five-week sermon series that I’m especially excited about: Bible 101: Understanding the Bible, One Part at a Time. The Bible is the most important book in the Christian life—our primary guide and spiritual resource—but for many of us, it can feel intimidating, unfamiliar, or even confusing. Maybe you’ve wondered: Where do I start? How do I make sense of it all? What does it really mean for my life today? If you’ve ever had those questions, you are not alone—and this series is for you. Throughout Bible 101, we’ll return to the basics. Think of it as a class where we show up not with all the answers, but with curiosity, hope, and a desire to grow. We’ll explore what the Bible is, the role it plays in our lives, and how we can better read and understand it—so that it becomes more than a book on a shelf, but a living part of our everyday walk with Christ. This Sunday, we’ll start with the big foundational question: What’s the Bible all about? We’ll turn to Luke 4 and 2 Timothy 3 and discover that the Bible is a unified story about God and God’s people that ultimately points us to Jesus. It’s not just a rulebook or a collection of inspirational quotes—it’s a living library. It contains both God’s words and the responses of faithful (and sometimes flawed) people through the centuries. As we’ll see, reading the Bible well means reading it in context—paying attention to its time, place, and purpose. Most importantly, we’ll be reminded that the Bible is not just about the past—it’s God’s tool to guide us today and grow us for tomorrow. Whether you’re a opening the Bible for the first time, a seasoned theologian, or simply need a fresh perspective, you are welcome here. I believe that as we explore these questions together, we will all be encouraged and equipped in our journey as disciples of Jesus. false full 1 35 d545c4de-276a-4191-99c5-050eaa8da12d Sun, 8 Jun 2025 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/pentecost-sunday-june-8-2025-L7HAiiln Pentecost Sunday, June 8, 2025 Church of the Messiah UMC 00:23:14 This Sunday is Pentecost—a day when we remember the moment the Holy Spirit filled the early followers of Jesus, empowering them to speak in new languages and share the good news with people from every nation. It was the birth of the Church, a powerful reminder that God is still moving, still speaking, and still sending us out into the world with love, courage, and purpose. This Sunday is Pentecost—a day when we remember the moment the Holy Spirit filled the early followers of Jesus, empowering them to speak in new languages and share the good news with people from every nation. It was the birth of the Church, a powerful reminder that God is still moving, still speaking, and still sending us out into the world with love, courage, and purpose. false full 1 34 9b23153f-010b-4738-9554-3af9f0c53cd2 Sun, 1 Jun 2025 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/it-is-well-a-series-on-mental-and-emotional-wellbeing-hold-on-to-hope-_L2B3_D0 It is *Well: A Series on Mental and Emotional Wellbeing - "Hold on to Hope" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:27:50 This Sunday marks the conclusion of what has been an impactful sermon series for many: It Is Well. Throughout this series, the focus has been on mental and emotional wellbeing—what it is, how it shapes lives and relationships, and how God is present in the midst of it all. The congregation has been invited to be honest about their struggles and to surrender shame to the God who cares deeply for the whole self—body, mind, and spirit. Through it all, the series has celebrated this truth: on the lifelong journey toward mental wellbeing, no one walks alone.  The final message turns toward hope. Hope is not wishful thinking—it is a foundation built on the steady faithfulness of God. Even amid suffering, God is present, and God’s mercies are new every morning. True hope does not ignore pain but meets it head-on, trusting that grief, struggle, and hope can coexist in the presence of God and sustain us through even the darkest seasons.  To help the community reflect more deeply, all worship services will include a meaningful conversation with two mental healthcare professionals: Rev. Dr. Henry Stringer, Ph.D., and Rachel Fox, LPCC-S. This Sunday marks the conclusion of what has been an impactful sermon series for many: It Is Well. Throughout this series, the focus has been on mental and emotional wellbeing—what it is, how it shapes lives and relationships, and how God is present in the midst of it all. The congregation has been invited to be honest about their struggles and to surrender shame to the God who cares deeply for the whole self—body, mind, and spirit. Through it all, the series has celebrated this truth: on the lifelong journey toward mental wellbeing, no one walks alone.  The final message turns toward hope. Hope is not wishful thinking—it is a foundation built on the steady faithfulness of God. Even amid suffering, God is present, and God’s mercies are new every morning. True hope does not ignore pain but meets it head-on, trusting that grief, struggle, and hope can coexist in the presence of God and sustain us through even the darkest seasons.  To help the community reflect more deeply, all worship services will include a meaningful conversation with two mental healthcare professionals: Rev. Dr. Henry Stringer, Ph.D., and Rachel Fox, LPCC-S. false full 5 33 86991427-794b-4913-9a42-1f552a3a776d Sun, 25 May 2025 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/it-is-well-a-series-on-mental-and-emotional-wellbeing-see-with-their-eyes-6HTRxc2F It is *Well: A Series on Mental and Emotional Wellbeing - "See with Their Eyes" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:29:31 Compassion is a hallmark of the gospel stories. Time and again Jesus encounters a person in need and, seeing them, has compassion for them and responds to the need in some way. Sometimes it is lunch, sometimes healing, sometimes shared wisdom, and sometimes the simple gift of presence. This week we are continuing our sermon series It Is Well* as we reflect on ways we can offer compassion to one another and even to ourselves as we muddle through the journey of life. Mental and emotional pain often isolates us from the routines, relationships, and resources we need most. It can feel like our experience is ours alone. The Bible tells a different story. God is close, we are not alone, and we can offer the gift of community, compassion, and presence to those around us. True care means building networks of support inside and outside the church so that we can bear one another’s burdens in ways that are sustainable, life-giving, and rooted in the love of Christ. Compassion is a hallmark of the gospel stories. Time and again Jesus encounters a person in need and, seeing them, has compassion for them and responds to the need in some way. Sometimes it is lunch, sometimes healing, sometimes shared wisdom, and sometimes the simple gift of presence. This week we are continuing our sermon series It Is Well* as we reflect on ways we can offer compassion to one another and even to ourselves as we muddle through the journey of life. Mental and emotional pain often isolates us from the routines, relationships, and resources we need most. It can feel like our experience is ours alone. The Bible tells a different story. God is close, we are not alone, and we can offer the gift of community, compassion, and presence to those around us. True care means building networks of support inside and outside the church so that we can bear one another’s burdens in ways that are sustainable, life-giving, and rooted in the love of Christ. false full 4 33 eb5e7057-0d7b-48dd-b4e8-2e43379ec689 Sun, 18 May 2025 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/it-is-well-a-series-on-mental-and-emotional-wellbeing-run-your-race-rVPIyqc2 It is *Well: A Series on Mental and Emotional Wellbeing - "Run Your Race" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:23:59 This Sunday, we move into Week 3 of our sermon series It Is Well*, and we’re reflecting on what it means to live with perseverance and endurance—especially when the journey is long. Life with mental or emotional wounds is not a sprint. It’s a marathon of faith. Some seasons we flourish; other seasons we simply keep going. Through it all, we are not defined by our struggles, but held by God’s sustaining grace. Hebrews 12 encourages us to “run with perseverance the race set before us,” with our eyes fixed on Jesus. And Psalm 92 reminds us that celebration and lament often coexist—we can lift our voices in joy while being honest about our pain. As a reminder, our Resource Guide is available both digitally and in print at the church. This guide offers a starting point for anyone walking through a difficult season or supporting someone who is. It’s not exhaustive, but it’s full of helpful places to begin. If this series is bringing things to the surface for you, please know: you are not alone, and you are deeply loved. We encourage you to use or share this resource as needed. This Sunday, we move into Week 3 of our sermon series It Is Well*, and we’re reflecting on what it means to live with perseverance and endurance—especially when the journey is long. Life with mental or emotional wounds is not a sprint. It’s a marathon of faith. Some seasons we flourish; other seasons we simply keep going. Through it all, we are not defined by our struggles, but held by God’s sustaining grace. Hebrews 12 encourages us to “run with perseverance the race set before us,” with our eyes fixed on Jesus. And Psalm 92 reminds us that celebration and lament often coexist—we can lift our voices in joy while being honest about our pain. As a reminder, our Resource Guide is available both digitally and in print at the church. This guide offers a starting point for anyone walking through a difficult season or supporting someone who is. It’s not exhaustive, but it’s full of helpful places to begin. If this series is bringing things to the surface for you, please know: you are not alone, and you are deeply loved. We encourage you to use or share this resource as needed. false full 3 33 6461263d-c0a4-4e26-9a86-94c572cad227 Sun, 11 May 2025 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/it-is-well-a-series-on-mental-and-emotional-wellbeing-healthy-takes-work-1V1Wih_i It is *Well: A Series on Mental and Emotional Wellbeing - "Healthy Takes Work" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:26:47 As we continue our sermon series “It Is Well*,” we are reminded that the journey toward mental and emotional wellbeing begins with one of the most courageous acts of all: honesty. This Sunday, we’ll explore how unspoken burdens can quietly shape our lives—and how naming them, and surrendering them to God, can be the first step toward healing. This work isn’t easy. Wellness rarely arrives all at once. It takes intention, practice, grace, and community. But it begins with acknowledging what’s within us and trusting that God receives it with compassion. I hope you can join us. As we continue our sermon series “It Is Well*,” we are reminded that the journey toward mental and emotional wellbeing begins with one of the most courageous acts of all: honesty. This Sunday, we’ll explore how unspoken burdens can quietly shape our lives—and how naming them, and surrendering them to God, can be the first step toward healing. This work isn’t easy. Wellness rarely arrives all at once. It takes intention, practice, grace, and community. But it begins with acknowledging what’s within us and trusting that God receives it with compassion. I hope you can join us. false full 2 33 82df8b05-8379-45a5-a4a6-7894241c2f57 Sun, 4 May 2025 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/it-is-well-a-series-on-mental-and-emotional-wellbeing-dangerous-myths-of-mental-health-FTdb5sLs It is *Well: A Series on Mental and Emotional Wellbeing - "Dangerous Myths of Mental Health" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:20:59 Human flourishing is holistic – heart, soul, mind, and strength. Our mental and emotional wellbeing is part of God’s hope for us. And yet countless people in our church and community struggle – often in secret – to honestly say “It is well” when it comes to mental and emotional health. Often, it is *not well. In this series, we’ll explore mental and emotional wellbeing – what it is, how it affects us and those around us, and how (and where) God is present. Together, using the lenses of scripture, personal experience, and psychology, we’ll break down harmful myths surrounding faith and mental health and embrace life-giving truths. We’ll work to be honest about our struggles and surrender our shame to the God who cares deeply about our whole being – body, mind, and spirit. And we’ll celebrate that on the lifelong journey towards mental wellbeing – when it is well, and when it is not – we never walk alone. We walk together, accompanied by God, every step of the way. There’s a good deal of misunderstanding at the intersection of faith and mental and emotional health, leading to harmful myths that create shame and isolation. Into this God speaks to us a promise: we are fearfully and wonderfully made, not broken beyond repair. God does not reject us but redeems and heals us. Human flourishing is holistic – heart, soul, mind, and strength. Our mental and emotional wellbeing is part of God’s hope for us. And yet countless people in our church and community struggle – often in secret – to honestly say “It is well” when it comes to mental and emotional health. Often, it is *not well. In this series, we’ll explore mental and emotional wellbeing – what it is, how it affects us and those around us, and how (and where) God is present. Together, using the lenses of scripture, personal experience, and psychology, we’ll break down harmful myths surrounding faith and mental health and embrace life-giving truths. We’ll work to be honest about our struggles and surrender our shame to the God who cares deeply about our whole being – body, mind, and spirit. And we’ll celebrate that on the lifelong journey towards mental wellbeing – when it is well, and when it is not – we never walk alone. We walk together, accompanied by God, every step of the way. There’s a good deal of misunderstanding at the intersection of faith and mental and emotional health, leading to harmful myths that create shame and isolation. Into this God speaks to us a promise: we are fearfully and wonderfully made, not broken beyond repair. God does not reject us but redeems and heals us. false full 1 33 4ce538ad-94dd-4853-a1cc-af925f4d61df Sun, 27 Apr 2025 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/hearing-god-a-lenten-sermon-series-now-what-9c57CSP9 Hearing God: A Lenten Sermon Series - "Now What?" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:15:20 It was a delight to celebrate the resurrection with you on Easter Sunday. Flowers, singing, egg hunting, and, especially, gathering to be the church together I am grateful every week for the energy and faithfulness we all pour into our life together at Church of the Messiah. Throughout the Lenten season we took time to think of how and where we hear from God. This week we close that conversation with “Now What?” We find the the disciples locked in a room pondering their next steps. Sometimes life leaves in this same space. Now what? We come to the end of one season of life and find ourselves faced with the unknowns of a new season. God meets us powerfully at the junctions of change in our lives, and allows us to be fully human with the questions that emerge. It was a delight to celebrate the resurrection with you on Easter Sunday. Flowers, singing, egg hunting, and, especially, gathering to be the church together I am grateful every week for the energy and faithfulness we all pour into our life together at Church of the Messiah. Throughout the Lenten season we took time to think of how and where we hear from God. This week we close that conversation with “Now What?” We find the the disciples locked in a room pondering their next steps. Sometimes life leaves in this same space. Now what? We come to the end of one season of life and find ourselves faced with the unknowns of a new season. God meets us powerfully at the junctions of change in our lives, and allows us to be fully human with the questions that emerge. false full 8 32 07b9311d-2a5d-456b-8f9f-8652f7fdbc23 Sun, 20 Apr 2025 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/easter-message-2025-pEL__kdH Easter Message 2025 Church of the Messiah UMC 00:22:07 Christ is Risen! Christ is Risen Indeed! Welcome to Church of the Messiah on this joyful Easter morning. What a gift it is to gather together and proclaim the good news: Jesus is alive! Death has been defeated. Hope has been restored. Love has won. Our mission is simple, but powerful: to Know Christ, Grow in Faith, and Serve Others. Today, we celebrate the heart of that mission—the resurrection of Christ, which changes everything. There are so many wonderful churches you could have chosen to celebrate Easter with, and the fact that you chose to be here humbles and honors us deeply. Whether you’re brand new or have been part of our church family for years, we’re glad you’re here. We’re a multigenerational community, and we invite you to participate however you feel comfortable. For some, that means engaging in every part of the service. For others, it’s sitting quietly and soaking it all in. And for many, it’s somewhere in between. However you worship today, we’re simply grateful for your presence. Today is also a special opportunity to respond to resurrection hope with generosity. This year, Easter offering will help address global hunger and building local homes. Your gift helps fund 50,000 meals through Lifeline Christian Mission and supports Habitat for Humanity in constructing walls for a home right here in Westerville. Every gift makes a difference. You can give today in worship, online, or anytime at messiahumc.net. 100% of your gift goes directly to these life- changing projects. Thank you for being part of this Easter celebration—and for being part of the hope we proclaim. Christ is Risen! Christ is Risen Indeed! Welcome to Church of the Messiah on this joyful Easter morning. What a gift it is to gather together and proclaim the good news: Jesus is alive! Death has been defeated. Hope has been restored. Love has won. Our mission is simple, but powerful: to Know Christ, Grow in Faith, and Serve Others. Today, we celebrate the heart of that mission—the resurrection of Christ, which changes everything. There are so many wonderful churches you could have chosen to celebrate Easter with, and the fact that you chose to be here humbles and honors us deeply. Whether you’re brand new or have been part of our church family for years, we’re glad you’re here. We’re a multigenerational community, and we invite you to participate however you feel comfortable. For some, that means engaging in every part of the service. For others, it’s sitting quietly and soaking it all in. And for many, it’s somewhere in between. However you worship today, we’re simply grateful for your presence. Today is also a special opportunity to respond to resurrection hope with generosity. This year, Easter offering will help address global hunger and building local homes. Your gift helps fund 50,000 meals through Lifeline Christian Mission and supports Habitat for Humanity in constructing walls for a home right here in Westerville. Every gift makes a difference. You can give today in worship, online, or anytime at messiahumc.net. 100% of your gift goes directly to these life- changing projects. Thank you for being part of this Easter celebration—and for being part of the hope we proclaim. false full 7 32 06872e44-97b3-4cad-96d7-36bd369a2815 Sun, 13 Apr 2025 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/hearing-god-a-lenten-sermon-series-palm-sunday-MLOi_8rU Hearing God: A Lenten Sermon Series - Palm Sunday Church of the Messiah UMC 00:28:41 Holy Week begins this Sunday—Palm Sunday—and I want to personally invite you to be part of it. This sacred week invites us to walk with Jesus through his final days, from the joy of palm branches waving to the heartbreak of the cross, and finally to the celebration of the empty tomb. Each moment matters. Each step draws us closer to the heart of our faith. Holy Week begins this Sunday—Palm Sunday—and I want to personally invite you to be part of it. This sacred week invites us to walk with Jesus through his final days, from the joy of palm branches waving to the heartbreak of the cross, and finally to the celebration of the empty tomb. Each moment matters. Each step draws us closer to the heart of our faith. false full 6 32 e84fb578-8052-47a5-8f49-293f80c78936 Sun, 30 Mar 2025 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/hearing-god-a-lenten-sermon-series-in-our-soul-TZmk0gGa Hearing God: A Lenten Sermon Series - "In Our Soul" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:30:38 This Sunday, we continue our Lenten series, Hearing God, as we turn to the story of Elijah in 1 Kings 19:1–13. Elijah experiences God not in the wind, the earthquake, or the fire—but in a still, small voice. In a world full of distractions and noise, how do we learn to recognize God’s voice within us? Sometimes it whispers. Sometimes it shouts. Always, it calls us toward love, truth, and peace. This week, we’ll reflect on the personal journey of discernment—how we listen and respond to God speaking internally. This Sunday, we continue our Lenten series, Hearing God, as we turn to the story of Elijah in 1 Kings 19:1–13. Elijah experiences God not in the wind, the earthquake, or the fire—but in a still, small voice. In a world full of distractions and noise, how do we learn to recognize God’s voice within us? Sometimes it whispers. Sometimes it shouts. Always, it calls us toward love, truth, and peace. This week, we’ll reflect on the personal journey of discernment—how we listen and respond to God speaking internally. false full 4 32 e1758d75-b2c4-4641-9680-b025c2d0421b Sun, 23 Mar 2025 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/hearing-god-a-lenten-sermon-series-prophecy-PVDp7nU2 Hearing God: A Lenten Sermon Series - "Prophecy" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:23:47 “Pardon our Dust.” It’s a sure indication of progress when we begin dismantling something. Before anything new can happen, something old has to be removed. Jesus reminds his listeners that one never puts new wine in old wineskins. The old wineskins are no longer suitable to the task and will burst or split. “Pardon our Dust.” This phrase has been on my mind a lot this week as Phase 2 construction work is in full swing. The inevitable dust, and noise, and occasional smells have become reliable companions in and around the church building. Prophets are like construction crews. They come along speaking truth into our lives, pouring new wine into our old wineskins, disrupting the status quo, and generally dismantling our assumptions and habits. The result is growth as we are stretched into deeper connection with God. Letting go of old ways and making room for new ways is what Lent is all about. This week, in our Hearing Godseries, we’ll take a look at how we hear what God is saying to us through the sometimes uncomfortable words of prophets old and new. “Pardon our Dust.” It’s a sure indication of progress when we begin dismantling something. Before anything new can happen, something old has to be removed. Jesus reminds his listeners that one never puts new wine in old wineskins. The old wineskins are no longer suitable to the task and will burst or split. “Pardon our Dust.” This phrase has been on my mind a lot this week as Phase 2 construction work is in full swing. The inevitable dust, and noise, and occasional smells have become reliable companions in and around the church building. Prophets are like construction crews. They come along speaking truth into our lives, pouring new wine into our old wineskins, disrupting the status quo, and generally dismantling our assumptions and habits. The result is growth as we are stretched into deeper connection with God. Letting go of old ways and making room for new ways is what Lent is all about. This week, in our Hearing Godseries, we’ll take a look at how we hear what God is saying to us through the sometimes uncomfortable words of prophets old and new. false full 3 32 322d4601-c5b4-4558-8b81-069e00dede18 Sun, 16 Mar 2025 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/hearing-god-a-lenten-sermon-series-the-written-word-ANHhxQGm Hearing God: A Lenten Sermon Series - "The Written Word " Church of the Messiah UMC 00:26:13 The Bible has the power to translate the world around us and tell a truer, better story that exposes lies and reveals the coming hope of life as it should be. And yet, the Bible can be a polarizing topic because we all come to it with different histories and experiences. We want to take time to understand where each of us began this journey and where each of us hopes to go with it. The Bible has the power to translate the world around us and tell a truer, better story that exposes lies and reveals the coming hope of life as it should be. And yet, the Bible can be a polarizing topic because we all come to it with different histories and experiences. We want to take time to understand where each of us began this journey and where each of us hopes to go with it. false full 2 32 0db7422f-7812-4655-9d98-ab8e780384cf Sun, 9 Mar 2025 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/hearing-god-a-lenten-sermon-series-the-living-word-PqKPh_qn Hearing God: A Lenten Sermon Series - "The Living Word" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:27:47 Hearing God's voice is not about searching for a distant whisper—it’s about recognizing Jesus, the Living Word, as God's ultimate voice to humanity. Hebrews 1:2 declares that in these last days, God has spoken to us by His Son. When Jesus says, 'My sheep hear my voice' (John 10:27), He is not just referring to a moment of divine prompting, but to Himself as the very Word made flesh (John 1:14). To hear God is to know Christ—to abide in His teachings, to trust His promises, and to follow where He leads. As we listen, we are not chasing after mere echoes of the past; we are responding to the ever-living voice of Jesus, the One who still speaks, still leads, and still transforms lives today. Hearing God's voice is not about searching for a distant whisper—it’s about recognizing Jesus, the Living Word, as God's ultimate voice to humanity. Hebrews 1:2 declares that in these last days, God has spoken to us by His Son. When Jesus says, 'My sheep hear my voice' (John 10:27), He is not just referring to a moment of divine prompting, but to Himself as the very Word made flesh (John 1:14). To hear God is to know Christ—to abide in His teachings, to trust His promises, and to follow where He leads. As we listen, we are not chasing after mere echoes of the past; we are responding to the ever-living voice of Jesus, the One who still speaks, still leads, and still transforms lives today. false full 1 32 3fa8efac-9c93-4170-ad9f-cf8a53cff5f3 Wed, 5 Mar 2025 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/ash-wednesday-2025-sermon-give-in-LWWzJ5hX Ash Wednesday 2025 Sermon, "Give In" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:10:37 false full 1 31 e1a7e965-48b0-477f-bfa2-9b75f5a9bd9e Sun, 2 Mar 2025 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/ive-always-wondered-recurring-2025-sermon-series-how-do-i-share-my-story-6wmNBxti "I've Always Wondered" Recurring 2025 Sermon Series - How Do I Share My Story? Church of the Messiah UMC 00:33:37 This Sunday, we’re launching something new—a recurring sermon series! Just like we introduced recurring series in 2024, we’re rolling out a new one for 2025 called “I’ve Always Wondered.” This series will happen multiple times throughout the year, diving into the deep and often unspoken questions of faith. We all have questions—about God, faith, life, and the world around us. "I've Always Wondered" is a conversation-driven series designed to explore those big questions through engaging panel discussions with pastors and guest speakers. Topics will include: How can we share our faith without fear? What is the relationship between mental health and spirituality? How do science and faith interact? What does Christianity say about other religions? Why does a loving God allow suffering? This Sunday, we’re team preaching on a topic that’s so important: Sharing Faith Without Fear. Many of us want to share our faith but struggle with how to do it well. Evangelism isn’t about pressure—it’s about authentically sharing our story with love, humility, and wisdom. And—bring your phone! We’ll have an interactive component during the service. Volunteer Summit – Step Into Service! This Sunday, we’re launching something new—a recurring sermon series! Just like we introduced recurring series in 2024, we’re rolling out a new one for 2025 called “I’ve Always Wondered.” This series will happen multiple times throughout the year, diving into the deep and often unspoken questions of faith. We all have questions—about God, faith, life, and the world around us. "I've Always Wondered" is a conversation-driven series designed to explore those big questions through engaging panel discussions with pastors and guest speakers. Topics will include: How can we share our faith without fear? What is the relationship between mental health and spirituality? How do science and faith interact? What does Christianity say about other religions? Why does a loving God allow suffering? This Sunday, we’re team preaching on a topic that’s so important: Sharing Faith Without Fear. Many of us want to share our faith but struggle with how to do it well. Evangelism isn’t about pressure—it’s about authentically sharing our story with love, humility, and wisdom. And—bring your phone! We’ll have an interactive component during the service. Volunteer Summit – Step Into Service! false full 1 30 76bcfee7-b4e0-45c7-9a1a-753961ec9b24 Sun, 23 Feb 2025 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/better-decisions-fewer-regrets-the-relationship-question-vidvdagb-8LCBpfcK Better Decisions, Fewer Regrets - "The Relationship Question" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:22:03 Relationships shape our lives in profound ways. The people we surround ourselves with, the way we treat others, and the choices we make in our interactions can lead to joy, connection, and fulfillment—or regret and brokenness. In the final message of Better Decisions, Fewer Regrets, we’ll explore one powerful question that brings undeniable clarity to every relational decision you face. But be warned—this question isn’t always easy to answer. It challenges us to pause, reflect, and consider what love truly requires of us. If you’re ready to navigate relationships with wisdom, integrity, and grace, don’t miss this powerful conclusion to our series. Relationships shape our lives in profound ways. The people we surround ourselves with, the way we treat others, and the choices we make in our interactions can lead to joy, connection, and fulfillment—or regret and brokenness. In the final message of Better Decisions, Fewer Regrets, we’ll explore one powerful question that brings undeniable clarity to every relational decision you face. But be warned—this question isn’t always easy to answer. It challenges us to pause, reflect, and consider what love truly requires of us. If you’re ready to navigate relationships with wisdom, integrity, and grace, don’t miss this powerful conclusion to our series. false full 6 29 45f9e83c-84ed-43de-938b-aae63b14d8d4 Sun, 16 Feb 2025 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/better-decisions-fewer-regrets-the-relationship-question-92GhdsEk Better Decisions, Fewer Regrets - "The Maturity Question" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:19:12 Better Decisions, Fewer Regrets. This phrase echoed throughout our recent mission journey in Cuba. Sometimes, it was a sly remark after a mistake; sometimes it was a word of warning on an unlevel or slippery sidewalk. And, sometimes, it was an observation of lessons learned as we heard about how various ministries in Cuba have evolved and grown over the years. There is no substitute for experience in our life of faithfulness. The Apostle Paul writes: “be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what is the will of God—what is good and acceptable and perfect.” Renewing. This is a process of growing in our ability to ask good questions, make better decisions, and (hopefully) experience fewer regrets. This week we are taking time to examine The Maturity Question. We are called to grow. It comes in leaps and bounds, slow steady progress, and sometimes in repetition of old mistakes until lessons take root. No matter our path, we are called to continue forward in persistent discipleship, always trusting that God is faithful in the process. Better Decisions, Fewer Regrets. This phrase echoed throughout our recent mission journey in Cuba. Sometimes, it was a sly remark after a mistake; sometimes it was a word of warning on an unlevel or slippery sidewalk. And, sometimes, it was an observation of lessons learned as we heard about how various ministries in Cuba have evolved and grown over the years. There is no substitute for experience in our life of faithfulness. The Apostle Paul writes: “be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what is the will of God—what is good and acceptable and perfect.” Renewing. This is a process of growing in our ability to ask good questions, make better decisions, and (hopefully) experience fewer regrets. This week we are taking time to examine The Maturity Question. We are called to grow. It comes in leaps and bounds, slow steady progress, and sometimes in repetition of old mistakes until lessons take root. No matter our path, we are called to continue forward in persistent discipleship, always trusting that God is faithful in the process. false full 5 29 ea7d20f8-1df5-4281-9965-5af7dd63a63e Sun, 9 Feb 2025 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/better-decisions-fewer-regrets-the-conscience-question-VmUjNjSp Better Decisions, Fewer Regrets - "The Conscience Question" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:24:13 As we continue our sermon series, Better Decisions, Fewer Regrets, this Sunday, we’ll explore “The Conscience Question” through the lens of Ephesians 5:11–16. How do we tune in to the voice of wisdom in our decision-making? I look forward to diving into this important conversation with you! As we continue our sermon series, Better Decisions, Fewer Regrets, this Sunday, we’ll explore “The Conscience Question” through the lens of Ephesians 5:11–16. How do we tune in to the voice of wisdom in our decision-making? I look forward to diving into this important conversation with you! false full 4 29 4cdd6fc7-5a93-41ad-8a90-31595516ae38 Sun, 2 Feb 2025 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/better-decisions-fewer-regrets-the-legacy-question-FlMT6E7N Better Decisions, Fewer Regrets - "The Legacy Question" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:29:28 As we continue our sermon series, Better Decisions, Fewer Regrets, this week we’re exploring how our lives are more than random, disconnected events. They are stories being written. Whether it's a thoughtful response or an emotionally fueled reaction, we write the stories of our lives one decision at a time. I hope you’ll join us as we reflect on the power of our choices and how they shape our journey. As we continue our sermon series, Better Decisions, Fewer Regrets, this week we’re exploring how our lives are more than random, disconnected events. They are stories being written. Whether it's a thoughtful response or an emotionally fueled reaction, we write the stories of our lives one decision at a time. I hope you’ll join us as we reflect on the power of our choices and how they shape our journey. false full 3 29 6684f3c4-fc69-4000-ae99-2f50080eaf19 Sun, 26 Jan 2025 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/better-decisions-fewer-regrets-the-integrity-question-C9Q5arav Better Decisions, Fewer Regrets - "The Integrity Question" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:24:49 We’re diving into the second week of our sermon series, Better Decisions, Fewer Regrets. Based on Andy Stanley’s teachings, this series offers five key questions to guide us toward better decision-making. This week’s focus is on integrity—living with honesty and faithfulness. It’s easy to deceive ourselves, but doing the hard work of being honest with “the person in the mirror” helps us avoid regrets and walk in wisdom. We’re diving into the second week of our sermon series, Better Decisions, Fewer Regrets. Based on Andy Stanley’s teachings, this series offers five key questions to guide us toward better decision-making. This week’s focus is on integrity—living with honesty and faithfulness. It’s easy to deceive ourselves, but doing the hard work of being honest with “the person in the mirror” helps us avoid regrets and walk in wisdom. false full 2 29 7c4d1a4c-832c-4481-8e80-7e7ab998d2ca Sun, 19 Jan 2025 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/better-decisions-fewer-regrets-deciding-our-way-forward-LPHokUZM Better Decisions, Fewer Regrets - "Deciding Our Way Forward" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:25:46 We make countless decisions every day. In life, we all face moments where a decision can shape our future. Whether it's in our finances, relationships, career, or personal growth, the choices we make write the story of our lives. The Better Decisions, Fewer Regrets series, based on Andy Stanley's teachings, invites us to discover five powerful questions to ask before making any major decision. This series will help you build a decision-making framework that leads to success in every season of life. With the right questions, you can avoid bad decisions, protect your future from regret, and create a life marked by wisdom and clarity. Join us as we explore how to make better decisions, understand their long-term impact, and transform our lives and relationships in ways that honor God and set us on a path toward lasting joy and fulfillment. We make countless decisions every day. In life, we all face moments where a decision can shape our future. Whether it's in our finances, relationships, career, or personal growth, the choices we make write the story of our lives. The Better Decisions, Fewer Regrets series, based on Andy Stanley's teachings, invites us to discover five powerful questions to ask before making any major decision. This series will help you build a decision-making framework that leads to success in every season of life. With the right questions, you can avoid bad decisions, protect your future from regret, and create a life marked by wisdom and clarity. Join us as we explore how to make better decisions, understand their long-term impact, and transform our lives and relationships in ways that honor God and set us on a path toward lasting joy and fulfillment. false full 1 29 9b7f855b-e453-4445-b2fa-a05c6384434d Sun, 12 Jan 2025 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/state-of-the-church-2024-J7HQV_YD State of the Church, 2024 Church of the Messiah UMC 00:38:29 This Sunday, Church of the Messiah will gather for a special "State of the Church" Sunday. This time of reflection highlights the incredible mission and ministry work that has taken place throughout 2024—a year of growth, generosity, and transformation, where the call to be the hands and feet of Jesus has been lived out in powerful ways. The sermon will celebrate the many ways the gospel has been proclaimed and God’s love shared. From nurturing children to packing meals, digging wells to sharing soul-stirring music, and extending compassion through countless acts of kindness, Messiah’s impact has reached far and wide. Behind every number and story is a person, a family, or a community touched by the love and hope shared through this ministry. During the service, the 2024 Impact Report will be shared. This report captures the extraordinary work God has accomplished through the congregation over the past year and serves as a reminder of the lives transformed by this ministry. It stands as a celebration of God’s activity and faithfulness. In addition to reflecting on 2024, the service will look ahead to a fruitful 2025. Together, the congregation will dream boldly, give generously, and serve faithfully in the year to come. This Sunday, Church of the Messiah will gather for a special "State of the Church" Sunday. This time of reflection highlights the incredible mission and ministry work that has taken place throughout 2024—a year of growth, generosity, and transformation, where the call to be the hands and feet of Jesus has been lived out in powerful ways. The sermon will celebrate the many ways the gospel has been proclaimed and God’s love shared. From nurturing children to packing meals, digging wells to sharing soul-stirring music, and extending compassion through countless acts of kindness, Messiah’s impact has reached far and wide. Behind every number and story is a person, a family, or a community touched by the love and hope shared through this ministry. During the service, the 2024 Impact Report will be shared. This report captures the extraordinary work God has accomplished through the congregation over the past year and serves as a reminder of the lives transformed by this ministry. It stands as a celebration of God’s activity and faithfulness. In addition to reflecting on 2024, the service will look ahead to a fruitful 2025. Together, the congregation will dream boldly, give generously, and serve faithfully in the year to come. false full 1 28 4116ebf4-6722-4457-b708-5769467bbb1d Sun, 5 Jan 2025 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/let-there-be-light-epiphany-light-leads-eqWAZ0zl Let There Be Light - Epiphany "Light Leads" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:21:05 Reports I’ve seen indicate that 94% of people will fail their New Year’s resolution by this time next year. Isn’t that encouraging? You’re not defective! No one is a robot! Given that perfection is impossible, let’s commit to try anyway. Let’s try to be faithful together; try to exercise compassion and love; try to follow the light of Christ in our lives in some new way. It won’t be perfect, but it will be authentic and real and heart-felt, and that’s good enough. Reports I’ve seen indicate that 94% of people will fail their New Year’s resolution by this time next year. Isn’t that encouraging? You’re not defective! No one is a robot! Given that perfection is impossible, let’s commit to try anyway. Let’s try to be faithful together; try to exercise compassion and love; try to follow the light of Christ in our lives in some new way. It won’t be perfect, but it will be authentic and real and heart-felt, and that’s good enough. false full 7 27 6cec37aa-0b94-40d5-95dc-9323d01626e3 Sun, 29 Dec 2024 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/let-there-be-light-bearers-of-light-_N4LWJj2 Let There Be Light - "Bearers of Light" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:25:53 Have you recovered? The wrapping, and unwrapping, is complete. Christmas meals have been cooked and eaten. Family and friends have gathered and left. Special Church services have come and gone, leaving behind an afterglow of candlelight and “heaven-on-earth” sacredness. It’s around this time every year that I find myself thinking, “now what?” The long-promised Messiah has come. Jesus, Emmanuel, lives in and through us. And … our world is still the same world; people are still beautiful and broken, and God’s call on our lives to bring light and hope remains. Howard Thurman puts it like this: The Work of Christmas When the song of the angels is stilled, when the star in the sky is gone, when the kings and princes are home, when the shepherds are back with their flocks, the work of Christmas begins: to find the lost, to heal the broken, to feed the hungry, to release the prisoner, to rebuild the nations, to bring peace among the people, to make music in the heart. Have you recovered? The wrapping, and unwrapping, is complete. Christmas meals have been cooked and eaten. Family and friends have gathered and left. Special Church services have come and gone, leaving behind an afterglow of candlelight and “heaven-on-earth” sacredness. It’s around this time every year that I find myself thinking, “now what?” The long-promised Messiah has come. Jesus, Emmanuel, lives in and through us. And … our world is still the same world; people are still beautiful and broken, and God’s call on our lives to bring light and hope remains. Howard Thurman puts it like this: The Work of Christmas When the song of the angels is stilled, when the star in the sky is gone, when the kings and princes are home, when the shepherds are back with their flocks, the work of Christmas begins: to find the lost, to heal the broken, to feed the hungry, to release the prisoner, to rebuild the nations, to bring peace among the people, to make music in the heart. false full 6 27 40964d73-99d8-42bd-87b2-ac84b1e1f0d7 Tue, 24 Dec 2024 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/let-there-be-light-light-reveals-christmas-eve-YYa86N2Z Let There Be Light - "Light Reveals" (Christmas Eve) Church of the Messiah UMC 00:16:46 The best part of any day, in my opinion, is just before dawn when the light is coming. The world is still dark and quiet, nothing has happened yet, and anything is possible. No matter what yesterday held, the day ahead feels full of new hope. Watching the light slowly emerge, almost imperceptible at first, is like witnessing a fresh start. Christmas Eve holds that same kind of anticipation—a moment where the world waits in the dark, knowing the light is about to come. The coming of Jesus is like the dawn of a new day for the world—a chance for renewal and hope, no matter our past. His light breaks through our darkness, bringing new possibilities, lifting our weariness, and offering hope in uncertainty. Each day is a gift, a new beginning, just like His light that comes no matter what, offering renewal and the promise of something greater. This Christmas Eve, how can we embrace the hope and possibility His light brings? The best part of any day, in my opinion, is just before dawn when the light is coming. The world is still dark and quiet, nothing has happened yet, and anything is possible. No matter what yesterday held, the day ahead feels full of new hope. Watching the light slowly emerge, almost imperceptible at first, is like witnessing a fresh start. Christmas Eve holds that same kind of anticipation—a moment where the world waits in the dark, knowing the light is about to come. The coming of Jesus is like the dawn of a new day for the world—a chance for renewal and hope, no matter our past. His light breaks through our darkness, bringing new possibilities, lifting our weariness, and offering hope in uncertainty. Each day is a gift, a new beginning, just like His light that comes no matter what, offering renewal and the promise of something greater. This Christmas Eve, how can we embrace the hope and possibility His light brings? false full 5 27 0a5c3ff5-4d32-466a-b2f3-fe4d86372ca9 Sun, 22 Dec 2024 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/let-there-be-light-light-encourages-7gsQrX2z Let There Be Light - "Light Encourages" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:18:25 Some of us know the weight of seasonal affective disorder (SAD) as winter’s light fades. The days are short, the clouds heavy, and the lack of light discourages us. But then, when the sun breaks through or a bright light shines, we feel a lift in our mood, a spring in our step, increased clarity and focus. Light encourages us. In the same way, Jesus is the light that breaks through our darkest moments, bringing hope and strength. As the days get shorter and the world feels darker, we need His light even more. Just as candles brighten the Advent wreath, growing brighter week by week, Jesus brightens our lives the closer we draw to him, offering the encouragement we need to keep going. His light brings life and hope, fulfilling the promise of a great light for those in darkness. Some of us know the weight of seasonal affective disorder (SAD) as winter’s light fades. The days are short, the clouds heavy, and the lack of light discourages us. But then, when the sun breaks through or a bright light shines, we feel a lift in our mood, a spring in our step, increased clarity and focus. Light encourages us. In the same way, Jesus is the light that breaks through our darkest moments, bringing hope and strength. As the days get shorter and the world feels darker, we need His light even more. Just as candles brighten the Advent wreath, growing brighter week by week, Jesus brightens our lives the closer we draw to him, offering the encouragement we need to keep going. His light brings life and hope, fulfilling the promise of a great light for those in darkness. false full 4 27 920342d3-8e6a-427c-a859-13e7604dfa5f Sun, 15 Dec 2024 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/let-there-be-light-light-reveals-DVsadn7y Let There Be Light - "Light Reveals" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:23:04 Have you ever played flashlight tag? It’s a game of hiding in the dark, hoping to stay out of sight—until the flashlight beams across you, revealing where you are. The same is true of light in life. Light isn’t just there for its own sake; it has a purpose. It exposes what’s hidden, making it impossible to stay in the shadows. In the same way, the light of God reveals what we’d rather keep hidden—our shame, mistakes, and brokenness. But it doesn’t stop there. God’s light brings hope, showing a way forward once the truth is uncovered. This Sunday let’s look for ways forward, together. Have you ever played flashlight tag? It’s a game of hiding in the dark, hoping to stay out of sight—until the flashlight beams across you, revealing where you are. The same is true of light in life. Light isn’t just there for its own sake; it has a purpose. It exposes what’s hidden, making it impossible to stay in the shadows. In the same way, the light of God reveals what we’d rather keep hidden—our shame, mistakes, and brokenness. But it doesn’t stop there. God’s light brings hope, showing a way forward once the truth is uncovered. This Sunday let’s look for ways forward, together. false full 3 27 7b3fe3c6-4eee-4a7a-bf3b-d10facb18464 Sun, 8 Dec 2024 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/let-there-be-light-light-dispels-WI_xsMX9 Let There Be Light - "Light Dispels" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:17:03 Some things are hard to describe, even when we know exactly what they are or what they do—like love, hurt, or hope. Light is the same way. We know it when we see it, and we know what it does: light pushes darkness away. In the same way, God’s presence dispels the darkness in our lives, bringing clarity and hope. No matter how deep our shadows, even a small light makes all the difference. God’s promise to us is simple and powerful: there’s no darkness so overwhelming that God’s light can’t break through. God's light will always push back the darkness we face. Even when we can’t quite explain it. This Sunday let’s celebrate the power God’s light has to dispel darkness. Some things are hard to describe, even when we know exactly what they are or what they do—like love, hurt, or hope. Light is the same way. We know it when we see it, and we know what it does: light pushes darkness away. In the same way, God’s presence dispels the darkness in our lives, bringing clarity and hope. No matter how deep our shadows, even a small light makes all the difference. God’s promise to us is simple and powerful: there’s no darkness so overwhelming that God’s light can’t break through. God's light will always push back the darkness we face. Even when we can’t quite explain it. This Sunday let’s celebrate the power God’s light has to dispel darkness. false full 2 27 dab22ccb-f161-47e5-a8d1-7c9c49eae773 Sun, 1 Dec 2024 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/let-there-be-light-light-source-gYAJyUSm Let There Be Light - "Light Source" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:22:51 In the Bible, darkness is a symbol of everything that opposes goodness – chaos, hatred, despair, sin, evil. Darkness creates confusion and impedes growth. Into the darkness, God speaks – “Let there be light!” and in so doing, God brings creativity from confusion, order out of chaos, and hope out of despair. Even in moments of deep darkness, God’s light is present and creating. This Advent season, we confront the darkness around us and within us, and declare that light—God’s light—creates, restores, and overcomes. In the Bible, darkness is a symbol of everything that opposes goodness – chaos, hatred, despair, sin, evil. Darkness creates confusion and impedes growth. Into the darkness, God speaks – “Let there be light!” and in so doing, God brings creativity from confusion, order out of chaos, and hope out of despair. Even in moments of deep darkness, God’s light is present and creating. This Advent season, we confront the darkness around us and within us, and declare that light—God’s light—creates, restores, and overcomes. false full 1 27 ebe4a9aa-dd02-49ce-8796-e322c6afdc95 Sun, 24 Nov 2024 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/the-character-of-god-periodical-series-christ-the-king-sunday-tReYZr_p The Character of God (Periodical Series) "Christ the King Sunday" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:19:00 This week I had the privilege of leading our monthly Chapel service with the kids at OurDay preschool. We sang together about how we’re thankful for our families, our friends, our pets, our bikes, our teachers, and our stuffies. Their joy in noticing their everyday blessings was a reminder to me of the many ways that glimpses of the Kingdom of Heaven appear in everyday life. This week we celebrate Christ the King Sunday. We have the opportunity to pause and to notice the reign of Christ in our lives and, also, to notice how we’re called to be a part of the promised kingdom of God as we strive to be faithful each day. We’ll celebrate our many blessings and the gift of the risen Christ as we break bread together at the communion table. This week I had the privilege of leading our monthly Chapel service with the kids at OurDay preschool. We sang together about how we’re thankful for our families, our friends, our pets, our bikes, our teachers, and our stuffies. Their joy in noticing their everyday blessings was a reminder to me of the many ways that glimpses of the Kingdom of Heaven appear in everyday life. This week we celebrate Christ the King Sunday. We have the opportunity to pause and to notice the reign of Christ in our lives and, also, to notice how we’re called to be a part of the promised kingdom of God as we strive to be faithful each day. We’ll celebrate our many blessings and the gift of the risen Christ as we break bread together at the communion table. false full 4 26 c3d52d84-6e6f-4caf-a803-de95a3fbba66 Sun, 17 Nov 2024 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/the-character-of-god-periodical-series-slow-to-anger-1qcL8OBT The Character of God (Periodical Series) "Slow to Anger" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:24:06 This Sunday, we’re diving back into our 2024 periodical sermon series, The Character of God. Throughout the year, we’ve been exploring the many attributes of God revealed in Scripture, and this week, we’ll focus on a profound and beautiful truth: God is slow to anger. We’ll reflect on how this characteristic is revealed in the book of Exodus, reminding us of God’s patience, mercy, and steadfast love. Our Character of God series will conclude for the year next Sunday as we gather for Christ the King Sunday. And can you believe it? The first week of Advent is just around the corner, beginning December 1! Soon, we’ll be lighting candles, singing carols, and preparing our hearts to celebrate the birth of Jesus. This Sunday, we’re diving back into our 2024 periodical sermon series, The Character of God. Throughout the year, we’ve been exploring the many attributes of God revealed in Scripture, and this week, we’ll focus on a profound and beautiful truth: God is slow to anger. We’ll reflect on how this characteristic is revealed in the book of Exodus, reminding us of God’s patience, mercy, and steadfast love. Our Character of God series will conclude for the year next Sunday as we gather for Christ the King Sunday. And can you believe it? The first week of Advent is just around the corner, beginning December 1! Soon, we’ll be lighting candles, singing carols, and preparing our hearts to celebrate the birth of Jesus. false full 4 23 13771855-a061-4d71-a63e-fb602df282fe Sun, 10 Nov 2024 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/do-unto-others-pride-humility-wLV0UYRM DO UNTO OTHERS - Pride & Humility Church of the Messiah UMC 00:21:24 This Sunday, we’re gathering for the third and final message in our series, “Do Unto Others,” where we’ll dive into the theme of Pride and Humility, drawing from Micah 6:6-8. It’s been a powerful journey reflecting on how Jesus calls us to live with kindness and compassion toward one another. Earlier this week, Pastor Pete, Pastor Sharon, and I sent a Special eMessenger following the conclusion of the 2024 Election season. We invited you to join us in a prayer of peace, adapted from St. Francis of Assisi, as we seek to embody Jesus' call to 'Do unto others.' This season reminds us of our shared commitment to kindness and compassion, even—especially—when we encounter different viewpoints. May we continue to treat one another with the love and respect that unites us as followers of Christ. Throughout this series, we’ve asked ourselves, “How do I want to be treated?” – especially when conversations get tough. The Golden Rule is simple yet transformative, fostering kindness, respect, humility, and love across differences. This Sunday, let’s explore why kindness can feel hard and discuss practical ways we can treat others as we want to be treated. This Sunday, we’re gathering for the third and final message in our series, “Do Unto Others,” where we’ll dive into the theme of Pride and Humility, drawing from Micah 6:6-8. It’s been a powerful journey reflecting on how Jesus calls us to live with kindness and compassion toward one another. Earlier this week, Pastor Pete, Pastor Sharon, and I sent a Special eMessenger following the conclusion of the 2024 Election season. We invited you to join us in a prayer of peace, adapted from St. Francis of Assisi, as we seek to embody Jesus' call to 'Do unto others.' This season reminds us of our shared commitment to kindness and compassion, even—especially—when we encounter different viewpoints. May we continue to treat one another with the love and respect that unites us as followers of Christ. Throughout this series, we’ve asked ourselves, “How do I want to be treated?” – especially when conversations get tough. The Golden Rule is simple yet transformative, fostering kindness, respect, humility, and love across differences. This Sunday, let’s explore why kindness can feel hard and discuss practical ways we can treat others as we want to be treated. false full 3 26 48760518-c136-4a43-ad7f-adde9e31ae51 Sun, 3 Nov 2024 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/do-unto-others-dis-respect-Gg06PSbG DO UNTO OTHERS - Dis / Respect Church of the Messiah UMC 00:18:03 Each day we are reminded that our bodies need nourishment. Usually it is because we get hungry. We are also encouraged to exercise, sleep and eat healthy foods. But what about our minds and our spirits? What reminds us to nourish them? And what about all of the ideas and concepts which we take in without really thinking about it through listening to podcasts, watching TV, reading social media? Against what do we judge that information to be true for us as Christians? How do keep focused on who Jesus calls us to be as his followers? By Judging what we hear by what we read in God’s word, focusing on who Jesus is and how he lived, and keeping in the forefront of our mind Jesus words: So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets. (Matthew 7:12). Even in our current environment it is within our power to treat others with kindness, respect and compassion, when we seek to be filled with the Holy Spirit. Last Sunday we reflected upon what it means to live out kindness. This week we will be focusing on Dignity and Respect as a way to live out God’s love in our everyday lives. As we prepare for this week’s worship, I invite us to reflect on the meaning of dignity, which is the inherent worth and value of each and every person, no matter their race, color, creed. Everyone has it for it is God-given in birth. Respect is giving due regard for the feelings, beliefs, rights and traditions of others It is the act of recognizing the worth or values of a person. Respect can be earned or lost. Each day we are reminded that our bodies need nourishment. Usually it is because we get hungry. We are also encouraged to exercise, sleep and eat healthy foods. But what about our minds and our spirits? What reminds us to nourish them? And what about all of the ideas and concepts which we take in without really thinking about it through listening to podcasts, watching TV, reading social media? Against what do we judge that information to be true for us as Christians? How do keep focused on who Jesus calls us to be as his followers? By Judging what we hear by what we read in God’s word, focusing on who Jesus is and how he lived, and keeping in the forefront of our mind Jesus words: So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets. (Matthew 7:12). Even in our current environment it is within our power to treat others with kindness, respect and compassion, when we seek to be filled with the Holy Spirit. Last Sunday we reflected upon what it means to live out kindness. This week we will be focusing on Dignity and Respect as a way to live out God’s love in our everyday lives. As we prepare for this week’s worship, I invite us to reflect on the meaning of dignity, which is the inherent worth and value of each and every person, no matter their race, color, creed. Everyone has it for it is God-given in birth. Respect is giving due regard for the feelings, beliefs, rights and traditions of others It is the act of recognizing the worth or values of a person. Respect can be earned or lost. false full 2 26 81f6ce71-b980-4075-ab49-545ec349b341 Sun, 27 Oct 2024 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/do-unto-others-apathy-compassion-zXzenWES DO UNTO OTHERS - Apathy & Compassion Church of the Messiah UMC 00:23:13 “How do I want to be treated?” When opinions clash and tensions rise, it’s tough to step back and ask yourself this question, to remember the Golden Rule – “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” Yet this universal rule, if we live by it, has the power to transform the world. It has the power to bring people together, and foster kindness, respect, compassion, humility, and love between radically different people – even people who deeply disagree. Together this fall, we'll explore God’s call to Do Unto Others. Let’s talk about why kindness feels hard, and talk practically about how to actually, intentionally start treating others how we want to be treated. “How do I want to be treated?” When opinions clash and tensions rise, it’s tough to step back and ask yourself this question, to remember the Golden Rule – “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” Yet this universal rule, if we live by it, has the power to transform the world. It has the power to bring people together, and foster kindness, respect, compassion, humility, and love between radically different people – even people who deeply disagree. Together this fall, we'll explore God’s call to Do Unto Others. Let’s talk about why kindness feels hard, and talk practically about how to actually, intentionally start treating others how we want to be treated. false full 1 26 55120846-7083-4d34-b631-72c666b990ad Sun, 20 Oct 2024 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/the-core-values-that-connect-us-purpose-that-moves-us-unity-through-difference-owJKLRiz The Core: Values that Connect Us. Purpose that Moves Us. "Unity through Difference" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:25:50 This week in worship we’ll finish our Core Values series with a conversation about how we are Unified Through Difference. We all come from different backgrounds, have different opinions, have different strengths and skills, and different lives. With all our uniqueness, we are called to be God’s people together – to be one in Christ. This call to be a community of faithful people is often challenging. What if we shifted our attention from the problems of community to the possibilities of community? When we join together with a common purpose, God is able to work in our midst to help us to be and to do more than we ever dared to imagine. I hope you’ll join us this week, in person or online, for this important conversation. This week in worship we’ll finish our Core Values series with a conversation about how we are Unified Through Difference. We all come from different backgrounds, have different opinions, have different strengths and skills, and different lives. With all our uniqueness, we are called to be God’s people together – to be one in Christ. This call to be a community of faithful people is often challenging. What if we shifted our attention from the problems of community to the possibilities of community? When we join together with a common purpose, God is able to work in our midst to help us to be and to do more than we ever dared to imagine. I hope you’ll join us this week, in person or online, for this important conversation. false full 7 25 68cde8dd-d4d3-4d22-a4e2-ee7fcc305dd4 Sun, 13 Oct 2024 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/the-core-values-that-connect-us-purpose-that-moves-us-other-focused-fpXZBhzy The Core: Values that Connect Us. Purpose that Moves Us. "Other Focused" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:25:32 This Sunday, Pastor Katy will continue our sermon series, The Core: Values That Connect Us. Purpose That Moves Us. This week, we’ll dive into the core value of being "Other-Focused"—a timely reflection given the events of these past weeks. Our key scriptures will be John 13:31-35 and Philippians 2:3-4, where we’re reminded of the call to love and serve others as Jesus has loved us. This Sunday, Pastor Katy will continue our sermon series, The Core: Values That Connect Us. Purpose That Moves Us. This week, we’ll dive into the core value of being "Other-Focused"—a timely reflection given the events of these past weeks. Our key scriptures will be John 13:31-35 and Philippians 2:3-4, where we’re reminded of the call to love and serve others as Jesus has loved us. false full 6 25 be58e713-270e-44ae-89ad-5025553cc17a Sun, 6 Oct 2024 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/the-core-values-that-connect-us-purpose-that-moves-us-continuously-growing-8jsVwdAD The Core: Values that Connect Us. Purpose that Moves Us. "Continuously Growing" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:21:02 Be patient with me, the t-shirt reads, God isn’t finished with me yet. We are always becoming. Becoming stronger. Becoming informed. Becoming refreshed. Becoming new. Becoming who God would have us to be. We never finish our Spirit-fueled process of growing. One of our Core Values at Church of the Messiah is to be Continuously Growing. We aspire to acknowledge that we are unfinished. We are intentionally becoming the people Jesus calls us to be, growing towards perfect love of God and one another. This Sunday, we’ll explore the joys and challenges of growing in faith and we’ll celebrate World Communion Sunday. On World Communion Sunday, we join ecumenically in acknowledging our unity in Christ as we come around his table. Jesus claims us as brothers and sisters and invites us to journey together to perfect love. Your special gifts on World Communion Sunday benefit World Communion scholarships for graduate students from the U.S. and other countries and support Ethnic Scholarships for U.S. and international undergraduate students in the U.S. and Ethnic In-Service Training. We’re all growing. Sometimes slowly, sometimes in leaps and bounds. And, just as importantly, we’re all doing it together. I hope you’ll join us this Sunday, in person or online, for this conversation. Be patient with me, the t-shirt reads, God isn’t finished with me yet. We are always becoming. Becoming stronger. Becoming informed. Becoming refreshed. Becoming new. Becoming who God would have us to be. We never finish our Spirit-fueled process of growing. One of our Core Values at Church of the Messiah is to be Continuously Growing. We aspire to acknowledge that we are unfinished. We are intentionally becoming the people Jesus calls us to be, growing towards perfect love of God and one another. This Sunday, we’ll explore the joys and challenges of growing in faith and we’ll celebrate World Communion Sunday. On World Communion Sunday, we join ecumenically in acknowledging our unity in Christ as we come around his table. Jesus claims us as brothers and sisters and invites us to journey together to perfect love. Your special gifts on World Communion Sunday benefit World Communion scholarships for graduate students from the U.S. and other countries and support Ethnic Scholarships for U.S. and international undergraduate students in the U.S. and Ethnic In-Service Training. We’re all growing. Sometimes slowly, sometimes in leaps and bounds. And, just as importantly, we’re all doing it together. I hope you’ll join us this Sunday, in person or online, for this conversation. false full 5 25 ed3e9fc5-ca2f-43cf-a389-70b87b1fb07b Sun, 29 Sep 2024 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/the-core-values-that-connect-us-purpose-that-moves-us-community-impact-T57m_gF8 The Core: Values that Connect Us. Purpose that Moves Us. "Community Impact" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:27:07 This Sunday, we’re continuing our current sermon series, "The Core: Values That Connect Us. Purpose That Moves Us." In this series, we are taking a closer look at the core values that guide us at Church of the Messiah. This week, we’ll explore the value of “Community Impacting.” Together, we’ll reflect on how we actively love our community and work to build God’s dream of peace. Our key scriptures are Psalm 82:3-4 and Revelation 21:1-4. During worship, we’ll also do something interactive and fun--creating word clouds in real-time on our sanctuary and online screens. So make sure to bring your phone, because yes, you’ll be using it in worship! This Sunday, we’re continuing our current sermon series, "The Core: Values That Connect Us. Purpose That Moves Us." In this series, we are taking a closer look at the core values that guide us at Church of the Messiah. This week, we’ll explore the value of “Community Impacting.” Together, we’ll reflect on how we actively love our community and work to build God’s dream of peace. Our key scriptures are Psalm 82:3-4 and Revelation 21:1-4. During worship, we’ll also do something interactive and fun--creating word clouds in real-time on our sanctuary and online screens. So make sure to bring your phone, because yes, you’ll be using it in worship! false full 4 25 14f4f6b7-7f45-48f4-bbd7-2a67d6055f87 Sun, 22 Sep 2024 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/the-core-values-that-connect-us-purpose-that-moves-us-joy-filled-l7Yea_1U The Core: Values that Connect Us. Purpose that Moves Us. "Joy Filled" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:32:32 s we continue our fall journey through Messiah’s core values, this week we’re focusing on something foundational to our life together: joy. Joy isn’t just a fleeting emotion—it’s rooted in the deep assurance that we are known and loved by Jesus. No matter the circumstances, this joy fills us because we trust in His promises. This Sunday, we’ll discuss what it means to be “Joy-Filled” as a church. We’ll explore how this core value shapes our actions, our relationships, and our shared mission, with 1 Peter 1:3-10 as our guide. Joy is a powerful expression of our faith, and it’s something we can live out daily in big and small ways. s we continue our fall journey through Messiah’s core values, this week we’re focusing on something foundational to our life together: joy. Joy isn’t just a fleeting emotion—it’s rooted in the deep assurance that we are known and loved by Jesus. No matter the circumstances, this joy fills us because we trust in His promises. This Sunday, we’ll discuss what it means to be “Joy-Filled” as a church. We’ll explore how this core value shapes our actions, our relationships, and our shared mission, with 1 Peter 1:3-10 as our guide. Joy is a powerful expression of our faith, and it’s something we can live out daily in big and small ways. false full 3 25 4640a172-fa5d-4689-86c3-dd2b76775207 Sun, 15 Sep 2024 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/the-core-values-that-connect-us-purpose-that-moves-us-jesus-centered-ZayrD0vq The Core: Values that Connect Us. Purpose that Moves Us. "Jesus Centered" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:23:29 This Sunday, we continue our sermon series, "The Core: Values that Connect Us. Purpose that Moves Us." We’ve all had moments when someone asks us, “Tell me about yourself,” and we talk about our job, relationships, or hobbies. But deep down, we know there’s more to us than just what we do. Who are you at your core? This week’s message will focus on being centered and focused on Jesus, drawn from Matthew 22:34-40 and John 3:16-17. We’ll consider how we can grow and mature as disciples of Jesus by being with Him, becoming like Him, and doing what He did. Our core values as individuals and as a church help guide us along this journey of transformation. This Sunday, we continue our sermon series, "The Core: Values that Connect Us. Purpose that Moves Us." We’ve all had moments when someone asks us, “Tell me about yourself,” and we talk about our job, relationships, or hobbies. But deep down, we know there’s more to us than just what we do. Who are you at your core? This week’s message will focus on being centered and focused on Jesus, drawn from Matthew 22:34-40 and John 3:16-17. We’ll consider how we can grow and mature as disciples of Jesus by being with Him, becoming like Him, and doing what He did. Our core values as individuals and as a church help guide us along this journey of transformation. false full 2 25 985d132e-b158-419c-b11e-6a2e144bdd55 Sun, 8 Sep 2024 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/the-core-values-that-connect-us-purpose-that-moves-us-core-laHVM1JK The Core: Values that Connect Us. Purpose that Moves Us. "Core" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:29:15 If someone has ever said to you, “Tell me about yourself,” you've likely responded by sharing about what you do, your relationships, your hobbies, your team affiliations, your hometown ... You’re likely aware, though, that you’re more than your relationships, hobbies, work, loyalties, and location. Who are you at your core? At Messiah, we’ve been reviewing and re-visioning our core values – those attitudes, ideas, beliefs, and motivations that drive us as a church. Our values aren’t what we do – they tell who we are, motivate why we do what we do, and drive us where we’re going. Over seven weeks this fall; we’ll explore our individual values and the interconnected values that drive our life together at Messiah. Your Leadership Board and Staff have prayerfully prepared this series, and we hope you’ll join us on this meaningful journey. If someone has ever said to you, “Tell me about yourself,” you've likely responded by sharing about what you do, your relationships, your hobbies, your team affiliations, your hometown ... You’re likely aware, though, that you’re more than your relationships, hobbies, work, loyalties, and location. Who are you at your core? At Messiah, we’ve been reviewing and re-visioning our core values – those attitudes, ideas, beliefs, and motivations that drive us as a church. Our values aren’t what we do – they tell who we are, motivate why we do what we do, and drive us where we’re going. Over seven weeks this fall; we’ll explore our individual values and the interconnected values that drive our life together at Messiah. Your Leadership Board and Staff have prayerfully prepared this series, and we hope you’ll join us on this meaningful journey. false full 1 25 33057318-e2cb-4619-8e6b-9188c4278c7d Sun, 1 Sep 2024 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/rooted-the-character-and-marks-of-a-methodist-actions-speak-louder-GuTB0cNl Rooted: The Character and Marks of a Methodist, "Actions Speak Louder" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:22:03 Do you ever wonder why are things such a mess? Shouldn’t someone DO something? It’s not a new question. In 1789, in a sermon titled “Causes of the Inefficacy of Christianity,” John Wesley posed the question: “Why has Christianity done so little good?” The question amounts to: do we practice what we preach? As United Methodists, we agree with James when he writes: “What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith but do not have works?” (James 2:14) We want to be people who live out our faith. Our General Rules and our Social Principals are good starting points as we consider our historical and current commitment to being God’s people in ways that make a tangible, loving difference in the world for people everywhere. Do you ever wonder why are things such a mess? Shouldn’t someone DO something? It’s not a new question. In 1789, in a sermon titled “Causes of the Inefficacy of Christianity,” John Wesley posed the question: “Why has Christianity done so little good?” The question amounts to: do we practice what we preach? As United Methodists, we agree with James when he writes: “What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith but do not have works?” (James 2:14) We want to be people who live out our faith. Our General Rules and our Social Principals are good starting points as we consider our historical and current commitment to being God’s people in ways that make a tangible, loving difference in the world for people everywhere. false full 7 24 7f772a2c-539b-49c7-866f-757f5aff517c Sun, 18 Aug 2024 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/rooted-the-character-and-marks-of-a-methodist-whos-in-charge-qQWQOLf_ Rooted: The Character and Marks of a Methodist, "Who’s in Charge?" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:19:06 “Who’s in charge here?” It’s the question we ask when we have comments to offer or complaints to register. It’s the question we ask when we want to know why things work the way they do. It’s the question we ask when we want to talk with someone about how to improve something. This week, as we continue to explore our Methodist Roots, the legacy that undergirds and informs our identity and practice as United Methodist followers of Jesus in 2024, we’ll spend a little time asking this question: Who’s In Charge? Who leads the church? People? Pastors? Board members? Jesus? What do our scriptures tell us? What does our tradition tell us? So many questions! I hope to see you Sunday, in person or online, for this conversation. “Who’s in charge here?” It’s the question we ask when we have comments to offer or complaints to register. It’s the question we ask when we want to know why things work the way they do. It’s the question we ask when we want to talk with someone about how to improve something. This week, as we continue to explore our Methodist Roots, the legacy that undergirds and informs our identity and practice as United Methodist followers of Jesus in 2024, we’ll spend a little time asking this question: Who’s In Charge? Who leads the church? People? Pastors? Board members? Jesus? What do our scriptures tell us? What does our tradition tell us? So many questions! I hope to see you Sunday, in person or online, for this conversation. false full 5 24 73a3152f-9342-4088-a523-e453d85ac04d Sun, 11 Aug 2024 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/rooted-the-character-and-marks-of-a-methodist-knowing-whats-true-9ALhrwuz Rooted: The Character and Marks of a Methodist, "Knowing What’s True" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:20:37 This Sunday, we’ll explore a crucial aspect of our Methodist heritage: How do we, as Methodists, know what’s true, make decisions, and think through things? John Wesley provided us with a unique framework, often referred to as the Wesleyan Quadrilateral, which guides us in discerning truth and making faithful decisions. Wesley emphasized four sources: Scripture, tradition, reason, and experience--all working together to help us understand God’s will for our lives. Our key scripture for the day will be Ephesians 2:1-10, which speaks of God’s incredible grace and the new life we are given in Jesus. This passage reminds us that we were once dead in our transgressions, but through God’s grace, we have been made alive in Jesus--created to do good works. It’s through this grace-filled lens that we learn to discern truth, make decisions, and align our actions with God’s purpose. Wesley taught that Scripture is primary--our foundation and final authority. But he also recognized the importance of tradition, reason, and experience in interpreting Scripture and applying it to our lives. By engaging all four of these elements, we can navigate life’s complexities with wisdom and faithfulness This Sunday, we’ll explore a crucial aspect of our Methodist heritage: How do we, as Methodists, know what’s true, make decisions, and think through things? John Wesley provided us with a unique framework, often referred to as the Wesleyan Quadrilateral, which guides us in discerning truth and making faithful decisions. Wesley emphasized four sources: Scripture, tradition, reason, and experience--all working together to help us understand God’s will for our lives. Our key scripture for the day will be Ephesians 2:1-10, which speaks of God’s incredible grace and the new life we are given in Jesus. This passage reminds us that we were once dead in our transgressions, but through God’s grace, we have been made alive in Jesus--created to do good works. It’s through this grace-filled lens that we learn to discern truth, make decisions, and align our actions with God’s purpose. Wesley taught that Scripture is primary--our foundation and final authority. But he also recognized the importance of tradition, reason, and experience in interpreting Scripture and applying it to our lives. By engaging all four of these elements, we can navigate life’s complexities with wisdom and faithfulness false full 4 24 10e6748b-c73e-4001-b43b-77ccbcfa8cd7 Sun, 4 Aug 2024 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/rooted-the-character-and-marks-of-a-methodist-grace-is-never-ending-ESU_WkQP Rooted: The Character and Marks of a Methodist, "Grace is Never-Ending" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:28:25 John Wesley’s emphasis on sanctifying grace reminds us that salvation is not a one-time event but an ongoing process. Through the means of grace, such as prayer, scripture reading, fasting, and participating in the sacraments (baptism and communion), we open ourselves to God’s transformative work. Wesley believed that this journey toward perfection in love is a lifelong pursuit that draws us closer to the heart of God and equips us to love our neighbors more fully. This Sunday, we will discuss the profound concept of God’s never-ending grace—a cornerstone of John Wesley’s teachings. We will explore sanctifying grace, a pivotal aspect of Wesleyan theology that focuses on personal holiness and piety. Wesley taught that sanctifying grace is God's power working in us to renew our inner nature and enable us to grow in love and holiness. Our key scripture will be Philippians 3:7-11, where Paul speaks of the surpassing worth of knowing Jesus and the transformative power of His resurrection. This passage beautifully aligns with our theme of sanctification, as it calls us to press on toward the goal of becoming more like Jesus. Join us at any of our three worship services: 8:15 AM, 9:30 AM, and 11 AM. The 9:30 and 11 AM services are available online, and the 9:30 service includes special children's programming with nursery care, children's moments in worship, and kids' Sunday school. As we gather this Sunday, let us be inspired by Wesley’s vision of a faith that is believed and lived out in every aspect of our lives. I hope to see you there! John Wesley’s emphasis on sanctifying grace reminds us that salvation is not a one-time event but an ongoing process. Through the means of grace, such as prayer, scripture reading, fasting, and participating in the sacraments (baptism and communion), we open ourselves to God’s transformative work. Wesley believed that this journey toward perfection in love is a lifelong pursuit that draws us closer to the heart of God and equips us to love our neighbors more fully. This Sunday, we will discuss the profound concept of God’s never-ending grace—a cornerstone of John Wesley’s teachings. We will explore sanctifying grace, a pivotal aspect of Wesleyan theology that focuses on personal holiness and piety. Wesley taught that sanctifying grace is God's power working in us to renew our inner nature and enable us to grow in love and holiness. Our key scripture will be Philippians 3:7-11, where Paul speaks of the surpassing worth of knowing Jesus and the transformative power of His resurrection. This passage beautifully aligns with our theme of sanctification, as it calls us to press on toward the goal of becoming more like Jesus. Join us at any of our three worship services: 8:15 AM, 9:30 AM, and 11 AM. The 9:30 and 11 AM services are available online, and the 9:30 service includes special children's programming with nursery care, children's moments in worship, and kids' Sunday school. As we gather this Sunday, let us be inspired by Wesley’s vision of a faith that is believed and lived out in every aspect of our lives. I hope to see you there! false full 3 24 660a4a4d-5138-439b-9c5c-4b2b477e3572 Sun, 21 Jul 2024 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/rooted-the-character-and-marks-of-a-methodist-grace-is-all-reaching-27YVPJHb Rooted: The Character and Marks of a Methodist, "Grace is All-Reaching" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:19:40 In 1740, John Wesley wrote a sermon titled “Free Grace.” In his introduction, he paraphrases part of the eighth chapter of Paul’s letter to the Romans: How freely does God love the world! While we were yet sinners, "Christ died for the ungodly." While we were "dead in our sin," God "spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all." And how freely with him does he "give us all things!" Verily, FREE GRACE is all in all! Wesley proceeds to describe a sacred grace that is freely available to every person, rather than to certain “elect” individuals. This week we continue in our “Rooted” series. We’ll be exploring prevenient grace … grace that is initiated by God to help us understand that we are each a beloved child of God and to prepare us to respond to this deep love in our lives. In 1740, John Wesley wrote a sermon titled “Free Grace.” In his introduction, he paraphrases part of the eighth chapter of Paul’s letter to the Romans: How freely does God love the world! While we were yet sinners, "Christ died for the ungodly." While we were "dead in our sin," God "spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all." And how freely with him does he "give us all things!" Verily, FREE GRACE is all in all! Wesley proceeds to describe a sacred grace that is freely available to every person, rather than to certain “elect” individuals. This week we continue in our “Rooted” series. We’ll be exploring prevenient grace … grace that is initiated by God to help us understand that we are each a beloved child of God and to prepare us to respond to this deep love in our lives. false full 2 24 5fa5fbf8-867b-4601-9d9a-534e1a21a910 Sun, 14 Jul 2024 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/rooted-the-character-and-marks-of-a-methodist-the-form-of-religion-without-the-power-jWnHUDvb Rooted: The Character and Marks of a Methodist, "The Form of Religion Without the Power" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:22:38 It doesn’t take a gardening expert to know – the strength and health of the roots determines the strength, health, and lifespan of the plant. It’s the same with political, social, and religious movements; their health, strength, and lifespan depends on the their roots. This Sunday, we begin a summer-long series called Rooted: The Character and Marks of a Methodist. We’ll (re)discover the roots of our Methodist identity that nourished our tradition from its inception, and which still define and strengthen our faith in Jesus today. While we’ll explore our historical and theological roots, these eight weeks won’t be a theology/history lesson. We’re exploring our roots to find what’s vital from where we’ve been, so that we might renew and deepen our understanding of how we follow Jesus the Wesleyan way in the 21st century, and beyond. Rooted: The Character and Marks of a Methodist, "The Form of Religion Without the Power" It doesn’t take a gardening expert to know – the strength and health of the roots determines the strength, health, and lifespan of the plant. It’s the same with political, social, and religious movements; their health, strength, and lifespan depends on the their roots. This Sunday, we begin a summer-long series called Rooted: The Character and Marks of a Methodist. We’ll (re)discover the roots of our Methodist identity that nourished our tradition from its inception, and which still define and strengthen our faith in Jesus today. While we’ll explore our historical and theological roots, these eight weeks won’t be a theology/history lesson. We’re exploring our roots to find what’s vital from where we’ve been, so that we might renew and deepen our understanding of how we follow Jesus the Wesleyan way in the 21st century, and beyond. Rooted: The Character and Marks of a Methodist, "The Form of Religion Without the Power" false full 1 24 24936ff5-9582-4fee-b20e-404e30ded645 Sun, 7 Jul 2024 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/the-character-of-god-periodical-series-compassion-sunday-july-7-2024-2VqwqrLA The Character of God (Periodical Series) "Compassion" - Sunday, July 7, 2024 Church of the Messiah UMC 00:19:48 false full 4 22 222ff1ce-e41a-4003-8284-1274c93cc852 Sun, 23 Jun 2024 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/beloved-community-lived-in-faith-8tJyiKA0 Beloved Community, "Lived in Faith" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:23:04 During this service, we will reflect on the joy and meaning of sacrificial giving. Remember, a sacrificial gift is not about the size but what it represents to the giver. For some, it means giving up something valuable; for others, it might be reorganizing financial priorities or giving out of accumulated assets. The root of "sacrifice" is "sacred," and by giving sacrificially, we set aside and dedicate our resources to further the work of God's Kingdom. During this service, we will reflect on the joy and meaning of sacrificial giving. Remember, a sacrificial gift is not about the size but what it represents to the giver. For some, it means giving up something valuable; for others, it might be reorganizing financial priorities or giving out of accumulated assets. The root of "sacrifice" is "sacred," and by giving sacrificially, we set aside and dedicate our resources to further the work of God's Kingdom. false full 3 23 85a72c24-66f9-45c1-b137-ae5604cb2eed Sun, 16 Jun 2024 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/beloved-community-revealed-in-prayer-Ckw2DBsR Beloved Community, "Revealed in Prayer" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:19:20 God, what do you want to do through me? This is our prayer as we engage in our Beloved Community worship series and in our Beloved Community Capital Campaign. God calls each of us into faithful living, into following the footsteps and teachings of Jesus, and into the power and presence of the Holy Spirit. This week we’ll take a look at Samuel and Eli and their shared experience of God’s call on Samuel’s life. With Eli’s wisdom, Samuel begins his journey, saying “your servant is listening.” I hope you’ll join us this week as we explore what it means to listen for and answer God’s call in our lives. What will God do through us? God, what do you want to do through me? This is our prayer as we engage in our Beloved Community worship series and in our Beloved Community Capital Campaign. God calls each of us into faithful living, into following the footsteps and teachings of Jesus, and into the power and presence of the Holy Spirit. This week we’ll take a look at Samuel and Eli and their shared experience of God’s call on Samuel’s life. With Eli’s wisdom, Samuel begins his journey, saying “your servant is listening.” I hope you’ll join us this week as we explore what it means to listen for and answer God’s call in our lives. What will God do through us? false full 2 23 0642f6b9-936c-4e59-a9a2-69c09d49af1c Sun, 2 Jun 2024 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/beloved-community-grounded-in-gratitude-I9ylGeMS Beloved Community, "Grounded in Gratitude" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:21:32 Among Jesus’ many healings are ten men with leprosy. Made clean, nine men run to the priests. One runs back to Jesus, in gratitude and praise to God. Gratitude is simple – saying “thank you” and meaning it. It doesn’t make life’s tough things go away, but it does change our perspective. Still, when was the last time we said “thank you” to God? If it’s been a while, how might we start? This Sunday, we’ll start the Beloved Community capital campaign with a discussion of gratitude, the attitude from which our giving flows. We’ll celebrate the many reasons we have to be thankful for God’s blessings in our individual lives, how God has blessed Messiah, and what God has yet to do. See you Sunday! Among Jesus’ many healings are ten men with leprosy. Made clean, nine men run to the priests. One runs back to Jesus, in gratitude and praise to God. Gratitude is simple – saying “thank you” and meaning it. It doesn’t make life’s tough things go away, but it does change our perspective. Still, when was the last time we said “thank you” to God? If it’s been a while, how might we start? This Sunday, we’ll start the Beloved Community capital campaign with a discussion of gratitude, the attitude from which our giving flows. We’ll celebrate the many reasons we have to be thankful for God’s blessings in our individual lives, how God has blessed Messiah, and what God has yet to do. See you Sunday! false full 1 23 6d2af74c-5bff-48fb-9c09-71d4c735d089 Sun, 26 May 2024 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/the-character-of-godperiodical-series-loyal-love-sunday-may-26-2024-oyPYf8ku The Character of God(Periodical Series) "Loyal Love" - Sunday, May 26, 2024 Church of the Messiah UMC 00:19:06 Sometimes, it's hard to find a single word to describe a feeling or an idea. In that event, we borrow from another language. Hygge, from the Danish - a cosy quality. Deja vu, from the French - the feeling that this exact moment has occured before. My personal favorite - tsundoku, from the Japanese - to acquire books and allow them to pile up without reading them. This Sunday, as we continue our periodical series Character of God, we'll study khesed, from the Hebrew - God's loyal love, which encompasses God's love, generosity, and enduring commitment to us, all in one word. We'll explore what khesed means, what it means for us, and what it means for our neighbors, as we live it out together. Sometimes, it's hard to find a single word to describe a feeling or an idea. In that event, we borrow from another language. Hygge, from the Danish - a cosy quality. Deja vu, from the French - the feeling that this exact moment has occured before. My personal favorite - tsundoku, from the Japanese - to acquire books and allow them to pile up without reading them. This Sunday, as we continue our periodical series Character of God, we'll study khesed, from the Hebrew - God's loyal love, which encompasses God's love, generosity, and enduring commitment to us, all in one word. We'll explore what khesed means, what it means for us, and what it means for our neighbors, as we live it out together. false full 8 21 e89afd35-db22-4cf5-9cc3-7112cdf74678 Sun, 19 May 2024 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/proverbs-ancient-wisdom-for-modern-times-living-justly-yBDTBJY1 Proverbs: Ancient Wisdom for Modern Times, " Living Justly" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:23:29 A much loved church call and response goes like this - God is good - all the time. All the time - God is good. It’s true. God is good, the ultimate source of human goodness and righteousness. Because God is good, God cares about what is good, right, and just. Because God cares about what is good, God invites and empowers Jesus-followers, through the Holy Spirit, to live justly and compassionately. On this Pentecost Sunday, we’ll explore how a life rooted in God’s wisdom naturally leads us to live justly, caring for the marginalized and vulnerable, as we reflect God’s heart of justice and equity to the world. A much loved church call and response goes like this - God is good - all the time. All the time - God is good. It’s true. God is good, the ultimate source of human goodness and righteousness. Because God is good, God cares about what is good, right, and just. Because God cares about what is good, God invites and empowers Jesus-followers, through the Holy Spirit, to live justly and compassionately. On this Pentecost Sunday, we’ll explore how a life rooted in God’s wisdom naturally leads us to live justly, caring for the marginalized and vulnerable, as we reflect God’s heart of justice and equity to the world. false full 7 22 6e482201-b002-4fcd-9366-e4cfc6239324 Sun, 12 May 2024 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/proverbs-ancient-wisdom-for-modern-times-navigating-discouragement-aJvPiVb1 Proverbs: Ancient Wisdom for Modern Times, "Navigating Discouragement" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:22:41 Life happens. Sometimes, life happens in incredible ways. Sometimes, life happens and the disappointment of it weighs heavy on the heart, profound and challenging to bear. Expectations go unmet, setbacks occur, hardships find us. Where do we go amid our discouragement? Do we wallow in it? Give up or give in? Or can we navigate discouragement differently, anchoring ourselves in the enduring hope of God’s presence now, while focusing our eyes on the hope of God’s promised future? Let’s seek God’s wisdom about navigating discouragement with steadfast faith and unwavering hope. Life happens. Sometimes, life happens in incredible ways. Sometimes, life happens and the disappointment of it weighs heavy on the heart, profound and challenging to bear. Expectations go unmet, setbacks occur, hardships find us. Where do we go amid our discouragement? Do we wallow in it? Give up or give in? Or can we navigate discouragement differently, anchoring ourselves in the enduring hope of God’s presence now, while focusing our eyes on the hope of God’s promised future? Let’s seek God’s wisdom about navigating discouragement with steadfast faith and unwavering hope. false full 6 22 30007fa1-747e-4132-a4de-61cf1b920f95 Sun, 5 May 2024 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/proverbs-ancient-wisdom-for-modern-times-making-decisions-mtqxcriv-jLTbS8TG Proverbs: Ancient Wisdom for Modern Times, "Making Decisions" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:25:47 DIY - do it yourself, the ultimate virtue. We apply DIY to home projects, work responsibilities, decision-making. Yet there's wisdom in seeking guidance while making decisions - guidance from God, and from others. Our own wisdom has its limits. Transformation happens from DIY, sure. It also happens in trusting God and seeking the counsel of those who walk in wisdom. Let’s explore the power of DIT (do it together) decisions-making. DIY - do it yourself, the ultimate virtue. We apply DIY to home projects, work responsibilities, decision-making. Yet there's wisdom in seeking guidance while making decisions - guidance from God, and from others. Our own wisdom has its limits. Transformation happens from DIY, sure. It also happens in trusting God and seeking the counsel of those who walk in wisdom. Let’s explore the power of DIT (do it together) decisions-making. false full 5 22 695b57e6-00be-4f95-acfa-915bfc5a933e Sun, 28 Apr 2024 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/proverbs-ancient-wisdom-for-modern-times-avoiding-regret-bUsK_lJ9 Proverbs: Ancient Wisdom for Modern Times, " Avoiding Regret" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:26:02 Regrets are like belly buttons. Everyone has one. It’s not possible to live without regret. It IS possible to live wisely, focusing our lives in God’s direction with God’s help (what Jesus calls the “narrow gate”). As we do so, we find meaning and purpose, even in our regrets. Let’s explore the wisdom of Proverbs, which teaches us how to trust God’s guidance to navigate life’s twists and turns, using even our regrets for good, as we move forward towards who God is calling us to be. Regrets are like belly buttons. Everyone has one. It’s not possible to live without regret. It IS possible to live wisely, focusing our lives in God’s direction with God’s help (what Jesus calls the “narrow gate”). As we do so, we find meaning and purpose, even in our regrets. Let’s explore the wisdom of Proverbs, which teaches us how to trust God’s guidance to navigate life’s twists and turns, using even our regrets for good, as we move forward towards who God is calling us to be. false full 3 22 3a0a344f-8345-4c81-ae25-3d4fb12bdb83 Sun, 21 Apr 2024 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/proverbs-ancient-wisdom-for-modern-times-speaking-life-71TZd9oo Proverbs: Ancient Wisdom for Modern Times, "Speaking Life" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:25:24 Words are like seeds. Planted in the soil of hearts and minds, they grow, and eventually, bear fruit - for better or worse. So it’s wise to be careful with our words, because our words have the power of life, and death. Words have a profound impact in our own lives, and in the lives of others. Proverbs reminds us of the immense responsibility we carry with every word we write, think, and speak. What we speak, how we speak, and when we speak, matters. Let’s learn how to speak life. Words are like seeds. Planted in the soil of hearts and minds, they grow, and eventually, bear fruit - for better or worse. So it’s wise to be careful with our words, because our words have the power of life, and death. Words have a profound impact in our own lives, and in the lives of others. Proverbs reminds us of the immense responsibility we carry with every word we write, think, and speak. What we speak, how we speak, and when we speak, matters. Let’s learn how to speak life. false full 2 22 3f5f8e0f-e24c-4e55-909a-2d1ee191882e Sun, 14 Apr 2024 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/proverbs-ancient-wisdom-for-modern-times-fearing-god-dGKNjaBx Proverbs: Ancient Wisdom for Modern Times, "Fearing God" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:26:12 The Book of Proverbs reads like a laundry list of “dos” and “don’ts”, or a catalog of “always” and “never” statements. Yet it’s far more than that – it's a heartfelt letter from a father to his son, crafted to guide him towards a wise and fulfilling life. Like a good parent, God desires us to live wisely and well, and so gives us the wisdom of Proverbs. These words were written down centuries ago, yet remain relevant for us, today. They share timeless, practical insights which resonate deeply with our modern experiences. What does true wisdom look like? How to manage anger, avoid regret, navigate disappointment, pursue what’s actually good? Over five weeks this spring, let’s get equipped with God's word, to live purposefully and practically, navigating the complexities of modern life with wisdom and love. What kind of world do we live in? And what does it take to live wisely and well in the world in which we live? These are the questions the book of Proverbs seeks to answer. Wisdom isn’t something that happens to us, it turns out. It’s something God cultivates in us, as we live in awe, respect, and yes - fear - of God. God is God, and we are not . Knowing this is the essence of true wisdom. Let’s delve into this truth, as we seek to understand God, and ourselves, rightly. The Book of Proverbs reads like a laundry list of “dos” and “don’ts”, or a catalog of “always” and “never” statements. Yet it’s far more than that – it's a heartfelt letter from a father to his son, crafted to guide him towards a wise and fulfilling life. Like a good parent, God desires us to live wisely and well, and so gives us the wisdom of Proverbs. These words were written down centuries ago, yet remain relevant for us, today. They share timeless, practical insights which resonate deeply with our modern experiences. What does true wisdom look like? How to manage anger, avoid regret, navigate disappointment, pursue what’s actually good? Over five weeks this spring, let’s get equipped with God's word, to live purposefully and practically, navigating the complexities of modern life with wisdom and love. What kind of world do we live in? And what does it take to live wisely and well in the world in which we live? These are the questions the book of Proverbs seeks to answer. Wisdom isn’t something that happens to us, it turns out. It’s something God cultivates in us, as we live in awe, respect, and yes - fear - of God. God is God, and we are not . Knowing this is the essence of true wisdom. Let’s delve into this truth, as we seek to understand God, and ourselves, rightly. false full 1 22 d1e9fc8a-a313-419a-af1f-ef94745f0799 Sun, 7 Apr 2024 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/the-character-of-godperiodical-series-grace-sunday-april-7-2024-iRJP9UzS The Character of God(Periodical Series) "Grace" - Sunday, April 7, 2024 Church of the Messiah UMC 00:16:09 He is Risen! This week in worship we continue to celebrate the reality of resurrection in our lives as we begin a sporadic series: “The Character of God.” Character of God Sundays are rooted in Exodus 34:6-7 and will occur from time to time throughout the remainder of the year. Exodus tells us of a God who is merciful, gracious, slow to anger, loving, and faithful. We’ll spend time Sunday exploring the God’s gift to us of Grace in light of Exodus and our living Messiah: Jesus. He is Risen! This week in worship we continue to celebrate the reality of resurrection in our lives as we begin a sporadic series: “The Character of God.” Character of God Sundays are rooted in Exodus 34:6-7 and will occur from time to time throughout the remainder of the year. Exodus tells us of a God who is merciful, gracious, slow to anger, loving, and faithful. We’ll spend time Sunday exploring the God’s gift to us of Grace in light of Exodus and our living Messiah: Jesus. false full 1 21 bae155e1-e43f-4524-b3b2-c42e490d7a7a Sun, 31 Mar 2024 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/easter-sunday-message-sunday-march-31-2024-vsqmiReT Easter Sunday Message - Sunday, March 31, 2024 Church of the Messiah UMC 00:24:49 Last night was a sacred gathering as we observed Good Friday in solemn reflection and worship. Through our service, "A Service of Shadows," we deeply contemplated Jesus Christ's profound sacrifice. Indeed, Good Friday's significance is fully realized when we anticipate the dawn of Resurrection Sunday. Isn't it remarkable that even the weather in Central Ohio today mirrors the somber mood with its dreary rain? Yet, within the darkness, there is a promise of radiant light! Tomorrow, as we come together to celebrate Easter, we embrace the transformative power of Jesus' resurrection and the promise of new life it brings to each of us. With joyous hearts, we will exclaim, "Christ is Risen! Christ is Risen indeed!" Whether you are a newcomer or have long been a part of our Messiah family, know that you are warmly welcomed, and I extend a heartfelt invitation for you to join us. Our Easter service will be filled with scripture, song, prayer, and meaningful reflections. As we decorate the Easter cross with flowers, symbolizing the blossoming of new life, I encourage you to engage in this celebration as you feel comfortable. Messiah is a diverse and vibrant community dedicated to Knowing Christ, Growing in Faith, and Serving Others. Worship is but one facet of our shared mission and vision. Explore the myriad opportunities available on our website to connect and extend a hand of service to those in need. If you're seeking a spiritual home where you can deepen your faith journey, I hope you might consider taking the next step with us at Messiah. Please join us at any of our three Sunday worship services tomorrow: 8:15 AM, 9:30 AM, and 11 AM. Our 9:30 AM and 11 AM services will be streamed live on our website, Facebook, and YouTube platforms. Additionally, during our 9:30 AM service, all children are invited to have fun at our Easter Egg Hunt immediately following the children's moments in the Sanctuary. Nursery care will also be available for our little ones during this service. May the miracle of resurrection fill your hearts with renewed hope, faith, love, and joy. May the Risen Christ's blessings be upon you abundantly! Last night was a sacred gathering as we observed Good Friday in solemn reflection and worship. Through our service, "A Service of Shadows," we deeply contemplated Jesus Christ's profound sacrifice. Indeed, Good Friday's significance is fully realized when we anticipate the dawn of Resurrection Sunday. Isn't it remarkable that even the weather in Central Ohio today mirrors the somber mood with its dreary rain? Yet, within the darkness, there is a promise of radiant light! Tomorrow, as we come together to celebrate Easter, we embrace the transformative power of Jesus' resurrection and the promise of new life it brings to each of us. With joyous hearts, we will exclaim, "Christ is Risen! Christ is Risen indeed!" Whether you are a newcomer or have long been a part of our Messiah family, know that you are warmly welcomed, and I extend a heartfelt invitation for you to join us. Our Easter service will be filled with scripture, song, prayer, and meaningful reflections. As we decorate the Easter cross with flowers, symbolizing the blossoming of new life, I encourage you to engage in this celebration as you feel comfortable. Messiah is a diverse and vibrant community dedicated to Knowing Christ, Growing in Faith, and Serving Others. Worship is but one facet of our shared mission and vision. Explore the myriad opportunities available on our website to connect and extend a hand of service to those in need. If you're seeking a spiritual home where you can deepen your faith journey, I hope you might consider taking the next step with us at Messiah. Please join us at any of our three Sunday worship services tomorrow: 8:15 AM, 9:30 AM, and 11 AM. Our 9:30 AM and 11 AM services will be streamed live on our website, Facebook, and YouTube platforms. Additionally, during our 9:30 AM service, all children are invited to have fun at our Easter Egg Hunt immediately following the children's moments in the Sanctuary. Nursery care will also be available for our little ones during this service. May the miracle of resurrection fill your hearts with renewed hope, faith, love, and joy. May the Risen Christ's blessings be upon you abundantly! false full 6 20 5dafc4e6-abbf-4d0a-aa0c-9e17f552ee9b Sun, 24 Mar 2024 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/palm-sunday-message-sunday-march-24-2025-TXEqY1uE Palm Sunday Message - Sunday, March 24, 2025 Church of the Messiah UMC 00:15:46 This week we begin a series of worship experiences that help us make the journey from Palm Sunday, through the Last Supper, Crucifixion, and, ultimately, to a celebration of resurrection on Easter Sunday. We’ll remember Jesus’ entrance into Jerusalem, the loud Hosannas of the palm waving crowds, and a borrowed colt. We’ll remember a gathering of disciples in an “upper room” who experience the Passover meal in a new way. In Word and in Song, we’ll remember Jesus’ journey to the Cross. And we’ll remember the promise of life, hope, grace, and salvation contained in our discovery of a Risen Christ. This week we begin a series of worship experiences that help us make the journey from Palm Sunday, through the Last Supper, Crucifixion, and, ultimately, to a celebration of resurrection on Easter Sunday. We’ll remember Jesus’ entrance into Jerusalem, the loud Hosannas of the palm waving crowds, and a borrowed colt. We’ll remember a gathering of disciples in an “upper room” who experience the Passover meal in a new way. In Word and in Song, we’ll remember Jesus’ journey to the Cross. And we’ll remember the promise of life, hope, grace, and salvation contained in our discovery of a Risen Christ. false full 5 20 63c9eac9-0c83-494e-8dca-9299277b428e Sun, 17 Mar 2024 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/unhurried-a-lenten-series-on-grace-full-living-the-power-of-a-rule-of-life-E697529i unhurried: A Lenten Series on Grace-Full Living, "The Power of a Rule of Life" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:31:04 During Lent we have explored various facets of our faithfulness: abiding in Christ, margins that guide our days, connections that enrich our lives, and joy that can fill our hearts in every season of life. Throughout this conversation, we’ve invited you to consider what matters most as we seek peace and unhurried-ness in following Jesus. This week we’ll take a look at how we take our everyday, ordinary lives and place them before God, allowing God to instigate and empower change in our lives – repentance – in our intentional faithfulness described as a “Rule of Life.” During Lent we have explored various facets of our faithfulness: abiding in Christ, margins that guide our days, connections that enrich our lives, and joy that can fill our hearts in every season of life. Throughout this conversation, we’ve invited you to consider what matters most as we seek peace and unhurried-ness in following Jesus. This week we’ll take a look at how we take our everyday, ordinary lives and place them before God, allowing God to instigate and empower change in our lives – repentance – in our intentional faithfulness described as a “Rule of Life.” false full 4 20 02b5cb5e-0640-4334-bb9c-9f6c35459721 Sun, 3 Mar 2024 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/unhurried-a-lenten-series-on-grace-full-living-in-a-world-of-happy-joy-sunday-march-3-2024-cfk_fpIj unhurried: A Lenten Series on Grace-Full Living, "In a World of "Happy", Joy" - Sunday, March, 3, 2024 Church of the Messiah UMC 00:27:51 Ever leave home without your cell phone? Did you leave it behind on purpose, or leave it behind in a moment of distraction? Now and then I jump in the car to run an errand, or even to come to the church, and leave my phone laying on my desk at home. It was next to my keys, so I’d remember it. And then,  there it lays, forgotten. While I’m without it, I find myself checking my pockets, and wondering what I’m missing while I’m “disconnected.” Texting, emailing, social media, phone calls, news feeds … it all gives us a sense of connection. And when we’re honest about it, we see that these connections are often superficial, artificial, contrived, and even dishonest in our efforts to look good for ourselves and others. This week in worship we’ll continue our “Unhurried” series with a conversation about authentic connection: deep, honest connection with ourselves, with those around us, and with God. I hope you’ll join us, in person or online, for this conversation. Ever leave home without your cell phone? Did you leave it behind on purpose, or leave it behind in a moment of distraction? Now and then I jump in the car to run an errand, or even to come to the church, and leave my phone laying on my desk at home. It was next to my keys, so I’d remember it. And then,  there it lays, forgotten. While I’m without it, I find myself checking my pockets, and wondering what I’m missing while I’m “disconnected.” Texting, emailing, social media, phone calls, news feeds … it all gives us a sense of connection. And when we’re honest about it, we see that these connections are often superficial, artificial, contrived, and even dishonest in our efforts to look good for ourselves and others. This week in worship we’ll continue our “Unhurried” series with a conversation about authentic connection: deep, honest connection with ourselves, with those around us, and with God. I hope you’ll join us, in person or online, for this conversation. false full 3 20 f55b8ddc-c664-4bf6-b645-93c42dbd70c4 Sun, 25 Feb 2024 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/unhurried-a-lenten-series-on-grace-full-living-in-a-world-without-limits-margin-sunday-february-25-2024-GPeV05Kw unhurried: A Lenten Series on Grace-Full Living, "In a World Without Limits, Margin" - Sunday, February 25, 2024 Church of the Messiah UMC 00:26:00 Margin. It’s the space between our load and our limits. Margin - it’s a concept virtually unknown to many of us, and certainly unknown to the world in which we live. We can do anything, be anywhere, know anything – and so we do. Living without margin means that tired, burned out, stressed is the new normal. Jesus shows us a different way – living within our limits. This Sunday, let’s explore the scripture's understanding of limits, and let’s learn how to begin living inside those God-given limits, to become people of love.   Margin. It’s the space between our load and our limits. Margin - it’s a concept virtually unknown to many of us, and certainly unknown to the world in which we live. We can do anything, be anywhere, know anything – and so we do. Living without margin means that tired, burned out, stressed is the new normal. Jesus shows us a different way – living within our limits. This Sunday, let’s explore the scripture's understanding of limits, and let’s learn how to begin living inside those God-given limits, to become people of love.   false full 2 20 38a12331-ff9c-4009-bf7c-f78ce0276559 Sun, 18 Feb 2024 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/unhurried-a-lenten-series-on-grace-full-living-ruthlessly-eliminating-hurry-sunday-february-18-2024-lqW1XvwA unhurried: A Lenten Series on Grace-Full Living, "Ruthlessly Eliminating Hurry" - Sunday, February 18, 2024 Church of the Messiah UMC 00:24:54 The relentless pace of modern life severs our connections – with God, with others, and even with ourselves. Living in the manner of Jesus necessitates a radical departure from the constant hurry that defines our existence. It demands a deliberate commitment to "unhurrying" – a challenging task in a culture that prizes perpetual motion. We traverse from one task to another, leaving no room for margins, bound by chaotic digital connections, and frantically seeking fulfillment in the anticipation of what comes next. Is there an alternative way to live? Can we embrace a slower pace, allowing the grace-filled pattern of Jesus' life to govern ours? This Lent, let us collectively explore how to reorder our days, finding abundant life in Jesus' teachings. The relentless pace of modern life severs our connections – with God, with others, and even with ourselves. Living in the manner of Jesus necessitates a radical departure from the constant hurry that defines our existence. It demands a deliberate commitment to "unhurrying" – a challenging task in a culture that prizes perpetual motion. We traverse from one task to another, leaving no room for margins, bound by chaotic digital connections, and frantically seeking fulfillment in the anticipation of what comes next. Is there an alternative way to live? Can we embrace a slower pace, allowing the grace-filled pattern of Jesus' life to govern ours? This Lent, let us collectively explore how to reorder our days, finding abundant life in Jesus' teachings. false full 1 20 1863b097-ea0e-4479-b516-aeefa72b0494 Sun, 11 Feb 2024 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/in-the-beginning-so-what-sunday-february-11-2024-_KpB8_bX In the Beginning... "So What?" - Sunday February 11, 2024 Church of the Messiah UMC 00:18:00 Over the course of the past few weeks, we have explored the story of beginnings found in the early chapters of Genesis. We’ve asked questions: Why is there something and not nothing? What are we here for? Why it the world so broken? We’ve learned that God’s abundant love, God’s intentions and purposes for our lives, and our very own human choices are part of the answer to these questions. This week we ask the question: So What? If we come into being as a result of an act of God’s creative love, if our lives have purpose and meaning as a part of all of God’s creation if we are trusted and expected to faithfully choose our paths as followers of our living God, then … So What? I hope you’ll join us this Sunday to explore this question! Over the course of the past few weeks, we have explored the story of beginnings found in the early chapters of Genesis. We’ve asked questions: Why is there something and not nothing? What are we here for? Why it the world so broken? We’ve learned that God’s abundant love, God’s intentions and purposes for our lives, and our very own human choices are part of the answer to these questions. This week we ask the question: So What? If we come into being as a result of an act of God’s creative love, if our lives have purpose and meaning as a part of all of God’s creation if we are trusted and expected to faithfully choose our paths as followers of our living God, then … So What? I hope you’ll join us this Sunday to explore this question! false full 4 19 cfde2261-6d20-4f94-80c1-1eb79c93efad Sun, 4 Feb 2024 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/in-the-beginning-a-world-so-broken-sunday-february-4-2024-R_PHmI6W In the Beginning... "A World So Broken" - Sunday February 4, 2024 Church of the Messiah UMC 00:19:46 This Sunday as we delve deeper into our ongoing sermon series on Genesis, "In The Beginning…". We will be focusing our attention on Genesis 3:1-13 and exploring the theme, "A World So Broken." This Sunday as we delve deeper into our ongoing sermon series on Genesis, "In The Beginning…". We will be focusing our attention on Genesis 3:1-13 and exploring the theme, "A World So Broken." false full 3 19 13d31aff-fc58-4703-a718-3349dd48ba98 Sun, 28 Jan 2024 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/in-the-beginning-what-were-here-for-sunday-january-28-2024-J9ZdEeuK In the Beginning... "What We’re Here For" - Sunday January 28, 2024 Church of the Messiah UMC 00:24:28 There's a point and a purpose to every life. Each of ours, all of ours. The question is, what? What are we 'supposed' to be doing with our lives? Ask any influencer, politician, employer, and they'll have a ready-made answer. This Sunday, let's ask that question - What are our lives for? - of God, and see what the scriptures have to say. There's a point and a purpose to every life. Let's discover it together. There's a point and a purpose to every life. Each of ours, all of ours. The question is, what? What are we 'supposed' to be doing with our lives? Ask any influencer, politician, employer, and they'll have a ready-made answer. This Sunday, let's ask that question - What are our lives for? - of God, and see what the scriptures have to say. There's a point and a purpose to every life. Let's discover it together. false full 2 19 a636d906-9b93-4c29-943a-a8d1a1aac129 Sun, 21 Jan 2024 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/in-the-beginning-something-not-nothing-sunday-january-21-2024-hMjyGdn9 In the Beginning... "Something, Not Nothing" - Sunday January 21, 2024 Church of the Messiah UMC 00:19:22 The beginning of the Bible is a carefully crafted story about God creating and ordering the whole cosmos. The first three chapters of Genesis reveal why God creates, what the creation is for, how the creation got off track, and about God’s graceful rescue in the face of rebellion. Understanding the beginning is essential for understanding the entire biblical story. Let’s grow together in our understanding, so that the Bible’s message might come to full light. The beginning of the Bible is a carefully crafted story about God creating and ordering the whole cosmos. The first three chapters of Genesis reveal why God creates, what the creation is for, how the creation got off track, and about God’s graceful rescue in the face of rebellion. Understanding the beginning is essential for understanding the entire biblical story. Let’s grow together in our understanding, so that the Bible’s message might come to full light. false full 1 19 eaefc314-2af7-4d8f-8744-7c3ff5b4c843 Sun, 14 Jan 2024 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/state-of-the-church-sunday-sunday-january-14-2024-sVWMO__k State of the Church Sunday - Sunday, January 14, 2024 Church of the Messiah UMC 00:21:33 false full 1 18 f556b0b4-f915-4519-911a-47fd0b6e84c2 Sun, 7 Jan 2024 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/epiphany-sunday-january-7-2024-a-star-J9Bxb2mo Epiphany Sunday, January 7, 2024 - "A Star!" Church of the Messiah UMC 00:12:06 You may have heard the song “Do You Hear What I Hear?” several times over the past few weeks. Whenever I hear it I think of Bing Crosby crooning “Do you see what I see … a star, a star, dancing in the night ...” While this tune has become a Christmas classic, it was written in 1962 by Noël Regney and Gloria Shayne as a plea for peace during the Cuban Missile Crisis. As we come this Sunday to celebrate Epiphany, we’ll remember Magi from the east who see and follow a star, and we’ll remember to “Pray for peace people everywhere.” I’m thankful for the hope that this child, Jesus, brings us goodness and light! You may have heard the song “Do You Hear What I Hear?” several times over the past few weeks. Whenever I hear it I think of Bing Crosby crooning “Do you see what I see … a star, a star, dancing in the night ...” While this tune has become a Christmas classic, it was written in 1962 by Noël Regney and Gloria Shayne as a plea for peace during the Cuban Missile Crisis. As we come this Sunday to celebrate Epiphany, we’ll remember Magi from the east who see and follow a star, and we’ll remember to “Pray for peace people everywhere.” I’m thankful for the hope that this child, Jesus, brings us goodness and light! false full 1 17 feb6640d-6863-42d4-8072-72e98fb9b9dc Sun, 31 Dec 2023 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/how-does-a-weary-world-rejoice-lets-honor-our-roots-new-years-eve-2023-HsDQCFZ8 How Does a Weary World Rejoice? "Let's Honor our Roots " - New Year's Eve, 2023 Church of the Messiah UMC 00:21:27 Have you ever planted a seed? The soil must be prepared, fertilized, watered. The seed placed at just the right depth. Then, the waiting while the seed germinates in secret. One day – hello there! – the seed sprouts and a plant begins to grow and thrive. The rituals in our lives are like seeds. Seeds planted by God, seeds planted by the church, seeds planted by our families, even seeds we’ve planted ourselves. The experience of rituals are opportunities for blooming in shining in our weary world. Join us in worship this week as we consider our own lives and how we are using rituals to bloom for God. Have you ever planted a seed? The soil must be prepared, fertilized, watered. The seed placed at just the right depth. Then, the waiting while the seed germinates in secret. One day – hello there! – the seed sprouts and a plant begins to grow and thrive. The rituals in our lives are like seeds. Seeds planted by God, seeds planted by the church, seeds planted by our families, even seeds we’ve planted ourselves. The experience of rituals are opportunities for blooming in shining in our weary world. Join us in worship this week as we consider our own lives and how we are using rituals to bloom for God. false full 6 16 12227e5f-9986-44d9-9c97-86adab37dcce Sun, 24 Dec 2023 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/how-does-a-weary-world-rejoice-lets-make-room-christmas-eve-2023-m5pmj9ek How Does a Weary World Rejoice? "Let’s Make Room" - Christmas Eve, 2023 Church of the Messiah UMC 00:14:11 “No vacancies,” the sign on the inn reads. And though Jesus comes into the world in a crowded, unexpected place, God makes room. God is always making room in crowded, unexpected places. That’s what Jesus’ birth story is about – God making room for great joy to break in beyond our boundaries, for awe to push past the limits of our expectations for welcome to be extended in unlikely places to unlikely people. This Christmas Eve, how does God invite us, too, to make room for him in our crowded lives? How does God make room, even when we think there’s none to be found? The good news of great joy for all people is coming. “No vacancies,” the sign on the inn reads. And though Jesus comes into the world in a crowded, unexpected place, God makes room. God is always making room in crowded, unexpected places. That’s what Jesus’ birth story is about – God making room for great joy to break in beyond our boundaries, for awe to push past the limits of our expectations for welcome to be extended in unlikely places to unlikely people. This Christmas Eve, how does God invite us, too, to make room for him in our crowded lives? How does God make room, even when we think there’s none to be found? The good news of great joy for all people is coming. false full 5 16 f2d52113-fd1c-4e8c-ac30-e3b7a3e6f80b Sun, 17 Dec 2023 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/how-does-a-weary-world-rejoice-lets-sing-songs-of-hope-sunday-december-17-2023-Csl4p35P How Does a Weary World Rejoice? "Let's Sing Songs of Hope" - Sunday December 17, 2023 Church of the Messiah UMC 00:19:20 Following the birth of his son, Zechariah sings a song of praise for God’s protection and promise. After Elizabeth proclaims God’s blessing upon Mary, Mary sings a song of hope in God’s liberating freedom. As we prepare for Christ’s birth, may we sing songs of hope, justice, and joy. We'll hear God’s word of hope and joy proclaimed through our music this week, as the Messiah Chancel Choir and special musicians lead us in the Advent Cantata, Darkness into Light. Following the birth of his son, Zechariah sings a song of praise for God’s protection and promise. After Elizabeth proclaims God’s blessing upon Mary, Mary sings a song of hope in God’s liberating freedom. As we prepare for Christ’s birth, may we sing songs of hope, justice, and joy. We'll hear God’s word of hope and joy proclaimed through our music this week, as the Messiah Chancel Choir and special musicians lead us in the Advent Cantata, Darkness into Light. false full 4 16 29799ee3-298e-4064-862d-24087e14fc06 Sun, 10 Dec 2023 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/how-does-a-weary-world-rejoice-lets-be-amazed-sunday-december-10-2023-8qeS3k4G How Does a Weary World Rejoice? "Let's Be Amazed" - Sunday December 10, 2023 Church of the Messiah UMC 00:12:35 Have you noticed? Children see the world differently. For a child, a ladybug is a miracle. A pine tree is a wonder. Water isn’t for hydration but for joyous exploration! As adults, we too often forget this language of awe and wonder. When we forget, we distance ourselves from God. Joy is the antidote to the weariness of our world. We find joy, and hope, and peace in the experience of awe and wonder. This Sunday let’s notice how God breaks into our everyday lives in extraordinary ways as we consider Elizabeth and Zechariah’s awe and wonder at the birth of their son John. Have you noticed? Children see the world differently. For a child, a ladybug is a miracle. A pine tree is a wonder. Water isn’t for hydration but for joyous exploration! As adults, we too often forget this language of awe and wonder. When we forget, we distance ourselves from God. Joy is the antidote to the weariness of our world. We find joy, and hope, and peace in the experience of awe and wonder. This Sunday let’s notice how God breaks into our everyday lives in extraordinary ways as we consider Elizabeth and Zechariah’s awe and wonder at the birth of their son John. false full 3 16 0b9a25b7-b64f-4fb9-8af9-aebb143a3dfc Sun, 3 Dec 2023 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/how-does-a-weary-world-rejoice-lets-find-joy-in-connection-sunday-december-3-2023-NNMBLNXw How Does a Weary World Rejoice? "Let’s Find Joy in Connection" - Sunday December 3, 2023 Church of the Messiah UMC 00:23:42 We see in the story of Mary and Elizabeth that joy often expands in connection and community. When we can't rejoice, we can carry one another’s joy. This is what Elizabeth and Mary do for one another – as Mary arrives at Elizabeth’s door, the child Elizabeth carries leaps for joy, and she is filled with the Holy Spirt. She can’t help but rejoice, and her joy is contagious. This Sunday, let’s explore the joy that comes and grows from connection – to our loved ones, to God, and to God’s world around us. We see in the story of Mary and Elizabeth that joy often expands in connection and community. When we can't rejoice, we can carry one another’s joy. This is what Elizabeth and Mary do for one another – as Mary arrives at Elizabeth’s door, the child Elizabeth carries leaps for joy, and she is filled with the Holy Spirt. She can’t help but rejoice, and her joy is contagious. This Sunday, let’s explore the joy that comes and grows from connection – to our loved ones, to God, and to God’s world around us. false full 2 16 8f35cc0a-64ec-415f-841e-e0c6e64399ec Sun, 26 Nov 2023 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/how-does-a-weary-world-rejoice-advent-christmas-series-lets-acknowledge-our-weariness-sunday-november-26-2023-zUVO0rLv ​ How Does a Weary World Rejoice? Advent & Christmas Series "Let’s Acknowledge our Weariness" - Sunday November 26, 2023 Church of the Messiah UMC 00:25:39 There's power in naming a thing – a truth, a feeling, a dream. There's power, as we begin the season of Advent, in naming the weariness we carry around with us. Strained relationships, global insecurity, flagging health, loss of direction, pervasive violence ... you name it, it contributes to our weariness. Maybe we've resigned ourselves to the idea that "this is just how things are." This Sunday, we'll make space in worship to name our weariness and ask God, "How long?!" We'll also affirm the truth that weariness is not where God made us to live. We are made by a God of love for joy. There's power in naming a thing – a truth, a feeling, a dream. There's power, as we begin the season of Advent, in naming the weariness we carry around with us. Strained relationships, global insecurity, flagging health, loss of direction, pervasive violence ... you name it, it contributes to our weariness. Maybe we've resigned ourselves to the idea that "this is just how things are." This Sunday, we'll make space in worship to name our weariness and ask God, "How long?!" We'll also affirm the truth that weariness is not where God made us to live. We are made by a God of love for joy. false full 1 16 896b2df2-fe14-4133-be42-dc83797fee28 Sun, 19 Nov 2023 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/better-than-we-found-it-planting-contentment-sunday-november-19-2023-dbvywlmD Better Than We Found It "Planting Contentment" - Sunday, November 19, 2023 Church of the Messiah UMC 00:23:46 false full 5 15 9343598f-0c77-4e0f-829e-74c88caf43c8 Sun, 12 Nov 2023 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/better-than-we-found-it-planting-memory-sunday-november-12-2023-o3KJxA0o Better Than We Found It "Planting Memory" - Sunday, November 12, 2023 Church of the Messiah UMC 00:27:40 There's a lot to be said about the good old days - the way things used to be. It's easy to remember, and to long to go back to how it was when we were kids, when life was easier. When we follow Jesus, remembering is for one purpose - to be reminded of who God was and will always be, so that we're encouraged for our future. This Sunday, as we continue thinking together about leaving life Better Than We Found It, we'll remember so that we can look forward with hope. There's a lot to be said about the good old days - the way things used to be. It's easy to remember, and to long to go back to how it was when we were kids, when life was easier. When we follow Jesus, remembering is for one purpose - to be reminded of who God was and will always be, so that we're encouraged for our future. This Sunday, as we continue thinking together about leaving life Better Than We Found It, we'll remember so that we can look forward with hope. false full 4 15 4de8de31-6ddb-4ed6-896e-4062aaebc39a Sun, 5 Nov 2023 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/better-than-we-found-it-planting-unity-sunday-november-5-2023-h6nm960G Better Than We Found It "Planting Unity - Sunday, November 5, 2023 Church of the Messiah UMC 00:20:06 November! This time of year, our thoughts turn to family gatherings, holiday obligations, end-of-year deadlines, next year’s opportunities, time changes, shorter days, longer nights, and more. I hope you’ll step away from all that for a few moments this weekend to join us in worship as we celebrate All Saints Day. On All Saint’s Day, we take time to remember those who have passed on and to celebrate their legacy in our lives. Who has been an influence in your life? How is God making you a new creation through the presence of someone else? And, whose life have you been called to influence? God uses us all together to make our lives and this world better than we found it. November! This time of year, our thoughts turn to family gatherings, holiday obligations, end-of-year deadlines, next year’s opportunities, time changes, shorter days, longer nights, and more. I hope you’ll step away from all that for a few moments this weekend to join us in worship as we celebrate All Saints Day. On All Saint’s Day, we take time to remember those who have passed on and to celebrate their legacy in our lives. Who has been an influence in your life? How is God making you a new creation through the presence of someone else? And, whose life have you been called to influence? God uses us all together to make our lives and this world better than we found it. false full 3 15 9f72d5df-f5fb-49a2-ae95-552f6ece0889 Sun, 29 Oct 2023 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/better-than-we-found-it-planting-unity-sunday-october-29-2023-JUZ_gO_m Better Than We Found It "Planting Unity - Sunday, October 29, 2023 Church of the Messiah UMC 00:26:02 Life is a marathon, not a sprint – or so the saying goes. Or what if life was a relay race, with each person playing their part on the team for an overall win? A team of different gifts unified for a common goal. So may be the church - unified around Jesus, using the different gifts he gives us through the Spirit. Let’s talk about the tough and beautiful stuff that comes with difference and how to pursue unity in its midst as we determine how to leave it better than we found it. Life is a marathon, not a sprint – or so the saying goes. Or what if life was a relay race, with each person playing their part on the team for an overall win? A team of different gifts unified for a common goal. So may be the church - unified around Jesus, using the different gifts he gives us through the Spirit. Let’s talk about the tough and beautiful stuff that comes with difference and how to pursue unity in its midst as we determine how to leave it better than we found it. false full 2 15 41552526-ebcf-42e1-a3db-6f571ebf6296 Sun, 22 Oct 2023 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/better-than-we-found-it-leaving-it-better-than-we-found-it-sunday-october-22-2023-olZEarc5 Better Than We Found It "Leaving It Better Than We Found It" - Sunday, October 22, 2023 Church of the Messiah UMC 00:25:02 Jesus tells a story in the gospels, a story about a person who plants a seed. It’s a tiny seed, from the mustard plant. The person plants the seed with intention and care, and the seed grows. It grows until it becomes a great tree, and becomes home to all kinds of creatures. What started as a tiny seed became a garden-shaping plant. This is what God’s good news does, Jesus says – it reshapes whatever it encounters, and beyond, for good. God’s good news leaves things better than when they were found. This fall in worship we’ll be celebrating the seeds of the kingdom Messiah has partnered with God to plant over our 206-year history, and we’ll look forward to what’s next for us to plant as we continue to leave our community, and our world, better than we found it, in Jesus’ name. Jesus tells a story in the gospels, a story about a person who plants a seed. It’s a tiny seed, from the mustard plant. The person plants the seed with intention and care, and the seed grows. It grows until it becomes a great tree, and becomes home to all kinds of creatures. What started as a tiny seed became a garden-shaping plant. This is what God’s good news does, Jesus says – it reshapes whatever it encounters, and beyond, for good. God’s good news leaves things better than when they were found. This fall in worship we’ll be celebrating the seeds of the kingdom Messiah has partnered with God to plant over our 206-year history, and we’ll look forward to what’s next for us to plant as we continue to leave our community, and our world, better than we found it, in Jesus’ name. false full 1 15 5a46fb90-2a61-46b2-b3bc-efd84ddb3f5f Sun, 15 Oct 2023 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/sunday-october-15-2023-4Q1NAV0r Sunday, October 15, 2023 Church of the Messiah UMC 00:22:21 false full 1 14 95e25429-bc4e-4546-908a-0ceaf507e750 Sun, 8 Oct 2023 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/misunderstood-forgive-and-forget-sunday-october-8-2023-nmFDtUas Misunderstood "Forgive and Forget" - Sunday, October 8, 2023 Church of the Messiah UMC 00:20:30 false full 4 13 a2beda7d-6cba-47ce-a4ec-fd6daaf7e269 Sun, 1 Oct 2023 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/misunderstood-love-the-sinner-hate-the-sin-sunday-october-1-2023-1cFIh0Dr Misunderstood "Love the Sinner. Hate the Sin" - Sunday, October 1, 2023 Church of the Messiah UMC 00:22:37 “Love the sinner, hate the sin” - it’s something we say when we come across someone doing something that’s probably ‘wrong’, coupled with the understanding that we should love them no matter what. Too often, it’s a phrase that minimizes personal responsibility amid harm while doing nothing to find solutions for harmful behavior. God speaks to us through Luke 6 with a different take on sin and sinners and the “how” and “why” of love for those who do harm. “Love the sinner, hate the sin” - it’s something we say when we come across someone doing something that’s probably ‘wrong’, coupled with the understanding that we should love them no matter what. Too often, it’s a phrase that minimizes personal responsibility amid harm while doing nothing to find solutions for harmful behavior. God speaks to us through Luke 6 with a different take on sin and sinners and the “how” and “why” of love for those who do harm. false full 3 13 f731275b-32bc-46a7-bf3a-9e50daf59929 Sun, 24 Sep 2023 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/misunderstood-everything-happens-for-a-reason-sunday-september-24-2023-1b_aLr_A Misunderstood "Everything Happens for a Reason" - Sunday, September 24, 2023 Church of the Messiah UMC 00:23:41 “Everything happens for a reason” - it’s something we say when a season of life feels hard, or when something happens in our lives and world that we didn’t ask for or plan. Just like a kid who wants a Band-Aid for every hurt, we have a Band-Aid phrase that we apply to feel better when things are rough. God speaks to us through Romans 8 with a different take on where we see God when tough things happen, and what we can hope for amid tough times. “Everything happens for a reason” - it’s something we say when a season of life feels hard, or when something happens in our lives and world that we didn’t ask for or plan. Just like a kid who wants a Band-Aid for every hurt, we have a Band-Aid phrase that we apply to feel better when things are rough. God speaks to us through Romans 8 with a different take on where we see God when tough things happen, and what we can hope for amid tough times. false full 2 13 5edb11bc-eff6-4185-853f-09758a0d6a0e Sun, 17 Sep 2023 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/misunderstood-a-basis-in-biblical-reality-sunday-september-17-2023-ETV6tewk Misunderstood "A Basis in (Biblical) Reality" - Sunday, September 17, 2023 Church of the Messiah UMC 00:16:06 The Bible is the story of God and God’s people. God gives God’s word to us as a gift, for inspiration, for teaching, and for correction, so that everyone who follows Jesus might become more like God. Over the years, though, we’ve read meanings, ideas and even phrases into the Bible that simply aren't there. This means we can misunderstand and misinterpret life “truths,” and call them “biblical”. Unless we stop to imagine, we’ll always misunderstand. This Sunday, let’s explore what the Bible says … about the Bible. Don’t forget to invite a friend who’s always had questions about it! Hope to see you in person or online. The Bible is the story of God and God’s people. God gives God’s word to us as a gift, for inspiration, for teaching, and for correction, so that everyone who follows Jesus might become more like God. Over the years, though, we’ve read meanings, ideas and even phrases into the Bible that simply aren't there. This means we can misunderstand and misinterpret life “truths,” and call them “biblical”. Unless we stop to imagine, we’ll always misunderstand. This Sunday, let’s explore what the Bible says … about the Bible. Don’t forget to invite a friend who’s always had questions about it! Hope to see you in person or online. false full 1 13 37e1946d-3ba1-4db9-b275-b6730aa3abca Sun, 10 Sep 2023 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/the-gap-sunday-september-10-2023-yigzaCJJ "The Gap" - Sunday, September 10, 2023 Church of the Messiah UMC 00:22:47 false full 1 12 a0a91f90-ed18-4b1e-82a9-8f82571e52a6 Sun, 3 Sep 2023 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/life-together-sunday-september-3-2023-qw88Day9 "Life Together" - Sunday, September 3, 2023 Church of the Messiah UMC 00:30:41 false full 1 11 6abd059e-4de5-44d3-8d02-29d4ba46b1d3 Sun, 27 Aug 2023 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/gathered-sent-upside-down-sunday-august-27-2023-qg5Z9wgi Gathered & Sent "Upside Down" (Sunday, August 27, 2023) Church of the Messiah UMC 00:21:25 false full 14 10 26e327f6-e572-4549-9f30-e5263923c161 Sun, 13 Aug 2023 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/gathered-sent-set-apart-sunday-august-13-2023-8tdtdMjy Gathered & Sent "Set Apart" (Sunday, August 13, 2023) Church of the Messiah UMC 00:25:58 false full 12 10 84b3cbbf-d74d-4f03-a017-3eeded9df5e5 Sun, 6 Aug 2023 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/gathered-sent-freedom-found-sunday-august-6-2023-VxQ2UfF_ Gathered & Sent "Freedom Found" (Sunday, August 6, 2023) Church of the Messiah UMC 00:18:39 false full 11 10 f80b930f-ea42-4c66-bd7c-ad8746cf7089 Sun, 30 Jul 2023 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/gathered-sent-the-big-umbrella-sunday-july-30-2023-FIUqMH4G Gathered & Sent "The Big Umbrella" (Sunday, July 30, 2023) Church of the Messiah UMC 00:22:45 false full 10 10 9ea4f40b-2f2b-48fe-a904-46024f3355f8 Sun, 23 Jul 2023 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/gathered-sent-transformation-sunday-july-23-2023-VzVtqKWA Gathered & Sent "Transformation" (Sunday, July 23, 2023) Church of the Messiah UMC 00:22:17 Last week, Pastor Katy invited us to think about a person in our lives who provided encouragement, guidance, or even challenge to help us grow. Maybe you thought of more than one person who has helped you become who you are today. How have you encouraged, guided, or challenged others? Has your transformation allowed you to be part of some other person’s transformation in some large or small way? When we grow in faith, when we are transformed by God, we are individually affected. And … everyone around us is affected as well. Last week, Pastor Katy invited us to think about a person in our lives who provided encouragement, guidance, or even challenge to help us grow. Maybe you thought of more than one person who has helped you become who you are today. How have you encouraged, guided, or challenged others? Has your transformation allowed you to be part of some other person’s transformation in some large or small way? When we grow in faith, when we are transformed by God, we are individually affected. And … everyone around us is affected as well. false full 9 10 67b266fe-9d7f-46da-8ca1-4bfa28717594 Sun, 16 Jul 2023 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/gathered-sent-growth-in-faith-acts-8-26-40-sunday-july-16-2023-xFUTl3D1 Gathered & Sent "Growth in Faith (Acts 8:26-40)" (Sunday, July 16, 2023) Church of the Messiah UMC 00:20:35 We all need someone who shows up for us and nurtures us in faith. Who is your person? This Sunday, we'll explore the story of Philip (the one who shows up) and the Ethiopian eunuch (the one he shows up for). And we'll explore the call that God, through the Holy Spirit, gives each of us to show up for one another, especially those who have been left out or left behind. We all need someone who shows up for us and nurtures us in faith. Who is your person? This Sunday, we'll explore the story of Philip (the one who shows up) and the Ethiopian eunuch (the one he shows up for). And we'll explore the call that God, through the Holy Spirit, gives each of us to show up for one another, especially those who have been left out or left behind. false full 8 10 a6c2f002-bc3d-43eb-9010-49655b359b12 Sun, 9 Jul 2023 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/gathered-sent-courage-when-its-hard-sunday-july-9-2023-WBUQcrbb Gathered & Sent "Courage When it’s Hard " (Sunday, July 9, 2023) Church of the Messiah UMC 00:21:55 false full 7 10 6fbd0e1f-816f-4634-97e8-f027325eaa33 Sun, 2 Jul 2023 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/gathered-sent-extravagant-generosity-sunday-july-2-2023-R_L_4d2l Gathered & Sent "Extravagant Generosity " (Sunday, July 2, 2023) Church of the Messiah UMC 00:25:51 false full 6 10 ff4d8414-363f-4f4d-97d0-64e1102a5470 Sun, 25 Jun 2023 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/gathered-sent-holy-boldness-sunday-june-25-2023-1fu584xt Gathered & Sent "Holy Boldness " (Sunday, June 25, 2023) Church of the Messiah UMC 00:24:57 false full 5 10 e4b8aeab-a47a-4f88-9849-d56ee5221a6d Sun, 18 Jun 2023 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/gathered-sent-restoration-sunday-june-18-2023-OYIB6Sb5 Gathered & Sent "Restoration " (Sunday, June 18, 2023) Church of the Messiah UMC 00:21:19 false full 4 10 fddf11dc-a3d0-454b-b6bf-2159301c2cc8 Sun, 11 Jun 2023 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/gathered-sent-power-sunday-june-11-2023-YkMkB2BP Gathered & Sent "Power" (Sunday, June 11, 2023) Church of the Messiah UMC 00:22:15 false full 3 10 b68d4d3b-14b1-4436-81f3-a82278acc4d6 Sun, 4 Jun 2023 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/gathered-sent-plans-and-prophecy-sunday-june-4-2023-V69pVm6U Gathered & Sent "Plans and Prophecy" (Sunday, June 4, 2023) Church of the Messiah UMC 00:26:16 false full 2 10 29bb545d-c184-45bf-9ca2-6800bd316088 Sun, 28 May 2023 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/gathered-sent-prayer-and-purpose-pentecost-sunday-sunday-may-28-2023-uYRRF0go Gathered & Sent "Prayer and Purpose" | Pentecost Sunday (Sunday, May 28, 2023) Church of the Messiah UMC 00:21:31 It’s Pentecost! This week in worship we’ll begin a summer-long journey through the story of the early church in the Book of Acts. We’ll explore how God began the movement of people known as his church. When we know what God intended the church for, how it was born, and how it grew (despite serious opposition), we’ll gain inspiration for how God is calling us to be gathered and sent as a church community, today, as God’s kingdom continues to unfold. It’s Pentecost! This week in worship we’ll begin a summer-long journey through the story of the early church in the Book of Acts. We’ll explore how God began the movement of people known as his church. When we know what God intended the church for, how it was born, and how it grew (despite serious opposition), we’ll gain inspiration for how God is calling us to be gathered and sent as a church community, today, as God’s kingdom continues to unfold. false full 1 10 04da9c4e-d75a-4fe7-8f02-018ecaeeabe0 Sun, 14 May 2023 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/its-complicated-navigating-happily-ever-after-sunday-may-14-2023-HlIcl1cf it's complicated... - "Navigating “Happily Ever After" (Sunday, May 14, 2023) Church of the Messiah UMC 00:25:56 And they all lived “happily ever after.” It’s a phrase we hear often at the end of fairy tales. We learn from an early age that “afterwards” everything will go right. In our friendships, our marriages, as parents, as children - everything in our relationships will be shiny, happy, and bright. No surprises, no changes, no disappointments … Relationships aren’t always like that, though. They’re constantly changing, because the people in the relationships change. How do we learn to embrace the change, and love the people in our lives for who they’re becoming? And they all lived “happily ever after.” It’s a phrase we hear often at the end of fairy tales. We learn from an early age that “afterwards” everything will go right. In our friendships, our marriages, as parents, as children - everything in our relationships will be shiny, happy, and bright. No surprises, no changes, no disappointments … Relationships aren’t always like that, though. They’re constantly changing, because the people in the relationships change. How do we learn to embrace the change, and love the people in our lives for who they’re becoming? false full 5 9 7f47e463-360f-4258-802e-69bf4e7cc6b5 Sun, 7 May 2023 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/its-complicated-navigating-forgiveness-sunday-may-7-2023-PnAaFoNp it's complicated... - "Navigating Forgiveness" (Sunday, May 7, 2023) Church of the Messiah UMC 00:14:39 This week we continue our conversations about relationships with Peter’s question: “how many times should I forgive someone?” and Jesus’ answer: seventy-seven times (or, in some translations, seventy TIMES seven times!) Either way, Jesus’ challenge is to forgive an uncountable number of offenses. How do we navigate this way of forgiving those who aren’t ready to change? Are we ready to forgive? Would we take the first step toward possible restoration of relationship with “that one person”? That’s what we’ll explore this week. This week we continue our conversations about relationships with Peter’s question: “how many times should I forgive someone?” and Jesus’ answer: seventy-seven times (or, in some translations, seventy TIMES seven times!) Either way, Jesus’ challenge is to forgive an uncountable number of offenses. How do we navigate this way of forgiving those who aren’t ready to change? Are we ready to forgive? Would we take the first step toward possible restoration of relationship with “that one person”? That’s what we’ll explore this week. false full 4 9 eaa4f3f7-6cb8-4565-bc16-3ab11ddc0473 Sun, 30 Apr 2023 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/its-complicated-navigating-conflict-sunday-april-30-2023-CQfCHyYI it's complicated... - "Navigating Conflict" (Sunday, April 30, 2023)' Church of the Messiah UMC 00:23:57 Every relationship is bound to experience conflict from time to time. While conflict is inevitable, its outcomes are not. We'll learn together the whys and hows of navigating conflict faithfully, in ways that impact our relationships and hopefully, our world. Every relationship is bound to experience conflict from time to time. While conflict is inevitable, its outcomes are not. We'll learn together the whys and hows of navigating conflict faithfully, in ways that impact our relationships and hopefully, our world. false full 3 9 5d30360c-8b80-4177-b6ca-eee8d187d7a6 Sun, 23 Apr 2023 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/its-complicated-navigating-love-your-neighbor-sunday-april-23-2023-tByzFAqi it's complicated... - "Navigating “Love Your Neighbor”" (Sunday, April 23, 2023) Church of the Messiah UMC 00:23:51 We’ve all know someone who it’s difficult to like – a difficult family member, an obnoxious co-worker, a toxic Facebook friend. They’re difficult to like, so what do we do with Jesus’ call to love them? Like it or not, we’ve got to. How?! Let’s explore and discuss this Sunday. We’ve all know someone who it’s difficult to like – a difficult family member, an obnoxious co-worker, a toxic Facebook friend. They’re difficult to like, so what do we do with Jesus’ call to love them? Like it or not, we’ve got to. How?! Let’s explore and discuss this Sunday. false full 2 9 acd8d6fd-ee6e-493b-9519-e9c359786981 Sun, 16 Apr 2023 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/its-complicated-made-for-relationships-qPkvAHdG it's complicated... - "Made for Relationships" (Sunday, April 16, 2023) Church of the Messiah UMC 00:28:28 It’s true: we are people in relationships with other people – with friends, co-workers, parents, spouses, siblings, children, neighbors, church … It’s true: relationship is who God is, and God’s design for our life. It’s true: our relationships can be complicated. Jesus teaches us how (and why) to navigate life’s relationships following God’s lead. Together, we’ll explore what the Bible has to say about how to faithfully love ourselves, love those we don’t like, do conflict, temper our expectations, and live forgiveness. And we’ll pick up tools along the way to journey towards the healthiest, Christ-centered relationships possible. It’s true: we are people in relationships with other people – with friends, co-workers, parents, spouses, siblings, children, neighbors, church … It’s true: relationship is who God is, and God’s design for our life. It’s true: our relationships can be complicated. Jesus teaches us how (and why) to navigate life’s relationships following God’s lead. Together, we’ll explore what the Bible has to say about how to faithfully love ourselves, love those we don’t like, do conflict, temper our expectations, and live forgiveness. And we’ll pick up tools along the way to journey towards the healthiest, Christ-centered relationships possible. false full 1 9 d27fe448-d085-4019-9dee-4397e0d3ace4 Sun, 9 Apr 2023 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/easter-sunday-fear-and-joy-hold-hands-sunday-april-9-2023-xdRh42WH Easter Sunday - “Fear and Joy Hold Hands” (Sunday, April 9, 2023) Church of the Messiah UMC 00:18:29 Throughout our lives, we are sure to make mistakes, to do things we regret and to regret not doing other things. The good news of the Gospel is not only that Jesus died so that we might be forgiven, but that he has been raised from the dead! In him, we too are raised from being dead in our old ways, so that we can have new life, full of hope and promise. Throughout our lives, we are sure to make mistakes, to do things we regret and to regret not doing other things. The good news of the Gospel is not only that Jesus died so that we might be forgiven, but that he has been raised from the dead! In him, we too are raised from being dead in our old ways, so that we can have new life, full of hope and promise. false full 8 8 d0383bd7-0bc7-4fa5-aa0e-e29da451a3dd Thu, 6 Apr 2023 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/maunday-thursday-not-me-thursday-april-6-2023-ReAlFzST Maunday Thursday - "Not Me" (Thursday, April 6, 2023) Church of the Messiah UMC 00:23:57 As the end of Jesus’ earthly life drew near, he gathered his disciples around him and fed them – not just physically, but also spiritually. We’re invited to this special meal too, a meal where Jesus himself meets us and reminds us that because of him, we are forgiven and are always welcome at God’s family dinner. As the end of Jesus’ earthly life drew near, he gathered his disciples around him and fed them – not just physically, but also spiritually. We’re invited to this special meal too, a meal where Jesus himself meets us and reminds us that because of him, we are forgiven and are always welcome at God’s family dinner. false full 7 8 59143722-501e-49e6-8f69-bdf63881cde5 Sun, 2 Apr 2023 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/made-for-more-part-of-the-crowd-palm-sunday-sunday-april-2-2023-ZT7PxOGq Made for More - "Part of the Crowd " Palm Sunday (Sunday, April 2, 2023) Church of the Messiah UMC 00:23:57 Being part of a crowd can be a powerful experience. The crowds in Jerusalem moved from the joy of Palm Sunday’s “Hosannas” to the jeers of Good Friday’s “Crucify Him!” On this Palm and Passion Sunday, let’s explore how we too can get caught up in the crowd, and ways that we can fix our eyes on Jesus. Group think can distract us from the “more”. There are two different crowds – which crowd will we choose? Being part of a crowd can be a powerful experience. The crowds in Jerusalem moved from the joy of Palm Sunday’s “Hosannas” to the jeers of Good Friday’s “Crucify Him!” On this Palm and Passion Sunday, let’s explore how we too can get caught up in the crowd, and ways that we can fix our eyes on Jesus. Group think can distract us from the “more”. There are two different crowds – which crowd will we choose? false full 6 8 a4b3303a-63f6-4a93-9a11-aecdc6c3750f Sun, 26 Mar 2023 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/made-for-more-the-gods-we-make-sunday-march-26-2023-opIDziYC Made for More - "The Gods We Make" (Sunday, March 26, 2023) Church of the Messiah UMC 00:13:26 There are times when we allow something in our lives – a person, a place, an idea, a possession – to become more important to us than God. That change in importance can distance, and even come between us and God. Those “somethings” are the gods we make, and they distract us from our “more.” This Sunday, let’s explore the gods we’ve made, and be reminded of God’s faithfulness, even when we are not. There are times when we allow something in our lives – a person, a place, an idea, a possession – to become more important to us than God. That change in importance can distance, and even come between us and God. Those “somethings” are the gods we make, and they distract us from our “more.” This Sunday, let’s explore the gods we’ve made, and be reminded of God’s faithfulness, even when we are not. false full 5 8 df3d3221-9969-4abc-930d-16d54cf4683d Sun, 19 Mar 2023 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/made-for-more-handling-habits-sunday-march-19-2023-gBZZcuV_ Made for More - "Handling Habits" (Sunday, March 19, 2023) Church of the Messiah UMC 00:23:27 We each handle tough situations differently. When life gets tough, it’s tempting to hang on to easy habits that comfort us in the moment but destroy us long-term. Jesus shows us that habits can bring life. This Sunday, let’s ask ourselves; what habits in my life are handling me, instead of the other way around? And let’s celebrate that bit by bit, as we trust Jesus, we press on, until we live fully into the life he made us for. We each handle tough situations differently. When life gets tough, it’s tempting to hang on to easy habits that comfort us in the moment but destroy us long-term. Jesus shows us that habits can bring life. This Sunday, let’s ask ourselves; what habits in my life are handling me, instead of the other way around? And let’s celebrate that bit by bit, as we trust Jesus, we press on, until we live fully into the life he made us for. false full 4 8 265d2ab4-a686-4718-928d-f980a354d38a Sun, 12 Mar 2023 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/made-for-more-labels-sunday-march-12-2023-uY5CnXhi Made for More - "Labels " (Sunday, March 12, 2023) Church of the Messiah UMC 00:16:34 Labels. They’re on our clothes, our cars, our food – and our hearts. Maybe we’ve given them to ourselves. Maybe others have given them to us. It’s easy to believe that what we’ve done is who we are – especially when we’ve messed up, fallen short, or done the “wrong” things. God doesn’t label us by what we’ve done. This Sunday, let’s discover together: what labels live in my heart? And let’s thank God for giving us the only label that matters - “child of God.” Labels. They’re on our clothes, our cars, our food – and our hearts. Maybe we’ve given them to ourselves. Maybe others have given them to us. It’s easy to believe that what we’ve done is who we are – especially when we’ve messed up, fallen short, or done the “wrong” things. God doesn’t label us by what we’ve done. This Sunday, let’s discover together: what labels live in my heart? And let’s thank God for giving us the only label that matters - “child of God.” false full 3 8 62086ff9-9da6-4319-98df-4210031075ac Sun, 5 Mar 2023 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/made-for-more-hard-truths-sunday-march-5-2023-r8PyFb_F Made for More - "Hard Truths" (Sunday, March 5, 2023) Church of the Messiah UMC 00:21:49 To find true healing, we must face some hard truths. Renovations begin with taking things apart. To make a new road, we first dig up the old one. To refinish furniture, we first strip off the old finish. Part of the healing process is realizing that something is broken. This brokenness is the darkness that overshadows our lives. The first step toward restoration is noticing AND admitting that we are in need of healing. The good news is there is freedom in the light and that God is faithful to walk with us in the process. To find true healing, we must face some hard truths. Renovations begin with taking things apart. To make a new road, we first dig up the old one. To refinish furniture, we first strip off the old finish. Part of the healing process is realizing that something is broken. This brokenness is the darkness that overshadows our lives. The first step toward restoration is noticing AND admitting that we are in need of healing. The good news is there is freedom in the light and that God is faithful to walk with us in the process. false full 2 8 9349d3ef-a604-4070-9bb9-04255dad1708 Sun, 26 Feb 2023 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/made-for-more-made-for-more-sunday-february-26-2023-xzb0Hkn4 Made for More - "Made for More" (Sunday, February 26, 2023) Church of the Messiah UMC 00:19:41 We are made for abundant life – but it’s not a life full of fancy cars, superb health, pockets full of money, and constant vacations. Abundance isn’t an easy, comfortable life, or even an especially long one. It’s a life of contentment, found in Jesus. This Sunday, let’s explore - which kind of abundance are our lives oriented towards? The abundant “more” for which God has made us? Or the “more” that isn’t more? No matter where we’re oriented, Jesus our Good Shepherd shows us the way. We are made for abundant life – but it’s not a life full of fancy cars, superb health, pockets full of money, and constant vacations. Abundance isn’t an easy, comfortable life, or even an especially long one. It’s a life of contentment, found in Jesus. This Sunday, let’s explore - which kind of abundance are our lives oriented towards? The abundant “more” for which God has made us? Or the “more” that isn’t more? No matter where we’re oriented, Jesus our Good Shepherd shows us the way. false full 1 8 2b81fb9c-d0ee-49d4-9275-400406201768 Wed, 22 Feb 2023 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/ash-wednesday-meditation-february-22-2022-XuMqJ1BY Ash Wednesday Meditation (February 22, 2022) Church of the Messiah UMC 00:16:34 Ash Wednesday begins the Christian season of Lent. We will spend the coming days journeying with Jesus toward the cross, toward the death that ultimately brings resurrection life. Many of us will spend these coming days practicing a new spiritual discipline or giving up something that seems to be getting in the way of the life we long to live. And tonight, we come together to mark the beginning of this Lenten journey. We come together to acknowledge our sin, to acknowledge our mortality. We come to glimpse the Christ who offers forgiveness, who offers everlasting life. Ash Wednesday begins the Christian season of Lent. We will spend the coming days journeying with Jesus toward the cross, toward the death that ultimately brings resurrection life. Many of us will spend these coming days practicing a new spiritual discipline or giving up something that seems to be getting in the way of the life we long to live. And tonight, we come together to mark the beginning of this Lenten journey. We come together to acknowledge our sin, to acknowledge our mortality. We come to glimpse the Christ who offers forgiveness, who offers everlasting life. false full 1 7 5e60d88b-904a-4d50-b6f1-e080aa13f348 Sun, 19 Feb 2023 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/everyday-life-growth-mindset-sunday-february-19-2023-YaPD007B Everyday Life - "Growth Mindset" (Sunday, February 19, 2023) Church of the Messiah UMC 00:17:44 Nobody likes discomfort, but daily, there’s something to be uncomfortable about. We spend a lot of time every day avoiding people, situations, ideas, and places which cause us discomfort. It can be easy to get stuck in our comfort. But our comfort isn’t Jesus’ primary goal for us. Our growth is. What if we adopted Jesus’ growth mindset, and explored what could come from our willingness to confront discomfort head-on? Nobody likes discomfort, but daily, there’s something to be uncomfortable about. We spend a lot of time every day avoiding people, situations, ideas, and places which cause us discomfort. It can be easy to get stuck in our comfort. But our comfort isn’t Jesus’ primary goal for us. Our growth is. What if we adopted Jesus’ growth mindset, and explored what could come from our willingness to confront discomfort head-on? false full 6 6 27717620-28ba-42a7-b7fb-e58a540692fb Sun, 12 Feb 2023 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/everyday-life-borrowing-courage-sunday-january-29-2023-bpyZk4GQ Everyday Life - "Borrowing Courage" (Sunday, February 12, 2023) Church of the Messiah UMC 00:21:06 Fear happens when we face a threat (big or small) we cannot conquer. Fear happens to us every day in our relationships, in our health, in our schools, when we read the news, at work. Yet it need not define our everyday lives. What if, instead of living in fear, we speak a word of courage and hope to whatever it is we’re facing, courage we borrow from God’s promises? Fear happens when we face a threat (big or small) we cannot conquer. Fear happens to us every day in our relationships, in our health, in our schools, when we read the news, at work. Yet it need not define our everyday lives. What if, instead of living in fear, we speak a word of courage and hope to whatever it is we’re facing, courage we borrow from God’s promises? false full 5 6 7b6513e0-0968-4f54-b6c1-fe9cf2667090 Sun, 5 Feb 2023 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/everyday-life-disappointment-happens-sunday-january-29-2023-Xj01rIRE 'Everyday Life - "Disappointment Happens" (Sunday, February 5, 2023)' Church of the Messiah UMC 00:19:10 Disappointment happens when our expectations aren’t met. Daily - things that should be done don’t happen. Daily - things that shouldn’t have been said are expressed. It’s natural to express the disappointment, and stop there. But Jesus gives us a different model. What if we moved through our individual and collective disappointment toward love for those who haven’t measured up to our expectations – or even love for ourselves? Disappointment happens when our expectations aren’t met. Daily - things that should be done don’t happen. Daily - things that shouldn’t have been said are expressed. It’s natural to express the disappointment, and stop there. But Jesus gives us a different model. What if we moved through our individual and collective disappointment toward love for those who haven’t measured up to our expectations – or even love for ourselves? false full 4 6 56c6d6f4-3cb4-49cc-96fb-cbdea3338c0f Sun, 29 Jan 2023 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/everyday-life-things-change-sunday-january-29-2023-rtRuaQSs Everyday Life - "Things Change" (Sunday, January 29, 2023) Church of the Messiah UMC 00:24:32 Just when things settle into a routine … something happens. The boat gets rocked. The cheese gets moved. Something reliable becomes unreliable. And we wonder: why me? Jesus is with us in seasons of change, helping us navigate, helping us not be afraid, helping us grow and stretch to meet new challenges. It isn’t that God inflicts change on us. It is that God is faithfully present in the changes and seasons of our lives. Just when things settle into a routine … something happens. The boat gets rocked. The cheese gets moved. Something reliable becomes unreliable. And we wonder: why me? Jesus is with us in seasons of change, helping us navigate, helping us not be afraid, helping us grow and stretch to meet new challenges. It isn’t that God inflicts change on us. It is that God is faithfully present in the changes and seasons of our lives. false full 3 6 672455b6-37a9-49de-a441-ed49e09a5d6c Sun, 15 Jan 2023 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/everyday-life-getting-it-wrong-sunday-january-22-2023-8BaH2sv8 Everyday Life - "Getting it Wrong" (Sunday, January 22, 2023) Church of the Messiah UMC 00:30:45 Sometimes we get it wrong. It’s part of every day. It’s part of every life. It’s part of every community. What "getting it wrong” is NOT is a reason to stop in our tracks. God points out the “wrong” in our lives, but never stops us there. While we are called to account, we’re also always invited by God to make things right and to try again. What if this truth encouraged us not only to begin again each day, but even allowed us to try new things, every day, for God’s kingdom? Sometimes we get it wrong. It’s part of every day. It’s part of every life. It’s part of every community. What "getting it wrong” is NOT is a reason to stop in our tracks. God points out the “wrong” in our lives, but never stops us there. While we are called to account, we’re also always invited by God to make things right and to try again. What if this truth encouraged us not only to begin again each day, but even allowed us to try new things, every day, for God’s kingdom? false full 2 6 5367f3ab-46d8-4d84-b6f1-2fcec22add86 Sun, 15 Jan 2023 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/everyday-life-in-all-things-sunday-january-15-2023-q_QnE4N1 Everyday Life - "In All Things" (Sunday, January 15, 2023) Church of the Messiah UMC 00:26:14 Lots of things will happen in our everyday lives this year – individual and collective. Some things will make us smile. Other things will make us shake our heads – in disappointment, regret, sadness. Through it all – the daily good, the daily bad, the daily neutral – let’s choose patient, joyful trust that God is working in and through it all, for our good and for the good of our world. Lots of things will happen in our everyday lives this year – individual and collective. Some things will make us smile. Other things will make us shake our heads – in disappointment, regret, sadness. Through it all – the daily good, the daily bad, the daily neutral – let’s choose patient, joyful trust that God is working in and through it all, for our good and for the good of our world. false full 1 6 b2c22c38-37c4-4147-89f4-c1604d282513 Sun, 8 Jan 2023 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/state-of-the-church-sunday-january-8-2023-aFvZwX_Y "State of the Church" (Sunday, January 8, 2023) Church of the Messiah UMC 00:27:01 2022 was quite a year in the life of Church of the Messiah. Together we built homes and dug wells and shared food and clothing and other resources for those without. We’ve nurtured kids and youth, both here at Messiah and outside the walls of our building. We’ve made space for new and unconnected people to know Jesus. We’ve prayed for and supported those celebrating and struggling. We’ve worshiped our God through transcendent music, relatable preaching, and the proclamation of scripture. Inside this 2022 Report, you’ll see numbers representing the impact of Messiah’s mission and ministries. These numbers matter. They give us a snapshot of Messiah’s health and reach, locally in Westerville and throughout the world. These numbers are also more than numbers. Each has a name - a life impacted. Each has a story. Each represents a person, a family, or a community partner which Church of the Messiah has been blessed to impact through the ways we give of who we are, what we know, and what we have. Thank you for YOUR impact in 2022. I cannot wait to see how we’ll grow together in 2023! 2022 was quite a year in the life of Church of the Messiah. Together we built homes and dug wells and shared food and clothing and other resources for those without. We’ve nurtured kids and youth, both here at Messiah and outside the walls of our building. We’ve made space for new and unconnected people to know Jesus. We’ve prayed for and supported those celebrating and struggling. We’ve worshiped our God through transcendent music, relatable preaching, and the proclamation of scripture. Inside this 2022 Report, you’ll see numbers representing the impact of Messiah’s mission and ministries. These numbers matter. They give us a snapshot of Messiah’s health and reach, locally in Westerville and throughout the world. These numbers are also more than numbers. Each has a name - a life impacted. Each has a story. Each represents a person, a family, or a community partner which Church of the Messiah has been blessed to impact through the ways we give of who we are, what we know, and what we have. Thank you for YOUR impact in 2022. I cannot wait to see how we’ll grow together in 2023! false full 1 5 b37a4624-8b9f-46ee-8b07-8532e2658ed0 Sun, 1 Jan 2023 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/new-years-day-starlight-sunday-january-1-2023-g03dfc8D New Year's Day - "Starlight" (Sunday, January 1, 2023) Church of the Messiah UMC 00:20:02 The Magi followed a star. Maybe a bright star, impossible to ignore, like a beacon shining in the night. Maybe a faint glimmer, just there, on the horizon, barely enough to see. Bright or faint, this sign from God helped them find their way on a dangerous journey. They arrive at the manger with gifts! Royal gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. And, the gift of themselves as they pay homage to the newborn King, Jesus. There is a a star shining in our lives. Something, someone, bright or not, beckoning, nudging, calling us to answer, to follow, to enter the story. What gift will we bring? The Magi followed a star. Maybe a bright star, impossible to ignore, like a beacon shining in the night. Maybe a faint glimmer, just there, on the horizon, barely enough to see. Bright or faint, this sign from God helped them find their way on a dangerous journey. They arrive at the manger with gifts! Royal gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. And, the gift of themselves as they pay homage to the newborn King, Jesus. There is a a star shining in our lives. Something, someone, bright or not, beckoning, nudging, calling us to answer, to follow, to enter the story. What gift will we bring? false full 1 4 f018c40d-b285-418c-b055-cc2951e324b5 Sun, 25 Dec 2022 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/christmas-day-2022-christmas-reflection-O9JwtqLq Christmas Day 2022 - Christmas Reflection Church of the Messiah UMC 00:13:26 false full 6 3 191f5914-8a61-473b-982e-2761a50d5edb Sat, 24 Dec 2022 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/christmas-eve-2022-what-cant-wait-december-24-2022-3BKnn0Io Christmas Eve 2022 - What Can't Wait (December 24, 2022) Church of the Messiah UMC 00:14:42 Christmas reminds us that God couldn’t wait for the end of war, suffering, or human injustice. God couldn’t wait, so God broke through the shadows to bring light and love. God couldn’t wait to be love in flesh—and neither should we. Christmas reminds us that God couldn’t wait for the end of war, suffering, or human injustice. God couldn’t wait, so God broke through the shadows to bring light and love. God couldn’t wait to be love in flesh—and neither should we. false full 5 3 65a3f25d-728d-46c3-9f63-5ff5bef0487a Sun, 18 Dec 2022 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/advent-2022-what-cant-wait-love-cant-wait-december-18-2022-9yiN_0BQ Advent 2022: "What Can't Wait? - Love Can't Wait (December 18, 2022) Church of the Messiah UMC 00:10:57 As Christmas draws near, we meditate on the courage required of both Joseph and Mary. When Joseph learns of Mary’s pregnancy, he decides to avert scandal and dismiss her quietly. But when an angel comes to him in a dream, he chooses to trust the angel and act counter to social and gender norms—all so that the world might know love. How might we practice courageous, counter-cultural love? How can we be brave enough to love one another and respond to God’s call in our lives? As Christmas draws near, we meditate on the courage required of both Joseph and Mary. When Joseph learns of Mary’s pregnancy, he decides to avert scandal and dismiss her quietly. But when an angel comes to him in a dream, he chooses to trust the angel and act counter to social and gender norms—all so that the world might know love. How might we practice courageous, counter-cultural love? How can we be brave enough to love one another and respond to God’s call in our lives? false full 4 3 fbf54c06-b642-4ccb-97fb-c3e1c862ea89 Sun, 11 Dec 2022 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/advent-2022-what-cant-wait-joy-cant-wait-qv_5lKiX Advent 2022: "What Can't Wait? - Joy Can't Wait (December 11, 2022) Church of the Messiah UMC 00:17:14 As Christmas draws near, we meditate on the courage required of both Joseph and Mary. When Joseph learns of Mary’s pregnancy, he decides to avert scandal and dismiss her quietly. But when an angel comes to him in a dream, he chooses to trust the angel and act counter to social and gender norms—all so that the world might know love. How might we practice courageous, counter-cultural love? How can we be brave enough to love one another and respond to God’s call in our lives? As Christmas draws near, we meditate on the courage required of both Joseph and Mary. When Joseph learns of Mary’s pregnancy, he decides to avert scandal and dismiss her quietly. But when an angel comes to him in a dream, he chooses to trust the angel and act counter to social and gender norms—all so that the world might know love. How might we practice courageous, counter-cultural love? How can we be brave enough to love one another and respond to God’s call in our lives? false full 3 3 402485d7-5559-4f7b-b845-3c30c0e67919 Sun, 4 Dec 2022 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/advent-2022-what-cant-wait-peace-cant-wait-sunday-december-4-2022-R9R2HQ5r Advent 2022: "What Can't Wait? - Peace Can't Wait" (Sunday, December 4, 2022) Church of the Messiah UMC 00:16:30 Isaiah points to a peace this world has yet to know—peace where the wolf lies with the lamb and a child shall lead us. John the Baptist invites us to believe in this vision of peace, but first, we must repent of the ways we turn away from God and do harm to others and ourselves. Only through honest confession can we seek reconciliation and become vessels of God’s peace, facilitators of the Kingdom of God drawn near. Isaiah points to a peace this world has yet to know—peace where the wolf lies with the lamb and a child shall lead us. John the Baptist invites us to believe in this vision of peace, but first, we must repent of the ways we turn away from God and do harm to others and ourselves. Only through honest confession can we seek reconciliation and become vessels of God’s peace, facilitators of the Kingdom of God drawn near. false full 2 3 d9f33a7c-1738-4aab-9aca-4f873c60e99b Sun, 27 Nov 2022 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/advent-2022-what-cant-wait-hope-cant-wait-sunday-november-27-2022-1N1A0NfU Advent 2022: "What Can't Wait? - Hope Can't Wait" (Sunday, November 27, 2022) Church of the Messiah UMC 00:18:10 These texts speak of God’s promised day—a day when wars end, swords are beaten into plowshares, and spears become pruning hooks. On the first Sunday in Advent, we focus on the need to hold onto hope, to continue dreaming of and reaching for God’s promised day where there will be peace and all will know love. How does unrelenting hope change us? How does it change our world? These texts speak of God’s promised day—a day when wars end, swords are beaten into plowshares, and spears become pruning hooks. On the first Sunday in Advent, we focus on the need to hold onto hope, to continue dreaming of and reaching for God’s promised day where there will be peace and all will know love. How does unrelenting hope change us? How does it change our world? false full 1 3 0dcc21be-0716-4a7d-95c6-038ee9bc4fc1 Sun, 20 Nov 2022 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/faithful-faithful-sunday-november-20-2022-AiW25whT Faith*Ful - "Faithful" (Sunday, November 20, 2022) Church of the Messiah UMC 00:21:54 Jesus Christ, King of kings and Lord of Lords, has been faithful to us in so much. The only response is faithfulness in turn - with who we are, what we can do, and what we have. You’re invited to be faithful to Jesus through your faithfulness to the church. Jesus Christ, King of kings and Lord of Lords, has been faithful to us in so much. The only response is faithfulness in turn - with who we are, what we can do, and what we have. You’re invited to be faithful to Jesus through your faithfulness to the church. false full 6 2 b42f0352-c49f-42d3-9832-90b7302b34e7 Sun, 13 Nov 2022 05:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/faithful-faithful-in-song-sunday-november-13-2022-I8YGuyM0 Faith*Ful - "Faithful in Song" (Sunday, November 13, 2022) Church of the Messiah UMC 00:12:27 As faithful followers, we are instructed to make a joyful noise, to be filled with the Spirit, and to sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs together (not alone). The music extends beyond the four walls of our church. How can we be faithful to continue to let the music ring out? As faithful followers, we are instructed to make a joyful noise, to be filled with the Spirit, and to sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs together (not alone). The music extends beyond the four walls of our church. How can we be faithful to continue to let the music ring out? false full 5 2 9e6c2319-4a7f-4ca7-8e0a-71db599654ac Sun, 6 Nov 2022 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/faithful-faithful-with-our-inheritance-sunday-november-6-2022-ht8yWD4U Faith*Ful - "Faithful with Our Inheritance" (Sunday, November 6, 2022) Church of the Messiah UMC 00:07:02 We have a rich inheritance through Jesus Christ - an inheritance of forgiveness, mercy, truth, hope. The saints of our church lived into this inheritance in the ways they were faithful to sharing Jesus through our church. How can Messiah continue to be faithful with our inheritance?  We have a rich inheritance through Jesus Christ - an inheritance of forgiveness, mercy, truth, hope. The saints of our church lived into this inheritance in the ways they were faithful to sharing Jesus through our church. How can Messiah continue to be faithful with our inheritance?  false full 4 2 645068d7-2a6c-4f09-8e94-7c391c56702c Sun, 30 Oct 2022 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/faithful-faithful-to-grow-part-2-sunday-october-30-2022-kAe2ZdmW Faith*Ful - "Faithful to Grow Part 2" (Sunday, October 30, 2022) Church of the Messiah UMC 00:30:32 The family (parents, grandparents …) of a child are the primary spiritual influence in a child’s life. But they’re not the only influences. The church community as a whole has a responsibility to be faithful to our children. We affirm this in their baptism vows. How can Messiah continue to be faithful to help our children grow? The family (parents, grandparents …) of a child are the primary spiritual influence in a child’s life. But they’re not the only influences. The church community as a whole has a responsibility to be faithful to our children. We affirm this in their baptism vows. How can Messiah continue to be faithful to help our children grow? false full 3 2 0a828d27-6c76-4dfa-88f1-397470f06e1e Sun, 23 Oct 2022 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/faithful-faithful-to-go-sunday-october-23-2022-BuIuLipO Faith*Ful - "Faithful to Go" (Sunday, October 23, 2022) Church of the Messiah UMC 00:24:25 We are, along with the disciples, called to make disciples of everyone, baptizing, teaching, etc. Jesus is with us in the effort. "Mission" is not just an event. How can we live into the mission as a lifestyle? We are, along with the disciples, called to make disciples of everyone, baptizing, teaching, etc. Jesus is with us in the effort. "Mission" is not just an event. How can we live into the mission as a lifestyle? false full 2 2 5f49d373-5d3c-4edf-b14f-131c88e2ce11 Sun, 16 Oct 2022 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/faithful-faithful-to-grow-part-1-sunday-october-16-2022-QFK7XJUC Faith*Ful - "Faithful to Grow Part 1" (Sunday, October 16, 2022) Church of the Messiah UMC 00:30:58 God’s faithfulness to us knows no bounds. We’ve experienced that faithfulness in our individual lives, and in the life of Church of the Messiah. During this six-week series, we’ll hear a story from someone in our church family who has experienced God's faithfulness through Messiah’s ministries of music, mission, and discipleship. Each week, one of our pastors will encourage us in the work of continuing faithfulness, through how we serve our neighbors, how we help kids and adults alike to grow, and how we celebrate God through music. Looking forward to celebrating what has been, what is, and what will be, with each of you. God’s faithfulness to us knows no bounds. We’ve experienced that faithfulness in our individual lives, and in the life of Church of the Messiah. During this six-week series, we’ll hear a story from someone in our church family who has experienced God's faithfulness through Messiah’s ministries of music, mission, and discipleship. Each week, one of our pastors will encourage us in the work of continuing faithfulness, through how we serve our neighbors, how we help kids and adults alike to grow, and how we celebrate God through music. Looking forward to celebrating what has been, what is, and what will be, with each of you. false full 1 2 27444547-7182-4671-8721-f3ed25205bc8 Sun, 9 Oct 2022 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/anxious-for-nothing-meditate-sunday-october-9-2022-XySoo9ME Anxious for Nothing - "Meditate" (Sunday, October 9, 2022) Church of the Messiah UMC 00:20:48 Where we draw our nourishment from, and where we focus our attention, affects how we experience the world around us. Are we drawing our nourishment from things that are loving, true, honorable, just, excellent, praiseworthy … or not? As we close out the Anxious for Nothing series, let’s explore what it means to “meditate on these things.” Read Philippians 4:4-8 and John 15:1-8 for your preparation Where we draw our nourishment from, and where we focus our attention, affects how we experience the world around us. Are we drawing our nourishment from things that are loving, true, honorable, just, excellent, praiseworthy … or not? As we close out the Anxious for Nothing series, let’s explore what it means to “meditate on these things.” Read Philippians 4:4-8 and John 15:1-8 for your preparation false full 5 1 0d2a667f-f5f3-4d35-8e91-8c0779e52cd3 Sun, 2 Oct 2022 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Pastor Katy Wheat-Borhauer) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/anxious-for-nothing-peace-sunday-october-2-2022-Z8rwUwMM Anxious for Nothing - "Peace" (Sunday, October 2, 2022) Pastor Katy Wheat-Borhauer 00:14:26 It’s hard to explain, and it’s true: there are times when we’re navigating a difficult situation that we experience a sense of calming peace, for no good reason. When we say “yes” to Jesus, God does not promise us a life free from difficulty (we wish). God does promise to be with us as we face those difficulties. When we know we’re not alone, that we belong to God, and that we are in God’s service, this knowledge will guard our hearts and bring us peace, no matter what comes. It’s hard to explain, and it’s true: there are times when we’re navigating a difficult situation that we experience a sense of calming peace, for no good reason. When we say “yes” to Jesus, God does not promise us a life free from difficulty (we wish). God does promise to be with us as we face those difficulties. When we know we’re not alone, that we belong to God, and that we are in God’s service, this knowledge will guard our hearts and bring us peace, no matter what comes. false full 4 1 e0cf8072-0e5c-44b2-9357-9d434f9982af Sun, 25 Sep 2022 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Church of the Messiah UMC) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/anxious-for-nothing-request-sunday-september-25-2022-1rrMpm14 Anxious for Nothing - "Request" (Sunday, September 25, 2022) Church of the Messiah UMC 00:15:52 When we pray - whether we’re celebrating or mourning, in a moment of triumph or a moment of challenge, God listens. Can you trust that God listens to your prayers in moments of anxiety? This week, we’ll explore the story of the Apostle Peter as he steps out of the boat in faith, and prays to God for deeper trust. Read Matthew 14:22-26 for your preparation. When we pray - whether we’re celebrating or mourning, in a moment of triumph or a moment of challenge, God listens. Can you trust that God listens to your prayers in moments of anxiety? This week, we’ll explore the story of the Apostle Peter as he steps out of the boat in faith, and prays to God for deeper trust. Read Matthew 14:22-26 for your preparation. false full 3 1 658e031c-7e8a-415d-bf5b-aa968b214f7b Sun, 18 Sep 2022 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Pastor Katy Wheat-Borhauer) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/anxious-for-nothing-gentleness-sunday-september-18-2022-YPZLgqCy Anxious for Nothing - "Gentleness" (Sunday, September 18, 2022) Pastor Katy Wheat-Borhauer 00:19:50 We’ve got a choice - pick up every disappointment, stress, and frustration which is tossed our way, or not. We’ve got a choice - not only how we perceive trials, but also how we react to them. Paul invites the Philippians to a seasoned, composed, and gentle spirit in the face of hardships. This Sunday, we’ll focus on what it means to pursue a gentle spirit, which comes from trusting that God is near. Read Luke: 8:22-25 for your preparation. We’ve got a choice - pick up every disappointment, stress, and frustration which is tossed our way, or not. We’ve got a choice - not only how we perceive trials, but also how we react to them. Paul invites the Philippians to a seasoned, composed, and gentle spirit in the face of hardships. This Sunday, we’ll focus on what it means to pursue a gentle spirit, which comes from trusting that God is near. Read Luke: 8:22-25 for your preparation. false full 2 1 06a6f9c5-4559-4b05-8719-6a641dd6fe8c Sun, 11 Sep 2022 04:00:00 +0000 messiahchurch@messiahumc.net (Pastor Katy Wheat-Borhauer) https://church-of-the-messiah-umc.simplecast.com/episodes/anxious-for-nothing-rejoice-sunday-september-11-2022-xppFpASB Anxious for Nothing - "Rejoice" (Sunday, September 11, 2022) Pastor Katy Wheat-Borhauer 00:17:44 The Bible is the most highlighted book on Kindle. Philippians 4:4-8 is the most highlighted passage. Why? Probably because it’s a beautiful reminder of God’s presence in every situation, especially in the midst of our anxiety, fear, and doubt. We’re beginning a five-week conversation about worry and anxiety called, "Anxious for Nothing." This Sunday, we’ll focus on remembering who is God (God) and who is not (us), and how God’s sovereignty over all things, including our lives, can bring us comfort, and even allow us to rejoice, in the midst of anxious moments or seasons. God is over all, in all, and through all. Because of this, we can rejoice. The Bible is the most highlighted book on Kindle. Philippians 4:4-8 is the most highlighted passage. Why? Probably because it’s a beautiful reminder of God’s presence in every situation, especially in the midst of our anxiety, fear, and doubt. We’re beginning a five-week conversation about worry and anxiety called, "Anxious for Nothing." This Sunday, we’ll focus on remembering who is God (God) and who is not (us), and how God’s sovereignty over all things, including our lives, can bring us comfort, and even allow us to rejoice, in the midst of anxious moments or seasons. God is over all, in all, and through all. Because of this, we can rejoice. false full 1 1