It is likely you have met people who are always looking for a fight especially in today’s world. They never met an argument they did not want to join. They love correcting people and pointing out to others the wrong they have done, all the while ignoring their own deceit. They avoid the truth for their personal gain and desires. Those people often don’t have many close friends—People treat their arrival with a sigh that seems to say, “Here we go . . . ”

There are other people who will avoid a fight at all costs. These are peacemakers—Jesus spoke often about peacemaking. They abhor conflict—And because of this they will often be walked over and will stand by quietly as societal “norms” and pressures run roughshod through society and even the church.

Paul speaking to Timothy, “Here’s a word you can take to heart and depend on: Jesus Christ came into the world to save sinners—those who could never have made it on their own apart from sheer mercy. And now he shows off the faithful—He places them on the front lines of the battle. Faithful sent to save those who are right on the edge of trusting him forever. Those who He has called into the battle for His kingdom here on earth.”

“I’m passing this work on to you, my son Timothy. The prophetic word that was directed to you prepared us for this. All those prayers are coming together now so you will do this well, fearless in your struggle, keeping a firm grip on your faith and on yourself. After all, this is a fight we’re in.” (1 Timothy 1:18-19—The Message) Although God does not desire for His people to enter conflict for the sake of conflict, God does call upon His people to always uphold His truths at all costs.

Join us this week at Sedona United Methodist Church as Rev. Fred Mast continues a Sermon Series on 1 Timothy offering a message entitled “Reporting for Duty”. Sunday mornings we enter the spirit of worship at 9:30 am featuring uplifting music, special times of prayer, and passionate life changing messages that will move you closer in your relationship with Jesus Christ and others. Sunday school offered for children kindergarten to 6th grade.

Immediately following worship, you are invited to stay and join us in our Fellowship Hall for a very special fellowship time featuring delicious goodies and snacks, beverages, and always great hot coffee. This is the friendliest and most welcoming fellowship time anywhere!

We offer several weekly book and bible studies: Tuesday’s join us @ 1:30 pm for a new study based on the series “The Chosen” at The Gathering Place in West Sedona; and Thursday’s Women’s Bible Study at 9:45am. We offer so many great missions, ministries, and fellowship opportunities at Sedona UMC.

Visit our website at us on www.sedonaumc.org and “Like” us on Facebook. 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! Invite, pick-up, and bring your friends and family.

ALSO: We want to remind you of an important mission needing your help. We are partnering with the Two-Fer Tuesday Group, gathering school supplies for the children of moms who are being cared for at Hope Women’s Center, Camp Verde, and on the Navajo Nation due to poverty, domestic abuse, substance abuse, emotional distress, family conflict, trafficking and/or DCS intervention.

While you’re out this weekend, please pick up any school supplies or those on the list below. You can bring them to church on Sunday or drop them off at our three “donation stations” THIS TUESDAY, July 19th: (1.) Cafe Jose (Safeway Shopping Center in West Sedona), the (2.) Sedona United Methodist Church (Back O’ Beyond Roundabout on 179, Sedona), -AND- (3.) Cleaner Quicker Car Wash and Detailing.

NEEDED ITEMS INCLUDE: BACKPACKS, PENCILS, CRAYONS, MAGIC MARKERS, ROUNDED-END SCISSORS, CONSTRUCTION PAPER, GLUE STICKS, AND SPIRAL NOTEBOOKS.

If you wish to donate and receive a tax deduction, please hand-deliver or send checks to Sedona United Methodist Church, 100 Indian Cliffs Road, Sedona 86336 and put “Two Fer Tuesday” in the memo section. WE’LL DO THE SHOPPING FOR YOU!