Prayer… Christians talk about it; preachers preach about it; and writers write books about it. But how much time do we actually spend praying? We have so many resources at our disposal today to help us live life that prayer so often has become a last resort. The early church prayed like their lives depended on it, and as a result, God moved in powerful ways! The church today has lots of activity, but very little power, and will never have that power until we find our way back onto to our knees.
The 47th chapter of Ezekiel brings us a prophetic story of a river—the river of God—flowing from the altar in the temple of God. This river as it flows forth grows ever wider and deeper, teeming with life and bringing fruit everywhere it flows. It is a picture of life flowing from the church as the Holy Spirit is brought to life through Gods people entering relationship with Jesus Christ through prayer. When a church is truly connected to the Spirit of God, God’s Spirit flows in the ministry—first through the body of Christ and then out from the doors into the surrounding community, bringing life and fruit wherever it flows.
How does the church become filled to overflowing with the Holy Spirit of God? There is only one way—The transforming life-giving work of the Holy Spirit comes when each and every mission and ministry of the church begins with prayer. Luke 11:5-13 is an important passage on prayer and perseverance but notice at the end of this passage the powerful message Jesus brings: “How much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!” Join us this week at Sedona United Methodist Church as Rev. Fred Mast offers a message entitled “Just Ask”.
Sunday mornings we enter the spirit of worship at 9:30 a.m. featuring meaningful times of prayer, joyous music, and life messages that will help move you closer in your relationship with Jesus Christ. Our worship is upbeat and lively, and Holy Spirit filled! 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.
We offer several weekly book and bible studies: NEW ADULT STUDY (Three Simple Rules-A Wesleyan Way of Living) BEGINS Tuesday September 24th at two locations—10:30am at the Church (110 Indian Cliffs Rd.) & 2pm at “The Gathering Place” (1835 W. State Rte. 89A) in West Sedona. The entire community is welcome and invited—Please Call the church office for more details (928)282-1780. 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!
