Jlove crossesus’ popularity was akin to that of a rock-star. His crowds swelled beyond those of John the Baptist and began to provoke the authorities to question his motives and his mission. Since John had landed in prison and was beheaded for causing a disturbance, Jesus left Judea for his home. Jesus had no interest in creating a frenzied atmosphere among the masses—he was after vows not votes. Time and time again he would forsake the masses to privately minister to the individual. Traveling home to Galilee from Judea meant passing through Samaria, the curse of Palestine according to the Jews of this period. It was a dangerous region for a Jew; many were killed while trying to sneak through at night.

Jesus, as he so often did, worried not about the politics of the day, opting to move forward with his mission and ministry. Jesus didn’t travel through Samaria in the dark of night, but rather at high-noon reckoning the mind to imagine a showdown in the streets. But instead of a duel, Jesus, hot and tired stopped to rest by Jacobs well while his traveling companions headed into town for supplies. Jesus loved to be with people but he also cherished times of solitude, but on this day his time alone with his thoughts was interrupted—or was it? Had God arranged for someone in need to meet him? A woman of Samaria came to draw water for her daily needs—but the water she received that day would change her life forever.   

Join us this Sunday as Pastor Fred Mast continues a sermon series based on “The Lives That Jesus Touched” focusing this week on a “woman with a past” in a sermon entitled “Do You Thirst for Living Water?” Sunday mornings we enter the spirit of worship at 9:30 am featuring joyful music, special times of prayer and life changing messages designed to move you closer in your relationship with Jesus Christ. Immediately following worship you are invited to stay and join us in our Fellowship Hall for the friendliest and best fellowship time you will find anywhere featuring delicious snacks and great coffee.

Who loves pancakes—especially for dinner? The community is invited to our “Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper”, February 28th 4:30-6:30 PM. Tickets available in the Church Office or at the door day of event. Tickets are $5 for adults and $2 for students. Children under age 5 are FREE. Proceeds from the supper will go to our Children’s Ministry-Heifer International Project. Dinner includes pancakes, ham, and fruit salad. (Diabetic and Gluten Free options will be available). Join us Wednesday March 1st at 6 PM for our Ash Wednesday Service featuring the imposition of ashes-the official beginning of our Lent season.

 

We offer a number of book and bible studies: Wednesday join our Men’s Bible Study at 9 am; and Thursday’s our Women’s Bible Study at 9:45am. So many great missions, ministries and events happening at Sedona UMC—Like us on Facebook and visit our website at www.sedonaumc.org.  We would love to pray for you!—Prayer requests may be submitted online or by calling us at 928-282-1780.  We are conveniently located at 110 Indian Cliffs Road off the Back O’Beyond roundabout on Route 179 in Sedona. Come and grow with us!