“When the Lord restored the fortunes of Zion, we were like those who dreamed” ∼Psalm 126:1.
Dreaming “BIG” often looks like an exercise in foolishness—When in fact it so very often is really a show of faith. Martin Luther King Jr. once said, “Faith is taking the first step even when you don’t see the whole staircase.” Faith is the willingness to look foolish. Noah looked foolish to many when he decided to build a giant boat in the middle of the desert. David looked foolish taking on a giant ten times his size with a pea shooter—pick on someone your own size they say. How about the Magi who set out following a super nova not knowing where they were really going, or why? But Noah saved humankind, David conquered giants and created a lineage, and the Magi discovered the Messiah. Peter must have been crazy stepping out of a perfectly good boat in the middle of the Red Sea, but he did, and he walked on water and built a relationship that would result in the foundation of Christ’s Church being built upon him.
This week we look at the story of the wandering Israelites who are barely a month out of Egypt and deep into the wilderness. Already the people have undergone a severe test. There has been a great provision for them by God; there has been a great victory at the sea. But the people continue to grumble at the lack of water which God continues to miraculously provide all their needs. Now, in the passages that we will study this week, they have moved out from that oasis experience where God provided for them the water that they needed and toward another challenge–another test is on its way as they move out further into the desert. But they know in order to get to the land of milk and honey that God has promised, they must “Dream Big” and step out in faith, not knowing where their next drink of water or meal will come from, not knowing the dangers that lie ahead—Not “able to see the whole staircase”.
Join us this week at Sedona United Methodist Church as the Rev. Fred Mast continues a series of messages focused on “Prayer” with a message entitled “Partly Cloudy With a Chance of Quail” based on the narrative found in the 16th Chapter of Exodus & the 11th Chapter of Numbers. Sunday mornings we enter the spirit of worship at 9:30 am featuring meaningful and uplifting 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 encouraged and invited to stay and join us in our Fellowship Hall for the friendliest and best fellowship time anywhere featuring delicious snacks and great coffee and always friendship.
You are invited TONIGHT June 8th! —To our “Second Friday – Family Movie Night” –Beginning at 6 PM. Dinner will be served before the movie featuring slow roasted BBQ chicken sandwiches, cheesy potato casserole, fruit, salad and of course delicious desserts. This a FREE event as always so invite, pick up, and bring your friends and family—and of yes, we will also have movie popcorn, nacho’s and great desserts.
Final registrations being accepted for the “Emerson Theater’s Summer Youth Camp”—June 18th through July 14 (featuring live performances) for children and youth ages 6 to 17 hosted by Sedona UMC. For more information or to register call (860)705-9711 or call the church office at (928)282-1780. Spread the word! Scholarships available—hurry as space is very limited!
We offer a number of book and bible studies: Wednesday’s our Men’s Bible Study at 9am; and Thursday’s our Women’s Bible Study at 9:45am. So many great missions, ministries and events happening at Sedona UMC—Visit our website at us on 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. All are welcome at Sedona UMC—Come and grow with us!
