So what does it mean to LOVE your neighbor? In Matthew chapter 22, a lawyer challenges Jesus asking him, “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” Jesus answers him saying, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the greatest and first commandment. And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself” (ESV). In the first verse Jesus seems to be quoting from Deuteronomy 6:5; and in the second verse from Leviticus. For Jesus, to love your neighbor as yourself meant living life according to Leviticus 19:9–18 (ESV).  Join Pastor Fred Mast as he begins a series of messages entitled “So What Does it Look Like to LOVE Your Neighbor?” based upon the Gospel of Matthew 22:36-39 and parsing the scripture in the 9th Chapter of Leviticus.  Can you imagine a world where people loved each other this way?

There are so many exciting things happening at Sedona UMC this summer. Do you like to tell jokes, sing, dance or have some other talent you would like to share? Or do you just love to have fun? Then our “Hot August Nights” event is for you. Join us Friday August 19th at 6:30 PM for a night of fun, food, and frolic. Lots of great entertainment, fresh peach cobbler, ice cream sundaes, and much more for all. This is a free event with donations to benefit the “Verde Valley Sanctuary.” Call our church office at (928)282-1780 for more information.

We are located at 110 Indian Cliffs Road at the Back O’Beyond roundabout off Route 179. Remember to join us for adult Sunday school beginning June 26th at 10:45 am for a study entitled “Kingdom Building.” All are welcome and encouraged to come. We also offer a Men’s Bible Study on Wednesday mornings at 9 am, and our Women’s Bible Study on Thursday mornings at 10:30 am. If evenings work better, join our Monday evening group that gathers at 6 pm. There is something for everyone and our groups would love to welcome you.

Sunday mornings we enter the spirit of worship at 9:30 am featuring meaningful times of prayer, joyous music, and life messages that will help move you closer in your relationship with Christ. Our worship is upbeat and lively, we laugh, we cry, and most of all we welcome all as family. And our fellowship time immediately following worship features the best coffee, sweet treats, and friendship you will find anywhere. Plan to make a morning of it because once you’re here, you won’t want to leave—guaranteed! Like us on Facebook and visit our website at www.sedonaumc.org  In need of prayer? Prayer requests may be requested at sumcprayers@gmail.com.