Church of the Messiah UMC: Recent Episodes
Church of the Messiah UMC
We are a United Methodist congregation serving Westerville, Ohio and beyond for over 200 years. At Church of the Messiah we KNOW CHRIST, GROW IN FAITH, and SERVE OTHERS.
Jesus says "do not worry about your life" six times in ten verses. Is He giving us advice, or making us a promise? In this message from the Sermon on the Mount, Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer unpacks Matthew 6:19-34 and shows us a third way to live that's neither anxious self-reliance nor passive "let go and let God" detachment. Discover what it looks like to practice unanxious working trust: still showing up, working, and planning, while resting in the truth that God, who feeds the birds and clothes the fields, has provided, is providing, and will continue to provide for you.Part of our summer series on the Sermon on the Mount, exploring what Jesus calls "the good life" and what it means to live inside the kingdom of God. Whether you're wrestling with financial worry, an uncertain future, or the pressure to hold everything together on your own, this message is an invitation to trade your anxious grip for trust in the God who holds you. Watch now, and join a Life Group this week to go deeper into Matthew 6 together.đ Scripture: Matthew 6:19-34 đď¸ Speaker: Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer đ Date: August 23, 2026
In Week Five of The Third Way, Pastor Katy continues through the Sermon on the Mount with Matthew 6:1-18 and Jesusâ teaching about prayer, giving, fasting, and practicing our faith âin secret.â Jesus assumes that his followers will put their faith into practice, but he invites us to examine something deeper: our motivation. Are we practicing faith for recognition and approval, or because we love God and want our lives to serve others?Our spiritual practices are not ways to earn Godâs attention. We already have it through grace. Instead, practices like prayer, generosity, fasting, worship, Scripture, and service can transform us into people who increasingly reflect Godâs character. Pastor Katy invites us to ask, âWho would you be in Christ if no one was paying attention?â What God shapes in secret can eventually become visible through lives marked by love, mercy, justice, generosity, and hope.
In Week Four of The Third Way, Pastor Don explores Matthew 5:21-48 and some of Jesusâ most challenging words in the Sermon on the Mount. Jesus takes familiar commandments about anger, relationships, truthfulness, retaliation, and enemies and pushes beneath outward behavior to the condition of the heart. Following Jesus means more than meeting the minimum requirements. Kingdom transformation begins beneath the surface.What does Jesus mean when he tells us to âbe perfectâ? Pastor Don invites us to hear this not as a demand for flawless performance, but as a call toward wholeness. Like clay in the hands of a potter, we are works in progress, continually being reshaped by Godâs Spirit. The Third Way begins when we allow God to transform not only what we do, but our anger, desires, relationships, words, and capacity to love.
What does Jesus mean when he says that he came not to abolish the Law or the Prophets, but to fulfill them? In âFulfilled,â Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer continues our journey through the Sermon on the Mount and The Third Way with Matthew 5:17â20. Jesus does not ask us to choose between clinging rigidly to the past and abandoning it for something new. Instead, he brings Scripture into its fullest meaning, revealing the grace, justice, mercy, and love that have always been at its heart.Scripture is not a checklist we complete to earn Godâs approval, nor is it an outdated artifact that should be left behind. Godâs Word is a gift intended to transform us into people who love as Jesus loves. As you listen, consider how you approach Scripture and ask yourself: Who am I becoming through the words of God? Join Church of the Messiah United Methodist Church for worship Sundays at 8:15, 9:30, and 11 AM, with online worship at 9:30 and 11 AM. Learn more at messiahumc.net.
In âSalt and Light,â Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer continues our journey through Jesusâ Sermon on the Mount and The Third Way sermon series. Reflecting on Matthew 5:13â16, Pastor Katy explores how we often respond to difficult situations by avoiding them or attempting to control them. Jesus offers another way: remaining faithfully present and using the gifts God has given us to bring healing, preservation, hope, and illumination to the world.Jesus does not say that we might someday become salt and light. He tells his followers, âYou are the salt of the earthâ and âYou are the light of the world.â This identity is Godâs gift, but it also carries a purpose. As individuals and as a church, we are invited to reject both withdrawal and domination and become a steady, welcoming presence in our homes, workplaces, neighborhoods, relationships, and communities.
What does it mean to live a truly good and happy life? In âThe Right-Side Up Kingdom,â the first message in The Third Way sermon series, Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer explores Matthew 5:1â12 and the opening words of Jesusâ Sermon on the Mount. Through the Beatitudes, Jesus challenges our assumptions about happiness and reveals that a blessed life is not dependent on wealth, health, status, relationships, or favorable circumstances. It is a gift of grace found through knowing Jesus and living within the reality of Godâs kingdom.Jesus reminds those who are mourning, struggling, overlooked, or working for justice that they are seen, known, honored, and held by God. He also invites every follower to turn toward Godâs priorities by practicing mercy, humility, peacemaking, forgiveness, and justice. As we begin this journey through the Sermon on the Mount, may we learn to follow the way of Jesus, recognize where Godâs kingdom is already breaking into the world, and discover a happiness rooted in Godâs presence rather than our circumstances.
What does Christian welcome look like when it moves beyond politeness and becomes a way of life? In âWelcome and Grace,â Rev. Dr. Don Wallick shares two formative stories that shaped his understanding of ministry: his grandmotherâs extravagant welcome of a stranger at Thanksgiving and the quiet grace a pastor offered him before his baptism. Reflecting on Hebrews 13:1â2, 1 Peter 4:9, Romans 12:9â13, and Ephesians 2:8â10, Pastor Don reminds us that biblical hospitality means loving the stranger and that grace meets people exactly where they are.This message invites us to consider who may be standing outside our usual circles and how God is calling us to make room. Welcome and grace are not simply beliefs to explain. They are gifts to embody in our homes, church, community, and everyday relationships. As Pastor Don begins his ministry as associate pastor of Church of the Messiah, he offers this prayer for our shared life together: âMay our mutual ministry always be marked by welcome and grace.â Church of the Messiah United Methodist Church is located in Westerville, Ohio. Learn more at messiahumc.net.
In this weekâs message, Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer reflects on Galatians 5:1, 13-25 and Paulâs teaching on Christian freedom. Freedom in Christ is not simply the absence of limits or the ability to do whatever we want. It is freedom from sin, shame, self-centered striving, and the need to earn Godâs love. But it is also freedom for a new way of life: loving our neighbors, serving one another, and walking daily with the Holy Spirit.Through stories, Scripture, and practical reflection, this sermon invites us to ask: What has Christ set me free from? What has Christ set me free for? As we learn to keep in step with the Spirit, we become people marked by love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. May we become people of love.
In âGood Shepherd,â guest preacher Rev. Hannah VanMeter explores Jesusâ parable of the lost sheep in Luke 15:1â7 and our deep human desire to be known, welcomed, and loved. Through stories from the new United Methodist ministry at The Ohio State University, she shares how God notices every person, searches for those who feel lost or forgotten, carries them home, and rejoices when they are found.This message challenges the Church to become a community where no one is left behind. Who is missing, unheard, or overlooked? How can our conversations, prayers, classrooms, meals, and acts of welcome help others know that they belong? Rev. Hannah reminds us that young people are not simply the future of the Church. They are the Church, and every seed of faith we plant can grow into something beautiful.
What do we do when one season ends and another begins? In his final sermon as Associate Pastor of Church of the Messiah, Pastor Pete Elliott reflects on Isaiah 43 and the many changes that shape our lives. Some transitions are joyful, while others bring grief, uncertainty, and a difficult period of waiting. Through them all, God promises, âDo not fear, for I am with you,â and invites us to perceive the new thing already springing forth.âSeasonsâ reminds us that transformation takes time, surrender, and courage. We are called to release what has passed, trust God through the uncomfortable middle, and become part of the restoration God offers to the world. As we give thanks for Pastor Peteâs ministry and send him into a new chapter, we remember that endings can also become beginnings and that God is not finished with any of us yet. Scripture: Isaiah 43:1â2, 5, 18â19.
What happens when we stop pretending that everything is fine? In âPay It Forward,â Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer explores 2 Corinthians 1:3â11 and Paulâs honest testimony about suffering, vulnerability, prayer, and the abundant comfort of God. Following Jesus does not protect us from every hardship, but it assures us that Christ meets us in our suffering and that we do not have to carry it alone.The comfort we receive from God is meant to flow through us to others. Our painful experiences may not have happened on purpose, but through Godâs grace, they can have purpose. As we share our stories, listen with compassion, pray for one another, and walk beside people facing struggles we recognize, we become witnesses to Godâs healing and hope. Join us as we consider where God is inviting us to receive support, tell the truth about what we carry, and pay Godâs comfort forward.
In this weekâs message, âGood Company,â Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer reflects on Hebrews 11â12 and the faith of those who trusted God through uncertain, difficult, and unexpected seasons. When life does not come with a clear map, Scripture reminds us that we are surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses â ordinary, imperfect people who discovered Godâs faithfulness along the way.This sermon is part of our series, âThe Life You Didnât Expect,â an honest look at suffering, resilience, faith, and hope when life does not go according to plan. Pastor Katy reminds us that Jesus is the pioneer and perfecter of our faith â the trailblazer who has already walked the road before us. We do not have to walk perfectly. We are invited to keep going, trusting that God is still making a way.
What do we do when life does not go the way we expected, planned, or hoped? In this message, Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer begins a new sermon series by reflecting on 2 Corinthians 4:7â18 and Paulâs image of âtreasure in jars of clay.â We are fragile and human, but even in disappointment, grief, pain, and uncertainty, Godâs extraordinary power is at work within us.This sermon reminds us that God is not the author of our suffering, but the author of our salvation. Following Jesus does not make us immune to hard times, but it does mean we never face them alone. When we are hard pressed but not crushed, perplexed but not in despair, and struck down but not destroyed, we can hold onto a gritty, tenacious hope: God is for us, God is with us, and God helps us not lose heart.Scripture: 2 Corinthians 4:7â18Preacher: Pastor Katy Wheat BorhauerDate: Sunday, May 31, 2026Church of the Messiah United Methodist Church | Westerville, Ohio
In this Pentecost Sunday message, Pastor Pete Elliott reflects on Acts 2:1-21 and the surprising, disruptive arrival of the Holy Spirit. Through the image of ânew wine,â the sound like a violent wind, tongues like fire, and the miracle of people hearing Godâs deeds of power in their own languages, this sermon invites us to imagine what God can do when the church gathers, waits, remembers, and shows up together.Pentecost is not just the birthday of the church; it is the moment when God fills ordinary people with the Spirit and gives them a shared language of love, inclusion, healing, and hope. Pastor Pete reminds us that our part is to show up, and Godâs part is to fill us. As we live as the church today, may the Holy Spirit help us speak again the language Jesus taught: âGod loves you, and you can be included.â
This week at Church of the Messiah, Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer concludes our From Me to We sermon series with a message called âSame Table,â based on Romans 15:1â9. In this passage, Paul invites the church to live with harmony, hope, and welcomeânot because everyone is the same, but because Christ has already welcomed us. The message asks a practical and spiritual question: with the time, energy, relationships, and resources we have, are we building longer fences or longer tables?As followers of Jesus, we are called to become people who practice welcome across difference. Pastor Katy reminds us that difference is not a problem; it is a possibility. Through the practice of table fellowship, we learn to move from âmeâ to âwe,â sharing life with others and reflecting the grace we have already received in Christ. Learn more about Church of the Messiah at messiahumc.net.
In this message from the From Me to We sermon series, Pastor Pete Elliott preaches from Jeremiah 29:4â5, 7, where God speaks to the people of Judah living in exile in Babylon. Rather than telling them only to wait for rescue, God tells them to build houses, plant gardens, seek the welfare of the city, and pray for the community around them.âBoots Onâ reminds us that faithfulness often begins right where we are, even when life feels unfamiliar, uncomfortable, or unsettled. In Christ, we are welcomed from isolation into belonging, and we are called to extend that same welcome to others. This sermon invites us to move from âmeâ to âweâ by participating in the welfare of our neighbors, our church, and our wider community.
On Consecration Sunday, May 3, 2026, Church of the Messiah welcomed former lead pastor and special guest preacher Rev. Dr. Jim Wilson, District Superintendent of the Olentangy River District of the West Ohio Conference of The United Methodist Church. Preaching from Ephesians 4:1â10, Jim invited the congregation to see the church not as a cruise ship where people sit back and watch, but as a crew boat where everyone has a place, everyone has an oar, and together we row in the same direction.As part of the âFrom Me to Weâ sermon series, this message reminds us that Christian faith is participatory and communal. The newly renovated spaces at Messiah are not simply places to admire. They are a launching pad for ministry, connection, welcome, and mission. Jim calls the church to humility, unity, and shared purpose, challenging each person to âget an oarâ and walk like a church.
In this sermon from Sunday, April 26, 2026, Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer begins our new series, From Me to We, with a message called âMyths of the Main Character.â Looking at Genesis 2:15â17, 25 and Genesis 3:1â13, 22â24, Pastor Katy explores the garden story as the beginning of a temptation that still shapes us today: the temptation to believe life is about me, my control, my fulfillment, and my story.But the good news of Jesus invites us into a different way of being human. We are not the main character. Jesus is. And because Jesus is at the center, we do not have to define ourselves, sustain ourselves, or hold everything together alone. God comes looking for us in grace, calling us out of isolation and into community, belonging, forgiveness, and a life shaped by love.
In this message, Rev. Katy Wheat Borhauer reflects on John 10:1â10 and the promise of Jesus as the Good Shepherd. In a world filled with noise, pressure, fear, and competing voices, Jesus reminds us that his sheep know his voice. He knows us by name, leads with love, and offers not scarcity or confusion, but safety, peace, and abundant life. This sermon invites us to ask an important question: whose voice are we really listening to?Whether you are new to faith, returning to church, or have been following Jesus for years, this message offers hope and clarity. Pastor Katy reminds us that not all voices are equal and that the voice of Jesus, though not always the loudest, is the one that speaks truth, compassion, and life. If you are longing to hear God more clearly and follow the voice of the One who knows and loves you, this message is for you.
This week, Rev. Pete Elliott preached from 1 Peter 1:3-9 and reminded us that because of the resurrection of Jesus Christ, we have been given a living hope. This hope is not shallow optimism or pretending life is easy. It is the deep assurance that Christ is present with us in suffering, questions, uncertainty, and joy. Even when hope feels far away, God continues to meet us where we are and remind us that we belong to one another and to him. In this sermon, we are invited to notice the ways living hope becomes visible through the life of the church: feeding the hungry, caring for others, offering encouragement, and witnessing Christ at work in everyday life. Rev. Peteâs invitation for the week is simple and meaningful: pause and notice where Christ is present in your life, your family, your workplace, your community, and the world. Watch, reflect, and be encouraged by this message of resurrection hope for real life.
On Easter Sunday, Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer preached on Matthew 28:1-10 and Colossians 3:1-4, bringing a message about fear, joy, and the only voice with true authority to say "do not be afraid." Drawing from the story of the two Marys at the empty tomb, Pastor Katy reminded us that Easter doesn't promise the hard things go away. It promises that the risen Christ walks the road with us. Because he has been through betrayal, grief, abandonment, and death itself, he speaks not from detachment but from experience. And because he is risen, his "fear not" is not wishful thinking. It is victory.Whether you are facing a diagnosis, a broken relationship, economic uncertainty, or simply the weight of an overwhelming world, this message is for you. The resurrection didn't happen just once. It's still happening, every time we listen to his voice and claim his reassurance as our own. We hope this Easter message brings you both the honest acknowledgment of your fear and the deep, lasting joy of the risen Christ.Church of the Messiah United Methodist Church | Westerville, Ohio | messiahumc.net
On Palm Sunday, we join the crowd in asking one of the most important questions in all of Holy Week: Who is this? In Matthew 21:1â11, Jesus enters Jerusalem not as the kind of king people expected, but as the humble King they truly needed. This sermon explores how often we want Jesus to act on our terms, on our timeline, and in ways that make sense to us, while Jesus continues to reveal a deeper kind of power through humility, surrender, peace, and love.As Holy Week begins, this message invites us to examine our own expectations of God and to ask how Christ may be at work in ways we do not immediately recognize. What if Jesus is not only helping us face life as it is, but also teaching us to see what could be through hope? Watch, reflect, and journey with us as we follow Jesus from the palms to the cross and toward the hope of resurrection.
In this weekâs message, âBecoming Ready,â Pastor Pete Elliott reflects on Ephesians 4:21-24 and 5:1-2 and reminds us that the life of faith is not a one-time finish line. It is an ongoing process of renewal. Using the image of house cleaning rather than model building, Pastor Pete shows how discipleship is often repetitive, honest, and unfinished. We are invited to put away the old self, put on the new self, and learn over time what it means to walk in love as Christ loved us.This sermon also points beyond personal faith to communal transformation. Pastor Pete speaks about daily honesty, making amends, deepening our conscious contact with God through prayer and meditation, and sharing the grace we have received with others. We are not made new only for ourselves. We are made new so that Godâs love can overflow into our relationships, our communities, and the wider world.
In this message, Into the Light, Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer reflects on Romans 12:9â12, 18 and explores what it means for love to be sincere. Drawing from Steps 8 and 9 of recovery, this sermon invites us to move beyond performative apologies and into true repentanceânaming the harm we have caused, embracing healthy contrition, and trusting God to transform us from the inside out.This sermon offers practical and spiritual guidance for anyone carrying guilt, unresolved relationships, or the desire to live more truthfully before God and others. Through the stories of Zacchaeus, Psalm 51, and the call to live at peace with everyone as far as it depends on us, Into the Light reminds us that making amends is not about shame. It is about grace, healing, and the new life Jesus makes possible.
In this message from Sunday, March 8, 2026, Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer continues Church of the Messiahâs Lenten sermon series, Steps, with a sermon titled Defects of Character. Preaching from Philippians 3:7-14, Pastor Katy reflects on Paulâs willingness to let go of everything that once defined him so that he could know Christ more deeply. This sermon explores what it means to release not only obvious sins, but also the excuses, emotions, habits, and identity markers that keep our hands too full to receive Godâs grace.This message offers a practical and deeply personal invitation for anyone longing for healing, honesty, and spiritual growth. Through the image of opening our hands before God, Pastor Katy reminds us that we cannot hold onto everything and still fully embrace Jesus. Whether you are walking through Lent, exploring recovery themes, or simply longing to live more freely as Christâs beloved, this sermon offers hope, clarity, and a faithful next step.
Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer preaches âA Fearless Inventoryâ at Church of the Messiah UMC in Westerville, Ohio, on Sunday, March 1, 2026. Grounded in Psalm 139:1â7, 23â24, this sermon explores Steps 4 and 5 of the recovery journey and invites all of us into honest self-examination before a God who already knows us fully and loves us completely. This message is for anyone carrying pain, resentment, shame, fear, or patterns they are ready to bring into the light.
Pastor Pete Elliott kicks off our Lent series Steps with âThe Beginning of a Whole New Lifeâ, rooted in Romans 7:14â25. If youâve ever felt the tension between who you want to be and what you keep doing, youâre not alone. This message names the struggle honestly, and points to the hope of grace that meets us right where we are.
On Transfiguration Sunday, we hear Matthew 17:1â9 and witness Jesus revealed in gloryâshining on the mountain as God declares, âThis is my Son⌠Listen to him.â In this message, Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer explores why the mountaintop moment isnât meant to become our hiding place. Itâs a gift that strengthens trust when life gets complicated, painful, or uncertain.If youâve ever wanted to stay in a âsafeâ moment and avoid the hard parts of life, this sermon is for you. The good news is not that Jesus helps us escapeâbut that Jesus goes with us down the mountain, touches our shoulder, and says, âDo not be afraid.â
We close our Time of Your Life sermon series with âUnder the Sun,â rooted in Ecclesiastes 3:1-8. Pastor Katy reminds us that life comes in seasons, and most of the time we cannot see the whole story from beginning to end. Still, we know a good God who holds every season inside Godâs everlasting story, and who is at work even when life feels chaotic, unclear, or heavy.The invitation is simple and brave: do not just aim to be wise, practice wisdom. Name the season you are in, ask God for a wise heart (Psalm 90), and take one small step of faithful action with the time you have been given. If you are new or reconnecting, we would love to help you find your place at Church of the Messiah.
Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer continues our Time of Your Life series with âWhen Less is More,â rooted in Ephesians 5:15â17. We all receive the same 1,440 minutes each day, and Scripture calls us to live wisely, make the most of our time, and seek the will of the Lord. This message explores how time is a finite resource from God, and how small deposits of time, made consistently, can shape our lives and deepen our discipleship.
When life feels at capacity, itâs easy to believe the answer is âmore time.â In week two of our Time of Your Life series, Pastor Pete Elliott explores Jesusâ words in Matthew 6:25â33, where weâre invited to release worry and seek first the Kingdom of God. Through the âbig rocksâ illustration, we discover how putting what matters most first creates space for the restâand how God wants to transform not just our schedules, but all our time.
We kicked off our new sermon series, Time of Your Life, with Psalm 90 and a prayer that can reshape the way we live: âTeach us to number our days that we may gain a heart of wisdomâ (Psalm 90:12). Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer invites us to move beyond âWhat time is it?â and ask the deeper discipleship question: What am I doing with my time?Psalm 90 places our brief lives inside Godâs eternal story. When we stop living like hustle is the point and instead live as if God is the point, we find clarity, wisdom, and freedom for how we work, love, give, and show up for our neighbors. Subscribe for more messages from Church of the Messiah UMC (Westerville, Ohio) and join us for worship online or in person.
In our âState of the Churchâ message, Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer celebrates what God did through Church of the Messiah in 2025 and shares a clear invitation for 2026. From worship and prayer to mission, discipleship, kids/youth ministry, and generosity, the stories and numbers in the 2025 Impact Report point to Godâs faithfulness and the Spiritâs power at work among us.Rooted in Romans 10:14â15 and 1 Corinthians 2:1â5, this sermon calls us beyond comfort into âsentâ discipleshipâsharing good news with courage, humility, and reliance on Godâs power. As we look ahead, the question is simple and personal: will we be in prayer for what is next, and will we be willing to get a little uncomfortable for the sake of the gospel?
Epiphany Sunday at Church of the Messiah UMC (Westerville): Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer preaches from Ephesians 1:3â14, a reminder that God blesses, chooses, adopts, redeems, and seals us with the Holy Spirit. In a season when we love control, resolutions, and quick results, Epiphany calls us to trust the Light of Christ and remember who truly holds our destiny.You cannot do everything, but because God has chosen you, you can do something. Where is Jesus inviting you to choose Godâs way this week: in your family, neighborhood, workplace, or community? Worship with us online at messiahumc.net/online or join us on YouTube. New here? We would love to connect with you and help you take a next step.
Holy Moments | 1st Sunday After Christmas: âA Moment of Wonderâ (Isaiah 63:7â9) â Pastor Pete Elliott | Church of the Messiah UMC (Westerville, OH). In this sermon, weâre invited to notice that holy moments are not limited to extraordinary places or dramatic spiritual experiences. Isaiah teaches us to ârecount the grace deeds of the Lord,â and Pastor Pete reminds us that as we remember Godâs faithfulness in the past and trust Godâs promise for the future, we can meet God in the present, right where we are.If youâre longing for God to feel closer, this message is for you. Take a small step this week: pause, quiet the noise, and listen with your heart. Worship online anytime at messiahumc.net/online.
Christmas Eve, âA Moment of Boldnessâ (Holy Moment Advent Sermon Series) | Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer | Luke 2:1â20 (NRSVUE)The Christmas story is not a fairy tale that skips the hard parts of life. It is the good news that God shows up for us. In Luke 2, Jesus is born into ordinary circumstances, and the first people to hear the announcement are shepherds, the ones society overlooked. This message reminds us: Emmanuel means God with us. You matter to God, and you are not alone. When we receive that love, we are invited to respond like the shepherds, with boldness and urgency, showing up for others so the light of Christ keeps spreading.Want to take a next step? Let us know you were here, share a prayer request, or connect with a pastor through our Connect Card: https://www.messiahumc.net/connect. Learn more about worship and ways to connect at https://www.messiahumc.net/visit. Subscribe for weekly messages and worship from Church of the Messiah UMC (Westerville, Ohio).
In âA Moment of Obedience (Josephâs Story),â Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer explores Matthew 1:18â25 and Josephâs brave, ordinary yes to God. When obedience feels like âbecause I said so,â Joseph reminds us that Godâs invitations carry a deeper purpose of love, mercy, and salvation. Where might God be nudging you to trust, even if you cannot see the whole âwhyâ yet?
In Week 3 of our Holy Moments Advent Sermon Series, Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer shares âA Moment of Memory (Elizabethâs Story)â from Luke 1:11â17, 23â25. This message explores the power of memory, how our past shapes our present, and how remembering where God has been faithful gives us courage to trust God in what comes next.Where do you need hope right now? This sermon invites you to hold onto holy memories, not as nostalgia, but as a living testimony that God keeps Godâs promises. If youâre new, want prayer, or want to take a next step at Church of the Messiah (Westerville, Ohio), check the links below to connect with us and find community.
When life doesnât go the way we planned, how do we respond? In this Advent message, âA Moment of Surrender,â Pastor Pete Elliott walks with us through Luke 1:26â38, 46â56 and Maryâs journey from âHow can this be?â to âMy soul magnifies the Lord.â Through her story, we explore faith as trusting surrender, how fear subsides in the presence of trust and hope, and how God meets us in the interruptions and detours we never would have chosen.Recorded at Church of the Messiah United Methodist in Westerville, Ohio, this sermon is part of our Holy Moments Advent series. Whether youâre watching on your own or with a group, we invite you to reflect, pray, and respond with your own âHere am I, Lord.â For more sermons, resources, and ways to connect, visit messiahumc.net and subscribe to our channel for weekly worship services, messages, and stories of God at work in and through our community.
In this Advent sermon, âA Moment of Interruption,â Pastor Katy explores Luke 1:5â22 and the story of Zechariahâa faithful priest whose carefully planned life is interrupted by an angel and an impossible promise. As we begin our âHoly Momentsâ Advent & Christmas series at Church of the Messiah, we ask: What if the interruptions we resent or avoid are actually the very places where God is breaking in? Through Zechariahâs fear, questions, and season of enforced silence, we discover how God meets us at the end of human possibility and invites us into deeper trust.If your life feels full of unexpected detours, delays, or disruptions, this message invites you to see them not just as annoyances, but as potential holy momentsâopportunities to grow closer to God, to serve others, and to be reoriented toward Godâs hope and purposes. Use this sermon for personal reflection, family conversation, or Life Group discussion as you move through Advent. Donât forget to like, share, and subscribe so you can continue journeying with us through the âHoly Momentsâ series this season.
On Christ the King Sunday, Pastor Katy concludes our Impossible Promise of Enough series with a powerful message about liberation. Drawing from Leviticus 25 and Luke 17:11â19, we explore Godâs radical vision of Jubileeâa reset where debts are forgiven, land is restored, and those who are enslaved or excluded are set free. In the healing of ten men with leprosy, Jesus embodies that Jubilee freedom, restoring not only bodies but dignity, community, and hope.We also look at the life of Harriet Tubman, a Methodist woman whose own freedom propelled her to risk everything so that others could be free too. Her story challenges us to do more than receive Godâs liberationâit calls us to participate in it. What would it look like for you to practice Jubilee in your finances, relationships, and daily choices? Watch, reflect, and take your next step toward living as a person set free in Christ and an agent of Godâs freedom for others.#jubilee #freedominchrist #luke17 #churchofthemessiah #westerville
What if there really is enough for everyone? In this message from our series âThe (im)Possible Promise of Enough,â Pastor Katy explores Godâs call to leave holy margins in our lives. Drawing from Leviticus 19:9â10, Deuteronomy 24:19â21, and Matthew 5:38â48, we look at the ancient practice of leaving the edges of the field for the poor, the immigrant, the orphan, and the widowâand how that challenges our modern 100% lifestyle of jam-packed schedules, overfull closets, and scarcity thinking.Whether youâre listening on your own or with a Life Group, this sermon invites you to ask: Do I really need the 100% living, 100% taking life? Discover what it might look like to take what you truly need, create margin in your time, money, and energy, and join God in making sure others have what they need too. This message was preached by Pastor Katy at Church of the Messiah (Westerville, Ohio) on November 16, 2025. Like, subscribe, and share if this encourages youâand visit our website to learn more about connecting with our community.
When God stirs willing hearts, ordinary offerings become extraordinary provision. In âThe Impossible Promise of Resources,â Pastor Pete Elliott walks through Exodus 35â36 and the tabernacle offering to show how God turns scarcity into more than enoughânot just with money, but with our skills, time, relationships, and stories. Jesus models this in the feeding of the multitudes: âYou give them something to eat.â Rewatch to be encouraged and commissioned to offer what you have for Godâs mission. Scripture: Exodus 35:4â9, 20â21, 29; 36:2â5
All Saintsâ Sunday at Church of the Messiah (Westerville, OH). Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer continues The Impossible Promise of Enough with âThe Impossible Promise of Rest,â drawing from Exodus 20; 23 and Mark 2:23â3:6. Sabbath is not another rule to keepâitâs Godâs gift that forms us in rest, worship, resistance, and delight as we trust the God who is enough.
The Impossible Promise of Provision | Exodus 16; John 6:24â35In a world driven by scarcity and self-sufficiency, Jesus declares, âI am the Bread of Life.â Pastor Katy explores how Godâs provision shows upâfrom manna in the wilderness to the daily mercies we often overlookâand how practicing trust reshapes our habits, hope, and generosity.
Yesterday we named a question many of us carry: What about other religions? With Pastor Katy, Pastor Pete, and Dr. Jeff Jaynes, we were reminded that following Jesus in a diverse world isnât about anxiety or avoidance, itâs about living Romans 12:17â21 in everyday ways: choosing what is right in the eyes of others, letting go of payback, and overcoming evil with good. We can be deeply rooted in Christ and genuinely curious about our neighbors; honest conviction and humble listening can sit at the same table. This week, try one simple step: ask a coworker or classmate from a different tradition about a practice thatâs meaningful to them, really listen, and then share briefly how Jesus is shaping your own life. As we do, we make peace visible and give a faithful answer to a beautifully diverse world.
No Time is Wasted | Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer | Exodus 16; Proverbs 8:22â31Even in wilderness seasons, God is cultivating wonder, creativity, and purpose. This message explores how manna teaches daily trust and how Wisdom invites us to notice Godâs presence in ordinary time. If youâre in a season that feels âin between,â this sermon offers practical steps to gather todayâs grace.
âPurpose Is Presentâ (Week Four of On Purpose)âPastor Pete teaches from Matthew 14:13â21 (the feeding of the 5,000) to show how Jesus meets scarcity with compassion and turns ânot enoughâ into âmore than enough.â The sermonâs core idea: our purpose is revealed when we pay attention to what we already have and who needs it right now.
Who Am I? | Pastor Katy Wheat Borhauer | 9.28.25Yesterdayâs message invited us to lay down the labels weâve carried and receive the name Jesus gives: Beloved. Through Saulâs blinding encounter on the Damascus road (Acts 9:1â19) and Peterâs breakfast of restoration with Jesus (John 21:15â19), we heard that grace doesnât erase our storyâit reclaims it and sends us with purpose. In Christ, your past doesnât disqualify you; it becomes part of the testimony God uses to love and serve others.Sermon DetailsSeries: On Purpose (Week 3)Title: Who Am I?Preacher: Pastor Katy Wheat BorhauerDate: Sunday, September 28, 2025Scripture: Acts 9:1â19; John 21:15â19 (NRSV)Big Idea: God names you Beloved and then calls you into purpose. Purpose is a response to belovednessânot a way to earn it.
In week two of our On Purpose series, Pastor Katy explores Jesusâ words, âYou are the salt of the earthâŚyou are the light of the worldâ (Matthew 5:13â16) alongside his call to take up the cross (Matthew 16:24â26), framing purpose not as something we achieve but as a gift we receiveâand live for others. Youâll hear practical wisdom (Thurmanâs âwhat makes you come alive,â Buechnerâs âdeep gladness/deep hungerâ) and a simple next step to identify one thing you can do this week to flavor and brighten your corner of the world. Listen to be encouraged, challenged, and equipped to live Mission One (know and worship God), Mission Two (partner with God to bless the world), and Mission Three (use who you uniquely are to do the first two). Stick around for resources and a worship response song to help you put the message into practice.
In Why Am I Here? (Week 1 of our On Purpose series), Pastor Katy walks with Nicodemus through John 3:1â9 and names the 3 a.m. questions we all carryâthen points to Jesus as the One who awakens us to a purpose we donât have to manufacture. Drawing on Isaiah 43:1, John 15:16, and Ephesians 2:10, she reminds us that meaning is a gift: to know and worship God, to join God in making the world better, and to bring our unique selves to those callings right where we live, work, and learn. Watch, reflect, and ask: What might it look like this week to let God awaken you to why youâre here?
This Sunday at Church of the Messiah, we were honored to welcome Bishop Hee-Soo Jung, Resident Bishop of the Ohio Episcopal Area, as part of our Iâve Always Wondered sermon series.Preaching from Jeremiah 18:1â11 and Luke 14:25â33, Bishop Jung addressed one of lifeâs most difficult questions: âWhy do bad things happen to good people?â While scripture doesnât give us a neat and tidy answer, Bishop Jung reminds us of the powerful image of clay in the potterâs hands. Even in seasons of brokenness and hardship, God does not discard us, but patiently reshapes us into something new.âPerhaps the better question is not why do bad things happen, but how shall we live when bad things do happen? Do no harm, do good, stay in love with God.â â Bishop JungBishop Jung is known throughout the church for his commitment to racial justice, radical inclusion, and global mission. His ministry has planted new congregations, expanded cross-racial leadership, championed immigration justice, and raised millions for global health initiatives such as Imagine No Malaria.đ Whether youâre watching for the first time or reflecting on the message again, may you be encouraged to trust the One who holds us in tender, shaping hands.đ Scripture: Jeremiah 18:1â11; Luke 14:25â33
This weekâs sermon invites us into the story of Johnâs disciples who, upon hearing âLook, here is the Lamb of God,â chose to follow Jesus. Instead of giving them an easy answer, Jesus turns to them with the searching question: âWhat are you looking for?â From there, the message explores how our own expectations, longings, and curiosities shape our journey of faith. Rather than offering a formula, Jesus simply says, âCome and see.â This is a call to experience Godâs presence, to abide deeply in Christ, and to allow our lives to intersect with Godâs love in ways that transform us and our relationships with others.
In this weekâs sermon, Pastor Katy reflects on Jesusâ teaching in Luke 6:27â36 to âlove your enemiesâ and challenges us to move beyond transactional relationships into the radical mercy and love of God. With relatable stories and practical examples, the message asks us to consider: Who will you love?âespecially those we find difficult to love.
In this weekâs message from our Questions Jesus Asked series, Pastor Katy explored Jesusâ words in Mark 8:34â38: âWhat will it profit them to gain the whole world and forfeit their life?â The sermon invited us to reflect on how we define our identityâthrough roles, passions, and pursuitsâand how easy it is to lose sight of our true belovedness in Christ. Jesus calls us to âput first things first,â to deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow him. True life is not found in chasing the worldâs definitions of success, but in living from the deep truth that we belong to God.
âMay the peace of Christ be with you.â We say this to one another every week as a part of our worship experience. Itâs an expression of hope, of courage, and of expectation that God, through Christ, offers a deep and abiding response to our struggles and fears.What makes you afraid? Spiders? Clowns? Public speaking? Mortality? Does it feel rational or irrational? No matter the source, fear is a lingering presence in our human experience. This week we continue our conversation around âQuestions Jesus Asked.â In the midst of a storm on the Sea of Galilee, Jesus asks his disciples: âwhy are you afraid?â The answer seems obvious!The good news is that God does not leave us to be overcome by our fears. Weâll always experience fear sometimes, and, through Jesus, we become able to trust Godâs faithfulness and to discover that we can face and live with fear. I look forward to joining with you for worship this Sunday as we explore this question.
We begin a brand-new sermon series: Questions Jesus Asked. Throughout the Gospels, Jesus didnât just give answersâhe asked questions. And those questions still speak to us today. Questions like Why are you afraid? and Who do you say that I am? invite us to look inward and consider what really matters. This Sunday, weâll reflect on the question Who do you say that I am? (Luke 9:18â27) and consider what it means to name who Jesus isânot just in general, but for us personally. Letâs come ready to listen, respond, and let Jesusâ questions shape our lives.
This Sunday in our Iâve Always Wondered series, weâre asking some big, wonderful questions about faith, science, and wonder. Our guest, Dr. Linn Van Woerkom, is a distinguished physicist, longtime professor at The Ohio State University, and a devoted United Methodist who sees no contradiction between his faith and his scientific workâin fact, he sees a conversation. Iâve had the chance to talk with him over the past few weeks, and I can tell you: youâre in for a treat.Weâll explore questions like: Can you really be both a scientist and a Christian? What do science and faith say together that they canât say alone? How can mystery be a gift, not a problem? Dr. Van Woerkomâs thoughtful, humble approach reminds us that the more we know, the more we realize how vast God isâand thatâs good news.
This Sunday is going to be an exciting day at Messiah! Weâll be celebrating and learning about the many ways God has gifted each of usâand how those gifts can make a real difference in our church and community.Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 12, âNow concerning spiritual gifts, brothers and sisters, I do not want you to be uninformedâŚâ He reminds us that we are one body, made up of many parts, and that the Spirit gives each of us giftsânot for our own benefit, but for the good of all. Thatâs what it means to follow Jesus: to actively live like him, using what weâve been given to love God and serve others. We may not all have the same passions or skills, but each of us has something unique to bring to the body of Christ.So, weâre askingâwhat might God do in this season, in you and through you, if we all stepped a little further into using the gifts weâve been given?To help us discover that together, weâre launching something new this Sunday: the Volunteer Accelerator. Itâs a quick, meaningful tool designed to help you find ways to serve that match who you are and what you love to do.Hereâs what you need to know:â It ISâŚA quick 2â4 minute survey youâll take right in worship.A way to explore what you enjoy doing and the environments you thrive in.A tool that connects your gifts and interests with real ministry opportunities here at Messiah.đŤ It is NOTâŚIt is NOT a sign-up or commitmentâthis is just a first step.It is NOT a new church databaseâit only collects basic contact information and what you share you have a heart for.It is NOT a spiritual gifts inventoryâit focuses on what you like doing and where that might meet a need.I canât wait to see what God will do in and through you as we continue to live as one body with many giftsâbuilding up this community in meaningful, joyful ways.
This Sunday, we continue in our sermon series Bible 101. The Bible isnât a book we merely studyâitâs a story we step into. Jesus didnât just call us to know what he taught; he invited us to live it. Scripture speaks to our lives today, calling us to grow in love, compassion, and purpose. Weâll also hear from several members of our Messiah community as they share what the Bible means to them and why they read it.
This Sunday, we continue with the fourth week of our Bible 101 series: âWhy (and how) do I study the Bible? (Itâs for us!)â Weâll explore some of the tools that help us interpret Scripture faithfully and thoughtfully. Whether youâre new to Bible study or have been at it for years, we hope this weekâs message and the included Bible 101 Study Guide give you practical, sustainable ideas for deepening your engagement with Scripture.
This Sunday marks Week Three of our Bible 101 series, and weâre asking a vital question: How do we read the Bible in a way that leads to understanding and transformation?The truth is, we donât read Scripture alone. The Holy Spirit plays an essential roleâboth in the writing of Scripture and in our reading of it. As Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 2, God's truth is spiritually discerned. Without the Spirit, Scripture can feel like just words on a page. But when we invite the Spirit to guide our reading, the Word comes alive. The Spirit opens Godâs Word to usâand opens us to Godâs Word.
This Sunday, we continue with Week 2 of our sermon series Bible 101. This series is all about rediscovering the Bibleâwhat it is, why it matters, and how we can engage with it more deeply in our everyday lives.This week, weâll explore a question many people have: Is the Bible just a book of rules? While Scripture is authoritative and God speaks through it, the Bible is far more than a list of dos and donâts. Itâs a collection of wisdom, shaped over centuries and cultures, that reveals Godâs heart for justice, love, and faithfulness. From Deuteronomyâs call to love God fully to Micahâs invitation to walk humbly, weâll discover how biblical principles guide us in todayâs complex world.
This Sunday, we begin a new five-week sermon series that Iâm especially excited about: Bible 101: Understanding the Bible, One Part at a Time.The Bible is the most important book in the Christian lifeâour primary guide and spiritual resourceâbut for many of us, it can feel intimidating, unfamiliar, or even confusing. Maybe youâve wondered: Where do I start? How do I make sense of it all? What does it really mean for my life today? If youâve ever had those questions, you are not aloneâand this series is for you.Throughout Bible 101, weâll return to the basics. Think of it as a class where we show up not with all the answers, but with curiosity, hope, and a desire to grow. Weâll explore what the Bible is, the role it plays in our lives, and how we can better read and understand itâso that it becomes more than a book on a shelf, but a living part of our everyday walk with Christ.This Sunday, weâll start with the big foundational question: Whatâs the Bible all about?Weâll turn to Luke 4 and 2 Timothy 3 and discover that the Bible is a unified story about God and Godâs people that ultimately points us to Jesus. Itâs not just a rulebook or a collection of inspirational quotesâitâs a living library. It contains both Godâs words and the responses of faithful (and sometimes flawed) people through the centuries. As weâll see, reading the Bible well means reading it in contextâpaying attention to its time, place, and purpose. Most importantly, weâll be reminded that the Bible is not just about the pastâitâs Godâs tool to guide us today and grow us for tomorrow.Whether youâre a opening the Bible for the first time, a seasoned theologian, or simply need a fresh perspective, you are welcome here. I believe that as we explore these questions together, we will all be encouraged and equipped in our journey as disciples of Jesus.
This Sunday is Pentecostâa day when we remember the moment the Holy Spirit filled the early followers of Jesus, empowering them to speak in new languages and share the good news with people from every nation. It was the birth of the Church, a powerful reminder that God is still moving, still speaking, and still sending us out into the world with love, courage, and purpose.
This Sunday marks the conclusion of what has been an impactful sermon series for many: It Is Well. Throughout this series, the focus has been on mental and emotional wellbeingâwhat it is, how it shapes lives and relationships, and how God is present in the midst of it all. The congregation has been invited to be honest about their struggles and to surrender shame to the God who cares deeply for the whole selfâbody, mind, and spirit. Through it all, the series has celebrated this truth: on the lifelong journey toward mental wellbeing, no one walks alone.âŻThe final message turns toward hope. Hope is not wishful thinkingâit is a foundation built on the steady faithfulness of God. Even amid suffering, God is present, and Godâs mercies are new every morning. True hope does not ignore pain but meets it head-on, trusting that grief, struggle, and hope can coexist in the presence of God and sustain us through even the darkest seasons.âŻTo help the community reflect more deeply, all worship services will include a meaningful conversation with two mental healthcare professionals: Rev. Dr. Henry Stringer, Ph.D., and Rachel Fox, LPCC-S.
Compassion is a hallmark of the gospel stories. Time and again Jesus encounters a person in need and, seeing them, has compassion for them and responds to the need in some way. Sometimes it is lunch, sometimes healing, sometimes shared wisdom, and sometimes the simple gift of presence. This week we are continuing our sermon series It Is Well* as we reflect on ways we can offer compassion to one another and even to ourselves as we muddle through the journey of life.Mental and emotional pain often isolates us from the routines, relationships, and resources we need most. It can feel like our experience is ours alone. The Bible tells a different story. God is close, we are not alone, and we can offer the gift of community, compassion, and presence to those around us. True care means building networks of support inside and outside the church so that we can bear one anotherâs burdens in ways that are sustainable, life-giving, and rooted in the love of Christ.
This Sunday, we move into Week 3 of our sermon series It Is Well*, and weâre reflecting on what it means to live with perseverance and enduranceâespecially when the journey is long.Life with mental or emotional wounds is not a sprint. Itâs a marathon of faith. Some seasons we flourish; other seasons we simply keep going. Through it all, we are not defined by our struggles, but held by Godâs sustaining grace.Hebrews 12 encourages us to ârun with perseverance the race set before us,â with our eyes fixed on Jesus. And Psalm 92 reminds us that celebration and lament often coexistâwe can lift our voices in joy while being honest about our pain.As a reminder, our Resource Guide is available both digitally and in print at the church. This guide offers a starting point for anyone walking through a difficult season or supporting someone who is. Itâs not exhaustive, but itâs full of helpful places to begin. If this series is bringing things to the surface for you, please know: you are not alone, and you are deeply loved. We encourage you to use or share this resource as needed.
As we continue our sermon series âIt Is Well*,â we are reminded that the journey toward mental and emotional wellbeing begins with one of the most courageous acts of all: honesty.This Sunday, weâll explore how unspoken burdens can quietly shape our livesâand how naming them, and surrendering them to God, can be the first step toward healing. This work isnât easy. Wellness rarely arrives all at once. It takes intention, practice, grace, and community. But it begins with acknowledging whatâs within us and trusting that God receives it with compassion. I hope you can join us.
Human flourishing is holistic â heart, soul, mind, and strength. Our mental and emotional wellbeing is part of Godâs hope for us. And yet countless people in our church and community struggle â often in secret â to honestly say âIt is wellâ when it comes to mental and emotional health. Often, it is *not well. In this series, weâll explore mental and emotional wellbeing â what it is, how it affects us and those around us, and how (and where) God is present. Together, using the lenses of scripture, personal experience, and psychology, weâll break down harmful myths surrounding faith and mental health and embrace life-giving truths. Weâll work to be honest about our struggles and surrender our shame to the God who cares deeply about our whole being â body, mind, and spirit. And weâll celebrate that on the lifelong journey towards mental wellbeing â when it is well, and when it is not â we never walk alone. We walk together, accompanied by God, every step of the way. Thereâs a good deal of misunderstanding at the intersection of faith and mental and emotional health, leading to harmful myths that create shame and isolation. Into this God speaks to us a promise: we are fearfully and wonderfully made, not broken beyond repair. God does not reject us but redeems and heals us.
It was a delight to celebrate the resurrection with you on Easter Sunday. Flowers, singing, egg hunting, and, especially, gathering to be the church together I am grateful every week for the energy and faithfulness we all pour into our life together at Church of the Messiah.Throughout the Lenten season we took time to think of how and where we hear from God. This week we close that conversation with âNow What?â We find the the disciples locked in a room pondering their next steps. Sometimes life leaves in this same space. Now what? We come to the end of one season of life and find ourselves faced with the unknowns of a new season. God meets us powerfully at the junctions of change in our lives, and allows us to be fully human with the questions that emerge.
Christ is Risen! Christ is Risen Indeed!Welcome to Church of the Messiah on this joyful Easter morning. Whata gift it is to gather together and proclaim the good news: Jesus is alive!Death has been defeated. Hope has been restored. Love has won.Our mission is simple, but powerful: to Know Christ, Grow in Faith,and Serve Others. Today, we celebrate the heart of that missionâtheresurrection of Christ, which changes everything.There are so many wonderful churches you could have chosen to celebrateEaster with, and the fact that you chose to be here humbles and honors usdeeply. Whether youâre brand new or have been part of our church familyfor years, weâre glad youâre here.Weâre a multigenerational community, and we invite you to participatehowever you feel comfortable. For some, that means engaging in everypart of the service. For others, itâs sitting quietly and soaking it all in. Andfor many, itâs somewhere in between. However you worship today, weâresimply grateful for your presence.Today is also a special opportunity to respond to resurrection hope withgenerosity. This year, Easter offering will help address global hunger andbuilding local homes. Your gift helps fund 50,000 meals through LifelineChristian Mission and supports Habitat for Humanity in constructingwalls for a home right here in Westerville.Every gift makes a difference. You can give today in worship, online, oranytime at messiahumc.net. 100% of your gift goes directly to these life-changing projects.Thank you for being part of this Easter celebrationâand for being partof the hope we proclaim.
Holy Week begins this SundayâPalm Sundayâand I want to personally invite you to be part of it. This sacred week invites us to walk with Jesus through his final days, from the joy of palm branches waving to the heartbreak of the cross, and finally to the celebration of the empty tomb. Each moment matters. Each step draws us closer to the heart of our faith.
This Sunday, we continue our Lenten series, Hearing God, as we turn to the story of Elijah in 1 Kings 19:1â13. Elijah experiences God not in the wind, the earthquake, or the fireâbut in a still, small voice. In a world full of distractions and noise, how do we learn to recognize Godâs voice within us? Sometimes it whispers. Sometimes it shouts. Always, it calls us toward love, truth, and peace. This week, weâll reflect on the personal journey of discernmentâhow we listen and respond to God speaking internally.
âPardon our Dust.â Itâs a sure indication of progress when we begin dismantling something. Before anything new can happen, something old has to be removed. Jesus reminds his listeners that one never puts new wine in old wineskins. The old wineskins are no longer suitable to the task and will burst or split. âPardon our Dust.â This phrase has been on my mind a lot this week as Phase 2 construction work is in full swing. The inevitable dust, and noise, and occasional smells have become reliable companions in and around the church building. Prophets are like construction crews. They come along speaking truth into our lives, pouring new wine into our old wineskins, disrupting the status quo, and generally dismantling our assumptions and habits. The result is growth as we are stretched into deeper connection with God. Letting go of old ways and making room for new ways is what Lent is all about. This week, in our Hearing Godseries, weâll take a look at how we hear what God is saying to us through the sometimes uncomfortable words of prophets old and new.
The Bible has the power to translate the world around us and tell a truer, better story that exposes lies and reveals the coming hope of life as it should be. And yet, the Bible can be a polarizing topic because we all come to it with different histories and experiences. We want to take time to understand where each of us began this journey and where each of us hopes to go with it.
Hearing God's voice is not about searching for a distant whisperâitâs about recognizing Jesus, the Living Word, as God's ultimate voice to humanity. Hebrews 1:2 declares that in these last days, God has spoken to us by His Son. When Jesus says, 'My sheep hear my voice' (John 10:27), He is not just referring to a moment of divine prompting, but to Himself as the very Word made flesh (John 1:14). To hear God is to know Christâto abide in His teachings, to trust His promises, and to follow where He leads. As we listen, we are not chasing after mere echoes of the past; we are responding to the ever-living voice of Jesus, the One who still speaks, still leads, and still transforms lives today.
This Sunday, weâre launching something newâa recurring sermon series! Just like we introduced recurring series in 2024, weâre rolling out a new one for 2025 called âIâve Always Wondered.â This series will happen multiple times throughout the year, diving into the deep and often unspoken questions of faith.We all have questionsâabout God, faith, life, and the world around us. "I've Always Wondered" is a conversation-driven series designed to explore those big questions through engaging panel discussions with pastors and guest speakers. Topics will include:How can we share our faith without fear?What is the relationship between mental health and spirituality?How do science and faith interact?What does Christianity say about other religions?Why does a loving God allow suffering?This Sunday, weâre team preaching on a topic thatâs so important: Sharing Faith Without Fear. Many of us want to share our faith but struggle with how to do it well. Evangelism isnât about pressureâitâs about authentically sharing our story with love, humility, and wisdom. Andâbring your phone! Weâll have an interactive component during the service.Volunteer Summit â Step Into Service!
Relationships shape our lives in profound ways. The people we surround ourselves with, the way we treat others, and the choices we make in our interactions can lead to joy, connection, and fulfillmentâor regret and brokenness. In the final message of Better Decisions, Fewer Regrets, weâll explore one powerful question that brings undeniable clarity to every relational decision you face. But be warnedâthis question isnât always easy to answer. It challenges us to pause, reflect, and consider what love truly requires of us. If youâre ready to navigate relationships with wisdom, integrity, and grace, donât miss this powerful conclusion to our series.
Better Decisions, Fewer Regrets. This phrase echoed throughout our recent mission journey in Cuba. Sometimes, it was a sly remark after a mistake; sometimes it was a word of warning on an unlevel or slippery sidewalk. And, sometimes, it was an observation of lessons learned as we heard about how various ministries in Cuba have evolved and grown over the years. There is no substitute for experience in our life of faithfulness. The Apostle Paul writes: âbe transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what is the will of Godâwhat is good and acceptable and perfect.â Renewing. This is a process of growing in our ability to ask good questions, make better decisions, and (hopefully) experience fewer regrets. This week we are taking time to examine The Maturity Question. We are called to grow. It comes in leaps and bounds, slow steady progress, and sometimes in repetition of old mistakes until lessons take root. No matter our path, we are called to continue forward in persistent discipleship, always trusting that God is faithful in the process.
As we continue our sermon series, Better Decisions, Fewer Regrets, this Sunday, weâll explore âThe Conscience Questionâ through the lens of Ephesians 5:11â16. How do we tune in to the voice of wisdom in our decision-making? I look forward to diving into this important conversation with you!
As we continue our sermon series, Better Decisions, Fewer Regrets, this week weâre exploring how our lives are more than random, disconnected events. They are stories being written. Whether it's a thoughtful response or an emotionally fueled reaction, we write the stories of our lives one decision at a time. I hope youâll join us as we reflect on the power of our choices and how they shape our journey.
Weâre diving into the second week of our sermon series, Better Decisions, Fewer Regrets. Based on Andy Stanleyâs teachings, this series offers five key questions to guide us toward better decision-making. This weekâs focus is on integrityâliving with honesty and faithfulness. Itâs easy to deceive ourselves, but doing the hard work of being honest with âthe person in the mirrorâ helps us avoid regrets and walk in wisdom.
We make countless decisions every day. In life, we all face moments where a decision can shape our future. Whether it's in our finances, relationships, career, or personal growth, the choices we make write the story of our lives. The Better Decisions, Fewer Regrets series, based on Andy Stanley's teachings, invites us to discover five powerful questions to ask before making any major decision. This series will help you build a decision-making framework that leads to success in every season of life. With the right questions, you can avoid bad decisions, protect your future from regret, and create a life marked by wisdom and clarity. Join us as we explore how to make better decisions, understand their long-term impact, and transform our lives and relationships in ways that honor God and set us on a path toward lasting joy and fulfillment.
This Sunday, Church of the Messiah will gather for a special "State of the Church" Sunday. This time of reflection highlights the incredible mission and ministry work that has taken place throughout 2024âa year of growth, generosity, and transformation, where the call to be the hands and feet of Jesus has been lived out in powerful ways.The sermon will celebrate the many ways the gospel has been proclaimed and Godâs love shared. From nurturing children to packing meals, digging wells to sharing soul-stirring music, and extending compassion through countless acts of kindness, Messiahâs impact has reached far and wide. Behind every number and story is a person, a family, or a community touched by the love and hope shared through this ministry.During the service, the 2024 Impact Report will be shared. This report captures the extraordinary work God has accomplished through the congregation over the past year and serves as a reminder of the lives transformed by this ministry. It stands as a celebration of Godâs activity and faithfulness.In addition to reflecting on 2024, the service will look ahead to a fruitful 2025. Together, the congregation will dream boldly, give generously, and serve faithfully in the year to come.
Reports Iâve seen indicate that 94% of people will fail their New Yearâs resolution by this time next year. Isnât that encouraging? Youâre not defective! No one is a robot! Given that perfection is impossible, letâs commit to try anyway. Letâs try to be faithful together; try to exercise compassion and love; try to follow the light of Christ in our lives in some new way. It wonât be perfect, but it will be authentic and real and heart-felt, and thatâs good enough.
Have you recovered? The wrapping, and unwrapping, is complete. Christmas meals have been cooked and eaten. Family and friends have gathered and left. Special Church services have come and gone, leaving behind an afterglow of candlelight and âheaven-on-earthâ sacredness.Itâs around this time every year that I find myself thinking, ânow what?â The long-promised Messiah has come. Jesus, Emmanuel, lives in and through us. And ⌠our world is still the same world; people are still beautiful and broken, and Godâs call on our lives to bring light and hope remains. Howard Thurman puts it like this:The Work of ChristmasWhen the song of the angels is stilled,when the star in the sky is gone,when the kings and princes are home,when the shepherds are back with their flocks,the work of Christmas begins:to find the lost,to heal the broken,to feed the hungry,to release the prisoner,to rebuild the nations,to bring peace among the people,to make music in the heart.
The best part of any day, in my opinion, is just before dawn when the light is coming. The world is still dark and quiet, nothing has happened yet, and anything is possible. No matter what yesterday held, the day ahead feels full of new hope. Watching the light slowly emerge, almost imperceptible at first, is like witnessing a fresh start. Christmas Eve holds that same kind of anticipationâa moment where the world waits in the dark, knowing the light is about to come. The coming of Jesus is like the dawn of a new day for the worldâa chance for renewal and hope, no matter our past. His light breaks through our darkness, bringing new possibilities, lifting our weariness, and offering hope in uncertainty. Each day is a gift, a new beginning, just like His light that comes no matter what, offering renewal and the promise of something greater. This Christmas Eve, how can we embrace the hope and possibility His light brings?
Some of us know the weight of seasonal affective disorder (SAD) as winterâs light fades. The days are short, the clouds heavy, and the lack of light discourages us. But then, when the sun breaks through or a bright light shines, we feel a lift in our mood, a spring in our step, increased clarity and focus. Light encourages us. In the same way, Jesus is the light that breaks through our darkest moments, bringing hope and strength. As the days get shorter and the world feels darker, we need His light even more. Just as candles brighten the Advent wreath, growing brighter week by week, Jesus brightens our lives the closer we draw to him, offering the encouragement we need to keep going. His light brings life and hope, fulfilling the promise of a great light for those in darkness.
Have you ever played flashlight tag? Itâs a game of hiding in the dark, hoping to stay out of sightâuntil the flashlight beams across you, revealing where you are. The same is true of light in life. Light isnât just there for its own sake; it has a purpose. It exposes whatâs hidden, making it impossible to stay in the shadows. In the same way, the light of God reveals what weâd rather keep hiddenâour shame, mistakes, and brokenness. But it doesnât stop there. Godâs light brings hope, showing a way forward once the truth is uncovered. This Sunday letâs look for ways forward, together.
Some things are hard to describe, even when we know exactly what they are or what they doâlike love, hurt, or hope. Light is the same way. We know it when we see it, and we know what it does: light pushes darkness away. In the same way, Godâs presence dispels the darkness in our lives, bringing clarity and hope. No matter how deep our shadows, even a small light makes all the difference. Godâs promise to us is simple and powerful: thereâs no darkness so overwhelming that Godâs light canât break through. God's light will always push back the darkness we face. Even when we canât quite explain it. This Sunday letâs celebrate the power Godâs light has to dispel darkness.
In the Bible, darkness is a symbol of everything that opposes goodness â chaos, hatred, despair, sin, evil. Darkness creates confusion and impedes growth. Into the darkness, God speaks â âLet there be light!â and in so doing, God brings creativity from confusion, order out of chaos, and hope out of despair. Even in moments of deep darkness, Godâs light is present and creating. This Advent season, we confront the darkness around us and within us, and declare that lightâGodâs lightâcreates, restores, and overcomes.
This week I had the privilege of leading our monthly Chapel service with the kids at OurDay preschool. We sang together about how weâre thankful for our families, our friends, our pets, our bikes, our teachers, and our stuffies. Their joy in noticing their everyday blessings was a reminder to me of the many ways that glimpses of the Kingdom of Heaven appear in everyday life.This week we celebrate Christ the King Sunday. We have the opportunity to pause and to notice the reign of Christ in our lives and, also, to notice how weâre called to be a part of the promised kingdom of God as we strive to be faithful each day. Weâll celebrate our many blessings and the gift of the risen Christ as we break bread together at the communion table.
This Sunday, weâre diving back into our 2024 periodical sermon series, The Character of God. Throughout the year, weâve been exploring the many attributes of God revealed in Scripture, and this week, weâll focus on a profound and beautiful truth: God is slow to anger. Weâll reflect on how this characteristic is revealed in the book of Exodus, reminding us of Godâs patience, mercy, and steadfast love.Our Character of God series will conclude for the year next Sunday as we gather for Christ the King Sunday. And can you believe it? The first week of Advent is just around the corner, beginning December 1! Soon, weâll be lighting candles, singing carols, and preparing our hearts to celebrate the birth of Jesus.
This Sunday, weâre gathering for the third and final message in our series, âDo Unto Others,â where weâll dive into the theme of Pride and Humility, drawing from Micah 6:6-8. Itâs been a powerful journey reflecting on how Jesus calls us to live with kindness and compassion toward one another.Earlier this week, Pastor Pete, Pastor Sharon, and I sent a Special eMessenger following the conclusion of the 2024 Election season. We invited you to join us in a prayer of peace, adapted from St. Francis of Assisi, as we seek to embody Jesus' call to 'Do unto others.' This season reminds us of our shared commitment to kindness and compassion, evenâespeciallyâwhen we encounter different viewpoints. May we continue to treat one another with the love and respect that unites us as followers of Christ.Throughout this series, weâve asked ourselves, âHow do I want to be treated?â â especially when conversations get tough. The Golden Rule is simple yet transformative, fostering kindness, respect, humility, and love across differences. This Sunday, letâs explore why kindness can feel hard and discuss practical ways we can treat others as we want to be treated.
Each day we are reminded that our bodies need nourishment. Usually it is because we get hungry. We are also encouraged to exercise, sleep and eat healthy foods. But what about our minds and our spirits? What reminds us to nourish them? And what about all of the ideas and concepts which we take in without really thinking about it through listening to podcasts, watching TV, reading social media? Against what do we judge that information to be true for us as Christians? How do keep focused on who Jesus calls us to be as his followers? By Judging what we hear by what we read in Godâs word, focusing on who Jesus is and how he lived, and keeping in the forefront of our mind Jesus words: So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets. (Matthew 7:12). Even in our current environment it is within our power to treat others with kindness, respect and compassion, when we seek to be filled with the Holy Spirit. Last Sunday we reflected upon what it means to live out kindness. This week we will be focusing on Dignity and Respect as a way to live out Godâs love in our everyday lives. As we prepare for this weekâs worship, I invite us to reflect on the meaning of dignity, which is the inherent worth and value of each and every person, no matter their race, color, creed. Everyone has it for it is God-given in birth. Respect is giving due regard for the feelings, beliefs, rights and traditions of others It is the act of recognizing the worth or values of a person. Respect can be earned or lost.
âHow do I want to be treated?â When opinions clash and tensions rise, itâs tough to step back and ask yourself this question, to remember the Golden Rule â âDo unto others as you would have them do unto you.â Yet this universal rule, if we live by it, has the power to transform the world. It has the power to bring people together, and foster kindness, respect, compassion, humility, and love between radically different people â even people who deeply disagree. Together this fall, we'll explore Godâs call to Do Unto Others. Letâs talk about why kindness feels hard, and talk practically about how to actually, intentionally start treating others how we want to be treated.
This week in worship weâll finish our Core Values series with a conversation about how we are Unified Through Difference. We all come from different backgrounds, have different opinions, have different strengths and skills, and different lives. With all our uniqueness, we are called to be Godâs people together â to be one in Christ. This call to be a community of faithful people is often challenging. What if we shifted our attention from the problems of community to the possibilities of community? When we join together with a common purpose, God is able to work in our midst to help us to be and to do more than we ever dared to imagine. I hope youâll join us this week, in person or online, for this important conversation.
This Sunday, Pastor Katy will continue our sermon series, The Core: Values That Connect Us. Purpose That Moves Us. This week, weâll dive into the core value of being "Other-Focused"âa timely reflection given the events of these past weeks. Our key scriptures will be John 13:31-35 and Philippians 2:3-4, where weâre reminded of the call to love and serve others as Jesus has loved us.
Be patient with me, the t-shirt reads, God isnât finished with me yet. We are always becoming. Becoming stronger. Becoming informed. Becoming refreshed. Becoming new. Becoming who God would have us to be. We never finish our Spirit-fueled process of growing.One of our Core Values at Church of the Messiah is to be Continuously Growing. We aspire to acknowledge that we are unfinished. We are intentionally becoming the people Jesus calls us to be, growing towards perfect love of God and one another.This Sunday, weâll explore the joys and challenges of growing in faith and weâll celebrate World Communion Sunday. On World Communion Sunday, we join ecumenically in acknowledging our unity in Christ as we come around his table. Jesus claims us as brothers and sisters and invites us to journey together to perfect love. Your special gifts on World Communion Sunday benefit World Communion scholarships for graduate students from the U.S. and other countries and support Ethnic Scholarships for U.S. and international undergraduate students in the U.S. and Ethnic In-Service Training.Weâre all growing. Sometimes slowly, sometimes in leaps and bounds. And, just as importantly, weâre all doing it together. I hope youâll join us this Sunday, in person or online, for this conversation.
This Sunday, weâre continuing our current sermon series, "The Core: Values That Connect Us. Purpose That Moves Us." In this series, we are taking a closer look at the core values that guide us at Church of the Messiah. This week, weâll explore the value of âCommunity Impacting.â Together, weâll reflect on how we actively love our community and work to build Godâs dream of peace. Our key scriptures are Psalm 82:3-4 and Revelation 21:1-4. During worship, weâll also do something interactive and fun--creating word clouds in real-time on our sanctuary and online screens. So make sure to bring your phone, because yes, youâll be using it in worship!
s we continue our fall journey through Messiahâs core values, this week weâre focusing on something foundational to our life together: joy. Joy isnât just a fleeting emotionâitâs rooted in the deep assurance that we are known and loved by Jesus. No matter the circumstances, this joy fills us because we trust in His promises.This Sunday, weâll discuss what it means to be âJoy-Filledâ as a church. Weâll explore how this core value shapes our actions, our relationships, and our shared mission, with 1 Peter 1:3-10 as our guide. Joy is a powerful expression of our faith, and itâs something we can live out daily in big and small ways.
This Sunday, we continue our sermon series, "The Core: Values that Connect Us. Purpose that Moves Us." Weâve all had moments when someone asks us, âTell me about yourself,â and we talk about our job, relationships, or hobbies. But deep down, we know thereâs more to us than just what we do. Who are you at your core?This weekâs message will focus on being centered and focused on Jesus, drawn from Matthew 22:34-40 and John 3:16-17. Weâll consider how we can grow and mature as disciples of Jesus by being with Him, becoming like Him, and doing what He did. Our core values as individuals and as a church help guide us along this journey of transformation.
If someone has ever said to you, âTell me about yourself,â you've likely responded by sharing about what you do, your relationships, your hobbies, your team affiliations, your hometown ... Youâre likely aware, though, that youâre more than your relationships, hobbies, work, loyalties, and location. Who are you at your core? At Messiah, weâve been reviewing and re-visioning our core values â those attitudes, ideas, beliefs, and motivations that drive us as a church. Our values arenât what we do â they tell who we are, motivate why we do what we do, and drive us where weâre going. Over seven weeks this fall; weâll explore our individual values and the interconnected values that drive our life together at Messiah. Your Leadership Board and Staff have prayerfully prepared this series, and we hope youâll join us on this meaningful journey.
Do you ever wonder why are things such a mess? Shouldnât someone DO something? Itâs not a new question. In 1789, in a sermon titled âCauses of the Inefficacy of Christianity,â John Wesley posed the question: âWhy has Christianity done so little good?â The question amounts to: do we practice what we preach? As United Methodists, we agree with James when he writes: âWhat good is it, my brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith but do not have works?â (James 2:14) We want to be people who live out our faith. Our General Rules and our Social Principals are good starting points as we consider our historical and current commitment to being Godâs people in ways that make a tangible, loving difference in the world for people everywhere.
âWhoâs in charge here?â Itâs the question we ask when we have comments to offer or complaints to register. Itâs the question we ask when we want to know why things work the way they do. Itâs the question we ask when we want to talk with someone about how to improve something.This week, as we continue to explore our Methodist Roots, the legacy that undergirds and informs our identity and practice as United Methodist followers of Jesus in 2024, weâll spend a little time asking this question: Whoâs In Charge? Who leads the church? People? Pastors? Board members? Jesus? What do our scriptures tell us? What does our tradition tell us? So many questions! I hope to see you Sunday, in person or online, for this conversation.
This Sunday, weâll explore a crucial aspect of our Methodist heritage: How do we, as Methodists, know whatâs true, make decisions, and think through things? John Wesley provided us with a unique framework, often referred to as the Wesleyan Quadrilateral, which guides us in discerning truth and making faithful decisions. Wesley emphasized four sources: Scripture, tradition, reason, and experience--all working together to help us understand Godâs will for our lives.Our key scripture for the day will be Ephesians 2:1-10, which speaks of Godâs incredible grace and the new life we are given in Jesus. This passage reminds us that we were once dead in our transgressions, but through Godâs grace, we have been made alive in Jesus--created to do good works. Itâs through this grace-filled lens that we learn to discern truth, make decisions, and align our actions with Godâs purpose.Wesley taught that Scripture is primary--our foundation and final authority. But he also recognized the importance of tradition, reason, and experience in interpreting Scripture and applying it to our lives. By engaging all four of these elements, we can navigate lifeâs complexities with wisdom and faithfulness
John Wesleyâs emphasis on sanctifying grace reminds us that salvation is not a one-time event but an ongoing process. Through the means of grace, such as prayer, scripture reading, fasting, and participating in the sacraments (baptism and communion), we open ourselves to Godâs transformative work. Wesley believed that this journey toward perfection in love is a lifelong pursuit that draws us closer to the heart of God and equips us to love our neighbors more fully.This Sunday, we will discuss the profound concept of Godâs never-ending graceâa cornerstone of John Wesleyâs teachings. We will explore sanctifying grace, a pivotal aspect of Wesleyan theology that focuses on personal holiness and piety. Wesley taught that sanctifying grace is God's power working in us to renew our inner nature and enable us to grow in love and holiness.Our key scripture will be Philippians 3:7-11, where Paul speaks of the surpassing worth of knowing Jesus and the transformative power of His resurrection. This passage beautifully aligns with our theme of sanctification, as it calls us to press on toward the goal of becoming more like Jesus.Join us at any of our three worship services: 8:15 AM, 9:30 AM, and 11 AM. The 9:30 and 11 AM services are available online, and the 9:30 service includes special children's programming with nursery care, children's moments in worship, and kids' Sunday school.As we gather this Sunday, let us be inspired by Wesleyâs vision of a faith that is believed and lived out in every aspect of our lives. I hope to see you there!
In 1740, John Wesley wrote a sermon titled âFree Grace.â In his introduction, he paraphrases part of the eighth chapter of Paulâs letter to the Romans: How freely does God love the world! While we were yet sinners, "Christ died for the ungodly." While we were "dead in our sin," God "spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all." And how freely with him does he "give us all things!" Verily, FREE GRACE is all in all! Wesley proceeds to describe a sacred grace that is freely available to every person, rather than to certain âelectâ individuals. This week we continue in our âRootedâ series. Weâll be exploring prevenient grace ⌠grace that is initiated by God to help us understand that we are each a beloved child of God and to prepare us to respond to this deep love in our lives.
It doesnât take a gardening expert to know â the strength and health of the roots determines the strength, health, and lifespan of the plant. Itâs the same with political, social, and religious movements; their health, strength, and lifespan depends on the their roots. This Sunday, we begin a summer-long series called Rooted: The Character and Marks of a Methodist. Weâll (re)discover the roots of our Methodist identity that nourished our tradition from its inception, and which still define and strengthen our faith in Jesus today. While weâll explore our historical and theological roots, these eight weeks wonât be a theology/history lesson. Weâre exploring our roots to find whatâs vital from where weâve been, so that we might renew and deepen our understanding of how we follow Jesus the Wesleyan way in the 21st century, and beyond. Rooted: The Character and Marks of a Methodist, "The Form of Religion Without the Power"
During this service, we will reflect on the joy and meaning of sacrificial giving. Remember, a sacrificial gift is not about the size but what it represents to the giver. For some, it means giving up something valuable; for others, it might be reorganizing financial priorities or giving out of accumulated assets. The root of "sacrifice" is "sacred," and by giving sacrificially, we set aside and dedicate our resources to further the work of God's Kingdom.
God, what do you want to do through me? This is our prayer as we engage in our Beloved Community worship series and in our Beloved Community Capital Campaign. God calls each of us into faithful living, into following the footsteps and teachings of Jesus, and into the power and presence of the Holy Spirit.This week weâll take a look at Samuel and Eli and their shared experience of Godâs call on Samuelâs life. With Eliâs wisdom, Samuel begins his journey, saying âyour servant is listening.â I hope youâll join us this week as we explore what it means to listen for and answer Godâs call in our lives. What will God do through us?
Among Jesusâ many healings are ten men with leprosy. Made clean, nine men run to the priests. One runs back to Jesus, in gratitude and praise to God. Gratitude is simple â saying âthank youâ and meaning it. It doesnât make lifeâs tough things go away, but it does change our perspective. Still, when was the last time we said âthank youâ to God? If itâs been a while, how might we start? This Sunday, weâll start the Beloved Community capital campaign with a discussion of gratitude, the attitude from which our giving flows. Weâll celebrate the many reasons we have to be thankful for Godâs blessings in our individual lives, how God has blessed Messiah, and what God has yet to do. See you Sunday!
Sometimes, it's hard to find a single word to describe a feeling or an idea. In that event, we borrow from another language. Hygge, from the Danish - a cosy quality. Deja vu, from the French - the feeling that this exact moment has occured before. My personal favorite - tsundoku, from the Japanese - to acquire books and allow them to pile up without reading them. This Sunday, as we continue our periodical series Character of God, we'll study khesed, from the Hebrew - God's loyal love, which encompasses God's love, generosity, and enduring commitment to us, all in one word. We'll explore what khesed means, what it means for us, and what it means for our neighbors, as we live it out together.
A much loved church call and response goes like this - God is good - all the time. All the time - God is good. Itâs true. God is good, the ultimate source of human goodness and righteousness. Because God is good, God cares about what is good, right, and just. Because God cares about what is good, God invites and empowers Jesus-followers, through the Holy Spirit, to live justly and compassionately. On this Pentecost Sunday, weâll explore how a life rooted in Godâs wisdom naturally leads us to live justly, caring for the marginalized and vulnerable, as we reflect Godâs heart of justice and equity to the world.
Life happens. Sometimes, life happens in incredible ways. Sometimes, life happens and the disappointment of it weighs heavy on the heart, profound and challenging to bear. Expectations go unmet, setbacks occur, hardships find us. Where do we go amid our discouragement? Do we wallow in it? Give up or give in? Or can we navigate discouragement differently, anchoring ourselves in the enduring hope of Godâs presence now, while focusing our eyes on the hope of Godâs promised future? Letâs seek Godâs wisdom about navigating discouragement with steadfast faith and unwavering hope.
DIY - do it yourself, the ultimate virtue. We apply DIY to home projects, work responsibilities, decision-making. Yet there's wisdom in seeking guidance while making decisions - guidance from God, and from others. Our own wisdom has its limits. Transformation happens from DIY, sure. It also happens in trusting God and seeking the counsel of those who walk in wisdom. Letâs explore the power of DIT (do it together) decisions-making.
Regrets are like belly buttons. Everyone has one. Itâs not possible to live without regret. It IS possible to live wisely, focusing our lives in Godâs direction with Godâs help (what Jesus calls the ânarrow gateâ). As we do so, we find meaning and purpose, even in our regrets. Letâs explore the wisdom of Proverbs, which teaches us how to trust Godâs guidance to navigate lifeâs twists and turns, using even our regrets for good, as we move forward towards who God is calling us to be.
Words are like seeds. Planted in the soil of hearts and minds, they grow, and eventually, bear fruit - for better or worse. So itâs wise to be careful with our words, because our words have the power of life, and death. Words have a profound impact in our own lives, and in the lives of others. Proverbs reminds us of the immense responsibility we carry with every word we write, think, and speak. What we speak, how we speak, and when we speak, matters. Letâs learn how to speak life.
The Book of Proverbs reads like a laundry list of âdosâ and âdonâtsâ, or a catalog of âalwaysâ and âneverâ statements. Yet itâs far more than that â it's a heartfelt letter from a father to his son, crafted to guide him towards a wise and fulfilling life. Like a good parent, God desires us to live wisely and well, and so gives us the wisdom of Proverbs. These words were written down centuries ago, yet remain relevant for us, today. They share timeless, practical insights which resonate deeply with our modern experiences. What does true wisdom look like? How to manage anger, avoid regret, navigate disappointment, pursue whatâs actually good? Over five weeks this spring, letâs get equipped with God's word, to live purposefully and practically, navigating the complexities of modern life with wisdom and love. What kind of world do we live in? And what does it take to live wisely and well in the world in which we live? These are the questions the book of Proverbs seeks to answer. Wisdom isnât something that happens to us, it turns out. Itâs something God cultivates in us, as we live in awe, respect, and yes - fear - of God. God is God, and we are not . Knowing this is the essence of true wisdom. Letâs delve into this truth, as we seek to understand God, and ourselves, rightly.
He is Risen! This week in worship we continue to celebrate the reality of resurrection in our lives as we begin a sporadic series: âThe Character of God.â Character of God Sundays are rooted in Exodus 34:6-7 and will occur from time to time throughout the remainder of the year. Exodus tells us of a God who is merciful, gracious, slow to anger, loving, and faithful. Weâll spend time Sunday exploring the Godâs gift to us of Grace in light of Exodus and our living Messiah: Jesus.
Last night was a sacred gathering as we observed Good Friday in solemn reflection and worship. Through our service, "A Service of Shadows," we deeply contemplated Jesus Christ's profound sacrifice. Indeed, Good Friday's significance is fully realized when we anticipate the dawn of Resurrection Sunday. Isn't it remarkable that even the weather in Central Ohio today mirrors the somber mood with its dreary rain? Yet, within the darkness, there is a promise of radiant light!Tomorrow, as we come together to celebrate Easter, we embrace the transformative power of Jesus' resurrection and the promise of new life it brings to each of us. With joyous hearts, we will exclaim, "Christ is Risen! Christ is Risen indeed!"Whether you are a newcomer or have long been a part of our Messiah family, know that you are warmly welcomed, and I extend a heartfelt invitation for you to join us. Our Easter service will be filled with scripture, song, prayer, and meaningful reflections. As we decorate the Easter cross with flowers, symbolizing the blossoming of new life, I encourage you to engage in this celebration as you feel comfortable.Messiah is a diverse and vibrant community dedicated to Knowing Christ, Growing in Faith, and Serving Others. Worship is but one facet of our shared mission and vision. Explore the myriad opportunities available on our website to connect and extend a hand of service to those in need. If you're seeking a spiritual home where you can deepen your faith journey, I hope you might consider taking the next step with us at Messiah.Please join us at any of our three Sunday worship services tomorrow: 8:15 AM, 9:30 AM, and 11 AM. Our 9:30 AM and 11 AM services will be streamed live on our website, Facebook, and YouTube platforms.Additionally, during our 9:30 AM service, all children are invited to have fun at our Easter Egg Hunt immediately following the children's moments in the Sanctuary. Nursery care will also be available for our little ones during this service.May the miracle of resurrection fill your hearts with renewed hope, faith, love, and joy. May the Risen Christ's blessings be upon you abundantly!
This week we begin a series of worship experiences that help us make the journey from Palm Sunday, through the Last Supper, Crucifixion, and, ultimately, to a celebration of resurrection on Easter Sunday. Weâll remember Jesusâ entrance into Jerusalem, the loud Hosannas of the palm waving crowds, and a borrowed colt. Weâll remember a gathering of disciples in an âupper roomâ who experience the Passover meal in a new way. In Word and in Song, weâll remember Jesusâ journey to the Cross. And weâll remember the promise of life, hope, grace, and salvation contained in our discovery of a Risen Christ.
During Lent we have explored various facets of our faithfulness: abiding in Christ, margins that guide our days, connections that enrich our lives, and joy that can fill our hearts in every season of life. Throughout this conversation, weâve invited you to consider what matters most as we seek peace and unhurried-ness in following Jesus. This week weâll take a look at how we take our everyday, ordinary lives and place them before God, allowing God to instigate and empower change in our lives â repentance â in our intentional faithfulness described as a âRule of Life.â
Ever leave home without your cell phone? Did you leave it behind on purpose, or leave it behind in a moment of distraction? Now and then I jump in the car to run an errand, or even to come to the church, and leave my phone laying on my desk at home. It was next to my keys, so Iâd remember it. And then, there it lays, forgotten. While Iâm without it, I find myself checking my pockets, and wondering what Iâm missing while Iâm âdisconnected.âTexting, emailing, social media, phone calls, news feeds ⌠it all gives us a sense of connection. And when weâre honest about it, we see that these connections are often superficial, artificial, contrived, and even dishonest in our efforts to look good for ourselves and others. This week in worship weâll continue our âUnhurriedâ series with a conversation about authentic connection: deep, honest connection with ourselves, with those around us, and with God. I hope youâll join us, in person or online, for this conversation.
Margin. Itâs the space between our load and our limits. Margin - itâs a concept virtually unknown to many of us, and certainly unknown to the world in which we live. We can do anything, be anywhere, know anything â and so we do. Living without margin means that tired, burned out, stressed is the new normal. Jesus shows us a different way â living within our limits. This Sunday, letâs explore the scripture's understanding of limits, and letâs learn how to begin living inside those God-given limits, to become people of love.
The relentless pace of modern life severs our connections â with God, with others, and even with ourselves. Living in the manner of Jesus necessitates a radical departure from the constant hurry that defines our existence. It demands a deliberate commitment to "unhurrying" â a challenging task in a culture that prizes perpetual motion. We traverse from one task to another, leaving no room for margins, bound by chaotic digital connections, and frantically seeking fulfillment in the anticipation of what comes next. Is there an alternative way to live? Can we embrace a slower pace, allowing the grace-filled pattern of Jesus' life to govern ours? This Lent, let us collectively explore how to reorder our days, finding abundant life in Jesus' teachings.
Over the course of the past few weeks, we have explored the story of beginnings found in the early chapters of Genesis. Weâve asked questions: Why is there something and not nothing? What are we here for? Why it the world so broken? Weâve learned that Godâs abundant love, Godâs intentions and purposes for our lives, and our very own human choices are part of the answer to these questions.This week we ask the question: So What? If we come into being as a result of an act of Godâs creative love, if our lives have purpose and meaning as a part of all of Godâs creation if we are trusted and expected to faithfully choose our paths as followers of our living God, then ⌠So What? I hope youâll join us this Sunday to explore this question!
This Sunday as we delve deeper into our ongoing sermon series on Genesis, "In The BeginningâŚ". We will be focusing our attention on Genesis 3:1-13 and exploring the theme, "A World So Broken."
There's a point and a purpose to every life. Each of ours, all of ours. The question is, what? What are we 'supposed' to be doing with our lives? Ask any influencer, politician, employer, and they'll have a ready-made answer. This Sunday, let's ask that question - What are our lives for? - of God, and see what the scriptures have to say. There's a point and a purpose to every life. Let's discover it together.
The beginning of the Bible is a carefully crafted story about God creating and ordering the whole cosmos. The first three chapters of Genesis reveal why God creates, what the creation is for, how the creation got off track, and about Godâs graceful rescue in the face of rebellion. Understanding the beginning is essential for understanding the entire biblical story. Letâs grow together in our understanding, so that the Bibleâs message might come to full light.
You may have heard the song âDo You Hear What I Hear?â several times over the past few weeks. Whenever I hear it I think of Bing Crosby crooning âDo you see what I see ⌠a star, a star, dancing in the night ...â While this tune has become a Christmas classic, it was written in 1962 by NoĂŤl Regney and Gloria Shayne as a plea for peace during the Cuban Missile Crisis. As we come this Sunday to celebrate Epiphany, weâll remember Magi from the east who see and follow a star, and weâll remember to âPray for peace people everywhere.â Iâm thankful for the hope that this child, Jesus, brings us goodness and light!
Have you ever planted a seed? The soil must be prepared, fertilized, watered. The seed placed at just the right depth. Then, the waiting while the seed germinates in secret. One day â hello there! â the seed sprouts and a plant begins to grow and thrive. The rituals in our lives are like seeds. Seeds planted by God, seeds planted by the church, seeds planted by our families, even seeds weâve planted ourselves. The experience of rituals are opportunities for blooming in shining in our weary world. Join us in worship this week as we consider our own lives and how we are using rituals to bloom for God.
âNo vacancies,â the sign on the inn reads. And though Jesus comes into the world in a crowded, unexpected place, God makes room. God is always making room in crowded, unexpected places. Thatâs what Jesusâ birth story is about â God making room for great joy to break in beyond our boundaries, for awe to push past the limits of our expectations for welcome to be extended in unlikely places to unlikely people. This Christmas Eve, how does God invite us, too, to make room for him in our crowded lives? How does God make room, even when we think thereâs none to be found? The good news of great joy for all people is coming.
Following the birth of his son, Zechariah sings a song of praise for Godâs protection and promise. After Elizabeth proclaims Godâs blessing upon Mary, Mary sings a song of hope in Godâs liberating freedom. As we prepare for Christâs birth, may we sing songs of hope, justice, and joy. We'll hear Godâs word of hope and joy proclaimed through our music this week, as the Messiah Chancel Choir and special musicians lead us in the Advent Cantata, Darkness into Light.
Have you noticed? Children see the world differently. For a child, a ladybug is a miracle. A pine tree is a wonder. Water isnât for hydration but for joyous exploration! As adults, we too often forget this language of awe and wonder. When we forget, we distance ourselves from God. Joy is the antidote to the weariness of our world. We find joy, and hope, and peace in the experience of awe and wonder. This Sunday letâs notice how God breaks into our everyday lives in extraordinary ways as we consider Elizabeth and Zechariahâs awe and wonder at the birth of their son John.
We see in the story of Mary and Elizabeth that joy often expands in connection and community. When we can't rejoice, we can carry one anotherâs joy. This is what Elizabeth and Mary do for one another â as Mary arrives at Elizabethâs door, the child Elizabeth carries leaps for joy, and she is filled with the Holy Spirt. She canât help but rejoice, and her joy is contagious. This Sunday, letâs explore the joy that comes and grows from connection â to our loved ones, to God, and to Godâs world around us.
There's power in naming a thing â a truth, a feeling, a dream. There's power, as we begin the season of Advent, in naming the weariness we carry around with us. Strained relationships, global insecurity, flagging health, loss of direction, pervasive violence ... you name it, it contributes to our weariness. Maybe we've resigned ourselves to the idea that "this is just how things are." This Sunday, we'll make space in worship to name our weariness and ask God, "How long?!" We'll also affirm the truth that weariness is not where God made us to live. We are made by a God of love for joy.
There's a lot to be said about the good old days - the way things used to be. It's easy to remember, and to long to go back to how it was when we were kids, when life was easier. When we follow Jesus, remembering is for one purpose - to be reminded of who God was and will always be, so that we're encouraged for our future. This Sunday, as we continue thinking together about leaving life Better Than We Found It, we'll remember so that we can look forward with hope.
November! This time of year, our thoughts turn to family gatherings, holiday obligations, end-of-year deadlines, next yearâs opportunities, time changes, shorter days, longer nights, and more. I hope youâll step away from all that for a few moments this weekend to join us in worship as we celebrate All Saints Day. On All Saintâs Day, we take time to remember those who have passed on and to celebrate their legacy in our lives. Who has been an influence in your life? How is God making you a new creation through the presence of someone else? And, whose life have you been called to influence? God uses us all together to make our lives and this world better than we found it.
Life is a marathon, not a sprint â or so the saying goes. Or what if life was a relay race, with each person playing their part on the team for an overall win? A team of different gifts unified for a common goal. So may be the church - unified around Jesus, using the different gifts he gives us through the Spirit. Letâs talk about the tough and beautiful stuff that comes with difference and how to pursue unity in its midst as we determine how to leave it better than we found it.
Jesus tells a story in the gospels, a story about a person who plants a seed. Itâs a tiny seed, from the mustard plant. The person plants the seed with intention and care, and the seed grows. It grows until it becomes a great tree, and becomes home to all kinds of creatures. What started as a tiny seed became a garden-shaping plant. This is what Godâs good news does, Jesus says â it reshapes whatever it encounters, and beyond, for good. Godâs good news leaves things better than when they were found. This fall in worship weâll be celebrating the seeds of the kingdom Messiah has partnered with God to plant over our 206-year history, and weâll look forward to whatâs next for us to plant as we continue to leave our community, and our world, better than we found it, in Jesusâ name.
âLove the sinner, hate the sinâ - itâs something we say when we come across someone doing something thatâs probably âwrongâ, coupled with the understanding that we should love them no matter what. Too often, itâs a phrase that minimizes personal responsibility amid harm while doing nothing to find solutions for harmful behavior. God speaks to us through Luke 6 with a different take on sin and sinners and the âhowâ and âwhyâ of love for those who do harm.
âEverything happens for a reasonâ - itâs something we say when a season of life feels hard, or when something happens in our lives and world that we didnât ask for or plan. Just like a kid who wants a Band-Aid for every hurt, we have a Band-Aid phrase that we apply to feel better when things are rough. God speaks to us through Romans 8 with a different take on where we see God when tough things happen, and what we can hope for amid tough times.
The Bible is the story of God and Godâs people. God gives Godâs word to us as a gift, for inspiration, for teaching, and for correction, so that everyone who follows Jesus might become more like God. Over the years, though, weâve read meanings, ideas and even phrases into the Bible that simply aren't there. This means we can misunderstand and misinterpret life âtruths,â and call them âbiblicalâ. Unless we stop to imagine, weâll always misunderstand. This Sunday, letâs explore what the Bible says ⌠about the Bible. Donât forget to invite a friend whoâs always had questions about it! Hope to see you in person or online.
Last week, Pastor Katy invited us to think about a person in our lives who provided encouragement, guidance, or even challenge to help us grow. Maybe you thought of more than one person who has helped you become who you are today.
How have you encouraged, guided, or challenged others? Has your transformation allowed you to be part of some other personâs transformation in some large or small way? When we grow in faith, when we are transformed by God, we are individually affected. And ⌠everyone around us is affected as well.
We all need someone who shows up for us and nurtures us in faith. Who is your person? This Sunday, we'll explore the story of Philip (the one who shows up) and the Ethiopian eunuch (the one he shows up for). And we'll explore the call that God, through the Holy Spirit, gives each of us to show up for one another, especially those who have been left out or left behind.
Itâs Pentecost! This week in worship weâll begin a summer-long journey through the story of the early church in the Book of Acts. Weâll explore how God began the movement of people known as his church. When we know what God intended the church for, how it was born, and how it grew (despite serious opposition), weâll gain inspiration for how God is calling us to be gathered and sent as a church community, today, as Godâs kingdom continues to unfold.
And they all lived âhappily ever after.â Itâs a phrase we hear often at the end of fairy tales. We learn from an early age that âafterwardsâ everything will go right. In our friendships, our marriages, as parents, as children - everything in our relationships will be shiny, happy, and bright. No surprises, no changes, no disappointments ⌠Relationships arenât always like that, though. Theyâre constantly changing, because the people in the relationships change. How do we learn to embrace the change, and love the people in our lives for who theyâre becoming?
This week we continue our conversations about relationships with Peterâs question: âhow many times should I forgive someone?â and Jesusâ answer: seventy-seven times (or, in some translations, seventy TIMES seven times!) Either way, Jesusâ challenge is to forgive an uncountable number of offenses. How do we navigate this way of forgiving those who arenât ready to change? Are we ready to forgive? Would we take the first step toward possible restoration of relationship with âthat one personâ? Thatâs what weâll explore this week.
Every relationship is bound to experience conflict from time to time. While conflict is inevitable, its outcomes are not. We'll learn together the whys and hows of navigating conflict faithfully, in ways that impact our relationships and hopefully, our world.
Weâve all know someone who itâs difficult to like â a difficult family member, an obnoxious co-worker, a toxic Facebook friend. Theyâre difficult to like, so what do we do with Jesusâ call to love them? Like it or not, weâve got to. How?! Letâs explore and discuss this Sunday.
Itâs true: we are people in relationships with other people â with friends, co-workers, parents, spouses, siblings, children, neighbors, church ⌠Itâs true: relationship is who God is, and Godâs design for our life. Itâs true: our relationships can be complicated. Jesus teaches us how (and why) to navigate lifeâs relationships following Godâs lead. Together, weâll explore what the Bible has to say about how to faithfully love ourselves, love those we donât like, do conflict, temper our expectations, and live forgiveness. And weâll pick up tools along the way to journey towards the healthiest, Christ-centered relationships possible.
Throughout our lives, we are sure to make mistakes, to do things we regret and to regret not doing other things. The good news of the Gospel is not only that Jesus died so that we might be forgiven, but that he has been raised from the dead! In him, we too are raised from being dead in our old ways, so that we can have new life, full of hope and promise.
As the end of Jesusâ earthly life drew near, he gathered his disciples around him and fed them â not just physically, but also spiritually. Weâre invited to this special meal too, a meal where Jesus himself meets us and reminds us that because of him, we are forgiven and are always welcome at Godâs family dinner.
Being part of a crowd can be a powerful experience. The crowds in Jerusalem moved from the joy of Palm Sundayâs âHosannasâ to the jeers of Good Fridayâs âCrucify Him!â On this Palm and Passion Sunday, letâs explore how we too can get caught up in the crowd, and ways that we can fix our eyes on Jesus. Group think can distract us from the âmoreâ. There are two different crowds â which crowd will we choose?
There are times when we allow something in our lives â a person, a place, an idea, a possession â to become more important to us than God. That change in importance can distance, and even come between us and God. Those âsomethingsâ are the gods we make, and they distract us from our âmore.â This Sunday, letâs explore the gods weâve made, and be reminded of Godâs faithfulness, even when we are not.
We each handle tough situations differently. When life gets tough, itâs tempting to hang on to easy habits that comfort us in the moment but destroy us long-term. Jesus shows us that habits can bring life. This Sunday, letâs ask ourselves; what habits in my life are handling me, instead of the other way around? And letâs celebrate that bit by bit, as we trust Jesus, we press on, until we live fully into the life he made us for.
Labels. Theyâre on our clothes, our cars, our food â and our hearts. Maybe weâve given them to ourselves. Maybe others have given them to us. Itâs easy to believe that what weâve done is who we are â especially when weâve messed up, fallen short, or done the âwrongâ things. God doesnât label us by what weâve done. This Sunday, letâs discover together: what labels live in my heart? And letâs thank God for giving us the only label that matters - âchild of God.â
To find true healing, we must face some hard truths. Renovations begin with taking things apart. To make a new road, we first dig up the old one. To refinish furniture, we first strip off the old finish. Part of the healing process is realizing that something is broken. This brokenness is the darkness that overshadows our lives. The first step toward restoration is noticing AND admitting that we are in need of healing. The good news is there is freedom in the light and that God is faithful to walk with us in the process.
We are made for abundant life â but itâs not a life full of fancy cars, superb health, pockets full of money, and constant vacations. Abundance isnât an easy, comfortable life, or even an especially long one. Itâs a life of contentment, found in Jesus. This Sunday, letâs explore - which kind of abundance are our lives oriented towards? The abundant âmoreâ for which God has made us? Or the âmoreâ that isnât more? No matter where weâre oriented, Jesus our Good Shepherd shows us the way.
Ash Wednesday begins the Christian season of Lent. We will spend the coming days journeying with Jesus toward the cross, toward the death that ultimately brings resurrection life. Many of us will spend these coming days practicing a new spiritual discipline or giving up something that seems to be getting in the way of the life we long to live. And tonight, we come together to mark the beginning of this Lenten journey. We come together to acknowledge our sin, to acknowledge our mortality. We come to glimpse the Christ who offers forgiveness, who offers everlasting life.
Nobody likes discomfort, but daily, thereâs something to be uncomfortable about. We spend a lot of time every day avoiding people, situations, ideas, and places which cause us discomfort. It can be easy to get stuck in our comfort. But our comfort isnât Jesusâ primary goal for us. Our growth is. What if we adopted Jesusâ growth mindset, and explored what could come from our willingness to confront discomfort head-on?
Fear happens when we face a threat (big or small) we cannot conquer. Fear happens to us every day in our relationships, in our health, in our schools, when we read the news, at work. Yet it need not define our everyday lives. What if, instead of living in fear, we speak a word of courage and hope to whatever it is weâre facing, courage we borrow from Godâs promises?
Disappointment happens when our expectations arenât met. Daily - things that should be done donât happen. Daily - things that shouldnât have been said are expressed. Itâs natural to express the disappointment, and stop there. But Jesus gives us a different model. What if we moved through our individual and collective disappointment toward love for those who havenât measured up to our expectations â or even love for ourselves?
Just when things settle into a routine ⌠something happens. The boat gets rocked. The cheese gets moved. Something reliable becomes unreliable. And we wonder: why me? Jesus is with us in seasons of change, helping us navigate, helping us not be afraid, helping us grow and stretch to meet new challenges. It isnât that God inflicts change on us. It is that God is faithfully present in the changes and seasons of our lives.
Sometimes we get it wrong. Itâs part of every day. Itâs part of every life. Itâs part of every community. What "getting it wrongâ is NOT is a reason to stop in our tracks. God points out the âwrongâ in our lives, but never stops us there. While we are called to account, weâre also always invited by God to make things right and to try again. What if this truth encouraged us not only to begin again each day, but even allowed us to try new things, every day, for Godâs kingdom?
Lots of things will happen in our everyday lives this year â individual and collective. Some things will make us smile. Other things will make us shake our heads â in disappointment, regret, sadness. Through it all â the daily good, the daily bad, the daily neutral â letâs choose patient, joyful trust that God is working in and through it all, for our good and for the good of our world.
2022 was quite a year in the life of Church of the Messiah. Together we built homes and dug wells and shared food and clothing and other resources for those without. Weâve nurtured kids and youth, both here at Messiah and outside the walls of our building. Weâve made space for new and unconnected people to know Jesus. Weâve prayed for and supported those celebrating and struggling. Weâve worshiped our God through transcendent music, relatable preaching, and the proclamation of scripture. Inside this 2022 Report, youâll see numbers representing the impact of Messiahâs mission and ministries. These numbers matter. They give us a snapshot of Messiahâs health and reach, locally in Westerville and throughout the world. These numbers are also more than numbers. Each has a name - a life impacted. Each has a story. Each represents a person, a family, or a community partner which Church of the Messiah has been blessed to impact through the ways we give of who we are, what we know, and what we have. Thank you for YOUR impact in 2022. I cannot wait to see how weâll grow together in 2023!
The Magi followed a star. Maybe a bright star, impossible to ignore, like a beacon shining in the night. Maybe a faint glimmer, just there, on the horizon, barely enough to see. Bright or faint, this sign from God helped them find their way on a dangerous journey. They arrive at the manger with gifts! Royal gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. And, the gift of themselves as they pay homage to the newborn King, Jesus.There is a a star shining in our lives. Something, someone, bright or not, beckoning, nudging, calling us to answer, to follow, to enter the story. What gift will we bring?
Christmas reminds us that God couldnât wait for the end of war, suffering, or human injustice. God couldnât wait, so God broke through the shadows to bring light and love. God couldnât wait to be love in fleshâand neither should we.
As Christmas draws near, we meditate on the courage required of both Joseph and Mary. When Joseph learns of Maryâs pregnancy, he decides to avert scandal and dismiss her quietly. But when an angel comes to him in a dream, he chooses to trust the angel and act counter to social and gender normsâall so that the world might know love. How might we practice courageous, counter-cultural love? How can we be brave enough to love one another and respond to Godâs call in our lives?
As Christmas draws near, we meditate on the courage required of both Joseph and Mary. When Joseph learns of Maryâs pregnancy, he decides to avert scandal and dismiss her quietly. But when an angel comes to him in a dream, he chooses to trust the angel and act counter to social and gender normsâall so that the world might know love. How might we practice courageous, counter-cultural love? How can we be brave enough to love one another and respond to Godâs call in our lives?
Isaiah points to a peace this world has yet to knowâpeace where the wolf lies with the lamb and a child shall lead us. John the Baptist invites us to believe in this vision of peace, but first, we must repent of the ways we turn away from God and do harm to others and ourselves. Only through honest confession can we seek reconciliation and become vessels of Godâs peace, facilitators of the Kingdom of God drawn near.
These texts speak of Godâs promised dayâa day when wars end, swords are beaten into plowshares, and spears become pruning hooks. On the first Sunday in Advent, we focus on the need to hold onto hope, to continue dreaming of and reaching for Godâs promised day where there will be peace and all will know love. How does unrelenting hope change us? How does it change our world?
Jesus Christ, King of kings and Lord of Lords, has been faithful to us in so much. The only response is faithfulness in turn - with who we are, what we can do, and what we have. Youâre invited to be faithful to Jesus through your faithfulness to the church.
As faithful followers, we are instructed to make a joyful noise, to be filled with the Spirit, and to sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs together (not alone). The music extends beyond the four walls of our church. How can we be faithful to continue to let the music ring out?
We have a rich inheritance through Jesus Christ - an inheritance of forgiveness, mercy, truth, hope. The saints of our church lived into this inheritance in the ways they were faithful to sharing Jesus through our church. How can Messiah continue to be faithful with our inheritance?
The family (parents, grandparents âŚ) of a child are the primary spiritual influence in a childâs life. But theyâre not the only influences. The church community as a whole has a responsibility to be faithful to our children. We affirm this in their baptism vows. How can Messiah continue to be faithful to help our children grow?
We are, along with the disciples, called to make disciples of everyone, baptizing, teaching, etc. Jesus is with us in the effort. "Mission" is not just an event. How can we live into the mission as a lifestyle?
Godâs faithfulness to us knows no bounds. Weâve experienced that faithfulness in our individual lives, and in the life of Church of the Messiah. During this six-week series, weâll hear a story from someone in our church family who has experienced God's faithfulness through Messiahâs ministries of music, mission, and discipleship. Each week, one of our pastors will encourage us in the work of continuing faithfulness, through how we serve our neighbors, how we help kids and adults alike to grow, and how we celebrate God through music. Looking forward to celebrating what has been, what is, and what will be, with each of you.
Where we draw our nourishment from, and where we focus our attention, affects how we experience the world around us. Are we drawing our nourishment from things that are loving, true, honorable, just, excellent, praiseworthy ⌠or not? As we close out the Anxious for Nothing series, letâs explore what it means to âmeditate on these things.â Read Philippians 4:4-8 and John 15:1-8 for your preparation
Itâs hard to explain, and itâs true: there are times when weâre navigating a difficult situation that we experience a sense of calming peace, for no good reason. When we say âyesâ to Jesus, God does not promise us a life free from difficulty (we wish). God does promise to be with us as we face those difficulties. When we know weâre not alone, that we belong to God, and that we are in Godâs service, this knowledge will guard our hearts and bring us peace, no matter what comes.
When we pray - whether weâre celebrating or mourning, in a moment of triumph or a moment of challenge, God listens. Can you trust that God listens to your prayers in moments of anxiety? This week, weâll explore the story of the Apostle Peter as he steps out of the boat in faith, and prays to God for deeper trust. Read Matthew 14:22-26 for your preparation.
Weâve got a choice - pick up every disappointment, stress, and frustration which is tossed our way, or not. Weâve got a choice - not only how we perceive trials, but also how we react to them. Paul invites the Philippians to a seasoned, composed, and gentle spirit in the face of hardships. This Sunday, weâll focus on what it means to pursue a gentle spirit, which comes from trusting that God is near. Read Luke: 8:22-25 for your preparation.
The Bible is the most highlighted book on Kindle. Philippians 4:4-8 is the most highlighted passage. Why? Probably because itâs a beautiful reminder of Godâs presence in every situation, especially in the midst of our anxiety, fear, and doubt. Weâre beginning a five-week conversation about worry and anxiety called, "Anxious for Nothing." This Sunday, weâll focus on remembering who is God (God) and who is not (us), and how Godâs sovereignty over all things, including our lives, can bring us comfort, and even allow us to rejoice, in the midst of anxious moments or seasons. God is over all, in all, and through all. Because of this, we can rejoice.