IMG_0053This week at Sedona United Methodist Church we continue in the 10th chapter of the Gospel of Luke, in which we find a man on a familiar journey and learn some profound truth from our blessed Lord. It is the story of the Good Samaritan one of the most well-known parables Jesus ever told.  Jesus was the master of all storytellers.  He could share a parable with deep meaning and significance that made it not only memorable but profound. This particular parable of the Good Samaritan is so well known that it has actually become an idiom for abundant sacrificial kindness.  We call people good Samaritans who seek and find people in need and help them in amazing and selfless ways.  To call someone a Good Samaritan is to grant to them a noble compliment.

Our familiarity with this parable may cause us to think we know what the story really is about and what it was intended to convey, when in fact we may not get the whole meaning behind the story at first glance.  We all know the story, but it’s the point of the story that is the reason the story existed, the reason Jesus told it.  It is a story, for most people, about helping someone in need yes, but more than that this is really a story about how one inherits eternal life. That is the question that initiated the entire conversation to which this story is the conclusion. Join us this week at Sedona UMC as the Rev. Fred Mast continues a sermon series entitled ‘When Jesus Says Go” in a sermon entitled “Go, and Do the Same”. Sunday mornings we enter the spirit of worship at 9:30 am featuring joyful music, special times of prayer and passionate life changing messages designed to move you closer in your relationship with Jesus Christ and others. 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 and always friendship.

ALL ARE WELCOME and invited to our Family Movie Night (TONIGHT!) Friday, August 11th beginning at 6PM. BBQ Pulled Pork, Heavenly Potato Casserole, Salad, and Desserts are on the menu for dinner along with popcorn, nachos, beverages and lots of great  movie snacks so come hungry! Our featured film is “Jimmy”. The heartwarming story of a boy with special needs who touches the lives of all of those around him. This is a FREE event open to the entire community, so invite, pick up, and bring your friends and join in the fun.

Sunday afternoon at 2PM join us for a FREE Community Concert featuring Ellen Foncannon Stephenson. Ellen is the rare performing artist whose skills have transcended multiple disciplines. But it is her love for the piano that has remained the driving force. With a variety of styles, her music has been described as an upbeat piano-driven fusion of classical, inspirational and jazz. Join us for this amazing afternoon of uplifting music for the soul featuring Ellen’s original piano compositions and hymn arrangements, assisted by Soprano Marta Adelsman.

We offer a number of book and bible studies. So many great missions, ministries and events happening at Sedona United Methodist Church.  Visit our website at www.sedonaumc.org  and Like us on Facebook.  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!