“We love because He loved us first”—1 John 4:19
At Christmas, one of the things that should distinguish a Christ follower is a love that reaches out to the marginalized and the forgotten. Such giving is an act of true worship. For Jesus this is personal. Reading the Christmas narrative, we remember that the Son of God chose to be born into a family of very little means—Nobody could have expected the Messiah to be born in a manger in the little town of Bethlehem.
Over and over again in scripture we see Jesus teaching that He is on the side of the impoverished. As Christ followers we are called to do the same–to lavishly love the least, the last, and the lost. Those who are hurting, and those who are lonely. The people in our neighborhoods, our communities, and around the world. As God’s people serve in humble and generous ways, the story of Jesus is told again and again.
The poor in our world will be touched by God through how we choose to celebrate Christmas. Through our actions and our words, people will be reminded that they are loved by the Creator of the universe, and He has not forgotten them. When we show up and love in the name of God, God shows up through us.
That’s part of the mystery of partnering with Jesus in the work he is still doing through believers. The good news of the gospel is for all people, including us! We radically love others because we have personally experienced the radical love of God—That changes our hearts, and it should change the way we celebrate Christmas.
Join us this week at Sedona United Methodist Church as Rev. Fred Mast brings a very special Advent message entitled “Love Changes Everything!” 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 spirit filled
Immediately following worship, you are invited to stay and join us in our Fellowship Hall this week for a very special fellowship time featuring delicious goodies and snacks, beverages, and always great hot coffee. This is the friendliest and most welcoming congregation & fellowship time anywhere!
Save the date for our two Traditional Candlelight Christmas Eve services, Saturday December 24th at 4PM or 6PM. Join us for an amazing evening of your favorite Christmas Carols, Candle lighting and the Christmas story told through the voice of the scriptures. All are welcome—Family friendly—Come and welcome the Christ Child!
We offer several weekly book and bible studies: Tuesday’s join us @ 1:30 pm for a bible study at The Gathering Place in West Sedona; and Thursday’s Women’s Bible Study at 9:45am. So many great missions, ministries, and fellowship opportunities at Sedona UMC—Call our office for additional details.
Visit our website at 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 United Methodist—Come and join this growing faith family! Invite, pick-up, and bring your friends and family.
