Sometimes scripture, and the disciples, and Jesus don’t sound the way we want them to. We want what we want. We want to be in control, to be coddled, comforted,…
“For Christians, hope is ultimately hope in Christ. The hope that he really is what for centuries we have been claiming he is. The hope that despite the fact that…
There is a language of love that fills the yearning in every human heart for sacred space with God. Jesus recognized this and gave us ths ‘language'on Pentecost.
After the resurrection, Jesus was recognized by his scars. We too, are often known by what has marked us. Our wounds matter; they are a witness to the redeeming power…
We encounter emptiness throughout life. If that's you, put your trust in God's power to break open the empty tomb and fill it with light, angels, and the Good News.
Holy Time. It's limited and precious time, often spent in despair, not knowing what to do. It can be a time when we hold our breath and hope against hope.…
Jesus was a carpenter’s kid without education. He wasn't among the socially elite. Some were offended by him because he acted above his place in society. Who offends us if…
We must continue doing our work. The evil of this world wants to exploit our differences...it's not the person sitting on the other side from you. We cannot believe the…
Uncluttering our lives is a major focus of Lent. Jesus said to 'get our house in order.' The example we set with our lives impacts others. Let's take stock and…
We can't take seriously what the depth of redemption means until we take seriously the suffering of the world the King of Peace, and we, are born into. Learn why…
In celebration of Christ the King Sunday, let's expand our understanding of the phrase 'Christ the King.' In doing so, we may become more aware of how to interact with…
This has been an emotionally and spiritually exhausting time in our country. Look no further than the daily news. It is easy to despair. Seeking courage? Let’s do that together.
All Saints Sunday is a special time that is set aside to reflect on all those who have passed before us. Let us honor and celebrate their lives and the…
The Acts 4 church held everything as common possessions. They demonstrated why we can’t separate the way we live from the one who claims our heart. If Jesus is the…
Manchester UMC is full of generous people, says Pastor Stephanie. 'They are the most gracious, loving people I have ever known.' Many things may attract worshipers to this church, but…
Does God exist to please me, or do I exist to please God? The answer makes all the difference in the journey we call life. Pastor Jim offers some insights.
It's what's on the inside that counts, not outward appearances. We can't take ourselves so seriously that we begin to think we are superior and stop learning from others. Our…
The Bible is a kingdom book. It clearly says three things about politics and government. Find out what they are, and how you can stay on track in the political…
God lives in the present, and so should we. In fact, we are always in the presence of God, says Pastor Stephanie Lendt. But, we are often distracted and unaware.…
It’s your future. Where do you want to be 5-years from now? It’s good to have a plan, but what about those opportunities we never imagined would come along? Often,…
Where do you spend most of your time: the past, the future, or in the here and now? God lives in the present, says Pastor Stephanie. Here's why you should…
Setting boundaries is important. But, how do you do it without fear of how people will react, or keeping yourself from feeling guilty. Pastor Jim explores why setting boundaries might…
What's your backstory? For many of us, there are some things we’d just rather leave in the past. Yet, when we come to understand the power of our backstory, we…
