Weekly Message from Crozet UMC: Recent Episodes
Crozet United Methodist Church
Our two part series on Snarky Jesus draws to conclusion this Sunday, but Jesus will not be quiet. Once more he uses jarring satire to expose the faulty thinking of his opponents. He will leave them (and us) thinking about truth and the will of God. Don’t miss the exciting conclusion and the opportunity to […]
This week we start a two-part mini series on Snarky Jesus. Could our Savior have used snark and sarcasm in his ministry? Why and for what purpose? In Sunday’s Scripture, we discover how Jesus uses snark to convey his contempt for the behavior of the Pharisees, those who have been respected without accountability. This side […]
Some of the religious authorities challenged Jesus to speak about the political rule and authority of the State: Rome. They wanted to see if Jesus would place God above earthly authority. In a genius response, Jesus places them separately, but both in a place of authority over God’s people. What does the Church believe about government and […]
In the United Methodist Church it always comes back to grace, that unmerited favor God chooses to show to us because of God’s great love for us. This Sunday we get to the crux of our salvation and faith. In this exploration of grace, we discover that grace is more than just forgiveness or pardon; it is the transformative […]
Not all Christian denominations have the same beliefs about the sacraments. We do not even all agree on how many there are. Yet the Bible gives us two sacraments very clear in example and edict by Christ. This week we explore what the sacraments are, what they mean, and what we are to believe about […]
Sin is the ugly reality of life and humankind, but it is not the final word. To begin to recognize the tremendous gift of God’s grace in Jesus Christ, we must wrestle with the reality of sinfulness and the prevalence of our own individual sins. Discover for yourself that sin is not our end or […]
This week we continue to explore the immutable beliefs of the church which constitutes our doctrine in the United Methodist Church. There are several Articles of Religion that address the Holy Scriptures. What do we believe about the Bible? Do we need additional resources for salvation? Join us Sunday and discover for yourself what the Bible really means for us. […]
We begin a new Worship series this Sunday on the United Methodist Articles of Religion. Our previous series was on heresy, so now we turn to what we do believe. There are 25 articles, and they cannot be changed in any way, according to the First Restrictive Rule of 1808. These are the basics of our faith, but […]
Confirmation Sunday is a special day in the life of the Methodist Church and this year we’re celebrating our first confirmation group in several years as we continue to emerge from the pandemic. Ten young people are making the choice to join our family of faith and we are so excited to celebrate them today! Associated Scripture: 2 […]
On this the annual celebration of the arrival of the Holy Spirit as Jesus promised, we celebrate the birth of the Church universal: Christianity across divisions and denominational lines. We remember when we were united by the powerful presence of God, and how the power of the Holy Spirit drew people closer to God and one another. God was […]
Perhaps you have heard someone say that the God of the Old Testament is a vengeful and angry God, then extol the God of the New Testament as loving and forgiving. Are they two different Gods? Do we need to remember the God portrayed in the Old Testament? This Sunday we learn about Christians who […]
As you read through the book of Ruth, you won’t find any places where God’s voice thunders down to her as you might in other Bible stories. No earth-shattering miracles, like the Red Sea parting, happen in her life. But what you do see is a common life, shaped by faith, devoted to family, and […]
The notion of free will and the impact it has upon human sinfulness has been an ongoing conversation in Christianity. One of the major breaks in Protestantism happened around the concept of free will. What grants us the ability to resist the endless repetition of our sins? What makes salvation possible? At the core to […]
Even the earliest Christianis struggled to understand what God had really done in Jesus. Since Jesus was the first and only incarnation of the Living God, it has taken believers time to wrap our heads around the concept, much less agree on the reality of our Savior. What real effect does a human body make upon our salvation by the cross? Why would a body really be necessary for God?Join us as we explore not just the humanity of Jesus, but the impact of the human body on God's grace and relationship with us. Associated Scripture: 1 Peter 2:21-25Your offering makes ministry possible at Crozet UMC! Give today online at crozetunitedmethodist.org/giving/. Your support makes a difference!
Modalism is a misunderstanding of the doctrine of the Trinity. But how big of a problem is that really? This week we take a closer look at the theology that is most often articulated without meaning to be heretical. What effect might this have on how we think of God and how we treat others? Come and see for yourself as we continue to explore theologies that have been labeled as heretical throughout Christianity. Associated Scripture: John 14:15-17Your offering makes ministry possible at Crozet UMC! Give today online at crozetunitedmethodist.org/giving/. Your support makes a difference!
We begin our new Worship series this Sunday with a long standing concept that the new covenant in Christ replaces the old covenant which God gave to the ancestors of the Jews at Mount Sinai. At the core is the question of whether God replaces people or if God widens the circle, inviting new people into God's grace. Join us as we learn from when and where this concept came, and what effect it has had not only on Church history, but world history. Associated Scripture: Romans 11:1-6Your offering makes ministry possible at Crozet UMC! Give today online at crozetunitedmethodist.org/giving/. Your support makes a difference!
Your offering makes ministry possible at Crozet UMC! Give today online at crozetunitedmethodist.org/giving/. Your support makes a difference!
Your offering makes ministry possible at Crozet UMC! Give today online at crozetunitedmethodist.org/giving/. Your support makes a difference!
When the Roman governor, Pontius Pilate, had Jesus crucified, he had a sign placed above the head of Jesus that read: "King of the Jews." Was that just a taunt, or does it have a deeper, more profound significance? How do we as modern Christians reconcile that our Lord is not just Jewish, but the King of the Jews? As we look at the title used to mock Christ, we can see that God is redeeming even earthly attempts to humiliate our Lord by transforming a taunt into a sacred title. Much like the first Methodists did! Associated Scripture: John 18:28-38
We continue our exploration of the New Testament Messianic titles with Son of Man. Did you know that Jesus is both fully human and yet fully divine? This week we delve into the title that draws our attention to the humanity of Jesus, and helps us appreciate a God incarnate that knows all the intimate details of being human. If you have ever wondered whether God understood what your pain and suffering is like, then this week you can discover the biblical promise that, yes, God does know. Associated Scripture: Mark 8:27-33
We continue our exploration of the New Testament Messianic titles with Son of Man. Did you know that Jesus is both fully human and yet fully divine? This week we delve into the title that draws our attention to the humanity of Jesus, and helps us appreciate a God incarnate that knows all the intimate details of being human. If you have ever wondered whether God understood what your pain and suffering is like, then this week you can discover the biblical promise that, yes, God does know. Associated Scripture: Mark 8:27-33Your offering makes ministry possible at Crozet UMC! Give today online at crozetunitedmethodist.org/giving/. Your support makes a difference!
This week we explore a Messianic title that is rooted in the second book of the Old Testament: Exodus. Dating back to the first Passover, when God passed over the houses of the Israelites marked by the blood of the lambs they slaughtered for the divinely commanded meal. Discover how the Old Testament illuminates the events of the crucifixion which we commemorate every Good Friday, and gain a whole new appreciation for the long term plan of God to care for all people. Associated Scripture: John 1:29-34Your offering makes ministry possible at Crozet UMC! Give today online at crozetunitedmethodist.org/giving/. Your support makes a difference!
This series carries on the Messianic theme of the Advent Worship series from this past Christmas. We will explore together the Messianic titles used for Jesus in the New Testament, and seek to better understand how they all reveal the nature of our Christ and empower us to connect to him in a new way, just in time for Easter! Come explore, grow, and worship with us this Lent!Your offering makes ministry possible at Crozet UMC! Give today online at crozetunitedmethodist.org/giving/. Your support makes a difference!
We close out our Worship series on Infamous women with the most notorious of all: Eve. Come and see what the Bible actually says about her. After thousands of years of being portrayed as a seductress and deceiver in literature, artwork, and cinematic depictions, it is time to set the record straight. See for yourself how misunderstanding can cause lasting pain and suffering, and discover a different way of being with other people who are also wrestling with their own sinful inclinations. Associated Scripture: Genesis 3:1-21Your offering makes ministry possible at Crozet UMC! Give today online at crozetunitedmethodist.org/giving/. Your support makes a difference!
Valentine's Day is right around the corner with all the cards, flowers, and candy that go with it. It’s a day to celebrate our relationships with those closest to us. It’s a wonderful day, but God has something bigger for us than just one day out of 365. God challenges us to something much bigger every day: to choose love every day. This Sunday, at 9:00 or 11:00 am, come and see what it’s all about. It might not be what you think!Your offering makes ministry possible at Crozet UMC! Give today online at crozetunitedmethodist.org/giving/. Your support makes a difference!
While engaging in a required bath of ritual cleansing, Bathsheba is seen by King David, and her life will be turned upside down. Join us as we explore power differentials and the price of indulging our sinful desires. As much as God declares a love for the heart of David, our exploration of Bathsheba reveals one of the ways in which David diverged from God's will. Can redemption be his? Does Bathsheba need it, too? Associated Scripture: 2 Samuel 11:1-27Your offering makes ministry possible at Crozet UMC! Give today online at crozetunitedmethodist.org/giving/. Your support makes a difference!
This week we explore the Biblical account of a woman whose profession is scandalous. Rahab was a prostitute, but the Scriptures reward her willingness to do what was right and just for God's people. Perhaps God is encouraging us to look beyond the labels and to the willingness to have a heart for others. Associated Scripture: Joshua 2:1-21Your offering makes ministry possible at Crozet UMC! Give today online at crozetunitedmethodist.org/giving/. Your support makes a difference!
The name of Jezebel is often synonymous with sexual sin, and a slanderous name for women in Southern culture. Who was Jezebel really? We will explore whether her reputation is truly deserved. Born a powerful princess, Jezebel had a lot of influence and material wealth. What was her actual sin? Associated Scripture: 1 Kings 19:1-10Your offering makes ministry possible at Crozet UMC! Give today online at crozetunitedmethodist.org/giving/. Your support makes a difference!
We begin our new Worship series on infamous women, those who have become known for negative reasons, and we will explore whether that reputation is accurate and deserved. Join us as we dive deep into the origin of the reputations these women have garnered, and explore what the Bible really has to say about them. We will start with one of the most misunderstood and underappreciated women: Mary Magdalene. Who was she really? What was her relationship with Jesus? Come discover it for yourself. Associated Scripture: Mark 15:42-16:8
We’re celebrating Epiphany this Sunday, the coming of the Magi and the celebration of the revelation of God Incarnate as Jesus Christ, Our Lord. The magi came from very far away to find a king of a people not their own. They sacrificed their time and resources to make the journey, and risked their lives to enter into a foreign land without prior invitation. They sacrificed because they believed it was worth it to worship the king. Associated Scripture: Isaiah 60:1-6Your offering makes ministry possible at Crozet UMC! Give today online at crozetunitedmethodist.org/giving/. Your support makes a difference!
Merry Christmas! This is always a special time of year in the life of the church and especially at Crozet UMC! Today and Sunday we’ve got an incredible lineup of four Christmas worship services with three services on Christmas Eve at 4:00 pm, 7:00 pm and 11:00 pm. Come out and join us during this joyous season in a celebration of the arrival of the Messiah!Your offering makes ministry possible at Crozet UMC! Give today online at crozetunitedmethodist.org/giving/. Your support makes a difference!
The wonderful season of Advent continues today and we continue to explore the Coming of the Messiah by diving into Isaiah 9:6-7. This week we'll discuss Jesus' role as our Everlasting Father. Associated Scripture: Isaiah 9:6-7Your offering makes ministry possible at Crozet UMC! Give today online at crozetunitedmethodist.org/giving/. Your support makes a difference!
The wonderful season of Advent continues today and we continue to explore the Coming of the Messiah by diving into Isaiah 9:6-7. This week we'll discuss Jesus' role as our Mighty God. Associated Scripture: Isaiah 9:6-7Your offering makes ministry possible at Crozet UMC! Give today online at crozetunitedmethodist.org/giving/. Your support makes a difference!
The wonderful season of Advent begins today and we begin our exploration of the Coming of the Messiah by diving into Isaiah 9:6-7. This week we'll start by discussing Jesus' role as our Wonderful Counselor. Associated Scripture: Isaiah 9:6-7Your offering makes ministry possible at Crozet UMC! Give today online at crozetunitedmethodist.org/giving/. Your support makes a difference!
We close out of Worship series on Discipleship with the final of the four C’s: Community. This is the relationships we choose, cultivate, and nurture with Christ at the core. Relationships are what makes the church the Body of Christ. This is the core of who we are as a community of faith. Associated Scripture: Acts 6:1-7 […]
This week we explore Cult, the ritual of religion. What we choose to do repeatedly throughout our lives reflects our faithfulness to God. In Methodism, we have rituals we call the Means of Grace, such as the public worship of God, family and private prayer, searching the Scriptures, etc. These are the way in which […]
Our Worship series exploring transformation through Discipleship continues this week with Code, what we do as followers of Christ. We will explore how our actions are an intentional statement about who Jesus is. What are your actions saying about Christ? Associated Scripture: Luke 9:23-27 Your offering makes ministry possible at Crozet UMC! Give today online […]
In their book, “The Study of Religion in an Age of Global Dialogue (2000),” Leonard Swindler and Paul Mojzes describe the four C’s of Religion. These are the aspects of discipleship, becoming more than who we are without Christ, that empower us to grow and be transformed. This also helps us transform a broken and […]
Our youth will lead us in worship this Sunday. Join us to hear Jack Isley talk about the importance of prayer. You don’t want to miss it! Your offering makes ministry possible at Crozet UMC! Give today online at crozetunitedmethodist.org/giving/. Your support makes a difference!
This week we explore a Christian response to pain and suffering. Those moments often becomes spiritual weightlifting sessions, making us stronger each time we experience it and lean into faith. Associated Scripture: 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 Your offering makes ministry possible at Crozet UMC! Give today online at crozetunitedmethodist.org/giving/. Your support makes a difference!
Anger and hatred are some of the most powerful expressions of human sinfulness, a sickness in the depths of our spirit that creates brokenness in our relationships. As long as there have been people, there has been anger and hatred. Yet we are called to a holier way of being in the world, so how […]
We continue our Worship series on A Christian Response with death and loss. Death affects everyone in the course of our lives. When someone we love dies, we experience loss unlike any other. How do we continue to live? Can we thrive again? Yes, the Bible reveals how Isaac did just that after the loss […]
Our new Worship series will focus on how Christians can respond to difficult situations and contexts in our lives. We begin with conflict. Serious disagreements arise in relationships, even healthy and holy ones. How can we address it and work through it? Join us this Sunday to see how Jesus navigated these difficult waters. Associated […]
On the anniversary of the tragedy of September 11th, we examine what it means to mourn in a way that is appropriate, healthy, and healing. Join us as we explore the Bible’s guidance for those who mourn as individuals as well as a community. Associated Scripture: Jeremiah 8:18-21 Your offering makes ministry possible at Crozet […]
What does the future of the United Methodist Church hold? We cannot predict, but we can decide for ourselves as individual disciples, members of the local church, and part of the global denomination what we want to strive to bring about and then work to ensure that our ministry reveals that hope. Associated Scripture: Proverbs […]
Despite decades of separation, Methodists yearned to be together in full communion once more. Not only was a union created with the Evangelical United Brethren, but together they boldly pushed forward for the inclusion of full clergy status of women. Grace would be the calling card of Methodism moving forward. Associated Scripture: 2 Corinthians 5:14-21 […]
World War I and II created a profound sense that the brokenness of Methodism should be addressed, if not repaired. Methodists in the United States began to strive earnestly for reunion. Could the Church find peace and model it for a broken, war-ravaged world? Associated Scripture: Ephesians 4:1-6 Your offering makes ministry possible at Crozet […]
The first major break in Methodism occurred over slavery. John Wesley was an ardent opponent of slavery, and it was outlawed in the Church in 1789. Yet as slavery was dividing the nation, so too did it divide Methodism. We explore one of the principle texts used to undergird the inclusion of slave holders in […]
The United States was experiencing a Second Great Awakening, a spiritual movement filled with revivals and camp meetings in which Methodism flourished. It was experimental in nature and flexible in structure, but the threat of schism is looming. In that liminal space between what was and what would be, the Methodists of the early nineteenth […]
Starting at the beginning, we explore Methodism’s genesis. England was experiencing a revival, known as the Holiness Movement, and that is where we meet two brothers, John and Charles Wesley. From humble beginnings came a radical articulation of God’s grace and a passion for living it out. Associated Scripture: Ephesians 4:17-24 Your offering makes ministry […]
Justice, Mercy, Humility. We frequently hear these words in the news, in social media, and even conversation. Everyone has an opinion of what they mean, but what does GOD have to say about it? Believe it or not, long before the birth of Christ, the Prophet Micah had a very specific answer to the question. […]
This Sunday we close out our series on Graceful Exits by focusing on every person’s final exit: death. How do we gracefully exit life? Does it really matter? Yes! A graceful exit from life can be one of the last and yet greatest gifts we can give to those we love. Join us as we […]
The reality is that very few Christians stay at the same church their whole lives these days. You may move to go away to school, when you get a new job, or when you retire. Maybe you find yourself looking for a different worship style. Or perhaps you have a tragic, painful experience with another Christian. No […]
As believers, we are called upon to be grace-filled people. God grants us grace, but sometimes it remains a challenge to be graceful. Does it matter how we leave a job? Yes, we have guidance from Jesus, the Apostle Paul, and other scriptures that directs us to resist the temptation to walk off or leave things to implode when […]
Relationships are a central part of being social beings. We were created by the Triune God to reflect the relationality of God’s self and magnify right relationship as the Body of Christ as well as our personal relationships. Yet sometimes, despite our best efforts and yearning of the heart, relationships come to an end. How […]
We begin a new series this Sunday, “Graceful Exits.” We will explore how we can leave gracefully, meaning in honor and goodwill. Christians, those that bear the name of Christ, are called to gracefully exit from something as temporary as a conversation to something as final as life itself. The Bible and the teachings of […]
Your offering makes ministry possible at Crozet UMC! Give today online at crozetunitedmethodist.org/giving/. Your support makes a difference!
As Christians, we tell the story of Jesus, and we tell our story of experience with that same Jesus, but we are invited through the Church, the body of Christ, to learn and share one another’s stories. Yet care and caution must be used to make sure that we neither misappropriate and miscommunicate another’s truth. […]
When we have occasion to tell our story as individual Christians, it can be overwhelming to the point that we shrink back into silence. Yet our story is an important prelude to the story that is unfolding in the one with whom we tell our testimony. Hearing one can bring forth the other. We cannot […]
What is the story of the Church? It is bigger than any single denomination or doctrinal coalition. It is a story that precedes and supersedes all earthly affiliation of Christians. We invite you to discover alongside us the simple, yet profound story of the Church of Christ that remains the foundation of every denomination and each […]
What is the real story of the Bible? What is God trying to get humankind to understand within the canon of 66 books? Come and discover that God has a clear narrative that culminates in the salvific ministry of Christ, and we can share that without simply handing someone a Bible and telling them to […]
We are beginning a new Worship series that will explore and equip us to not only understand but share the stories that are so important to our faith. This is not memorizing Bible stories, but growing so comfortable with vital narratives that we can share them with others and so fulfill Jesus’ commandment to preach and […]
Our Lay Leader Jennifer Fisher steps in this week for a special message titled, “Unanswered Prayers.” This is a not-to-be missed opportunity to hear the incredible testimony of a member of our church congregation. Associated Scripture: John 20: 19-31 Your offering makes ministry possible at Crozet UMC! Give today online at crozetunitedmethodist.org/giving/. Your support makes a […]
This Easter is our resurrection as a Family of Faith, as we return in full splendor to our worship life together on the day when we recall that Christ returned to us, for even death could not hold him. We know the Easter story, but do we have a deep comprehension of why the resurrection was so important? Why does every […]
The Old Testament recounts how God gave God’s people the means by which they could find forgiveness, reconciliation, and be cleansed from their sin: burnt offerings. These offerings were consumed by fire, and the smoke filled the air. In the aroma and visual display of the fire, God’s people could experience the moment they found […]
This is the day when Christians across the whole earth recall and celebrate Jesus’ triumphant entry into the holy city of Jerusalem. Scores of people had traveled from all over the known world to celebrate the festival of Passover, the religious holiday that recounted the mighty acts of salvation and deliverance from bondage in Egypt which […]
It has become very commonplace, even popular, to believe that our faith is something to be hidden, compartmentalized from the life we live outside of the Church. Jesus addressed this mindset in his sermon on the mount. He knew that people would be inclined to hide the Gospel for a number of reasons, but he […]
Is it a service or worship? Do I come to get something out of it or to give of myself for God? How we approach our spirituality and religion reflects whether we have a healthy relationship with God. True and vital relationships reveal the give and take of the connection. Sometimes we give more than […]
All too often denominations and even local churches feel at odds and in competition with each other, but this is a false narrative. There are plenty of people to bless and with whom to share the grace of God in Jesus Christ. How can we reframe our desire to increase the faithful in Christ’s Church in […]
Once again Jesus sets a standard of behavior for those who claim his name and desire his salvation. Triangulation subverts that grace, because it creates a relationship dynamic that is oppositional rather than focused upon fulfilling the divine call to reconciliation. When we try to gain others to our side because we are in conflict […]
We begin our Lenten Worship series with one of the most common things Christians do, often without even being aware that we are doing it: using judgment language about other people. Jesus warns us not to judge, so in doing so, we set a standard by which God will judge us. If we want grace […]
We conclude our Worship series on inspiring saints this Sunday with a person known as the first Black saint of the Americas: Saint Martin de Porres. His mother was a freed slave of African and Native descent in Lima, Peru. As he was not White, Martin was prohibited from joining a religious order, but he […]
The dynamic relationship between religion and art predates Christianity, but the Church has been a longstanding patron of the arts. While most think immediately of the Renaissance, Christians have been making art to glorify God and reflect their faith long before then. Catherine of Bologna is considered the Patron of artists and was a gifted […]
Secular culture has embraced the Feast Day of Saint Valentine, choosing to celebrate love on February 14, but the love for which Saint Valentine is celebrated was by no means a romantic one. Like Jesus, Saint Valentine focused his faith and efforts on loving God and all people. Perhaps by delving deeper into who Valentine was, […]
Simple and practical are the two words that best describe the approach to faith in Saint Therese, a young Christian woman who died at the age of 24. Despite her youth, Therese was wise beyond her years, and her brief time on this earth has inspired millions and millions of Christians in acts of kindness and […]
As is the tradition at Crozet UMC on the fifth Sundays to have an opportunity to pray and receive the blessing of anointing, our Saint Worship series will focus upon a saint beloved for his prayers and love of creation: Francis of Assisi. Join us as we look at how a deep appreciation for God’s […]
The young woman known as Joan of Arc is not just a saint but a historical person who participated in the military repulsion of the army of England’s attempt to conquer France in the Battle of Orleans during the Hundred Years’ War. She was just thirteen when she began to have visions and step into […]
This week we explore a saint with some popular expressions of veneration that can be confusing. If you have ever heard someone offer a quick prayer to Saint Anthony to find their lost keys, then perhaps you wondered about the Christian who seems to help those who ask for assistance in recovering their lost possessions. […]
This Sunday we begin a new Worship series focused on saints, those believers who have become beloved to Christians all over the world and throughout history for their devotion and their service in Christ’s name. Saints have often been inspiring to everyday Christians and are looked to for help in time of need. We start with […]
We conclude our Advent and Christmas Worship Series today with the arrival of the Magi, those for whom O. Henry’s short story, “The Gift of the Magi” was named. They came from very far away to find a king of a people not their own. They sacrificed their time and resources to make the journey […]
We end our Advent journey with a generation that has yet to be defined, and they will one day define themselves: Generation Alpha. These are the children that have already survived a global pandemic, lived through almost two years in social isolation, and yet they continue to persevere. What might Christ have us do to […]
From our 11 pm Christmas Eve service. Your offering makes ministry possible at Crozet UMC! Give today online at crozetunitedmethodist.org/giving/. Your support makes a difference!
From our 7 pm Christmas Eve service. Your offering makes ministry possible at Crozet UMC! Give today online at crozetunitedmethodist.org/giving/. Your support makes a difference!
From our 4 pm Christmas Eve Service. Your offering makes ministry possible at Crozet UMC! Give today online at crozetunitedmethodist.org/giving/. Your support makes a difference!
Generation X has experienced some of the greatest economic crises since the Great Depression: the dotcom bust, the housing bubble burst, and the Great Recession. They carry more than half of the credit card debt in this country, but they are not defined by debt, but their endurance. They continue to generate culture at an […]
After the end of World War II, a numerous generation was born, and we know them as The Baby Boomers. They transformed the landscape of Christianity and brought their values of progress, analytical thinking, and educational reforms into being. Discover how they continue to be a significant contribution to the expression of faith in this country […]
We continue to explore the generations, and this week we honor those known as The Silent Generation. They chose to express themselves not in words, but work, and that has shaped not only this nation, but Christianity. Join us as we explore just how blessed we have been by them. Associated Scripture: Proverbs 11:12-14 Your […]
As we begin our journey towards the annual celebration of the birth of the Christ child, we have the opportunity to explore who we are. Almost two years of a global pandemic has changed us, and now is the perfect time to reflect on who we were and who we are, even as we look […]
Last week we explored how tithing transforms both the gift and the giver. This week we explore how to transform our tithing, our gifts given to God, from money into ministry and mission. How do we get to the point where we can tithe? What will happen if we try? Can we really expect a miraculous […]
Tithing, giving ten percent of all that one earns, was an essential element of religious life for the Ancient Israelites and their spiritual descendants, the Jews, throughout the Old Testament. It is assumed that people were going to tithe in the New Testament, as Jesus remarks about tithing practices, but does not spend time defining it. […]
This Sunday is recognized as All Saints Sunday in the worship life of the Church. Congregations all over the world remember those of their membership who have died over the course of the year since the previous All Saints Sunday. We once more recall their lives, the blessings they shared with us, and remember with […]
Why are some things in the church so important to some and inconsequential to others? What does it mean to be holy or hold something sacred? This is what historian of religions, Mircea Eliade, attempted to explain in his work. By exploring the boundaries between the sacred and the profane, or common, Eliade gives us […]
Is everything in the Bible literally true? What would it mean if things were stories rather than objective facts and historical accounts? This Sunday we explore the capacity for truth and the value it holds for each follower of Christ, as well as how we as a people understand truth to be. If you have […]
In the religious context, rites are prescribed acts and practices among the community of believers. In Christianity, many of these rites are part of our worship tradition and communal customs. We continue or develop new rites to express how we understand ourselves in relationship to God and one another in a theological understanding. This week […]
In Methodism, diversity in ideas, understanding, cultural expression, and ways of living out our faith, have always been. The original Oxford Methodists were not of all one mind, or had one way of living out their faith, and yet they found unity in Christ, and in doing so, gave birth to the movement that would […]
As proclaimed in the Psalms, God is God to all people, to the ends of the earth. This is why the United Methodist Church continues the identity of earlier Methodist iterations that devoted themselves to being not an American Church, but a global Church. That identity and understanding means that we are the Church when […]
John Wesley wrote, “Solitary religion is not to be found there. ‘Holy Solitaries’ is a phrase no more consistent with the gospel than Holy Adulterers. The gospel of Christ knows of no religion, but social; no holiness but social holiness. Faith working by love, is the length and breadth and depth and height of Christian […]
Methodists, even before we became United in 1968, brought to Christianity an understanding of God’s grace and how we experience it unlike any other denomination. While we have formal doctrinal words to describe God’s grace as prevenient, justifying, and sanctifying, what we really have to share is our experience that God loves, forgives, and helps […]
We close our Toxic Christianity Worship Series with an up-close look at what happens when Christians become prideful and lose the humility that allows us to serve rather than be served. How can one who wants to serve find themselves as one who is now being driven by recognition and pride? It happens more than […]
Change and new things often bring about strife and discord in people, even the Church, yet God has declared time and time again that God is making all things new. How do we find comfort and hope in new things and uncharted territory? When we have heard others tell us we cannot do something new […]
Believers who reject religious practice have existed since the beginning of divine encounters. It reflects a misunderstanding of what purpose practice has in our lives and way of being. To think that one can maintain a strong bonded relationship with God and not put in the work necessary leads to a tunnel vision faith, one […]
When Christians excessively adhere to Church law, doctrines, and tradition, it can lead to a loss of the spirit of God’s Word. To prevent that, we must attend to our spiritual disciplines as individual disciples, and engage in prayerful discernment as the Family of Faith. This dual approach keeps us grounded in Christ, and accountable […]
This week we explore cynicism, the skeptical view of others, which can negatively impact our faith, effectiveness in discipleship, and our ability to have healthy relationships. Cynical Christians are not new; even the Apostle Paul dealt with them, and that was at the beginning of Christianity! Perhaps now is the time when Christians begin to […]
Join us for our next Worship series as we examine toxic forms of Christianity and behaviors that undermine our service as disciples of Jesus Christ. We hope to develop an awareness that we might change for the better and become more aware of those things that prevent us from being a fruitful Body of Christ. […]
This week we take a look at “gratitude.” Is it an emotion? Is it an exchange? What on earth—or beyond—does it say about us? What does it say about our Creator? This week, check us out and see what it’s all about. Associated Scripture: John 1:32-42 Associated Scripture: Psalm 34:1-10, 22 Your offering makes ministry possible at Crozet UMC! Give today […]
This week we delve into the way Simon Peter met Jesus, according to the Gospel Account of John. Rather than the story shared in Matthew, Mark, and Luke, John tells of how a relationship between siblings served as the gateway to meeting and following the Messiah. Perhaps our relationship with siblings can be more profound than […]
One of the most insightful relationships we can have is that of mentor and mentee, to have another choose to invest in us their wisdom, experience, and time. Mordecai was not just Esther’s cousin and adoptive father; he became her mentor. Mordecai chooses to guide her, even challenging her to step into her position and […]
There is something holy about the relationship between a parent and child, which is why God uses this as a metaphor for the relationship between God’s self and humankind, as well as the connection between God, the Father and God, the Son. This week we find inspiration in how Jesus took care of his own […]
Does friendship end with death? Not in the relationship modeled by David and Jonathan. Discover the depths of commitment we can express to honor the place another holds in our heart as we explore the lengths David was willing to go to honor his best friend, Jonathan. Associated Scripture: 2 Samuel 9:1-13 Your offering makes ministry […]
We continue our exploration of inspiring and beautiful relationships found in the Bible with those relations not by blood, but marriage, which create an extended family. Culture often frames in-law relationships as trying even painful, but the Bible gives us a glimpse into a healthier, holier, and transformative relationship between a daughter-in-law and her mother-in-law. […]
Our first relationship our next Worship series will explore is that of a married couple: Isaac and Rebekah. Of all the marriages in the Bible, theirs is one of a few that is described with the word “love.” What difference does that make? How can we be inspired to rethink marriage in light of what […]
Join us this week for Trinity Sunday, a day to marvel at and celebrate the holy mystery of the Trinity: the perfect unity of Three in One. While the title “Trinity” does not appear in the Bible, the three Persons do, especially in the Apostle Paul’s final letter before he was martyred. We will explore […]
Pentecost is the day the Church celebrates the coming of the Holy Spirit and the birth of Christ’s Church. This year we will explore what Jesus said about this day and this divine gift and discover his promise to all of us throughout the ages. Associated Scripture: John 14:13-27 Your offering makes ministry possible at […]
We close out our Worship series this Sunday with a classic tension in Christianity. Across the ages, Christians, theologians, and scholars alike have pondered and struggled with the answer between faith versus works. We will have our opportunity to do so together in worship this week. You are welcome here. Associated Scripture: James 2:14-26 Your […]
Perhaps you have heard it said, “The New Testament replaces the Old Testament,” or “Jesus makes the Law invalid.” These reveal a theology known as supersessionism, and it has played a part historically in the relationship between Christianity and Judaism, Abrahamic sibling faiths. Does Christ replace? Do we have the latest and greatest covenant to […]
All of us come to experience the pain of exclusion, whether as children, youth, or adults. As we wrestle with theologies that widen the circle or shut the doors, we often gain perspective into ourselves. What may God reveal to you as we embark on a journey to discover whether we should define our God […]
People have been debating when the world will end since before Jesus was born, and there are still a great many Christians who continue this debate. Does it really matter what we think or believe about the end of human history? Yes! Come and see how it affects everything from how you live to how […]
In a nation that holds the notion and even the word “liberty” in such esteem, distinction between liberty and liberation can be difficult. As we look at two very different theological implications, we invite you to join us to discover the rich empowerment that comes from theology. Associated Scripture: Exodus 3:1-10 Your offering makes ministry […]
We open our new Worship series with a classic tension in Christianity across denominations: do we forgive or condemn? For some, the answer comes quickly, for others, there is pause. Join us as we explore what a good, vibrant theology can do, and how to avoid theologies that harm and become obstacles for others. Associated […]
We invite you to experience the unparalleled joy of the greatest Sunday of the year with us. Easter is the day in which Christians all over the globe celebrate and praise the Lord for the resurrection, that first glimpse of eternal life, for which we yearn. Join us as we recount how Jesus conquered death, […]
Tonight we gather remembering the sacrifice of Christ on the cross. We look for comfort us as we mourn the sin that led to this day. We remember the grace that brought us Christ. Join us now as we are transformed by this sacred time of worship. Associated Scripture: Mark 15:1-37 Your offering makes ministry possible […]
This Sunday marks the beginning of Holy Week, that liturgical time that culminates with Christ’s sacrifice upon the cross, grace for all, and the resurrection of our Lord on Easter Sunday. We begin with Palm Sunday, a day of celebration at Jesus’ triumphant entry into the holy city, Jerusalem. He is greeted with joy and […]
In our final week before the start of Palm Sunday and Holy Week, we conclude our exploration of God’s prophetic word for a post-exilic people with the prophecy of Hosea. Although Hosea spoke to a people almost two hundred years before the Babylonian Exile, his words convey the depth of God’s promises. All of the […]
We return to the Book of Ezekiel and the visionary experience the prophet has with dry, lifeless bones in the desert. When we feel that all is lost, and it is too late, God reminds us that for God nothing is impossible. Dry bones come alive, and we find miraculous transformation. Join us as we […]
Let us hear the words of the Prophet Isaiah once more. From days of old, his words conveyed the transformation God required of God’s people, and his words have been preserved, not as a dead historical account, but as a vibrant call to those who follow the Lord even now. If the exiled people of […]
By the word of the Prophet Jeremiah, God shares a new vision for the identity of God’s people. They had always defined themselves as a people who came out of Egypt, but hundreds of years later, God transforms their identity into one of a people who have experienced exile and persevered. Their experiences become the means […]
We begin our Lenten Worship Series facing the monumental task of rebuilding the Body of Christ as it emerges from the pandemic. Do we simply go back to the way things were, or do we reimagine, building a stronger foundation, a more secure connection, and the ability to better respond to the next difficulty to come? To […]
Our journey through the Bible’s most strange and unusual texts has brought us to a story about a talking donkey. This Sunday you can discover this outlandish tale about a donkey that can see angels and what happens when a prophet does not! This fun and fabulous tale about one of God’s animals will surely […]
Originally scheduled for last week, this Sunday we look at one of the weirdest stories in the Bible and what happens when preachers preach too long. It happened to the Apostle Paul. Can a sermon be deadly? Join us this Sunday, and we promise not to replicate a deadly sermon! Associated Scripture: Acts 20:7-12 Your […]
Welcome to Sunday Worship at Crozet UMC. We’re excited that you could be with us. Today, in the midst of today’s snowstorm, Pastor Sarah brings us a message from home about grace. Associated Scripture: Isiah 1:16-20.
Did you know that God used food delivery long before UberEats and Grub Hub? When a servant of God, the Prophet Elijah, needed food in the wilderness, God used a raven to deliver food. As whimsical as this may seem to us, ravens were considered unclean birds, and they would have “tainted” the food delivered […]
In our exploration of strange texts from the Bible, we read this Sunday about a bizarre encounter one of God’s prophets has with some local bullies. Predatory people who abuse and harass others has long been a tragic aspect of society, pervading across cultures and human history. Today we see that God is not tolerant […]
In between the season of Advent and Lent, we have a period of rest. Join us at Crozet UMC as we explore some of the strange and unusual stories of the Bible before we dive back into the deeper spiritual work of Lent. We will discover some of the stories that are not often taught […]
Last year on Epiphany Sunday, one of our children asked what happened to King Herod during Children’s Time. We didn’t have time to go into that, but how often do we pay attention to what happened to King Herod. His desire to protect his power and authority resulted in the deaths of innocent children as he […]
We end our Advent journey with the last of Jesus’ teachings about transforming how we respond to others. He ends where he always begins: with generosity. Radical, unparalleled generosity marks every facet of Jesus Christ, and he expects us to take up that mantle and continue the ministry. Generosity is a ministry in its altruistic […]
Merry Christmas and welcome to our Traditional Worship. Tonight we celebrate with some of your favorite hymns and a candlelight “Silent Night.” Associated Scripture: Luke 2:1-20
You’ve heard it said that Jesus’ birth changed everything. Today, come hear the story in a new way, discover what it means to us, and join us in song. Associated Scripture: Luke 2:1-20
Join us today as we rediscover the Christmas story as told for, and to, children. Associated Scripture: Luke 2:1-20
This Sunday we once more visit the words Jesus entrusted to those who would follow him, love him, and serve the world in his name. What does it convey when we do not abandon others after our obligations to them end? What if we were to choose to continue to be with and for them? Jesus […]
We continue our journey towards Christmas with the next teaching of Christ about radical reconciliation. When the world lashes out and we feel the sting of attack, we are to respond with words and actions that transform hate into peace. Jesus’ teachings are in stark contradiction to the ways of the world, but only breaking the […]
As we once more draw towards the annual celebration of the arrival of the Christ-child, our Messiah, we are invited to examine how Christ has transformed our world as well as ourselves. Only after introspection can we discover where God would have us grow next. This year, we at Crozet UMC invite you to join us […]
We close out our Worship series on What Now? with a constant refrain in the Bible and Christian tradition: pray for direction. We are encouraged, even commanded by Jesus, to ask for God’s guidance, so in taking time to go to God in prayer, we are not only seeking the help we need, but nurturing […]
When we are beginning to feel ready to move beyond our experience of pain and suffering, having acknowledged our loss and emotions, we look for renewed purpose, a direction to move out of the darkness and towards the light of Christ. The Holy Spirit has been guiding Christians in this transition since the first days […]
As humankind, we cling to that which we love and which brings us joy: persons we love, noble ideas, elightenling truths, and hope for a bright and beautiful future. When this world and other people seemingly steal what we hold so precious, we find ourselves overcome with emotion and pain, like David. David’s abrupt change […]
Sometimes it seems like everything that could go wrong does. After we take time to process and acknowledge our feelings, especially disappointment, we are left to determine what we do next. Our Scripture for this Sunday hints at just this experience for two faithful followers of God: Caleb and Joshua. Having faith in the Lord, […]
In the wake of a major event, even if we are pleased with the result, we are left to consider what now? What will our next steps be? Where does our path go from here? This new Worship series will address our desire and need to continually move forward as disciples of Jesus Christ and […]
We close out our Worship series on Dealing With Disappointment this Sunday with the kind of disappointment that breaks our hearts, because it feels like betrayal. Sometimes it is exactly that Our family, friends, or those to whom we look up betray our trust, our expectations, and our relationship. Can there be redemption from that? […]
Despite certain understandings that circulate in the world of Christianity, you can be disappointed in God. More specifically, you may find yourself disappointed in God’s choices, actions, or inactions. You may feel that God has let you or someone you love down. You may even feel anger in your disappointment; Jonah sure did. What do […]
This week we shift to exploring the way the Bible reveals dealing with disappointment in others, and the one doing so in this Sunday’s Scripture is none other than God. God discovers that human sin is pervasive, and heartbreaking, even for a heart as great as God’s own. God decides to start again, but then […]
This month we confront feelings of and experiences with disappointment. No matter what your political position, our country is heading towards an election where the results and aftermath will leave a significant portion of our fellow people in disappointment. Everyone experiences disappointment; from the student who gets a rejection letter from a college to the […]
We conclude our September Worship series on the Names of God with a tricky name that continues to confound scholars, yet shapes our understanding of God. Moses, during his repeated attempts to avoid going back to Egypt and taking part in the Exodus, complains that he doesn’t even know God’s name and the people will […]
For Christians, this name of God is not only poignant, but vital to our understanding of God. Jesus gives us this relational metaphor that is not about gender, but rather the nature of the relationship that Jesus has, and now we who have been adopted through grace, have with God. This is part of the […]
What greater sign of God’s desire to be in relationship with us than God giving us God’s own personal name. In Hebrew, this name is YHWH, pronounced Yahweh (ya way). It is also known as the Tetragrammaton, meaning four letter, as it is composed of four Hebrew letters. This intimate name was considered dangerous to […]
We begin a Worship series designed to explore the names and titles ascribed to God in the Bible, and how they inform and influence our understanding of who God is. This will be a journey into theology and doctrine as we discover more about who the Bible says God is, and learn new ways to […]
One of the most terrifying parts of following Jesus is making disciples, sharing the Gospel. Many Christians avoid these conversations because they feel ill equipped, unworthy, or incapable. We strive not to offend, and fear that our faith may become a place of contention among those we know and love, even amongst our family and […]
Jesus and John the Baptist had different disciples that assisted and followed them. They had divergent ministries, even though they knew and served the same God. So when the differences become so apparent that they must be addressed, John the Baptist sends some of his followers to speak with Jesus. How Jesus chooses to talk […]
The Church is composed of many people who are also in various groups within the larger Body. Jesus, in infinite wisdom, gave us the metaphor of the Church as his Body and each of us has a necessary role and is a vital part of the Body. Yet we do not always agree on what […]
We continue our exploration of Christian conversation with conversation that happens within the Body of Christ, the community of believers. How we speak with one another is different from how we speak with others, not because we respect them less or withhold crucial conversation, but because we use our means of grace together to discern […]
As we begin a new Worship series on Christian conversations, we start at the foundation: speaking to another person. It appears to be simple, however, some of our most intense and deeply personal conversations happen one on one. It creates space for relationship, nurtures current relationships, and fosters space to be authentic and vulnerable. How […]
This Sunday we close out our worship series on origin stories and theories of creation with a lesser known theory in many Christian circles, but one that has compelling arguments for a synthesis of our sacred texts and our God. All are invited to come and experience the theory known as Intelligent Design. Who is […]
Too often the name Darwin makes Christians react with negative emotion. Yet, as people called to respond with compassion and love, we take time this Sunday to explore not just the theory of Darwinism, a specific subset of Evolutionism, but the man behind the ideas. Like all Christians today, Charles Darwin struggled with what he […]
Continuing our exploration of origin theories of creation, we journey into the depths of evolution, a theory that is often misunderstood and maligned. As awareness is not synonymous with adoption, we shall explore together in community, empowering the Holy Spirit to speak into our hearts and minds. We invite everyone to journey with us as […]
This Sunday we begin a new worship series exploring the narratives of creation. How did we come into being? How was the world created? These are questions humankind has posed and sought to answer for thousands of years and countless generations. We will delve into four different theories, some from within Christianity and some from […]
Even before the added stress and suffering from COVID-19, the National Institute for Mental Health discovered that over 19% of adults in the US suffer from an anxiety disorder. That’s 40 million people! It is estimated that 30% of adults will suffer from an anxiety disorder at some point in their lives. That makes what […]
As we continue to explore how mental illness is depicted in the Bible, we discover how an episode of mental illness grants us an opportunity to see that human beings are more than their struggles and disabilities. King Nebuchadnezzar was the most powerful ruler in Babylon, the greatest world power in its day, and he […]
This Sunday we explore the suffering King David experiences, and the mental anguish from which he suffers. He records his helpless and hopeless feelings in Psalm 22. Intimately acquainted with the mental illness struggles of King Saul, King David now finds himself with feelings of painful solitude, even abandonment, and the fear that pervades his […]
Our next worship series delves into places in Scripture that reveal surprising instances of mental illness. Like physical and spiritual illness, mental illness is a real struggle for many and is more common than we might realize. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, nearly one in five adults struggle with mental illness in […]
This week we celebrate Pentecost, the birthday of the Church. That day the power and presence of God was revealed in a new and exciting way. Even now, the Holy Spirit comes upon us, and grants us power to fulfill Christ’s call to be disciples. Associated Scripture: Acts 2:1-21
Even after Jesus’ death on the cross, resurrection from the dead, and ascension to Heaven, Christians have struggled with good and evil, our desire to do what God deems right, but plagued by our inclination towards sin. As we wrap up our Worship series on The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe, we conclude with the […]
The climax of The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe centers around the sacrificial death and resurrection of Aslan, just as Christianity centers around Christ’s sacrificial offering of himself upon the cross and subsequent resurrection on Easter. In the Bible, crucial events are marked in stone: the commandments of the covenant at Mt. Sinai on stone […]
The Witch of The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe is a personification of sin and evil, like the loose woman of the Book of Proverbs. Today, we explore the motif of temptation and the human inclination to follow the paths of sin. Join with us as we look more closely into the power and lure […]
This week, we explore the character of Aslan, the Messianic figure of The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe. This lion is the fulcrum for the climax of the story, and the one who reveals the hope of the entire country of Narnia. Like our Lord, Jesus Christ, Aslan offers himself up in place of those […]
This week we continue our Worship series on the Christian imagery and story of The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe. On Sunday we’ll be exploring the symbol of Turkish Delight, a tasty treat that entices Edmund into a dark and deadly deal with the White Witch. How far will he go to obtain more Turkish Delight? What […]
This week we begin an exciting new Worship series that explores Christianity through the book by C.S. Lewis, The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe. Lewis, a prolific Christian author, uses the story of four children and their journey into the land of Narnia as an allegory for Christianity. We will explore together some of the […]
Easter does not look how we planned, but then again, the first Easter did not look how the Apostles planned either. They never thought in less than a week Jesus would be dead, or that one of their own would have betrayed him. They awoke that first Easter morning to a world we have never known: […]
Jesus willingly took upon himself out sin and death. There is nothing more poignant that that truth: Jesus died for us. In exchange, we can be forgiven and live for all eternity. Once a year, we are invited into a liturgical journey through the passion and crucifixion, the suffering and death of Jesus. This year, […]
This year we are doing Maundy Thursday a little differently. Usually the order of worship allows for a brief reading of just part of what Jesus said and did in the Gospel Account of John, followed by a sermon to illuminate that snippet of Scripture, and then Holy Communion. Due to circumstances being what they […]
When the earthly rulers and powers caused Daniel to be alone, God did not abandon him. God made sure Daniel felt the divine presence and not forsaken. Now more than ever, we need to attune ourselves to see, hear, and experience God, even when our normal means of doing so have been separated from us. […]
We find ourselves in a continued state of separation from one another. For some this may be a welcome sabbath. For some this may be a struggle to endure. No matter how you feel about the isolation, we can hear the cries of others. We can recall that permanent separation causes pain and suffering, and […]
We serve a God who transforms. God transforms our sinfulness through grace into a bright and beautiful future in the Kingdom to Come for all eternity. God transforms earthly pain and suffering into wisdom and experience that enables us to resist evil and be vessels of love for others. God transforms negative circumstances into opportunities […]
When we find ourselves in a state of visual and physical separation from one another as we are in this time of isolation and quarantine, we can feel very abandoned, cut off, and lost. Yet we are reminded that nothing and no one can separate us from God. Today, come and discover for yourself how […]
This week we explore another lesson from Jesus about prayer. When Peter notices that Jesus was able to curse and wither a fig tree with just his words, he points it out to Jesus with astonishment. Jesus responds with a command to have faith and believe in what we pray, not only that it can […]
We begin our Easter Worship series with Jesus teaching the Apostles to pray. He explains that the attitude by which we offer our prayers sets the foundation for the prayers we offer up to God. If we are praying for earthly recognition, then our prayers are not genuine communication with our Lord. Such prayers lack […]
The ashes of Ash Wednesday are part of an ancient tradition from the Bible: to put on ashes as a sign of mourning. On this day, we mourn our sinfulness, our willful disobedience, and our waywardness that brings about separation between ourselves and God, as well as other people. We in the Church choose to […]
We close our Worship series on “The Hurtful Things Christians Say” with a ubiquitous saying: “Let go and let God.” It is meant to encourage people to trust in the Lord, have faith in God’s promises and power, but it can sound like we just have to resign ourselves to the current situation. It can […]
Death and the sorrow experienced by those left behind after the loss of a loved one is painful beyond measure and words. Yet from a genuine desire to provide meaning and comfort, many Christians have told those who mourn that “God needed your loved one.” What is received is that our bond to and love […]
Continuing the exploration of the concept from where does suffering come, this week we examine the statement that God never gives us more than we can handle. This position assumes that it is only God giving us anything. Human reality is that we receive good and bad from other people, individually and collectively. Our sin […]
If you have ever had someone tell you that your suffering is the result of God testing you, then you have probably wondered at this expression. Does God want to cause us pain and suffering even for the purpose of making us better, stronger, or more faithful? Many are unaware that Jesus never says that […]
Perhaps out of a sense of tough love or our own frustration with a difficult situation, many a Christian has uttered, “If you just had more faith …” to another person. Even though Jesus conveys such a sentiment in our Scripture text this Sunday, we forget that it is Jesus, God the Son in human […]
A lot of good intentioned Christians will utter, “It’s God’s will,” when something difficult is happening in someone’s life, as if God has ordained such a thing. However, most of us would be shocked to discover that the phrase “will of God” appears less than a dozen times in the Bible, and mostly in the […]
Many Christians have uttered the phrase, “The Lord will provide,” and while it comes directly from Scripture, taken out of context it can make those who are impoverished and struggling feel like their situation reflects a lack of love and compassion by God. This Sunday we explore the original meaning of the text, and what […]
Our new Worship series deals directly with the things Christians say that while good intentioned and well meaning, can be hurtful. Beginning with the phrase, “GOD made you perfect,” we will explore some of these common sayings, where they originate, and how we might better convey our hopes and prayers for comfort to those who […]
In the interlude between Christmas and the start of a new calendar year, we will gather for worship this Sunday to partake in a longstanding tradition in the United Methodist Church and an ancient tradition of God’s people in Scripture of renewing covenant. While God initiates covenants, we are empowered and encouraged to renew them, […]
When Charles Shultz developed this classic in 1965 he was very deliberate in his desire to showcase the true meaning of Christmas. Today, come join us as we consider the true meaning of the birth of Christ as we celebrate a “Charlie Brown Christmas.”
The night Jesus was born, the shepherds were offered the incredible blessing of being the first to see the Christ child. Not the privileged, not the wealthy, not the Temple leadership, but the shepherds were the ones to receive this gift. Others missed it, but GOD chose the shepherds. Tonight, join in that same privilege […]
This week we close our Advent Worship series on prayer with a prayer of confession from Daniel. Living in exile in the kingdom of Babylon, God’s faithful servant, Daniel, recognizes how human sin, including his own, has led to the displacement of God’s people, the suffering of many, and the brokenness of the covenant. Daniel’s […]
Our Scripture for this Sunday’s worship is well known as the Magnificat, Mary’s words of thanksgiving for the great things God has done for her. Our prayers of thanksgiving are an acknowledgment of God’s mighty acts for us, both as the Body of Christ and as individual Christians. We do not just receive good things […]
Our Advent Worship series continues this week with the prayer of Hannah, a woman once barren who was blessed with a child. Her response is to pray naming the great things God has done and extolling the virtues of the Lord. Sometimes prayer is less about what we want and more about expressing our love […]
This Sunday is the exciting conclusion of our Christ & Culture Worship series! We end with H. Richard Niebuhr’s theological reflection on Christ transforming human culture and making things new. Methodist theology has long asserted that there is no personal holiness (restoration of the divine image in which we were created) without social holiness (society […]
Jesus himself often verbalized the inherent tension between God’s Kingdom and this world in which we live. This Sunday, we delve deeper into H. Richard Niebuhr’s theological exploration of Christ and culture in seeming paradox, contradiction, and tension. Our Scripture from the Gospel account of Mark displays this tension perfectly as the Apostles, especially Peter, […]
Our next worship series will explore the theologian, H. Richard Niebuhr’s idea that our time in this world currently is about preparation: for the return of Christ, the completion of the work in Christ’s name, and the arrival of the Kingdom of God. In the theological construct of “Christ Above Culture,” God is using human […]
Our Worship Series on Felons of the Faith will conclude this Sunday with an incredible story of imprisoned Paul pleading for the release from slavery of Onesimus, even as Paul remains in prison for his preaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Paul’s physical imprisonment has become the catalyst for his desire to bring social freedom […]
When we allow the Holy Spirit to work, radical things happen! Nobody in the early church would have chosen Saul as a messenger of Christ. He was someone to be kept at arm’s length. In fact, Saul was someone to be isolated, shunned, and excluded. Yet GOD had a different plan. Today, we frequently look […]
Jumping back into the first book of the Bible, we discover a slightly salacious story of wrongful imprisonment about the favorite son of Israel, Joseph. His story is filled with verbal attacks, physical assault, covetous conspiracy, and injustice. This Sunday we come into the story of Joseph, having been sold into slavery and taken into […]
We begin our next Worship Series on Felons of the Faith with the one through whom we have faith at all: Jesus, the Christ. We often gloss over the felon status of Jesus. He was arrested by the Jewish religious authorities and abused under their control even before Pilate and the Roman soldiers had their […]
We can become consumed with doing, even to the point of working ourselves to death. In a culture of constant busyness, we cast aside the way of being and doing that God models for us. Jesus consistently practiced self-care, that deliberate and self-initiated time for rest and rejuvenation of body, mind, and spirit. Come and […]
People, even Christians, can spend a lot of time and energy thinking and talking about how things should be, and how others should act. This Sunday we learn that Jesus has a better idea: you set the standard yourself. People need to see and experience for themselves the way to be. That is why God […]
This Sunday’s passage might be familiar, but there is a practical aspect of Jesus’ teaching often overlooked: our material wealth can actually prevent us from fulfilling our relationship with God. Our mindset makes all the difference, and we have to make a conscious choice. It is not a choice between financial stability and God, but […]
“Do you swear?” “I swear on …” These phrases permeate our verbal culture, but Jesus strongly teaches against such a practice. This Sunday you can discover why. The underlying purpose to swearing at all is that our word cannot be trusted, but why would that be so? Authentic words are the expectation from Christ for […]
Words are important. They have meaning, power, influence, and affect others in profound ways. Jesus recognizes that as people of the Word, our words require our attentiveness and intentionality. We cannot be flippant with our words, or we risk causing harm to others. Join us this Sunday as we begin our Fall Worship series on […]
Many Christian denominations wrestle with abstaining from alcohol altogether or finding a healthy engagement with it. Even Methodism has historically struggled with the relationship between church members and alcohol. So what does the Bible really say? Can you drink alcohol and be a good Christian? This week we get into the depths of this issue […]
As we close out our Summer Worship Series this week, we end on a controversial topic: judgment. Many outside of the Church believe that Christians are judgmental. The concept of judgment in Scripture is not the same as it is used in our modern vernacular. Come and see how Jesus defines judgment and what our […]
There is this underlying pressure and expectation that the best disciples of Christ will be evangelical and make other disciples. While the Great Commission and Christ’s command to make disciples is a vital [part of our work in the Church, we are not just churning out new believers. Sometimes our work is that of mercy. […]
Real Christians are not perfect, and Jesus never expected that we would be. Instead, Jesus reveals through the Scripture lesson this Sunday that real Christians know struggle, backsliding, and the need to be forgiven by God more than once. Authentic Christianity recognizes that we do not cease to be human and are not inclined to […]
Often we hear the charge that we who call ourselves Christians think that we are better than others, especially non-Christians. Or the notion that our faith in Jesus Christ makes us better than non-believers. Yet the Bible does not affirm this. In fact, this Sunday the Apostle Paul argues the opposite: that our weakness as […]
Can a Christian believe in God and science? This Sunday our Worship Series reveals that the answer is a resounding yes, and based upon clear Scriptural foundation. Discover how the Bible does not only make space, but encourages Christians to respect and explore the power and works of God through science. Christians can believe in […]
As our Summer Worship Series continues, this week we address the notion that clergy are holier than lay persons. From where does this concept arise, and how does that affect our self-image? Distinction is not the same as hierarchy, and separate does not mean better. Instead, this Sunday, we explore the roles and purposes of […]
Do we, who call ourselves Christians, have to forgive others? Everyone? For everything? This Sunday we examine what the Scriptures truly say about forgiveness and discover the expectation from our Savior himself as recorded in the Gospel account of Luke. Join us as we dive into the text that sets a high standard for us […]
This Sunday we examine a rant Jesus gives about the scribes and Pharisees, the respected religious authorities of his day. Jesus looks closely at what is really motivating them, and exposes their hypocrisy in this teaching. His tone is one of anger, righteous anger, at those who lead others to follow their example into a […]
Our Summer Worship Series will focus on some of the things we hear and the expectations placed upon us as Christians. Are they just and true to what God expects? From where do they come? Join us as we debunk some unreasonable expectations, trace the origins of certain sayings, and discover just what the truth […]
Before he ascended to heaven, Jesus promised to send the Holy Spirit, the third person of the Trinity, to the disciples. Pentecost is the day that the Holy Spirit descended from heaven, and began to dwell in humankind in accordance with Christ’s words. It is recognized as the birth of the Church, the religion of […]
The Gospel is grounded in a promise, a hope, a vision in Revelation: that God is still making all things new, especially us. This is one of the greatest gifts the Christian faith has to share with others. Making disciples is not about membership in the Church, growing a denomination, paying the church’s bills, or […]
Can you imagine a time when people thought that Christ was not for everyone? Who is in the family of faith and who is not continues to be a discussion in the Church, not just a particular denomination. To whom are we sent? Jesus said “all nations” (Matthew 28:19), and perhaps Christianity has been misinterpreting […]
If you have ever heard of “The Great Commission,” then you may be aware of its power in Christianity. Millions and millions of Christians consider it their duty to evangelize, to make disciples, and bring the Gospel truth to others. This is not about thumping people over the head with the Bible, knocking on doors, […]
If you have ever felt overwhelmed or at a loss for what to do as a Christian, then this Sunday’s message may be speaking to you. Christianity is not about having everything figured out, but knowing where to look for guidance and inspiration. After Jesus’ resurrection, even his Apostles felt lost and confused. They went […]
This Sunday we continue our exploration of the mission of the Church and our personal discipleship. We will also be offered the opportunity to gather at the Lord’s Table, be justified through forgiveness and grace, and empowered to continue to grow in our love of God and others. The story of Saul, the persecutor of […]
As we begin a new worship series, we will be exploring the mission Christ has given not only to the church, but every professing Christian: Make disciples of all people. How do we do that? From where do we draw our guidance and courage to live out the commission? We start by looking at the […]
There is no day more high, more holy than Easter. All of the promises of the Old Testament, all the teachings of the Gospels, and all the work of Jesus the Christ culminates in the resurrection on that first Easter. Christians all around the world will send prayers and praise though the atmosphere and proclaim […]
Good Friday is the day when Christians all over the world remember and mourn the death of our Lord and Savior upon the cross. The only thing more tragic than his death was the pain and suffering that preceded it. Betrayed by one of his closest friends and disciples, Jesus struggles to keep another disciple […]
In his correspondence with the church in Corinth, the Apostle Paul recounts for them the purpose and central place in worship of Holy Communion. It is a gift from our Lord Jesus Christ, a tangible sign of God’s grace, and a recounting of Jesus’ sacrifice that we might be redeemed. Tonight, come rediscover how Jesus […]
Jesus’ enemies recognized the power of the crowds of people and feared what would happen if they angered those who followed Jesus into the Holy City that first Palm Sunday. This Palm Sunday join us as we continue the tradition of heralding the coming of our Lord and Savior with the parade of palms, shouts […]
On Sunday we turn our attention to a woman often known for her sexual sin and who has no recorded name in Scripture. Yet Jesus offers her the opportunity to become known for her effective ministry of evangelism. Her dark and unsavory past becomes the means by which she can testify to God’s presence and […]
Accountability is often maligned as a dirty word, but right relationship is willing to help us stay on course, fulfill our promises and our potential, and stop us from spiraling into self-destruction. When the prophet Nathan showed up to speak with King David, he had a tough message to deliver from God. David listened to […]
You are invited to discover what can happen when we are willing to not only see potential in another, but dare to name it aloud. Such is the story of Esther, a Jewish woman who became a queen and only found the courage to save her people when Mordecai refused to stand by in silence, […]
This Sunday people all over the world will celebrate the feast of Saint Patrick. While Saint Patrick lived hundreds of years after Jesus and is not included in the Scriptures, we recognize that the biblical truth of Christ was so poignant and powerful that it transformed Saint Patrick, who then transformed all of Ireland, a […]
Our Lenten Worship Series begins this Sunday by looking at those in the Bible who model for us what going forth to serve all might look like. We begin with a paragon of faith, one who chose to believe God’s promises long before they were tangible: Abraham. Abraham was wealthy, successful, and powerful. Monarchs and […]
This Ash Wednesday, we begin our spiritual time of preparation, the inward journey to grow in faith, mature in our walk with Christ, and strengthen our resolve to transform our community for the good of all. The ashes we receive are a testimony to our willingness to begin this season with humility and repentance, so […]
This Sunday, the first after Called General Conference, Pastor Sarah will share her experience and the message God has placed on her heart for our congregation as we look towards our future. The words given to encourage the Ephesians in the Early Church ring out to us this day: all of us are called to […]
The Bible reminds us repeatedly that we are a people of prayer. As the United Methodist Church’s General Conference meets to discern a way forward, join us this Sunday at 9:30 am or 11:00 am as we lift up prayers for those who are discussing, discerning, and voting on the next steps for the United […]
This Sunday we conclude our worship series that is exploring the Scriptures often cited in debates around human sexual expression. As the United Methodist Church is preparing to call the question on its stance on inclusivity regarding human sexuality at the Called General Conference in February, we will take a look at these difficult, and […]
This Sunday we continue our worship series that is exploring the Scriptures often cited in debates around human sexual expression. As the United Methodist Church is preparing to call the question on its stance on inclusivity regarding human sexuality at the Called General Conference in February, we will take a look at these difficult, and […]
This Sunday we continue our worship series that is exploring the Scriptures often cited in debates around human sexual expression. As the United Methodist Church is preparing to call the question on its stance on inclusivity regarding human sexuality at the Called General Conference in February, we will take a look at these difficult, and […]
This Sunday we continue our worship series that is exploring the Scriptures often cited in debates around human sexual expression. As the United Methodist Church is preparing to call the question on its stance on inclusivity regarding human sexuality at the Called General Conference in February, we will take a look at these difficult and […]
This Sunday we begin a worship series that will explore the Scriptures that are often cited in debates around human sexual expression. As the United Methodist Church is preparing to call the question on its stance on inclusivity regarding human sexuality at the Called General Conference in February, we will take a look at these […]
This Sunday we begin a worship series that will explore the Scriptures that are often cited in debates around human sexual expression. As the United Methodist Church is preparing to call the question on its stance on inclusivity regarding human sexuality at the Called General Conference in February, we will take a look at these […]
Epiphany is the day when the Church recognizes the arrival of the Magi and celebrates the divine manifestation of Christ to the gentiles. At its heart, Epiphany is about inclusion, welcoming those outside the Jewish faith into relationship with God through Christ Jesus. This Sunday many blessings come together as we celebrate the sacrament of […]
As is our tradition at Crozet United Methodist Church, we gather for worship on the fifth Sunday to pray and receive the tangible sign of God’s blessing in anointing. This Sunday we ponder the life and service of Simeon, a religious man who was promised that he would see the Messiah. He may never have […]
“Love is patient. Love is kind…” When Paul wrote to the church in Corinth he wrote of love. Love that holds us accountable. Love that calls us to unity. Love that calls us back to that nativity scene. Love that calls us to remember Jesus Christ. Listen now of that love for one another through […]
Over 2000 years ago, Christ was born in Bethlehem for all the world. No matter we are or what we have done, it is never too late to discover the gift of the Christ Child. Listen and discover the gift of Jesus Christ.
If you have ever wrestled with your worthiness, then our worship this Sunday is for you! The shepherds of the night shift were not considered to be the best and the most worthy. Reeking of sheep and sleeping outdoors, they were considered to be low class and best kept outside the city walls. Yet God […]
Imagine you were the angels sent to not only proclaim the birth of Jesus Christ, but do so for human beings who repeatedly break the heart of God, and ignore God’s will. Knowing that instant transformation was unlikely, the angels did what God asked, not because it was futile, but because they knew that things […]
In a time when men were expected to bring forth a male heir, Joseph was asked to embrace a child that was not his as his own. He risked public ridicule, condemnation, and humiliation for his faithful response to God’s call. The Christmas story would not have happened, if Joseph had followed his own will […]
This year our season of Advent will focus on those who heeded the call of God to go and serve the Lord in doing so. We begin with Mary, a young woman in her teenage years, who was called to be a vessel of the Holy Spirit and give birth to the Lord. Rather than […]
Our final martyr of our worship series, is the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. All too often he is recognized by secular authorities as simply the Doctor, but long before that he was ordained clergy. King’s faith was the force behind his willingness to tackle institutionalized racism, and that enabled him to persevere through […]
At the 2008 General Conference, Dietrich Bonhoeffer became the first martyr to be officially recognized by the United Methodist Church. What was so compelling about this man and his death? An ordained Lutheran clergy person and scholar of theology, Bonhoeffer was given the opportunity to flee from Nazi Germany during World War II, but he […]
At the age of nineteen, Joan of Arc was accused of witchcraft, convicted of heresy, and then burned at the stake. Her crime? She heard the voice of God at the age of thirteen calling her to lead her fellow French citizens to victory in battle against the British military. She did just that and […]
This month our message series will explore the mystical realm of Christianity’s martyrs. A martyr is one who is persecuted and killed for their religious beliefs. Jesus foretold such deaths for those who followed him, and this is what Stephen experiences in the Book of the Acts of the Apostles. Was his death pointless? Was […]
As our Scriptural Speed Bumps Worship series draws to a close, we confront one final text that causes Christians to cringe: the exhortation of Jesus to sell all that we own. While we take stock of all that we own and how hard we worked to acquire it, we wrestle with what Jesus appears to […]
Christians in the past century have wrestled deeply with the implications of this Sunday’s Scripture. Does God set women apart and demand their submission to their husbands? Complementarianism, a theology of separate roles, says that headship roles in marriage belong to men, while support roles are assigned to women. What does the United Methodist Church say […]
In an era when we seek economic prosperity, Jesus’ words sting. Should we not strive to be financially secure and have an estate to leave to our loved ones upon our death? Were not a great number of our biblical heroes wealthy, such as Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, King David, and King Solomon? Some have used […]
Once again Jesus, by his own words, seems to be cold and inconsiderate. Countless generations of Christians have wrestled with the implications of Jesus’ words here in Matthew. Was Jesus telling us that there will always be poor people, and we just need to accept that? Perhaps this text makes us despair that the suffering […]
The loss of a loved one is painful and the Church recognizes the human need to mourn, so why does Jesus seem to have such a cold response to one of his disciples’ request to go home and bury his father? The Church places the utmost importance on funerals, called Services of Death and Resurrection. […]
This Sunday we tackle a huge speed-bump head on: the role of women in the Church! The United Methodist Church has been ordaining women as clergy, Ministers of the Word, since 1968, but many Christian denominations reject this practice. Are we in flagrant violation of God’s law? Do we need to get a new pastor? […]
Just when we thought we had wrestled enough with the concept of “eye for an eye,” Jesus adds a whole new twist! We invite you to join us as we dig deep into the words of Jesus and what he asks us to do in light of the command of an “eye for an eye.” […]
When we feel wronged, then this Sunday’s text can feel like justice. However, when we are the one who had committed the wrong, we are not so anxious to enact the words of Exodus. So do we just ignore it, or apply it without consistency? Neither! Join us as we discover the truth behind this […]
This Fall we confront those parts of the Bible we do not like, that make us uncomfortable, even embarrassed. Those verses which seem to be unhelpful, even hurtful. What do we do with them? We cannot ignore them, so we confront them. Join us as we deal head on with the parts of Scripture that […]
Often the Kingdom of God conjures images of cities in the clouds or streets paved with gold, but the Bible paints a different picture based upon the gifts of righteousness, peace, and joy to be found in perfect harmony and ultimate fulfillment in the Kingdom God rules. This Sunday we dig into the depths of […]
You may have heard people say every word in the Bible is true. What does that really mean? In the United Methodist Church, we believe that the Bible is the inspired Word of God, and that it reveals divine truth, but it requires work, such as reading it in community, prayerfully and with the guidance […]
Righteousness is often maligned with self-righteousness, its antithesis. Yet righteousness in the Bible is meant to be the ultimate form of freedom, which we can encounter only through God’s grace. As we dig deep into the truth of righteousness this week, we invite you to discover how righteousness can be yours, and what God has […]
For generations the people of God awaited the Messiah. The title has been used in countless sermons and lessons, but what does it really mean? It literally means “anointed one.” The Messiah was foretold in the prophetic words of the Old Testament, the one who would come to set God’s people free, bring about the […]
On the fifth Sunday of the month, our church uses the biblical practice of anointing to bring God’s blessing upon all those who desire to receive it. Anointing is done through oil, in liquid or balm form, and applied to the object that will be consecrated, made holy. While objects used in worship are consecrated, […]
The confusion around prophecy creates problems for modern Christians. It has been used to pervert God’s Word, manipulate people, and perpetuate hatred, but no more. This Sunday we discover the truth about the biblical concept of prophecy, as divinely inspired instruction. Join us as we take back the power of prophecy from those who would […]
The word “tithe” usually causes people to look down and away. It sounds more like financial slavery than a gift of liberation. Yet the biblical concept of the tithe is about setting us free from the endless cycle of earning. God meant for the tithe to be a gateway of freedom to open up the […]
We often hear reference to “the Patriarchs,” but who are they? What do they have to do with us? While God doesn’t have preference for bloodline, God does honor covenants over generations. Modern Christians are the spiritual descendants of the Patriarchs of the Old Testament, and the faithfulness of God they encountered is our inheritance. […]
As we begin our Summer Worship Series on biblical concepts, we will be digging deeper into these terms and phrases that pop up in Christian sermons and teachings. We can discover that these concepts are grounded in God’s desire for a deeper relationship with us, and they are means by which we can grow closer […]
As Dietrich Bonhoeffer, the pastor and theologian, wrote, the response to grace is discipleship. When we take God’s grace for granted, or take it and live as if nothing has changed, then we profane God’s love and forgiveness. Once we believe in Jesus Christ, we can claim to be Christians, but God then expects us […]
The Bible should be foundational in the life of a Christian. It complements the accumulation of knowledge gained in the formal educational process, which is not a straight path worldwide. As much as scholarship in classic school subjects is important, more enduring are the learning and the living of lessons from the Bible. They prepare one for […]
Social pressure is a powerful force and a potent reality. Even the prophets and God were not immune to its effects. The pressure to conform drove the people of Israel to demand a king, so that they could be like the other nations. While the prophet Samuel was angry at their request, God’s heart was […]
With Pastor Sarah in Belize on mission, our Charlottesville District Superintendent, Danny Kesner leads us in worship and presents our message, “Remembering.” Associated Scripture: Joshua 4: 1-7
Ecclesiastes says there is a time for everything under Heaven (3:1), and that includes talking about sex. Our final means of grace in our worship series is abstinence. It’s not just for those who are single, but for all Christians. Scripture reveals that we are called to seasons of celibacy, but why? Just as fasting […]
It’s the birthday of the Church! No, not Crozet United Methodist Church, but THE Church of Christ that is bigger than any denomination, because it includes ALL denominations. This Sunday we celebrate the fulfillment of Jesus’ word with the arrival of the Holy Spirit to stay with us and dwell within us, giving us power […]
Have you ever seen a Bible covered in dust, languishing on a shelf, or neglected in an otherwise thriving home? If we all followed this week’s means of grace: searching the Scriptures, then more Bibles would take their rightful place as a crucial part of the disciple’s life. A Bible only helps when it is […]
This week’s means of grace is prayer both communal, corporate prayer and private, individual prayer. They are both part of Christian tradition, established in Scripture, and part of our communication with our God and King. Through prayer human beings can reach God who reigns in the highest heaven, and this is exactly what God has […]
In the United Methodist Church, the Lord’s Supper is a sacrament, an outward and tangible sign of an inward and spiritual grace conveyed by God. While we can be truly cleansed of our sin through the confession and pardon that is part of Holy Communion, it is also a means of grace to faithfully partake […]
Our second means of grace in our post-Easter Worship series is the ministry of the Word. Many Christians have a Bible, but does it work for you? God gave us the Scriptures to help us, guide and guard us. In order for our Bible to really fulfill its divine purpose, it takes some work. God […]
This week we begin a new Worship series exploring the means of grace God provides through the Church, the Body of Christ. They have been given to nurture our spirituality, fuel our faith, and create a family of faith. Every year the number of people who claim to be spiritual, but not religious grows. Jesus […]
Sometimes we take Easter for granted: “Of course, He’s risen. He’s risen every Easter.” Getting people to celebrate seems to get more difficult every year, but when we consider what it was like trying to convince his closest friends and followers that Jesus was risen that first Easter, we realize that every year we tell a […]
As recorded in John’s gospel, on his last night before his betrayal and arrest, Jesus washed the feet of his disciples and then gave them a new commandment to love one another as he had loved them. This year, we gather together on Thursday evening for a worship encounter of both Holy Communion and hand […]
Palm Sunday marks the start of Holy Week, and beginning of the end of Jesus’ earthly ministry. In the tension between a triumphant entry into the Holy City and the impending betrayal and death of Jesus, we find ourselves in celebration and sorrow. We love the joy of this day, but we fear the intense […]
It is all too easy to dismiss this Sunday’s Scripture as a miraculous healing that we could never duplicate today, but that is to disregard the words of Peter in the text. Peter, the rock of the Early Church, was going about his daily life, about to tend to his prayer discipline, when he encounters […]
Issues around inclusion are not unique to the modern Church. From the very beginning questions about who is able to be part of the Church were part of the struggle and the Gospel story. Our worship this week will explore what it means to place grace above judgment, and sharing the love of Christ over […]
The story of Esther is one of justice triumphing over scheming and machinations of the hateful Haman, but even deeper within is a commentary about using one’s power for the good of others. The Church calls this the blessing of advocacy, and we use for social justice, to combat institutionalized sins, and right legalized injustices. This […]
Ruth was not one of the chosen people of Israel, but rather a Moabite, from a people despised and villainized in the Scriptures. Yet her pledge to remain with her mother-in-law after her husband dies, has been used in weddings for its steadfast commitment. When things were bad, and the future looked bleak, Ruth valued […]
This Lent we will discover those persons in Scripture who model what it means to love others, and see how they can help us grow in our ability to love others as Jesus commands. We begin with Joseph, favorite son of Jacob, who was betrayed by his brothers, sold into slavery, unjustly imprisoned, and separated […]
We conclude our Worship series on interesting and misunderstood topics with Hell. Our worship is not about fear, but respect and appreciation for what Jesus has done for us. We do not have to fear Hell, because Christ has opened the way to Heaven. God’s emphasis is not on Hell either. Hell is only mentioned […]
On this Sunday we celebrate Holy Communion, that sacramental glimpse into the feast of Heaven in the Kingdom to Come. It is fitting that we will also dive into the Scripture’s representation of Heaven. What is Heaven now, and what will it be when Christ returns? The visions of Heaven in the Bible are incredible, […]
On this day, the eve of a new calendar year, we consider what we want to change about ourselves and our lives in the new year. After just celebrating the birth of our Savior, today we see one more faithful disciple of God, and how her example can help us grow in love for God. […]
Often referred to as “temporary Hell,” Purgatory is part of Roman Catholic doctrine, and not often well understood by Protestants. Join us as we increase our knowledge about Purgatory, and remain grounded in the Bible’s emphasis on salvation by faith. As we near the close of our Worship series on topics that are often misunderstood […]
The concept of the Rapture is not very old, only 190 years and American in origin, but it has been depicted and described in literature, cinema, and in the media to such a degree that many people know the term, yet not the doctrine behind it. We will explore this doctrine in our worship this […]
This Sunday we begin a worship series that will address the topics that were suggested by members of our Church Family last summer. We will start with foot washing, an act described repeatedly in Scripture, referenced in Christianity, and often surrounded in mystery. Come and see what it’s all about, and discover that an ancient […]
Happy Birthday Jesus! Christmas Day is one for celebration. Come join the party as we celebrate the birth of the Messiah. Associated Scripture: Luke 2:1-20
The birth of the Messiah is good news for all the world. As we usher in Christmas Day, come experience the great joy HE can bring to each one of us. Associated Scripture: Luke 2:1-20
This Sunday’s Scripture is often read at weddings, mistaken for romantic love. Some have come to recognize that the Apostle Paul was writing to a community, and describing how their love should be for others in their family of faith. In the Greek, this is called agape (a-ga-pay). Perhaps there is something else Paul reveals […]
Out of the mouth of the prophet Micah comes three simple commands: do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with our God. Yet these are difficult to do, to live out, and to sustain. Why would God ask so much of us, when we are prone to sin? God never asks without equipping, never directs […]
As we begin our journey towards the annual celebration of the birth of Jesus, our Lord, we begin with a man God called from an ordinary life into an extraordinary relationship and journey. He began his life with the name Abram, but God would rename him Abraham to signify the covenantal blessing of fathering many […]
Almost two thousand years ago, Jesus told his disciples a story about three servants who had been given incredible gifts, and what they did with them. We are not different from those three servants. We too have been given incredible gifts in time, talent, and material goods. We seek to serve the right master in […]
Our worship this week will include examining the ways of the final servant entrusted with the gifts of God. How will be serve? Can we catch glimpses of ourselves in his story? Looking to grow in our discipleship, we can learn so much from this final servant in Jesus’ parable. We invite you to join […]
We return this week to Jesus’ story about talents. This week we look at the good servant, who seeks to serve as the Master desires. Will he be successful? Come see how his struggle and endeavor mirrors our own. We are not alone in the difficult task of trying to honor God with all that […]
Today we start our November Worship series, diving into the depths of a famous parable Jesus told, and we explore talents. God blesses us with many things in a myriad of ways. Yet we, as the Body of Christ, can struggle with what to do with these same blessings. Our Scripture reveals the heart of […]
Love is not as easy as it seems. It can be difficult, even exhausting. We become exasperated with others, and struggle to endure. Join with other who are striving to stay the course of faith and love. We will pray together, receive the tangible sign of blessing in anointing, and hear God’s call to all those […]
In worship this Sunday, we will share the commitments made last week, and celebrate what we are willing to do for others and to bring glory to God. We will sing the songs of joy, lift up prayers for strength, and see that God is doing so many things in our midst. Jesus clearly tells […]
Our Fall Worship series has been an in depth look at the word of our Lord, and the call to care for the “least of these.” This Sunday we invite everyone to join us for taking the next step in our faith journey: to commit to doing what Christ says will be markers of our […]
Convicted felon. Repeat offender. Former prison inmate. These are not the descriptions that often come to mind when we think of the Apostles, but perhaps we should reconsider the amount of time they spent in jail. Peter, Paul, and John were all imprisoned for preaching the Gospel. Other disciples also joined them in jail, such […]
Jesus proclaimed that he came to heal. Then he sent the disciples out in pairs to heal others. He continues that with us. Not all healing is the eradication of physical illness. Not only does the Body of Christ strive to help bring medical healing to others, but we are part of God’s spiritual healing […]
As a culture, we seemed to be obsessed with clothing. We seek out fashion, and adhere to dress codes. We use our clothing to keep warm, stay cool, be safe, be visible, be comfortable, and to make a statement. How might we use clothing to convey love, care, kindness, mercy, and compassion? For those who […]
This Sunday we focus upon those who are thirsty, deprived of that life-giving element we need to live: water. It is estimated that 663 million people across the globe lack access to water that is safe and clean for consumption. This affects human beings of all ages, and compassion can be manifest in a cup […]
Our Fall Worship series invites you to dwell with Christ, and immerse yourself in his words from Matthew 25. Too often his depiction of the Day of Judgement is glossed over, and quickly forgotten as we move on in the business of our lives. But Jesus wants us to be aware of and attentive to […]
We end our Summer Worship series this Sunday on a critical doctrine that explains that salvation is for everyone without any requirement other than faith. While there has been an age of debate about faith versus good works, we discover together the richness of God’s love in the simplicity of God’s gift of faith to […]
You may be familiar with the Roman Catholic doctrine of Original Sin, but did you know the United Methodist Church has its own understanding of the concept of Original Sin? You might be very surprised to discover that our concept is not about guilt, but grace. You are not the culmination of someone else’s sin, […]
Is the Bible just a book of stories going back 3,500 years ago and irrelevant to us today? The dragon of relevancy would try to persuade you to believe that, but our worship on Sunday will reveal the truth about the Bible: our Scriptures unfolded over a great span of time to encompass a mighty […]
Many hear the call of the dragon that decries the death of Jesus Christ upon the cross as vile, morbid, and unnecessary. This Sunday we consider these arguments, and discover why God came to us in Jesus to die in the manner of the cross. The atonement in the death of Jesus spans the entire […]
There are so many beliefs and doctrines in the world about the Second Coming, the return of Jesus. It can be overwhelming, not to mention simply confusing. Today we clarify and illuminate the Biblical truth we have received. As we worship, we will celebrate the promise of Jesus Christ that we have not been left […]
Does it really matter if we have a bodily resurrection? We explore that question that the Apostle Paul wrestled with as he corresponded with the Church in Corinth. When a dragon threatens our promised spiritual body, we can respond with truth and love that God has promised us a new spiritual body for a divine […]
Was Jesus just a human being like us? Or was he something more, much more? This Sunday our Summer Worship series gets to the root of the question about who Jesus was, and what he is for us today. All are invited to tame the dragon of doubting Jesus’ divinity, and celebrate the Lord of […]
Many people wonder about the Church, its structure, history, and purpose. Come and see how the Church of Christianity spans the globe, history, and Biblical discourse. We have a purpose we have received from Christ, build on the foundation he established. When the dragon of individualism threatens to lay siege to the Church, we seek […]
This Sunday, we kick off our Summer Worship series: Dragons & Doctrine! Join us for one of the essential doctrines of Christianity, and learn how to tame any “dragon” that would seek to threaten that belief. We will explore the Trinity this week, that most mysterious articulation of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Discover […]
As we conclude our Worship Mini Series on John Wesley’s sermon, “The Use of Money,” we discover the divine wisdom behind gaining and saving all that we can: so that we can give all that we can. As people who are blessed to be a blessing in the name of Jesus Christ, we do encounter […]
We are midway through an exploration of the classic John Wesley sermon “The Use of Money.” Join us today as we delve into saving all we can. What guidance does God give us for our money? God gives many examples of wide investment and saving practices in the Bible. Our Lord was a financial planner […]
This week we start a three part mini worship series based upon a sermon preached by one of Methodism’s founding fathers: John Wesley. Not since the Apostle Paul, has Christianity documented such zeal for God’s Word, Christ’s salvation, and faith in the Church. In 1744, John Wesley preached a sermon called “The Use of Money,” […]
Today Christians all over the world celebrate the beginning of the Church, so come and join us as we proclaim “Happy Birthday” to one of the greatest means of grace God has given to humankind. The Church is more than a building; it is the movement of the Holy Spirit in God’s people, drawing us […]
We end our Methodism May Worship series today with the final movement of God’s grace: sanctifying grace, which changes us through God’s love to be more like our Lord. Sanctification is a lifelong process of being made holy, as we were created in Genesis and called in Exodus to be. God’s work in us is […]
Today we explore the second movement of God’s grace: justifying grace. It allows us to stand upright before God Most High on the day of judgment, and be cleansed of our sinfulness. Explore the text which proclaims that by Christ we are saved, and that the grace of the cross is ours even now, almost […]
Prevenient grace is the first movement of God’s grace, where God comes to us even before we know how much we need grace. God initiates not only our relationship with our Lord, but also our worship. Today we discover how God set up a mode of worship, and paved the way not only for Christ’s […]
Both of our Scripture texts for this Sunday reveal the foundation of the Sacraments, those tangible signs of God’s grace for us. In the United Methodist Church, the sacraments are outward and visible signs of God’s grace, love, and presence with us. We invite you to explore the examples Jesus set for us, and how […]
As is our custom on the fifth Sunday, we will gather to be surrounded by the Holy Spirit as we pray for one another, seek the healing only God can bring, and receive an anointing of oil to sustain us on our faith journey. Come receive the promise of God with you in the joys […]
If you ever have been misunderstood, then you will appreciate today’s Scripture about the Apostle Thomas. He has been maligned for centuries because he wanted to see the Risen Christ for himself. In today’s worship, we explore another way of looking at Thomas and his desire to encounter Christ. Just as Thomas has been redeemed, come […]
This is the day when Christians all over the world echo the proclamations of the angel that first Easter: “He has been raised.” God came to us in Jesus on Christmas, and today is the culmination of a love that even death could not diminish. Not only have we been forgiven, but today we are […]
Holy Thursday Worship: On this day we commemorate Jesus’ last supper with his disciples as he washes their Feet and institutes the sacrament of Holy Communion.
After three long, exhausting years of earthly ministry, Jesus makes his triumphant entrance into the City of David: Jerusalem. Here is where the House of God awaits the homecoming of the Son. Today we remember that Jesus freely entered into the city where he knew his journey, his ministry, and his life would end. He […]
We are encouraged to boldly reveal our love for our Lord through the ways in which we act and speak. One of the greatest examples of this comes from a woman known for her sin and not her name. Our worship today will delve into her story and how Jesus upholds her for her actions, […]
The debate of faith and works is as old as the Church, and yet there is a link between our faith and the actions we perform in Christ’s name. We will encounter once more this ancient debate, and discover for ourselves that it is not one or the other, but one bringing forth the other. […]
Too often Christians are unfairly depicted as shunning wisdom, but our Bible text for Sunday’s worship reveals that displaying love is a sign of wisdom, and part of God’s will for us as disciples of Christ. Today we dive into this new way of looking at our acts of kindness, born of love, and how […]
This Sunday’s Scripture is where Jesus tells his followers, then and now, exactly what to expect on the Day of Judgment. He shares the rubric for which he will make decisions regarding inheriting the Kingdom of Heaven, and what the expectations are for our lives here and now. What must we do? We hear Jesus’ […]
What’s your life plan? God has a plan for all of us, and that plan was revealed through Christ Jesus. Our worship this morning will mark the start of our Lenten Worship series: Love Goes Out. Continuing the Love theme from Advent, we explore together what God’s love manifested in us looks like, and more […]
This concludes our worship series on death and dying, and we could not end on a sad note. Our prophetic Scripture for today paints a picture of eternal life that is compelling and often unknown, as it is buried in the Book of Revelation. The Holy Spirit is still speaking a transformative truth to us […]
God’s grace does not end at death, but our Scripture text today reveals that there are many things that try unsuccessfully to drive a wedge between us and our Lord. Hear and be edified by the Word which is infused with hope and truth for us today!
What happens when we die? Opinions and sayings abound, but today we discover what the Bible actually says and explore how it transforms our understanding. God has a clear plan for us that includes caring for us even after we die. The work of love cannot be stopped by the expiration of our mortal forms. […]
Too often we fail to reflect on death from a theological position until death has come crashing into our lives, and we are in the midst of emotional turmoil. This month we will see how God re-frames death and dying for us through the ministry of Jesus Christ. You might be shocked by how comforting […]
We gather to pray for those who are persecuted and suffer by human hands and through human words, and yearn for the day when God’s blessing will transform their lives. Whether we know them or count ourselves among them, the suffering children of God have God’s word in Jesus that the pain of this world […]
This week, Crozet UMC’s own Dave Oberg reminds us that Jesus loves us as he presents our message, “All I ever needed to know I learned in Sunday School.”
Our Charlottesville District Superintendent, Danny Kesner leads us in worship as we look at Mary and Joseph’s presentation of Jesus at the Temple.
On Epiphany, churches all over the world recall and celebrate the arrival of the wise men, whom came to honor the birth of the Messiah. This Sunday we explore the poignance of this event in the life of Jesus, and dispel some of the myths, too. Come have a good time as we discover how we can embrace […]
While the world celebrates the arrival of a new year, God is looking for a new season of growth and deepening of our faith. The culture calls for resolutions, while God seeks reconciliation. Join us for a time to celebrate community in the midst of the start of a new calendar year.
The family of faith gathers to sing the classic Christmas songs, taste some sweet treats, and worship! What better way for Advent and all our Christmas preparation to culminate than in a party for the Son of God, who came to bring us gifts rather than receive.
God came to us in Jesus to illuminate our lives, and overshadow our sin. Just like that first Christmas in Bethlehem, this was a time of fellowship, joy, and surprises!
We are so close to the epic moment when the invisible was made visible, and God took human form. God has revealed that the celebration of Christmas is in itself a proclamation of faith. On this our last Sunday before Christmas, gather with others to see what God has done for us, and how we […]
This week we focus on how God loves, as a perfect model for our love. There will be a twist on the classic verse of John 3:16. Just when you thought you heard it all, today God is revealing a new thing. Join us for our Third Sunday Advent worship, and let the love wash […]
Our worship theme for Advent and Christmas is “Love Comes Down.” We will dive into the Bible text that so boldly proclaimed: “God is love.” God’s love is not like human love; it is able to transform even the hardest of hearts. Today we will encounter together tangible signs of God’s love, and let that […]
We start our Advent preparation with the revelation of Christ who was from the beginning. Our Scripture is infamous in the church, but what does it really mean? What does it have to say to us now, even if we have heard it so many times we could recite it ourselves? Come and discover that […]
Jesus tells us to do many things, but gloating is not one of them. Neither are we told to allow our enemies to remain that way. We have work to do as disciples, and that work includes transforming our enemies. How? Come and see. Hear what divine insight Christ gives to us, and how we […]
In the wake of a highly contested presidential race, how do we as the Body of Christ model unity and what it means to move forward together? Now is the time for the Church to show the world that nothing can separate us for we are committed to the One who first brought us together […]
On this last Sunday before the elections, as tensions reach their pinnacle, we invite you to gather at the table of our Lord Jesus Christ, and find a radical acceptance in the midst of a family of faith who gathers yearning for God’s grace. None are perfect, except the One who gave Himself for us, […]
This is a time when so many wait with bated breath for results. Results of medical tests, elections, job searches, and even prayers can cause a painful period of waiting, and we suffer in the silence. This Sunday we invite you to a worship service centered around prayer and anointing for strength as we wait. […]
Last week we began a conversation about disagreement within the community, and this week we bring it to a surprising conclusion. It is not too late to hear how the first Christians dealt with disagreement that threatened to destroy their community and the newborn Church. Jump in and see that there are forces at work […]
This Sunday we start a crucial conversation about disagreement. It happened in the Early Church between the Apostles. Come see how they coped, and what we can learn from their struggle with differing opinions. In Part I of Disagreement, we set the stage for the solution revealed next week!
How is greatness defined? What do we use to make decisions about which is better? Jesus gives a rubric very distinct from that of the world. This Sunday we learn about a whole new way to identify greatness, and consider how we can use that to make decisions as followers of the Great I Am.
This Sunday’s Scripture urges us to be mindful not to “wrangle over words,” but we have been in a cultural season of debate. How does a Christian engage this culture and yet remain faithful to a Gospel of love? Come and discover the means through which we can serve the Prince of Peace, and not […]
Today’s text reveals God’s anger at thinking we can squander all that we have for ourselves. God condemns the selfishness of God’s people who have been blessed to be a blessing to others. The Lord has promised to multiply the outcome of our tithes, so why do we hesitate? Let us wrestle together with the […]
God has need of nothing and so chooses to graciously give to us. Our gifts to God are about honoring and praising God, rather than meeting God’s needs. If we give out of compulsion, then we are detracting from the joy of heart-felt, and life-changing gratitude. The Apostle Paul urged the early Christians not to […]
If someone let’s us borrow something, then it is our custom and proper to give it back. This whole world is God’s, given to us for a time. God is too gracious to ask for everything to be given back. God provides for us from the fruit of the field and animals of the forest. […]
Why should our blessing end with us? God does not bless us for that to be the end. Instead the very first book of the Bible shows us that God gives us blessings so that we may bless others too. Come discover the miracle of giving to honor God: that in it we can bless […]
The world wants us to be quiet about the things God has to say, but we are called to a different place. We are called to put our faith into action and to show Jesus Christ to all!
God empowers all people, of every age, to be vessels of truth, power, and grace. This Sunday our youth will take a central role in our worship, and testify to the power of mission. Let your presence support those youth who have stepped out in faith to do the work of Christ in the world, […]
Faith is not free. To the contrary, faith comes at high cost. Jesus suffered and died, paying the ultimate price to bring us the salvation in which we are to have faith. Christians throughout history have paid a great price for their faith: persecution, rejection, suffering, and even death. How can we pay the cost […]
Is there really a tie between how we worship and how we live as disciples? God’s Word in Scripture says yes! Worship is where we come into the presence of the Lord, are edified by the movement of the Holy Spirit, and begin to be transformed by the power of Christ’s love. That kind of […]
Our pain reverberates within God. Christ came to us in human form: suffering as we do, and struggling in the same ways. We come to worship and serve the One who came heal the sick, whether plagued with physical, mental, emotional, or spiritual pain. You are invited to come and encounter the healing power of […]
We look today at affirmations and creeds; where they come from and how they influence us. In fact, these affirmations and creeds help define who we are.
The prophet, Amos, was told many disturbing and shocking things by the Lord, and instructed to share them with God’s people. The people did not appreciate the message Amos shared with them, and refused to hear God in his words. How often is God trying to speak into the depths of our hearts, and we […]