Arapaho UMC: Recent Episodes
Arapaho UMC
Progressive theology and engaging Sermons & podcasts from an inclusive church in Richardson, Texas. We are intentional about our faith development: we ask questions, develop deep and lasting friendships, and work together to make a positive difference in our community. Nobody is perfect here, but being a part of this place brings out the best of us.
What if sin isn’t about pristine holiness but rather preventing harm—to ourselves, others, and the world around us? This reimagined understanding sees sin the way John Wesley did: as harm, or, in the words of Cornelius Plantinga as a "culpable disturbance of shalom," a disruption of the peace, flourishing, and wholeness God desires for all creation. Instead of lists of dos and don’ts, sin becomes a deeper call to recognize the harm we cause and to join God’s work of healing and restoration. Jesus, far from reinforcing shame or exclusion, modeled radical love and inclusion, breaking down barriers and inviting everyone into belonging and flourishing. In this view, repentance (teshuvah) is not about guilt trips or fear but about returning to who we are meant to be—beloved, creative, and whole. By embracing this call to cultivate shalom, we discover a faith that is not burdensome but liberating, empowering us to heal the brokenness in our lives and the world. In the end, the story isn’t about judgment—it’s about returning home to love and flourishing.
Our internal monologue can sometimes be a one-sided conversation. Not to mention distractions that can leave us disconnected from deeper voices—especially God’s. The spiritual practice of study — listening for God through Scripture and other sources of wisdom — invites us into a two-way conversation, revealing God’s love, wisdom, and guidance. Alongside Scripture, God also speaks through creation, science, relationships, and even unexpected moments, inviting us to see truth and beauty everywhere.We acknowledge the challenges of studying Scripture—misuse, confusion, and harm caused by misinterpretation—but emphasize that God’s voice always leads to love, as revealed in Jesus. Using tools like the Wesleyan Quadrilateral (Scripture, Tradition, Reason, Experience), we approach these sources thoughtfully, testing what we hear through the lens of Christ’s message. Finally, we explore Lectio Divina, a practice of prayerfully reading Scripture, alongside the discipline of open-hearted curiosity in all learning. By engaging with wisdom in all the ways we find it, we cultivate a rhythm of listening to God’s voice, transforming our minds and equipping us to live with deeper purpose, compassion, and grace.
Bridges are essential for connection, both in our world and in our relationships. Just like a physical bridge that links two sides of a town, relational bridges link us across divides. Right now, many of our bridges are broken—whether it’s in society or our personal lives—and that creates distance and disconnection.
Jesus challenges us to build these bridges, even when it’s uncomfortable. His love invites us to move beyond isolation, reaching out to others with compassion and hope. In loving our neighbors, we don’t stay in our comfort zones but instead, we follow Jesus’ example of stepping into hard places, offering peace and reconciliation where there’s hostility.
Paul’s transformation—from a persecutor to a follower of Christ—is a powerful story of how love builds bridges. After being welcomed by the Christian community, Paul embraced a new perspective, seeing all people as children of God, worthy of reconciliation. This "ministry of reconciliation" isn’t about pretending everything is fine, but about exchanging division for connection, hostility for peace.
Reconciliation is a process—it’s not about ignoring wrongs but addressing them honestly, repairing what’s broken, and working toward peace. Sometimes, though, love requires boundaries, and not every relationship should be restored. Love never asks us to return to harm.
The heart of reconciliation is finding those sacred places of connection where bridges can be built. Even small steps, like sharing a conversation with a neighbor, can lead to surprising transformations. God’s love travels across even the smallest bridges we build.
We are all shaped by the lives of others—those who pour their wisdom, love, and faith into us. These people are our saints, not because they were perfect, but because they were used by God to nurture and guide us, leaving a lasting impact.
In the Bible, the word "saint" comes from hagias, which means "set apart" or "used by God." It’s a word for those whose lives continue to reverberate in us, like the faith of Timothy’s grandmother and mother, which Paul recognized as alive within him. This faith, love, and wisdom passed down through generations builds the foundation on which we stand.
We remember and honor our saints, those who have gone before us, especially on All Saints Day. Like a tapestry, their lives are woven with ours, binding us together in a deep, spiritual connection. Their influence is alive in us, and in many ways, they are still present, even as they rest in God's love.
But saints are not just figures in stained glass windows; they are everyday
people who have loved, supported, and shaped us. They show us how to live, how to give of ourselves, and how to pass on the good that has been given to us. We honor them not only with gratitude but with responsibility —to live in such a way that we carry forward their legacy of love and faith.
In this message, we learn how Jesus calls us to shift our focus from the narrow concerns of everyday life and anxiety to the broader horizon of God’s kingdom, which is rooted in justice, peace, and joy. Using the imagery of the lilies, Jesus teaches us to trust in God’s abundant love, freeing us from the constant grip of worry. When we seek God first, life opens up in unexpected and life-giving ways.
Jesus uses the analogy of the lilies to remind us that life’s beauty comes not from toiling anxiously but from trusting God’s care, just as flowers grow without worry. We are called to open our hands and hearts to life beyond our narrow concerns, finding freedom in God’s love and purpose. Big idea: When we seek God first, life opens up in surprising, abundant ways, and God’s expansive love transforms our circumstances, freeing us from the grip of worry.
What about our own experience? We all have wisdom of our own and our own "theology" — that is, thoughts about God. That wisdom is valid. And our own experiences can help us test whether something works (is life-giving) or whether we should think again.
- In fact, the Methodist tradition says that this is our theological task — our part to play is to bring our own perspective to help contribute to the faith life of the community, participating in a process that is critical and constructive, individual and communal, contextual and incarnational and ultimately practical.
What about other things we might learn? As the early followers of Jesus taught: "All truth is God's truth". That means that if something is true, then it is true — and our assumptions must adapt. This may seem simple, but it has been a place of wrestling throughout history. Partly because we are always learning more. We need to listen to science and social science and the best of human knowledge. We need to learn from the rich community of thinkers throughout history. And we need to hold our assumptions with open hands, ready to learn and unlearn as we journey throughout our life. Richard Niebuhr's idea of "absolute relativism" has encouraged me to stay flexible even while we fix our eyes on love.
"What is God's plan for my life?" No question brought more anxiety to my younger life. What if I miss it? What if I don't like it? What if? We often quote Jeremiah's famous verse about God's big plans, without noticing that it is a part of this message of digging in right where we are. Plans are not about some far off future, but helping pull near the future that God dreams. When we seek the shalom of the place we are right now, we find that God has big plans for our shalom as well — now and forever.
Another way Jeremiah invites us to seek the holistic universal flourishing of our community is to "pray for the city". I don't know about you, but as a person seek to be a good neighbor in a pluralistic world, the idea of praying for someone can give me the heebeegeebees. But there are two liberating secrets in this idea: 1) that our faith is to be lived for the flourishing of our neighbor; and 2) the secret found in the rest of Jeremiah's phrase: "pray to the Lord on their behalf". We do not pray for our neighbors on behalf of what we want, but on behalf of what they want — their hopes and dreams and gifts. We’re called to first listen to our neighbors so that we can know “their behalf”, and then let our hearts be moved deeply for our city, and for that to call us to reach out to a power greater than us on behalf of our neighbors and neighborhoods. Let our hearts be moved to love. Let our souls be stirred to prayer. And let our hands be called to action.
God’s invitation to us is to be "for our city"—to seek the holistic flourishing of our neighbors and communities. Jeremiah explains that that looks like planting gardens and building houses — to dig in and make a home. What does this look like in action? Jesus once shared a parable that helps unpack this idea of digging in—that the kingdom of God is like a mustard seed was sowed and grew to become a tree offering shelter and life to the world. What kind of seeds are we sowing in our cities? Let’s sow seeds that give shelter, support our neighbors, and offer radical love to our world.
We don’t always know exactly what we are supposed to do — where we are, right now. We look ahead to future dreams or back to more certain times. But what about here and now?
The book of Jeremiah describes a critical time in the history of the people of Israel, when they found themselves asking the very same questions. Israel had been conquered by Babylon and many of the people had been carried off to live in exile in a new country and culture and community. Some wanted to go back, some just wanted to blend in, but God had a purpose for them then and there, just as God has for us here and now.
Through the prophet Jeremiah, direction came: Seek the shalom (that is, “universal holistic flourishing”) of the place where you are, “for in its shalom, you will find your own shalom.”
Whether we are starting a new school grade, welcoming a new group of students, or beginning our 50th year in the same neighborhood, this continues to be good direction and God's vision for each of us, wherever we might find ourselves on life journey. Dig in to our community, and seek it flourishing in all the ways we can, and we will find ourselves flourishing as well.
The Gospel of Luke introduces us to two new characters at nearly the end of the story, which is an odd choice, to be sure. Weirder still is the lengthy encounter they have with a stranger on their road back home, and how this stranger changes the course of their journey and ours. We might think we know how the story ends, but resurrection might just surprise us once again.
After the crucifixion and burial of Jesus, many of the disciples got back to their old lives, which for some meant fishing. The disciples in John are shown fishing and pulling up empty nets, until they encounter a “stranger” and… well, the story changes. Let’s talk about what it feels like to “fish with empty nets,” and how resurrection can invite us into a posture of abundance.
The word for “bless” in Hebrew is closely related to the word for “kneel.” The idea is that to praise someone and to receive a blessing is the same body posture… kneeling. We will look at the passage from Psalm 103 that underscores this linguistic lesson, as well as the story of Jesus washing the disciples feet as a practical example of how kneeling invites praise and blessing for all involved. This will lead us into a theology of servant leadership and humility at the core of the Christian message, that to bless and be blessed is to adopt a posture of kneeling–before God and before others.
The “man with the withered hand” is one of the stories in the Gospels used to illustrate Jesus’ conflict with strict religious adherence (and adherents). He uses his hands not only to heal the hurting around him, he also uses his hands to wrestle with and overcome the leaders who would treat faith as a punishing list of rules. As we reflect on the faithful use of “hands,” we’ll look to Jesus, the pharisees, and the man in need of healing as examples of how our hands can work for liberation or captivity, and how God responds in kind.
Our ability to communicate is one of the gifts of humanity, and we find ourselves with a greater capacity and platform for communication than ever before. I can pick up my phone and communicate with people (strangers even) around the world instantly, sometimes with very little responsibility for the outcomes of my communication. As people of faith, our mouths are not isolated entities, they are the mouthpiece of our heart and our spirit; they reveal the state and nature of ourselves and our faith. How will we choose to use our mouths? The Prophet Isaiah will be our guide.
Whether we hear with our ears, eyes, or heart, in the Bible, the concept of “hearing” is attached to our being attuned to the movement of God in our midst. Samuel was given “ears to hear” by the older Eli, who could be pulled out of sleep by the whisper of the Spirit. Paul reflects on the power of the “word of Christ” in the promise it offers to those who are willing to hear and embrace the message of resurrection. And in the story of Jesus healing the blind man, it is notable how his reaction to the shouts of the man in distress differs from the Pharisees, who also hear the man, but who instead attempt to shout him down.
The holidays can be a season of intense joy, and also intense grief. A prophet named Isaiah connected the grief we feel to the passion God has for justice, in our personal lives and throughout the world. This week, let’s talk about why grief is something we can choose to embrace as a holy part of the human experience, and how it could lead us into hope.
The holidays can be a season of intense joy, and also intense grief. A prophet named Isaiah connected the grief we feel to the passion God has for justice, in our personal lives and throughout the world. This week, let’s talk about why grief is something we can choose to embrace as a holy part of the human experience, and how it could lead us into hope.
This week, let's talk about the gift of staying attentive to what God is doing in the midst of our lives.
All Saints Sunday is a day in the life of the Church when we remember those we have lost in the last year. It’s also a natural time of reflection for our own lives, and how we hope to live with purpose and to find meaning in our day-to-day. This week, we’ll take a look at a passage in Matthew’s Gospel, where Jesus tells his people “not to worry.” What sounds at first like a somewhat naive instruction could actually help us reframe our lives as we listen closer.
Let’s talk about work. I know, I know… work is the last thing you want to think about. But when the culture defines our personal value based upon what we do, the spiritual question to ask might be: is that all that I am? Whether it’s an office job, a family calendar, or the chaos of life itself, let’s all pause for a moment and consider why rest might be the most fruitful form of resistance we have available to us.
"Sister Act: The Musical" is the story of Deloris Van Cartier, a lively and aspiring nightclub singer who, after witnessing a murder committed by her mobster boyfriend, finds herself in danger. To ensure her safety, the police place her in the last place anyone would expect - a convent.
Deloris, now disguised as Sister Mary Clarence, struggles to adapt to the strict and serene life of the convent. Her vibrant personality clashes with the traditional ways of the nuns, but she soon discovers an opportunity to inject some much-needed life and spirit into the convent's choir. With Deloris at the helm, the once-tone-deaf choir transforms into a powerful and soulful singing sensation, attracting attention from both the congregation and the media.
As Deloris helps the nuns discover their own voices and personalities, she also undergoes a personal transformation. She learns about the importance of friendship, faith, and the strength of the human spirit. Ultimately, the story is a testament to the gift of beloved community, and the music we can make when we offer our full selves to one another.
In "Fiddler On The Roof" Tevye considers traditions and new ways proposed by his daughters, as they are supported by his wife, he consults with one constant in his life: God. These conversations are the basis of his decision making, the outlet for his angry tantrums, and a balm for his suffering. Through these conversations, Tevye the milkman shares thoughts of love, wealth, justice, friendship, suffering, and, of course, tradition. Come with us, as we travel back to 1905, to Anatevka, and as we listen to Tevye’s prayers and wait for God’s response.
World Communion Sunday is a Sunday set aside for Christians throughout the world to celebrate the gift of communion in spiritual unity. And yet, what does it mean to live into the truly global nature of our faith? Are we called to spread a message that only we control? Are we called to simply sing Kumbaya? Or is it something else entirely? Let’s gather around the Lord’s Table this World Communion Sunday and consider how God is leading us to live in this global movement.
World Communion Sunday is a Sunday set aside for Christians throughout the world to celebrate the gift of communion in spiritual unity. And yet, what does it mean to live into the truly global nature of our faith? Are we called to spread a message that only we control? Are we called to simply sing Kumbaya? Or is it something else entirely? Let’s gather around the Lord’s Table this World Communion Sunday and consider how God is leading us to live in this global movement.
From pastoring migrants in rural Georgia to teaching practical theology at SMU, Rev. Dr. Hugo Magallanes is not someone you could call “ivory tower.” In fact, his experience leads him to bring the seminarian into the harvest field to feel the heat of the sun and pain of the poor. This Sunday, we invite Dr. Magallanes to the AUMC pulpit as guest preacher, to share with us a message of liberating theology.
As United Methodists, we are proudly people of an “open table,” meaning that all people are welcome to the sacrament of communion. At AUMC, we have extended the table to specifically include our LGBTQ siblings as an “open and affirming” congregation, but is that the finish line? (Hint: not exactly.) This week, Pastor Scott is joined by Pastor Britt Melrose in a conversational sermon about opening ourselves to the beauty of God expressed through the lives of LGBTQ persons.
“Deconstruction” is a buzz word for some, a dirty word for others, and simply a reality for many people here at AUMC. The word speaks to the season of “taking apart” one’s faith, and at AUMC, we include the word “reconstruction” as the natural next step. This is not a one-size-fits-all process; in fact, as we will learn this week, every journey is unique and sacred in its own way. This week, Pastor Cathy will weave various stories from AUMC members who know what it’s like to walk the “constructive” path, wherever that may lead them.
It’s one thing to believe in God’s love for all people. But when we see God through the eyes of those whom we are not like, especially people beyond the scope of social norms, we begin to see God with more complexity and clarity at the same time. This Fall, journey with us as we uplift diverse voices and perspectives in an effort to better know God through the lived experience of God’s people.
With the Fall season around the corner, that can mean gatherings with family and loved ones who… we don’t always see eye to eye with. In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus actually shares some pretty provocative teaching about what his message could mean for those who follow him, and how it could redefine our relationships. Are we doomed to fight with our crazy aunt or uncle, or is there something more hopeful to be heard? Let’s talk this Sunday!
The 12 Steps invite us to take an actual honest look at how we perform our own lives. By organizing our steps to face actual addictions, we come to understand that our lives as we operate them become unmanageable. In step 2-3 we are invited to release our source so that God can be a resource. This is vulnerable. This is a challenge. The challenge is an invitation. An invitation to let go and wait on God.
Jacob is on his way to a face-to-face conflict that has been building his entire life, but before he arrives, he encounters a divine presence and wrestles his way through the night. Have you ever found yourself wrestling with God or with your faith in the midst of a uniquely challenging situation? You’re not alone. This Sunday, let’s talk about how we wrestle with God and why it’s a good thing.
He was hailed as the Prince of Peace, but Jesus understood the realities of conflict in everyday life. As he brought people into relationship with one another, and sought to bring reconciliation to all of God’s people, Jesus offered guidance on how we should handle the unavoidable conflict we would encounter in the life of faith. This week, let’s talk about why conflict might actually be a good (even great?) thing, and how our faith can be a guide.
What happens when a theology of grace actually becomes harmful? That’s precisely the concern that Jude was trying to address when he wrote his little letter, calling out the Christian leaders who used “grace” as an excuse for bad behavior. This week, let’s take a look at a small-yet-punchy note from Jude, a leader who is committed not only to God’s grace, but also how God’s grace can be good news for truly everyone.
It can be hard when people compare you to an older sibling. But imagine if that older sibling was… Jesus. His younger brother, James, was a key leader in the Christian movement in Jerusalem, and as he came to the end of his life, he wrote a letter where he tried to sum up his theology through a series of pithy vignettes. This week, let’s take a look at the little letter of James, and give Jesus’ younger brother his due.
The island of Crete was renowned in the first century as a place of liars, jerks, and the very worst that the world had to offer… it was also home to a growing number of Christian house churches. The Apostle Paul hears about the struggles that early Christians faced there, specifically in how they related to the surrounding culture. This week, let’s talk about how the questions facing Christians in Crete aren’t all too different than the ones we face in a modern cultural context.
The short letters of John (the elder) were written at a time when the early church, probably in Ephesus, was splintering. A movement was departing from the community’s traditional beliefs about Jesus. Early Christians didn’t know how to address these disagreements, but John, author of the letters, knew the most important thing: love. When our world is dividing, can it really be that simple? Love? This week, let’s find out how these letters offer not just words of love, but also advice on what love looks like when we are responding to attacks on our character. How do we love someone who seems to hate us?
This week we trade rainbow technicolor dreamcoats for someone we normally only talk about near Christmas. That’s right, it’s time for the other Joseph (of nativity fame) to shine! God visits him in a series of dreams, and while it is ultimately really big, really GOOD news, it’s also fear-inducing, life-changing, and pushes Joseph to places he never imagined he would go. Where might his dreams lead us?
Whether or not you’ve read the story, you’re likely familiar with it. A favorite son. A “many-colored” robe. Jealous brothers. Donny Osmond. (Okay, Donny isn’t in the Scripture.) The story of Joseph and his “technicolor” coat famous, to be sure, but when we dig deeper into the story of this dreamer, we find a complicated tale of hubris, humility, and family infighting that might change the way we approach the God-sized dreams in our life.
He’s on the run from a brother he believes is keen to kill him. In a dream, Jacob is visited by God with a simple message: go home. That simple message would lead Jacob to unexpected places and people, and it would change life for generations to come. As we step into June, we center ourselves on Dreamers, and wonder how God might be leading us to dream once again today.
In some circles of Christianity, it can sound like God hates the world or creation itself, but is that the story Scripture really tells? This week, we take a look at the creation stories in Genesis and consider how they inform our understanding of who God is, and who we are called to be. The way we understand the beginning of it all can definitively shape the way we live today.
“Why am I here?” It’s a question we can ask ourselves at an especially boring meeting, and its also a question we can ask ourselves in those existential moments of life. Maybe your story is going exactly as you had hoped, or maybe you are wondering when your story will really start. This week, let’s talk about how God calls, equips, and ordains us for a meaningful purpose in this life.
We’ve all been guilty of overzealousness from time to time, but have you ever sliced a man’s ear off in the heat of the moment? Peter does in Luke 22, and how Jesus responds will give us pause when we take it seriously. Where might the Prince of Peace lead us, if we are open to living differently?
Luke Chapter 8 begins with explicitly naming women among Jesus’ core disciples, and ends with the stories of Jesus encountering a woman and a young girl who require healing. When we look through the context of the day, what might sound simple is revealed to be a provocative and profound declaration of God’s courage and care.
Video Block Double-click here to add a video by URL or embed code. Learn more Alone. Bound by chains. Untouched and unseen. Possessed by demons known only as “Legion. It’s a dramatic story, to be sure, but what might first look like a prequel to “The Exorcist” is a deeply moving story about restoration and making right. Before you write off “casting out demons” as the stuff of scary movies, let’s talk about how Jesus might be leading us to encounter the “Legion” in our own lives.
Shame is a terribly effective tool, one that you’ve likely wielded and been wounded by. In Luke chapter 5, Jesus encounters a man who is paralyzed, and the man has been led to believe that this is a result of his sin. How Jesus responds will shape not just his future ministry, but also makes him a target. What can happen when we lay down our shame?
What if 40 days of intentional release could lead us to wholeness? The season of Lent is a time of preparation in the Christian calendar as we reflect on the life and ministry of Jesus, drawing nearer to Easter. This year, we turn our attention to the Gospel of Luke, as Jesus promotes an integrated life where the personal and social aspects of faith are indistinguishable. For six weeks, we’ll look closer at stories from Luke’s Gospel, and notice who Jesus encounters, what he asks them to lay down, and how he lifts them to wholeness.
The “end times” might sound like a scary topic, but in truth it is a hope-filled and mission-critical subject that we have to talk about. In our final week focusing on the stained glass of the Sanctuary, we take a look at the image of Christ’s great commission and the ultimate ending of hope that we are working towards. And we promise, Pastor Scott is not starting a doomsday cult… this week, anyways.
Audio Block Double-click here to upload or link to a .mp3. Learn more In recent years, AUMC has become known as a place where people looking to heal could find hope. Many folks who call this community home have experienced serious wounds in their life, including wounds at the hands of churches. This week, we focus on the resurrection of Christ, and how his resurrection leads us to live as wounded healers today.
The cross is the universal symbol of Christianity, and yet beliefs surrounding this tool of punishment and redemption are incredibly varied. As we take a closer look at the crucifixion, let’s talk about the cross, not only what it meant for Jesus, but also how it invites us into the uniquely sacrificial love of God.
Audio Block Double-click here to upload or link to a .mp3. Learn more One son hits the rock bottom of eating pig slop. The other son sits high-and-mighty by living “the right way.” Both are embraced by a loving father who sees them as they are. This week, we center on the third window of our Sanctuary, and consider the role of the stories we tell ourselves and others, as we journey in grace.
Audio Block Double-click here to upload or link to a .mp3. Learn more Wise men kneeling before the Christ-child… not only does this scene feature in our nativity sets at home, but also in one of the stained glass windows of our Sanctuary. And yet, the image speaks to the theology of incarnation–God with us in Jesus–that informs so much of our faith. Specifically, the idea that faith is meant to be “made real,” in personal and relational ways. This week, Pastor Scott will teach and also feature some stories from the congregation of how God’s Love is “made real.”
How do the stories we tell shape who we are, and who we are becoming? At Arapaho United Methodist Church our worship space is adorned with six large stained glass windows, each depicting a story from Scripture; but as we look closer at the light pouring through the reds and greens and blues, we’ll notice values shining through that speak to our identity as the people called “AUMC.” Beginning January 8th, we’ll center on one window a week, and the stories contained within, as we grow in appreciation for the unique mosaic that God has created in this community.
The war on Christmas is a tired cliche these days, but the Gospel of John gets very dramatic in his own telling of what happens when love comes down. It’s not just a baby being born, but the very cosmos changing in a spiritual and also tangible way. This Sunday, let’s consider just how big a tiny baby can be.
When we think of the Christmas season, maybe you think of holiday music, family gatherings, or gift giving, but what about rebellion, hostility, and social revolution? Well, then it’s time to reintroduce ourselves to the Gospel of Luke, who’s Christmas night is anything but silent. This Sunday, we’ll reclaim the reality of what it means to receive the Christ-child and why good news for some may be bad news for others.
If baby Jesus is your favorite Jesus, then the Gospel of Mark won’t be your favorite gospel. The author jumps straight into Jesus’ adulthood and public ministry, but before we think that he has nothing to contribute to Christmas, let’s take a closer look. This Sunday, we’ll reflect on Mark’s Gospel, and how his introduction to Jesus deserves our attention as God’s Love makes a wave in more ways than one.
Who am I and how do I fit into this larger picture we call life? Have you ever asked yourself this question? Have you ever looked through the lense of a children’s book to help you find the answers?Matthew Paul Turner’s book “When God Made You” can help us answer this question.
Today is All Saints Day in the Christian tradition. It’s a time when we remember those who have died this year, and remember those who are no longer physically present with us. We remember and share stories, and reflect on how our lives have been impacted by their lives. This year, as we recognize those who have gone, we incorporate lessons from the musical “Hamilton: Who Lives, Who Dies, Who Tells Your Story?” What legacy are we creating in our daily lives, and does that legacy mirror how Jesus lived?
It’s a “Topsy Turvy” Sunday this week, as we welcome The Hunchback of Notre Dame to our Sanctuary! Join us as we dive into the story of Quasi Modo and Esmerelda, with the backdrop of a church that is… complicated. Let’s talk about how natural it can feel to be self-superior or self-loathing, but God calls us to something else.
Singing, dancing, and aggressive snapping. That’s right! It’s Bible on Broadway season at AUMC, and we’re kicking off with the iconic West Side Story! This tale of star-crossed lovers Tony and Maria–and the tragic conflict between the rival Jets and Sharks–is not only timeless, it also brings up themes found also in… Deuteronomy? Welcome to the “West Side” of Mount Sinai.
A new journal. A clean house. An agenda-free day. Starting fresh can feel so good. In the life of faith, we might get to a point where a fresh start is liberating as well, but a question might bubble up: Should I get baptized again? This week, as the series comes to a close, we consider how God is continuously at work and ask the question, “Do Methodists ‘rebaptize?’”
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Learn more Sure, they’re cute, but babies don’t know anything about God, right? And yet we baptize them in the Methodist church; what is that about? There’s a lot that goes into our understanding of infant baptism, so this week, let’s ask the question together: “Why do we baptize babies?”
Holiness can sound like an out-of-reach word, and perhaps brings to mind images of monks and nuns in isolated abbeys. But the reality of holy living is much more grounded and gritty. This week, we consider the fullness of faith we’re invited into through baptism as we ask, “How does baptism free us?”
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Learn more “Atonement” is the word we use to mean God’s work through Jesus that frees us from sin. But far from a settled science, it’s actually a realm full of theological theories. This week, we tackle the question, “What do we mean when we say ‘Jesus saves?’”
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Learn more In John 3, we’re introduced to a phrase that is awfully loaded with baggage in modern times: “born again.” Let’s talk about it this week and unpack the question, “Do I need Baptism to be saved?”
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Learn more Baptism may appear simple, but beneath the surface we find a complex sacrament that leads us to many deep theological questions that get to the heart of faith. In this six-part worship series, we will address six questions in a journey towards understanding baptism in a Wesleyan way. This week, let’s talk about why private, backyard baptisms aren’t a thing at AUMC, as we ask “Is Baptism Just a Personal Choice?”
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Learn more In the Gospel of Luke, some good churchy people take issue with the kind of company Jesus keeps. And so Jesus offers three images--a sheep, a coin, and a son--who are lost and found; but not everyone celebrates this "good news." How do these parables shape our own understanding of our story, and the kind of love that God's movement is built upon?
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Learn more Blockbuster stories feature larger-than-life characters, breakneck action sequences, and out-of-this-world plot lines. Our lives can feel rather mundane by comparison. This week, we take a step back and consider how the story of Ruth reveals something wonderful about who God is and what kind of story God is telling.
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Learn more Desperate. Alone. Seeking to survive in a harsh environment. This is the life that Ruth and Naomi are living in Chapter 2 of The Book of Ruth, when the story takes a turn… they come across a field and a farmer that changes everything. This week, we take a closer look at Boaz, the humble farmer who displays the faithful virtue of generosity, and how his unharvested field can teach us to change the story for ourselves and others.
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Learn more Have you ever been surprised by loyalty? When you think of loyalty, what and who comes to mind? What makes us a loyal people? We’ll share an overview of the story of Ruth, whose loyalty to her mother-in-law and to God is exemplary, not because of stubbornness, but because of love. This week, we share an overview of the Book of Ruth, and examine the oft repeated show of loyalty from Ruth: “Where you go, I will go; your God will be my God.”
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Learn more Sometimes a message has even greater meaning because of the messenger. Paul’s letter to the Colossians was delivered with a man named Onesimus, a former slave who carried a second letter from Paul to his former master. It’s all well and good to hear a good sermon preached about reconciliation, but what happens when we’re actually called to act? Let’s talk about putting our “Reconciling Faith” to work this week as we conclude this four-week study of Colossians.
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Learn more Does faith have a tangible impact on our daily life? This is the question at the heart of the third chapter in Paul’s letter to the Colossians. We’re not called to self-loathing, shame, or guilt, but we are called to personal transformation as God’s reconciling love continues to work within us. Let’s talk about it this Sunday, as we continue in our Worship Series, “Reconciling Faith.”
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Learn more Do you think Jesus would fit in nicely to most of our churches? In his letter to the Colossians, Paul makes the case that “going to church” isn’t really the same as having a Christian faith. In fact, following Jesus might just get us into trouble in our churches. This week, let’s talk about Paul’s case for a personal faith that lives in Christian community, and why rule-breaking just might be a fruit of the Spirit.
A journey often includes new and exciting adventures. It may include traveling to other places, and it is an opportunity for a fresh start. Journeys usually require planning and begin with a first step – sometimes not a physical step but a step of faith that occurs when we overcome what may be stopping us from moving on in our journey.
Where are you on your faith journey? In our community, we have individuals just starting their journey. We encounter those who have reached a fork in the road and are trying to understand where their faith journey is leading them. Our community is filled with people who have embarked on a journey to read and study the BIble. Some of us are connecting our faith journey with specific calls to community, such as learning more about racial justice, immigration, or how we can help those who live in poverty.
Wherever we find ourselves in our personal faith journey, hearing stories of others’ faith journeys brings us closer to each other, encourages us to ask questions, and demonstrates that we are not alone in our journey. Today, we hear from three individuals and how their faith journey has led them to Arapaho UMC.
After Jesus has washed the feet of his disciples and speaks of his betrayal, he shares a new commandment with his closest friends. He tells them to simply love one another as he has loved them and others will know that they are his disciples. Our students will lead us in worship and share how they have been able to experience God’s love and have had the opportunities to share God’s love with others, both inside and outside of AUMC.
Actions speak louder than words. And in today’s world where it seems that we just talk over each other, our actions have never been more important. Jesus tries to tell the people that titles do not matter, but rather, the works we have been given are the most important. When the people are unsatisfied with that response, Jesus plainly says, “I and the Father are one.” As we live as Easter people, knowing of the truth of the resurrection, where are we hearing the Echoes of the Easter message in Jesus’ statements? What Easter truths are you hearing today? Let’s explore how we are to live out the Easter message and allow our actions speak for us.
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Learn more Trust is something that is built. And trust is in short supply these days. In John 21, we’re two Resurrection appearances in and Peter, the leader of the apostles, still doesn’t trust what’s happening. What is more, Peter, whom Jesus calls “the rock on which I will build my church” does not appear very trustworthy himself. Peter, like us, easily loses focus in a tumultuous time. Peter and the disciples are confronted yet again with the power of Christ’s Resurrection – and the boldness of what it means to follow him. We’ll explore how the grace of God shows up in our lives and draws us toward building trustworthiness in our own lives and for the Church.
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Learn more An echo is a reflection of a sound heard by a listener after the original sound is heard. That sounds complicated, but most of us have experienced an echo. Whether footsteps in an empty hallway, or shouting “Hello!” in a cave or canyon, our voices are reflected back at us. In John’s Gospel, on Easter eve, disciples in the Upper Room are greeted by Christ who shared, “Peace be with you,” not once, but twice. He commissioned them by saying, “As the Father has sent me, I am sending you,” and he breathed the Spirit on them. This week, let’s talk about echoes in time and space, the Spirit, and how we continue Jesus’ ministry and mission.
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Christ is Risen! Happy Easter!
We are so glad you are here and it is our sincere hope you find community wherever you are today.
Before the empty tomb, before the cross, there was the garden. At the foot of an olive tree, Jesus wrestles with the competing wills at work within him. Ultimately, he finds his way to humble surrender. The path of Lent ultimately leads us to this same olive tree before we arrive at the cross or the empty tomb; this week we invite surrender into our faith and our lives.
If you were tasked with bringing salvation to the world, how hard might it be to find time to rest? That kind of pressure would be enough to burn anyone out. And yet, it appears that Jesus’ life of ministry invites us to consider the power of rest and stillness in the midst of busy and stress-filled lives. This week, we turn our attention to Mark’s Gospel, as we look to Jesus’ example and ask, “How can rest and stillness be the key to renewed purpose and power?”
If you’ve ever sat in the optometrist’s chair, you know the feeling of fuzzy shapes slowly becoming crystal clear letters. Some of the disciples have a similar experience with Jesus up in a mountain, when they could suddenly see him for who he truly is: the Son of God and Savior of the world. This week, we head up the mountain with them, and consider how taking time to focus and reflect on our life of faith with Jesus will not only change how we see God, but ourselves as well.
What does it mean for God to grieve? This question is central to chapter 11 of John’s Gospel. One of Jesus’ best friends dies, his sisters are furious at this so-called “Savior” who wasn’t there when they wanted him most, and Jesus reveals his own heart in a visceral way. This week, we draw near to the depth of God’s heart and gain a glimpse into why Jesus walks the path he does.
Compassion can look like bringing comfort to the hurting, but it can also sound like a young man’s biting critique of kings and holy cities. When Jesus is approached by religious leaders bearing a message from the local king, his response is strong, and born of a deep compassion for those who had been long-forgotten. Let’s talk about the layers of compassion, and how it can lead us to comfort the afflicted and afflict the comfortable.
The art of the “soft-sell” is only becoming more common in our prevailing culture: cancel-at-any-time contracts, free trials, anything to help people ease into a new commitment. Jesus was terrible at the soft-sell. To start his ministry, he proclaims, “Change your hearts and lives!” This week, let’s talk about commitment in the life of faith, and why the transformation of the world could truly begin with one person committing to a new way of life.
What can we learn from the unexpected prophets around us? Even though the prophet Anna might only show up in a few verses in Luke, there is a lot to unpack when it comes to her story and what role she plays in spreading the good news of God’s love and grace. Another unexpected prophetic voice is that of Amanda Gorman who is a 23-year-old born and raised in LA. She grew up with her own challenges and is one of the most well known poets and activists. What can we learn from these prophetic female voices? What can we take away from the good news they have to share with us?
Rev. Edlen Cowley’s message speaks on the power of young people and how they speak into the present while living into their (and our) future. The powerful of transformation of Naaman was tied to the words of a young slave girl. Malala Yousafzai’s passion for girl’s education spoke to my heart so many years ago when she was shot at almost point-blank range.
In the “Radicals” worship series, we will take a close look at several prophets - some major, some minor, and some who might be unfamiliar to you. We will hear their words and understand the warnings - or joy - shared with God’s people. Finally, we’ll look at some modern prophets and compare their proclamations with the practice of the Biblical prophets of old. Who among us today is sharing prophetic wisdom and in what way?
We will hear their words and understand the warnings - or joy - shared with God’s people. Finally, we’ll look at some modern prophets and compare their proclamations with the practice of the Biblical prophets of old. Who among us today is sharing prophetic wisdom and in what way?
Having followed the star, they journey to find the newborn King of the Jews. They offer him gold, frankincense, and myrrh. But the Magi have a more precious gift for us. In the night, they heard the Spirit warning them not to return to Herod but return home by a different route. They gave us the gift of listening to God's Spirit and the confidence to follow a different path. Just as they trusted the appearance of the star to take them to the King, they trusted the voice of the Spirit. They step into the unknown, without a star to lead them, and rejoicing, follow the voice of God.
As we listen to the song "What Child is This?" it refers to "the babe, the Son of Mary." So today, we take a look at Mary's song - the Magnificat, from Luke Chapter 1:46 - 55. What does it mean to identify Jesus as the Son of Mary?
We know Jesus to be both fully human and fully divine in our faithful tradition. So when we talk about Jesus having the heart of God, it's important to remember he had the heart of Mary also.
As we light the Shepherd's candle in Advent, we listen to Vivaldi's best known sacred work, his Gloria. We call to mind the angel's proclamation to the shepherds who were the first to hear of the birth of Christ. "Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace, goodwill towards all!" Luke 2:14
The glory of heaven entered the world in darkness. To those who wait in the darkness of oppression, the angels proclaim that the light of Christ is entering the world. And this child is to be the comfort and joy of all.
On this second Sunday of Advent, enter John the Baptist, as we focus on a relatively new hymn that is sure to become an Advent favorite, "O Day of Peace That Dimly Shines."
O day of peace that dimly shines through all our hopes and prayers and dreams, guide us to justice, truth, and love, delivered from our selfish schemes. May swords of hate fall from our hands, our hearts from envy find release, till by God's grace our warring world shall see Christ's promised reign of peace.
Advent is a season of anticipation, of expectation. On this first Sunday of Advent, we focus on the hymn "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel," a text from the prophet Jeremiah.
The days are surely coming, says the LORD, when I will fulfill the promise I made to the house of Israel and the house of Judah. Jeremiah 33:14
Prophets rose up only when the Israelites were in trouble, not in the days where everything was going their way. Their role was corrective - to address the present darkness with hope in God's covenants.
Even in our darkest days, when we wait with hope, we move from despair to patience. Like Jeremiah, a prophetic heart is filled with unending hope.
This Sunday, Pastor Cathy facilitates a discussion among the pastoral staff about the concept of "peace." Is it something we have to work to achieve on a personal level? Scripture speaks of this "shalom" as a gift given to us by God. Why does it seem so elusive at times? Where do you go when you need to find peace?
What is Christian Community? Pastor Scott examines Acts Chapter 2 to see how Luke described the church's infancy in his description of their communities. The writer speaks of great awe, generosity, and authenticity shared among them. They spent time, not just in worship, but in each other's lives and each other's homes, accepting each other just as they are. They were a family.
Pastor Scott's sermon series on Beginnings, Endings & In-Betweens looks at the biblical concept of the "end times." What we believe about the end informs how we live in the present. If our belief in God somehow leads us to be less caring, we are worshiping something less than divine. So what do these end-times look like? The Apostle Paul encourages those "in Christ," who have already been reconciled to God through Christ as a "new creation," are themselves called to the ministry of reconciliation. How is God leading you in your ministry of reconciliation?
Today Pastor Scott examines the story of Lazarus, whom Jesus raised from the dead—continuing on the theme of his sermon series, Beginnings, Endings, and In-Betweens. What do you imagine happens when the body dies? The Jews had their traditions about the afterlife—it was little more than a state of limbo where you went to wait for the resurrection on the last day. Other religions speak of reincarnation. Dante outlines both paradise and torment. What do you think happens on the other side of the grave? What can we learn from the story of Lazarus?
What is your framework for Truth? It's not a simple question. Ask ten people, and you'll probably get ten different answers. So this week, Pastor Scott lays out the fourfold Wesleyan approach to spiritual understanding: Scripture, Tradition, Reason, and Experience. Each of these can be unpacked at great length, but the shorthand acknowledges not all scripture is created equal; tradition for tradition's sake is nostalgia, and reason isn't a substitute for faith. Somewhere along the journey, you begin to understand that Truth must be lived before it can be fully understood. And through your lived experience, what resonates is Truth.
Last week, Pastor Scott talked about the beginning of the Christian journey - our baptism. This morning, he looks at the food for the journey – the sacrament of communion. Using the depiction of the disciples in Matthew's gospel, before, during, and after the last supper, Jesus must have been so disappointing in his hand-picked brothers. Yet he broke the bread and poured the cup of forgiveness with, undeniably, some of the world's worst friends – which begs the question, is your table open to all? Listen to the Good News!
How does church show up for you in your life? How do we understand the life of faith? This week, Pastor Scott begins this sermon series with the sacrament of baptism, specifically the Wesleyan understanding of the grace we were born into. For Wesleyans, grace is understood to be three-pronged, like the Holy Trinity. First, a grace that is prevenient or inclusive grace that covers all; a justifying grace that calls us out of our selfishness by giving us the humble desire to serve God; and a sanctifying grace that carries us throughout the journey. From the very beginning, you are seen, you are known, and you are loved.
AUMC's Bible On Broadway series focuses today on the historical musical drama, Newsies, depicting the 1899 newsboys' strike against publishing magnate Joseph Pulitzer. In this campaign for dignity, we see the human economy of scarcity juxtaposed against God's economy of abundance. Pastor Scott leads us down this same path in Matthew Chapter 15 with the telling of the Canaanite woman. Dignity is not a limited resource. We may live in a zero-sum world, but with our faith fixed on the One who provides, all are fed from the Master's table.
This morning, AUMC's Bible On Broadway series focuses on belonging from the musical SpongeBob. The story celebrates friendship, cooperation, unity, and inclusion - very much the same way the apostle Paul instructs the church at Corinth about the body of Christ. Every individual gift is given for the common good – the good of the whole body. Even if you're only a simple sponge, you are essential to the whole! At Arapaho, we belong to each other. Lean into your gifts, whatever they are. You belong here.
Most of us have our own stories about September 11, 2001. “Come From Away” shares the story of the town of Gander, located in the northeastern part of Newfoundland, Canada. This small town of 9,000 was changed overnight when thirty-eight jets headed for the United States were diverted to the island. Over 6,500 displaced strangers from almost 100 countries were now stranded on the runways. How would the “Islanders” respond to the sudden influx of refugees? Would fear take over, or would love and care for neighbors prevail?
Today, Pastor Holly examines I Corinthians 13 – an oldie, but a goodie - the scripture passage you only hear in church anymore at weddings. However, marriage was not at all the point of Paul’s exhortation.
Corinth was a Mediterranean trade route and cultural melting pot. And Paul was a newly redeemed Christian persecutor and a born-again missionary. So, where did he go to start churches? Corinth.
In the previous chapter, Paul enumerates the gifts of the holy spirit. In this chapter, he tells us what these gifts are to be used to accomplish.
Paul didn’t want the new church postulating over who has the best spiritual gift. Spiritual gifts are for the common good, not for personal gain. Love is the greatest gift because it is the most transformational.
Do you struggle with finding peace, joy, and strength in uncertain times? Did you know that practicing gratitude invites joy into your life? Paul maps this out in his letter to the church at Philippi. From his prison cell, in chains and facing execution, he was not restricted in the least from accessing joy. Step boldly into the future, regardless of your circumstances. Even if… give thanks!
As the gospel spread, many diverse peoples came together under one name - Christian. As such, Christian unity has been a struggle from the very beginning. Today, Pastor Scott examines different passages from Ephesians 4 as a guide to Christian unity.
Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. Ephesians 4:3-6
The road to unity is uncomfortable. The letter to the Ephesians lays out the work ahead of us – to see each other as irreversibly connected, live and speak our truth in love, and follow Christ through anger to compassion.
It is uncomfortable to own who we are as colonialists. Our myths are helpful. Jesus used parables as a teaching tool. Today, we look to the Prophet Amos to see how myths can also be weaponized. As God helps us deconstruct myth from history, leads us to hold each with equanimity as intended, and guides us in rebuilding a better future – despite our past. Therein lies hope.
Discomfort is something we go out of our way to avoid. We seek a life of comfort. Yet, given the divisive climate we live in today, what role does faith play in our discomfort? Pastor Scott examines Paul’s letter to the divided Roman church after the death of Emperor Claudius. In Chapter 14, he teaches the Romans that their strength comes from their diversity. Our mission is not to make others more like us but instead to build each other up in the faith. We are a better church today than we were ten years ago, twenty years ago. We’re better today because of you. Let us continually be blessed as an uncomfortable congregation.
Welcome to Arapaho United Methodist Church, a Christ-centered community called to the work of social justice in Richardson, Texas. We are happy you joined us for online worship.
Before you can address feeding souls, you must first address feeding bodies. This week, Pastor Cathy takes a big tasty bite out of Psalm 104 and examines the many life-sustaining roles food plays in scripture.
Summer is filled with lots of traditions: outdoor cooking, travel, life celebrations, rest. In general, we do life at a more relaxing pace. We linger more, because the days are longer. In this sermon series, we will read a Psalm each week and reflect on particular summertime activities and customs. Where is God’s presence found in these customs? How is our summertime like that of the Psalmist? And what can we learn from the Psalmist that will help us embrace the spiritual nature of this season?
The week, Pastor Eliana shares her experience with identity and what it means to be God's beloved.
Members of the Arapaho family share their encounters with God's love experienced through their travels, answering the psalmist questions, "Where could I go to get away from your spirit? Where could I go to escape your presence? Ps 139:7
Thanks to Pastor Cathy, the adventurous Waltermeyers, the Sharps, and Cindy Rowe for sharing your "God moments" from the road - in the many new faces and friends made along the way, reconnecting with family, opportunities to serve others, or drink in the beauty of the created world. Indeed, God's love is inescapable.
Summer is filled with lots of traditions: outdoor cooking, travel, life celebrations, rest. In general, we do life at a more relaxing pace. We linger more because the days are longer. In this sermon series, we will read a Psalm each week and reflect on particular summertime activities and customs. Where is God’s presence found in these customs? How is our summertime like that of the Psalmist? And what can we learn from the Psalmist that will help us embrace the spiritual nature of this season?
In the final of this sermon series, Encountering The Spirit, Pastor Scott is joined today by Spiritual Director and Arapaho's online evangelist, Aaron Manes, as they reflect on the words of the prophet Joel, "I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh."
Pew Research Center paradoxically reports that more than 50% of Americas say they have had a "religious or mystical" experience. Yet, the number of Americans who claim "no religious affiliation" has reached a staggering 70 million.
In 2021, it's fair to say that science has taken us farther in understanding the universe in the last hundred years than religion has in 10,000. But we gain nothing in knowing what is out there if we have never looked within.
Could we actually be witnessing a spiritual enlightenment? Is our new "religion" framed by our lived experience? Check out Aaron's blog, New Questions, New Roles. What is your new role?
Hopelessness can be a tough place to be. This week in AUMC's series, Encountering The Spirit, we look at the Holy Spirit as water from the story of Noah. By Genesis Chapter 6, the Lord has grown hopeless at the wickedness of creation and regretted ever having made human beings. Yet this account so early in scripture establishes a theology of redemption - the promise that God will never again lose hope in humanity.
God's grace is redemptive. It refuses to take 'no' for an answer. As followers of Christ, learn to plant these seeds of redemption, through grace, in the face of any tragedy. From it comes hope.
Welcome to Arapaho United Methodist Church, a Christ-centered community called to the work of social justice in Richardson, Texas. We are happy you joined us for online worship.
What does it mean to be idolatrous? You know all the obvious answers, but maybe it's not as evident as it appears. Today, Pastor Scott examines the stories of Exodus in light of what we know today, post-Pentecost, about what it means to tabernacle with God. The Spirit can not be contained – not in a tabernacle, or an Ark, behind the Temple's veil, a stone sepulcher, or the four walls of a church. Hear what the Spirit has to say to you today, for in you is where God's Spirit resides.
In today’s sermon, Pastor Scott focuses on a rather famous biblical figure you only thought you knew - Samson. Setting aside all the Old Testament violence, Samson was set apart by God through the Spirit (Hebrew – "Ruach") to be a Judge over Israel, whose strength will liberate God's people from the Philistines. At least that was the plan. What lesson is Samson still teaching today about the proper use of this "Ruach," the Spirit in service of the people of God?
Last week was the celebration of the coming of the Holy Spirit that gave birth to the church. In this new sermon series, let us look at how the Spirit has been manifest in us throughout the Old Testament as well. Today, let's examine the second creation story.
"The Lord God formed man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being." Gen 2:7
This breath of life, this Spirit, is our divine spark, our divine DNA. Later in the story, this new divine being is invited to co-create with God by giving names to everything God made.
We watched in horror as the breath of life was taken from George Floyd a year ago this week. So as you breathe in God, ask, "What is mine to do?" "How can I co-create with You?" And just as the Lord God created a partner, bone of his bone, seek out and share the air with those who see and love you the same way God does. Breathe. Amen.
We're so happy you've joined Arapaho UMC for worship this morning. As we begin to re-open the sanctuary today, it's appropriate that all of Christendom is celebrating the feast of Pentecost. Our introduction to the Spirit of God and is aptly considered the birth of the church. It is our mission as the church to catch up to the movement of the Holy Spirit. Arapaho UMC flings open its doors again to you as a community as we pray 'Come, Holy Spirit Come' Welcome to Worship!
What do we do with our doubts in the life of faith? Sometimes, all we have to offer God is our doubts, and that’s okay. Doubt is not the opposite of faith. Doubt is often a catalyst for faith. In today’s scripture reading on “doubting Thomas,” we see that the most extraordinary faith is born out of doubt.
“My Lord and my God!” [Jn 20:28]
Although Peter proclaimed Jesus “the Christ,” Thomas was the first to identify Jesus as “God.” May our doubts invite God to be made real in our lives and the lives of others.
“Doubt is a pain too lonely to know that faith is his twin brother.” ~Khalil Gibran
This morning’s scriptures tell us that the greatest commandment is to love the Lord your God with everything you've got. Jesus continues, the second is commandment "is like" it - a logical equivalency. If A, then B. If you love God…really love God, you also love your neighbor as yourself. This is what Wesley refers to as both personal and social holiness. From one relationship flows the other and the two are inseparable. The light that comes from loving God allows us to be a light in someone else’s darkness. It is our very nature to be the light of the world. Another logical equivalency is your “likeness” to God. If God is holy, therefore you too are holy. It only takes a single candle can drive the darkness away. So, the only real question is how does your candle shine? Shine on, Arapaho, and let the love of God be the match that lights the flame.
Today is United Methodist Student Day, one of six church-wide Special Sundays with offerings of The United Methodist Church. This student-led worship service calls the church to support its students by preparing them for life by uniting faith with knowledge. Your offering provides scholarships, like the one given to George Sulkowski this morning, and helps support AUMC youth mission trips and other student outreach projects. Thank you for your generosity.
A Gallup poll reported recently that less than 50% of Americans are members of a church, synagogue, or mosque. Pew Research reported that the people who sensed a deep sense of peace and spiritual well-being increased during that same time period. Not surprisingly, it has been trending in this direction for decades. How are we, as a spiritual community, to respond?
Welcome to worship here in Richardson, Texas or wherever you may be joining from today. Today, Arapaho UMC’s Rev. Cathy Sweeney discusses the incarnational theology found in today’s scripture (Luke 8:42b-48) with Rev. Eliana Rios. Along with other pastors from the North Texas Conference, Pastor Eliana and her husband spent their Easter morning down at the Dallas Convention Center leading worship and ministering to 12-17 yr-old unaccompanied asylum seekers from Central America sheltered there by the City of Dallas as a holding station for their family members to meet them.
Welcome to worship here in Richardson, Texas or wherever you may be joining from today. Today we begin a new series called “Resurrecting Faith,” where we will revisit key elements of our faith and listen to what they may be teaching us today. We have special music from Alma and Luis today as well. We are glad you are here.
If this is your very first time watching or you have been attending online for a while, we want you to get more connected. The best way to do that is to fill out the “I’m New” connection form at www.arapahoumc.org/new. This information will help our pastors get in touch with you to share more about the ministry and mission of Arapaho.
Arapaho United Methodist Church is a creative, constructive, Christian community committed to becoming more like Christ.
We envision a Christian community of transformed people who embody God’s love and work together in the Spirit to transform the world.
If you are newly watching and would like to hear from a pastor, go to www.arapahoumc.org/new and fill out a short form.
Why don't we see the miracles of Jesus today?" It's a common question, as we read stories of healing and hope and power in the Gospels. During this season of Lent, the 6-week season approaching Easter, we will take a closer look at some of Jesus' miracles and consider how we are invited to not only witness but also participate in these miracles today. What does it mean to turn water into wine? To walk on water? To cast out demons? Are these miracles bound in the pages of our Bibles, or could they come alive once again?
"Why don't we see the miracles of Jesus today?" It's a common question as we read stories of healing and hope and power in the Gospels. During this season of Lent, the 6-week season approaching Easter, we will take a closer look at some of Jesus' miracles and consider how we are invited to not only witness but also participate in these miracles today. What does it mean to turn water into wine? To walk on water?
"Why don't we see the miracles of Jesus today?" It's a common question as we read stories of healing and hope and power in the Gospels. During this season of Lent, the 6-week season approaching Easter, we will take a closer look at some of Jesus' miracles and consider how we are invited to witness and participate in these miracles today. What does it mean to turn water into wine? To walk on water? To cast out demons? Are these miracles bound in the pages of our Bibles, or could they come alive once again?
"Why don't we see the miracles of Jesus today?" It's a common question, as we read stories of healing and hope and power in the Gospels. During this season of Lent, the 6-week season approaching Easter, we will take a closer look at some of Jesus' miracles and consider how we are invited to not only witness, but also participate in these miracles today.
"Why don't we see the miracles of Jesus today?" It's a common question, as we read stories of healing and hope and power in the Gospels. During this season of Lent, the 6-week season approaching Easter, we will take a closer look at some of Jesus' miracles and consider how we are invited to not only witness, but also participate in these miracles today. What does it mean to turn water into wine? To walk on water? To cast out demons? Are these miracles bound in the pages of our Bibles, or could they come alive once again?
"Why don't we see the miracles of Jesus today?" It's a common question, as we read stories of healing and hope and power in the Gospels. During this season of Lent, the 6-week season approaching Easter, we will take a closer look at some of Jesus' miracles and consider how we are invited to not only witness, but also participate in these miracles today. What does it mean to turn water into wine? To walk on water? To cast out demons? Are these miracles bound in the pages of our Bibles, or could they come alive once again?
In an economy of grace, work is a public good, not a private one.
Work gives our lives purpose and stability; it gives us a form of identity.
If God has called us to love each other, then perhaps it is love that is our work.
‘Til Gods' work is done and all things are made new; God has work for us to do.
Today’s scripture reading is from Paul’s letter to the Philippians, Chapter 1, vs. 9-11. At Arapaho UMC, we say we are a forward-leaning Christian community. This describes our desire to be in conversation with others to make a positive impact in the world as we work towards greater social justice, bearing what Paul calls the fruits of righteousness.
A sermon based on Matthew Chapter 7 - What Fruit Do Your Works Bear?
“Shallow understanding from people of goodwill is more frustrating than absolute misunderstanding from people of ill will.” ~ from the Letter from the Birmingham Jail (1963) by the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
As we reflect on recent events, it’s important to remember that this is not who we are. We a called to bear fruits of justice, mercy, and love.
Welcome to worship here in Richardson, Texas or wherever you may be joining from today. We wish you a happy new year and are so happy you are in worship today.
If this is your very first time watching or you have been attending online for a while, we are happy you are here.
If this is your very first time watching, or you have been attending online for a while, we are happy you are here. We want you to get more connected. The best way to do that is to fill out the “I’m New” connection form at www.arapahoumc.org/new.
Welcome to worship here in Richardson, Texas or wherever you may be joining from today. If this is your very first time watching, or you have been attending online for a while, we are happy you are here. We want you to get more connected. The best way to do that is to fill out the “I’m New” connection form at www.arapahoumc.org/new.
Each Advent, we retell the stories that lead to Jesus’ birth, but what happens when we place ourselves in the stories and try to sense what it was like to live these stories in the moment? This December, we’ll revisit the stories of Zechariah, Mary, Joseph, and the birth of Jesus in a series called “Sensing the Season. We are glad you have chosen to be in worship today.
Welcome to worship here in Richardson, Texas or wherever you may be joining from today. Today we light the third candle of advent - the candle of joy. Each Advent, we retell the stories that lead to Jesus’ birth, but what happens when we place ourselves in the stories and try to sense what it was like to live these stories in the moment? This December, we’ll revisit the stories of Zechariah, Mary, Joseph, and the birth of Jesus in a series called “Sensing the Season. We are glad you have chosen to be in worship today.
Today we light the second candle of advent - the candle of joy. Each Advent we retell the stories that lead to Jesus’ birth, but what happens when we place ourselves in the stories and try to sense what it was like to live these stories in the moment? This December, we’ll revisit the stories of Zechariah, Mary, Joseph, and the birth of Jesus in a series called “Sensing the Season. We are glad you have chosen to be in worship today.
This December, we’ll revisit the stories of Zechariah, Mary, Joseph, and the birth of Jesus in a 4-part series called “Sensing the Season. Today we turn our attention to Zechariah and his story of Hearing Hope.
Making a scene. Breaking the law. Living in faith? The late Rep. John Lewis, and pioneer of the Civil Rights Movement, once said that we are called to make "good trouble, necessary trouble," for righteousness to take root in our world.
Making a scene. Breaking the law. Living in faith? The late Rep. John Lewis, and pioneer of the Civil Rights Movement, once said that we are called to make "good trouble, necessary trouble," for righteousness to take root in our world.
Making a scene. Breaking the law. Living in faith? The late Rep. John Lewis, and pioneer of the Civil Rights Movement, once said that we are called to make "good trouble, necessary trouble," for righteousness to take root in our world.
Making a scene. Breaking the law. Living in faith? The late Rep. John Lewis, and pioneer of the Civil Rights Movement, once said that we are called to make "good trouble, necessary trouble," for righteousness to take root in our world.
What happens when "good churchy people" fall more in love with lukewarm religion than with God? This question is at the heart of the Gospel of Matthew, where Jesus is presented as one sent to challenge our low expectations of what it means to follow after God's Spirit.
What happens when "good churchy people" fall more in love with lukewarm religion than with God? This question is at the heart of the Gospel of Matthew, where Jesus is presented as one sent to challenge our low expectations of what it means to follow after God's Spirit.
What happens when "good churchy people" fall more in love with lukewarm religion than with God? This question is at the heart of the Gospel of Matthew, where Jesus is presented as one sent to challenge our low expectations of what it means to follow after God's Spirit.
What happens when "good churchy people" fall more in love with lukewarm religion than with God? This question is at the heart of the Gospel of Matthew, where Jesus is presented as one sent to challenge our low expectations of what it means to follow after God's Spirit.
September is a special month of worship services as we use the music and storytelling of Broadway to grow in our faith. You will see a few set changes, some costumes and special musical performances. We hope you enjoy these fun and unique services. This week’s musical is “Ragtime.”
September is a special month of worship services as we use the music and storytelling of Broadway to grow in our faith. You will see a few set changes, some costumes and special musical performances. We hope you enjoy these fun and unique services. This week’s musical is “Dear Evan Hansen.”
September is a special month of worship services as we use the music and storytelling of Broadway to grow in our faith. You will see a few set changes, some costumes and special musical performances. We hope you enjoy these fun and unique services. This week’s musical is “Annie.”
September is a special month of worship services as we use the music and storytelling of Broadway to grow in our faith. You will see a few set changes, some costumes and special musical performances. We hope you enjoy these fun and unique services. This week’s musical is “The Music Man.”
In a culture of rage and division, how can our faith lead us towards reconciliation? If you missed Pastor Scott's "Unmasked" message, he spoke on the familiar passage of I Corinthians 13 - but not the way you might have heard it in a wedding.
As a country, we are waking up to and engaging injustices that have long existed prior to COVID: racism, economic inequality, misogyny, educational inequality, lack of access to quality healthcare, to name just a few.
Perhaps God is preparing a shift in your own life, an answer to that whispered question: Why are you here? One that won’t come from winds and quakes and fire. One that is not built upon looking back into the past, but rather into the future.
For those who have suffered without help long before the pandemic was a reality, my prayer is we could advocate for mental health concerns to be de-stigmatized, and mental health care to be accessible and affordable for everyone in our country. “Going back to normal” means going back to a culture that ignores the growing epidemics of burnout and poor mental health. We need a new normal where self care and mental health are prioritized and practiced.
What does our culture teach us about grief? We have become trained to go away to grieve in private. In this week’s “unmasking” we are listening to the teachings of our faith when it says that grief is best done in community.
How do we belong to the Kingdom Of God? Rev. Scott Gilliland finishes the worship series, "We Belong To Each Other."
Jesus sees diversity as a gift to be celebrated, not an obstacle to be overcome. Even though we are all rooted in a common faith and love of God, that relationship may lead us in radically different expressions of faith, and that is a good thing.
Can we see each other’s stories, each other’s pain, each other’s full humanity, each other’s full brokenness? Can we choose each other, time and again, especially when it costs us something? Can we come to the realization that Jesus is calling us to: that my healing is bound up in your healing, my redemption is bound up in your redemption, my hope and fear and joy and pain and dancing and grieving is all bound up with you, because we are bound up with each other by the love and mercy of God?
Justice-oriented sounds like someone who may be pointed in the direction of justice, but isn’t taking any steps in that direction. Google maps can orient me in the direction of my destination, but it’s my job to move in that direction. No, we’re not simply justice-oriented, because that is simply not enough. We are a prophetic, force-for-good, kick-in-the-pants justice unicorn.
On June 28, 2020 the Arapaho UMC Worship Service featured four stories from members of this community.
The grace of God helps us to walk on towards becoming perfect in love, so that people see us and they see the perfect love of Christ in us, but this isn’t just about personal salvation, it doesn’t stop there, becoming more perfect in love moves us to work on making our society, our world better so that the whole world becomes a place where love flourishes, where human beings love God and love one another, what God intended in the first place.
We are exploring scriptures that take place on the road and what is consistent is that Jesus meets people on the road, while they are on the way, he doesn’t wait for them to get to their destination, doesn’t wait for them to get themselves together, he meets people right where they are, he meets you and me right where we are.
Jesus meets you on whatever road you are on in your life to give you the grace you need so you can head in the direction of his kingdom. It’s like the phrase you have hopefully heard recently: no justice, no peace. That’s it. You can’t get to peace without justice. You need justice today so you can head in the direction of peace tomorrow.
It is obviously not enough for white people to be pleading from the sidelines against racism in our country, we have to be actively working to stop it, to end the systemic structures that are oppressing and killing our black brothers and sisters. If we are not actively opposing racism, we are a part of the problem.
When you are conscious that your life is not about you but you are about life, then you always do the loving thing, the connecting thing, the life-giving thing, the compassionate thing. Compassion means to suffer together.
In the wilderness, when we are afraid and uncertain, the tendency is to go: “God if you are really God, then you will get me out of this. If you are really God, you will make my life good.
God is the initiator, God reaches out, God wants the relationship, there are no prerequisites Jacob must meet in order to have this divine encounter. The term we use for this is prevenient grace, it’s this idea that grace comes first, that God chooses you before you choose God.
I want you to know that God chooses you. God sees you as unique, special, precious—God looks at you and sees you, God sees your inherit, eternal value…
Yes God chooses you and when you are in the wilderness, when you find yourself in places of uncertainty and vulnerability, God reminds you that you are chosen and chooses to be with you and to reveal to you the truth about you that you have purpose, that you are a part of God’s purposes.
Will we become a good shepherd society that imitates our good shepherd by ensuring everyone has access to good, fresh, affordable food and what we have seen in this crisis is that families are dependent on schools to feed their kids and there is anxiety among parents now about the summer, will my kids continue to receive food in the summer is a real fear.
Will we imitate our good shepherd by creating a society where families make enough income to feed their families good food year round, where they do not have to choose between good food and paying rent and putting gas in the car.
God provides in the wilderness. Author Anne Lamott puts it this way: “It’s almost indigestible: death, divorce, old age, drugs; brain damaged children, violence, senility, unfaithfulness. Good luck with figuring it out. It unfolds, and you experience it, and it is so horrible and endless that you could almost give up a dozen times. But grace can be the experience of a second wind, when even though what you want is clarity and resolution, what you get is stamina and poignancy and the strength to hang. Through the most ordinary things, books, for instance, or a postcard, or eyes or hands, life is transformed.”
God provides, maybe not the all-you can eat buffet you really wanted but you’ll eat and be full, yes God provides, God provides, God provides.
If we want cleaner air, we can make it happen. If we want to protect our doctors and nurses from the next virus — and protect all Americans — we can make it happen. If we want our neighbors and friends to earn a dignified income, we can make that happen. If we want millions of kids to be able to eat if suddenly their school is closed, we can make that happen. And, yes, if we just want to live a simpler life, we can make that happen, too. But only if we resist the massive gaslighting that is about to come. It’s on its way. Look out.”
So how do we resist the gaslighting that is about to come?
We have to break with Egypt in order to heal, we have to choose to break from the commands of Egypt—the consumerism, the self-centeredness, the greed, the narcissism, the pride, the ego, we have make an intentional decision to no longer live under these priorities anymore and choose instead to give our obedience to God, to live under God’s ordinances, God’s commands, which Jesus makes clear: love God and love others.
You see when you know God’s history with darkness, when you know God’s grace and steadfast love, you don’t fear the dark so much. You know God is faithful and will be faithful to you and see you through these dark days
We will experience times in our lives when we go through really difficult things, we will face adversity….we are in one of those rare—oh how I pray it is rare—moments in history when we are all going through something hard, we are all grieving the life we used to have just a month ago, we are all grieving the uncertainty of the future, grieving the loss of security for ourselves and our beloveds, what is there to hold on to?
As one of my favorite theologians puts it: Our life on earth can be unpredictable, we can be happy one day and sad the next the next, healthy one day and sick the next, rich one day and poor the next, what is there to hold on to, who is there to feel secure with, who is there to trust at all times?
Only Jesus, the Christ. He is our Lord, our shepherd, our rock, our stronghold, our refuge, our brother, our guide, our friend. Hold on to him.
This week, we hear from Dr. Gary Fox and Brandi Manes as they give testimonies. This week’s podcast is the entire service.
People are not perfect conduits of God’s word, but we are what God has to work with, so God works through people but we have our own biases and our own agendas and that’s true of the Biblical authors, like the Apostle Paul for example: he never claims his words are God’s words but he does trust that the Spirit is leading him and helping him as he leads the early church.
God helps those who can’t help themselves…through people. There will be a time, and you may have already experienced this, in which you are the one who needs help. In which you cannot do it yourself: you cannot fix or save yourself, you cannot help yourself, you cannot will yourself out of your situation. God will send someone, something, to help you. A beautiful sunrise. A letter from a friend.
A second wind to help you keep going. A good therapist. I have one, I know. A church family to bring you meals or to leave groceries or medicine at your door; let us know if you need anything, we are here for you. This is called grace. And there is nothing you do to earn it, nothing you do to deserve it…it is God’s willingness to help you when you can’t help yourself.
If you start dividing humanity into groups, if you draw a dividing line between who’s in and who’s out, Jesus says: you will find God on the side of the outsiders. You think you know who’s in and who’s out? You don’t know.
When you say: Love the sinner, hate the sin you have put yourself in the position of the Pharisee, you’ve put yourself in the position of seeing others as sinners. That’s not the position Jesus wants for you.
We are given responsibility, we have the ability to respond to God’s invitation, to God’s commandments, but we can refuse, we can choose not to care for the earth and when we do that, well the earth will suffer…but God doesn’t just create us and give us dominion and leave us alone…
God tries to help us and influence us to do the right thing and make the right decisions: God gave us a conscious, and a brain, God gave us commandments and prophets to guide us…
God came in Jesus to show us what it means to be human, to show us how to live selflessly and generously, and then God gave us the Spirit to be with us, to counsel us and nudge us in the right direction…yes God never gives up on helping us to make the right decisions but we still make the decisions.
The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
This is what we are created to produce. This is our purpose, this is what Christ wants from us, this is what we are made for, the Holy Spirit helps make it possible for us to bear this fruit in the world, God does God’s part so that it is possible for us to bear good fruit, but we do have to do our part, you don’t just buy a farm and expect a big harvest to appear.
So all this leads me to ask you: have you produced the fruit you were made to produce? Is your life fruitful—Is there evidence of the Spirit’s work in your life: are you loving? Are you joyful? Are you peaceful, do you regularly experience peace, do you practice peace? What about patience, are you a patient person? Are you a kind person? A generous person. Are you faithful? Are you gentle? Do you have self-control?
Religion without the power of the Holy Spirit is dead…religion without the influence of the spirit is dead, religion without the discipline to listen to God’s guidance and direction is dead…the people of Israel exist, they exist but they are existing as people who are dead, they are a dead sect, they are dry bones.
Do you sometimes feel like you are dry bones? That you are existing as one who is already dead, that you are going through the motions…or that parts of you are slowly dying.
What this passage says, what our faith says is: you can live, you can come alive again. You don’t have to live like dry bones.
So how does that happen?
The spirit of God. The spirit of God has the power to bring you to life again—and—and here’s what’s even more remarkable. It’s not just that God has the power to bring you to life again, God has the desire to bring you to life, God wants you to come alive again.
God doesn’t just call the equipped, God equips the called. God gives you what you need: God gives you the time and resources and people and money and everything—but you do have to manage it, that’s how it works, God doesn’t micromanage, God says: you manage it.
That’s the last part of the scripture today, Jesus says: if you are going to build a tower, you have to map it out and think through what it is going to take to finish it—you need a plan, this is very practical, you have to get organized and set your intentions so you can use the resources you have been given well, so you can fulfill your purpose.