ALL have sinned and fallen short, but ALL are treated as righteous by God’s Grace. Really, what more is there to say? It is what it is – it is that simple! We are all sinners, but we are all healed by Grace, and we are all saints if we only choose to accept it. So, I could end this devotion right here, but oh, we are human though, aren’t we?
If both are not possible, do you think it is better to do good or to follow the rules? It can be a very difficult question. Jesus tended to break a lot of rules while helping others.
So, have you ever gone apple picking on a Sunday afternoon? Have you ever gone to the grocery store on a Sunday? Have you ever gone out to eat or gone to a concert or sporting event on a Sunday afternoon? How about to a festival in the park?
There are a million things that we can participate in! Start with prayer and let the Sprit lead!
How are we doing day to day showing others the love of Jesus? Can others see that we are Christians who follow Jesus? Can they see that our church is like the church of Philadelphia – truly welcoming to all who come – whether it be for one visit or for a lifetime?
There are many lists of lessons to be learned from the story of Esther. Lessons that show God can use everyday people to do amazing things, and we should be ready to make some sacrifices to get whatever God is asking of us done.
Paul is asking us to set aside what we think we know about others, specifically the things that make “them vs. us,” and just come with the same love and grace that God gives them.
Today we celebrate the birthday of our country. 249 years ago on July 2,1776, The Continental Congress voted for independence, and two days later the Declaration of Independence was formally adopted. We are a relatively “new” nation in the overall scheme of things.
Have you had those times when you feel God is so close, then other times you struggle to feel God’s presence?
Remembering to be thankful for little and big things is also a really good way to commune with God. Some people use a prayer journal or make a space to sit with God. Others will go on retreats. It doesn’t matter what we do, it matters that we all do something to spend more time communicating with the triune Lord.
Only the Lord can answer that. I need to keep asking and follow what I hear. This is a challenge for me to deal with, maybe it is for you too.
The people that fought for a shorter workday were looking for abundance – productive work, but also time with their families and time to rest. They were also looking to be safer and to live longer, healthier lives. Sometimes we think of abundance as just making more money, having more stuff, but not a single person on Sunday during the service mentioned having more stuff or working more led to an abundant life.
Together we can turn the nation’s largest weekend of football into the largest weekend of giving. Youth group members will be collecting monetary donations at each service this Sunday and will then send the donation to the Turning Point United Methodist Food Pantry in Trenton. Your generosity will be very much appreciated. The link below will take you to our PushPay system. You can select “Give One Time” then use the Fund Selector to choose “Souper Bowl of Caring.”
PEDAL for PROMISE – SATURDAY, MAY 11, 2019: Medford United Methodist is fielding a team for the Urban Promise fundraiser “Pedal for Promise.” This year the ride begins and ends at Valenzano Winery in Shamong. You can register to ride, make a donation to the team or register as a spectator to enjoy the party and cheer on our team.
Go to urbanpromiseusa.org/pedal for more information about the event, to donate, or to register as an individual. OR you can go directly to the TEAM MEDFORD UMC page at www.crowdrise.com/team-medford-umc.
Questions or need help? Speak with Pastor Kathleen, Wayne Richards, or Heidi and Mike Polhemus
