First in the series, Real Faith for Real People

Rev. Todd Harris, preaching

Hebrews 12:1-3 NRSV

1Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, 2 looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith, who for the sake of the joy that was set before him endured the cross, disregarding its shame, and has taken his seat at the right hand of the throne of God.

3 Consider him who endured such hostility against himself from sinners, so that you may not grow weary or lose heart.

Trinity Sunday

Today we celebrate Pentecost and Graduation Sunday, sending out our disciples into the world

This sermon was delivered on May 20, 2012, on FUMC Allen's very first Change the World weekend.

As we hear God's Word, we must learn how to Be in God's presence in order to Go and Do the work of Christ in the World

If we’re going to change the world, we must be the change we want to see. If we want the world to be a kinder place, we must be kinder people. If we want the world to be more generous, we must be more generous. If we want the world to have more of a servant’s heart, we must have a servant’s heart.

“In this passage, God demonstrates the power of change through two people; Ananias and Saul. Sermons regularly feature details of Saul’s dramatic change; namely his conversion and call to ministry. But Ananias underwent a major change as well. He changed his thinking about Saul. He dared to believe God had truly transformed the old Saul who sought to kill him into the new Saul whom God chose to bring the gospel to the Gentiles. By the time Ananias greeted Saul, he called him “brother”—a clear indication of Ananias’ attitude change. Each day, as followers of Christ, we have the potential to serve as change agents of God. Who knows whom God needs us to befriend today. Transform the world. Be the change you seek.”

First in the Change The World: Be. Go. Do.

Youth Sunday

This Sunday is Confirmation Sunday when our confirmands officially become full members of FUMC Allen. Rev. Harris is sharing with us a timely message he's titled "Is It Necessary to Have It All Figured Out?" and he's using Luke 24:36-49 as his biblical reference.

In this passage, Jesus makes his living presence known to his followers. To prove he's no ghost, he lets them touch him and points out his scars from the crucifixion. He shares a meal with them and opens their minds to understand the scripture and how the events of the previous weeks fulfilled the prophecy found in the Law of Moses, the Books of the Prophets, and in the Psalms of David. He also prepared them to receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.

Do we know if those who witnessed this event had it all figured out? Is it necessary to have all the answers? The Bible tells us they worshiped, they praised God, and they were full of JOY because Jesus was alive! And they had strength to face their new world because they had each other.