“If I proclaim the gospel, this gives me no ground for boasting, for an obligation is laid on me, and woe to me if I do not proclaim the gospel! For if I do this of my own will, I have a reward; but if not of my own will, I am entrusted with a commission” (1 Corinthians 9:16-17, NRSV). What’s the difference between obligation and commission? Between doing what’s right for the right reason or doing what’s right for the wrong reason? Don’t both get you to the same place? Not necessarily. Isn’t it better to do what’s right, regardless of the reason, until you can see the reason? Perhaps. Pastor Jimelvia Martin will talk about this difference–perhaps a nuance to you, but not a little thing to God or to Jesus.
As Lent approaches, we prepare for several different types of celebrations. Tuesday, February 17th from 4:30-6:30 (note time change) is Shrove Tuesday, our Pancake Supper. Joining us in this celebration is the choir from Rainbow Acres which will perform about 5:30. Stay and eat with the campers from Rainbow Acres–you will enjoy their enthusiasm and wit! Wednesday, February 18th is Ash Wednesday and our service at 7 pm will be a combination of the four Verde Valley UMC congregations with the whole community being very welcome. Pastors and choirs from several churches will contribute different ways to begin a Lenten time of discovery.
Want to try on the choir for size? You can choose to sing just for Lent. If you are interested in singing the beautiful music that brings us to Easter Sunday, call Lily Chou for more information at 626-215-2496 or simply come to the choir room (upper level) at 6:30 on Thursdays. We’d love to have you! SUMC is located at 110 Indian Cliffs Road off the Back O’Beyond roundabout of Route 179 in Sedona. Did you know that you can listen to a sermon or service that you missed? They are online! Visit our website www.sedonaumc.org or call 928-282-1780 for more information on worship, to hear past services, for missions, bible study, and any of the many activities of our church.
