Classic Worship | 11 AM | July 26th , 2026

I'm saying that I'm saying that everybody understands Good morning and welcome. Welcome to

Good morning and welcome. Welcome to Memorial Drive United Methodist Church Memorial Drive United Methodist Church Memorial Drive United Methodist Church for our Sunday worship service on this for our Sunday worship service on this for our Sunday worship service on this last Sunday in July. It is wonderful to last Sunday in July. It is wonderful to last Sunday in July. It is wonderful to see you all gathering familiar faces, see you all gathering familiar faces, see you all gathering familiar faces, new faces. And I also want to welcome new faces. And I also want to welcome new faces. And I also want to welcome you if you're joining us online each you if you're joining us online each you if you're joining us online each week. Do you all know more than a week. Do you all know more than a week. Do you all know more than a hundred people, sometimes close to 200 hundred people, sometimes close to 200 hundred people, sometimes close to 200 people watch our service online? So I people watch our service online? So I people watch our service online? So I want to welcome you here to this space want to welcome you here to this space want to welcome you here to this space too. I'm Jenny Vera Shrekingst. I'm one too. I'm Jenny Vera Shrekingst. I'm one too. I'm Jenny Vera Shrekingst. I'm one of the ministers here at MDUMC. It's my of the ministers here at MDUMC. It's my of the ministers here at MDUMC. It's my joy to greet you here in the name of joy to greet you here in the name of joy to greet you here in the name of Christ and um then tell you that we have Christ and um then tell you that we have Christ and um then tell you that we have been praying all week and preparing for been praying all week and preparing for been praying all week and preparing for this time in this place that we set this time in this place that we set this time in this place that we set aside for worship, for connection, for aside for worship, for connection, for aside for worship, for connection, for prayer, for beauty, for song, for word. prayer, for beauty, for song, for word. prayer, for beauty, for song, for word. I'm joined today by the one and only I'm joined today by the one and only I'm joined today by the one and only Reverend Jim McFale, who will be Reverend Jim McFale, who will be Reverend Jim McFale, who will be preaching on Micah as we continue our preaching on Micah as we continue our preaching on Micah as we continue our worship series on the minor prophets. worship series on the minor prophets. worship series on the minor prophets. You'll notice around our space that You'll notice around our space that You'll notice around our space that we've had a little bit of fun with the we've had a little bit of fun with the we've had a little bit of fun with the minor league series. Um, you'll hear minor league series. Um, you'll hear minor league series. Um, you'll hear more about that prophet later on in our more about that prophet later on in our more about that prophet later on in our service. I want to invite you at this service. I want to invite you at this service. I want to invite you at this time to register your attendance. It's time to register your attendance. It's time to register your attendance. It's important for us to know who you are, important for us to know who you are, important for us to know who you are, that you were here. You can update your that you were here. You can update your that you were here. You can update your contact information at this time or contact information at this time or contact information at this time or indicate any needs that you might have indicate any needs that you might have indicate any needs that you might have or interests to get involved in or interests to get involved in or interests to get involved in particular ministries. So, you can scan particular ministries. So, you can scan particular ministries. So, you can scan the QR code that's on the front of your the QR code that's on the front of your the QR code that's on the front of your worship bulletin. You can also find the worship bulletin. You can also find the worship bulletin. You can also find the blue registration folder. There is one blue registration folder. There is one blue registration folder. There is one on each row of pews. And then pass that

on each row of pews. And then pass that on each row of pews. And then pass that down your row. Get to know the people down your row. Get to know the people down your row. Get to know the people who sit near you. We're a better church who sit near you. We're a better church who sit near you. We're a better church when we know who's worshiping with us. when we know who's worshiping with us. when we know who's worshiping with us. And so I want to encourage you to do And so I want to encourage you to do And so I want to encourage you to do that now or soon in our worship service. that now or soon in our worship service. that now or soon in our worship service. Also, if you're joining us online, you Also, if you're joining us online, you Also, if you're joining us online, you can register your attendance at this can register your attendance at this can register your attendance at this time as well as we gather today and hold time as well as we gather today and hold time as well as we gather today and hold space for all the things that have space for all the things that have space for all the things that have unfolded in our lives in the week since unfolded in our lives in the week since unfolded in our lives in the week since we last met or in the time since you we last met or in the time since you we last met or in the time since you last were in a church. I know that God last were in a church. I know that God last were in a church. I know that God is meeting us here is present. Even is meeting us here is present. Even is meeting us here is present. Even though we may feel uh that God is quiet though we may feel uh that God is quiet though we may feel uh that God is quiet or we don't see a physical manifestation or we don't see a physical manifestation or we don't see a physical manifestation of the Lord, we know that God is in our of the Lord, we know that God is in our of the Lord, we know that God is in our midst, that the presence of Christ is midst, that the presence of Christ is midst, that the presence of Christ is among the body of Christ. And I'm among the body of Christ. And I'm among the body of Christ. And I'm grateful for that. I want to invite you grateful for that. I want to invite you grateful for that. I want to invite you now to begin our time of worship and now to begin our time of worship and now to begin our time of worship and prayer. Our call to worship is a prayer. Our call to worship is a prayer. Our call to worship is a responsive prayer. Would you stand in responsive prayer. Would you stand in responsive prayer. Would you stand in body or in spirit as you're able and body or in spirit as you're able and body or in spirit as you're able and join me? join me? join me? How shall we worship our God?

How shall we worship our God? How shall we worship our God? We hear what the Lord requires of us. We hear what the Lord requires of us. We hear what the Lord requires of us. Leave empty talk and pride behind. We Leave empty talk and pride behind. We Leave empty talk and pride behind. We must walk the walk. Prepare to step out must walk the walk. Prepare to step out must walk the walk. Prepare to step out in faith, even into troubled waters. in faith, even into troubled waters. in faith, even into troubled waters. Only God knows where we might need to Only God knows where we might need to Only God knows where we might need to go. Don't be afraid. go. Don't be afraid. go. Don't be afraid. Jesus will guide our steps along the Jesus will guide our steps along the Jesus will guide our steps along the way, teaching us to walk humbly, to love way, teaching us to walk humbly, to love way, teaching us to walk humbly, to love boldly, to serve God with body, soul, boldly, to serve God with body, soul, boldly, to serve God with body, soul, mind, and strength. Let's sing and mind, and strength. Let's sing and mind, and strength. Let's sing and worship together. Glad you're here. and we are and we are for for for singing.

might might Ever Ever Ever Jesus Jesus Jesus spjes As you remain standing, let us affirm As you remain standing, let us affirm our faith together using the historic our faith together using the historic our faith together using the historic confession of the Apostles Creed. I confession of the Apostles Creed. I confession of the Apostles Creed. I believe in God the Father Almighty, believe in God the Father Almighty, believe in God the Father Almighty, maker of heaven and earth, and in Jesus maker of heaven and earth, and in Jesus maker of heaven and earth, and in Jesus Christ, his only son, our Lord, who was Christ, his only son, our Lord, who was Christ, his only son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontious the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontious the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontious Pilate, was crucified, dead, and buried.

Pilate, was crucified, dead, and buried. Pilate, was crucified, dead, and buried. The third day he arose from the dead. He The third day he arose from the dead. He The third day he arose from the dead. He ascended into heaven and siteth at the ascended into heaven and siteth at the ascended into heaven and siteth at the right hand of God the Father Almighty. right hand of God the Father Almighty. right hand of God the Father Almighty. From then he shall come to judge the From then he shall come to judge the From then he shall come to judge the quick and the dead. I believe in the quick and the dead. I believe in the quick and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the Holy Catholic Church, Holy Spirit, the Holy Catholic Church, Holy Spirit, the Holy Catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness the communion of saints, the forgiveness the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, of sins, the resurrection of the body, of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. and the life everlasting. and the life everlasting. Amen. Glory Glory to the Father to the Father to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy and to the Son and to the Holy and to the Son and to the Holy Ghost. is is ever shall be ever shall be ever shall be world.

Please remain standing so that you can Please remain standing so that you can turn and greet and welcome those that turn and greet and welcome those that turn and greet and welcome those that are near and about you as our baptismal are near and about you as our baptismal are near and about you as our baptismal family makes their way to the front. All right. Hello. Hello. All right. Up All right. Hello. Hello. All right. Up front and center. front and center. front and center. Yeah. Brothers and sisters in Christ through Brothers and sisters in Christ through the sacrament of baptism, we are the sacrament of baptism, we are the sacrament of baptism, we are incorporated. We are initiated into incorporated. We are initiated into incorporated. We are initiated into God's holy church. We are incorporated God's holy church. We are incorporated God's holy church. We are incorporated into God's mighty acts of salvation, into God's mighty acts of salvation, into God's mighty acts of salvation, given new birth through water and the given new birth through water and the given new birth through water and the spirit. All this is God's gift offered spirit. All this is God's gift offered spirit. All this is God's gift offered to us without price. This morning, uh, to us without price. This morning, uh, to us without price. This morning, uh, we bring this family now to receive the we bring this family now to receive the we bring this family now to receive the sacrament.

sacrament. sacrament. >> Delighted that Pierce and Tatum Martins >> Delighted that Pierce and Tatum Martins >> Delighted that Pierce and Tatum Martins are here to present their son for are here to present their son for are here to present their son for baptism at this time. So, I ask you a baptism at this time. So, I ask you a baptism at this time. So, I ask you a few questions. Do you accept the freedom few questions. Do you accept the freedom few questions. Do you accept the freedom and power God gives you to resist evil, and power God gives you to resist evil, and power God gives you to resist evil, injustice, and oppression in whatever injustice, and oppression in whatever injustice, and oppression in whatever forms they are as you repent of your forms they are as you repent of your forms they are as you repent of your sins? sins? sins? >> We do. >> We do. >> We do. Do you receive and profess the Christian Do you receive and profess the Christian Do you receive and profess the Christian faith as contained in the scriptures of faith as contained in the scriptures of faith as contained in the scriptures of the Old and New Testaments? the Old and New Testaments? the Old and New Testaments? >> We do. >> We do. >> We do. >> Do you confess Jesus Christ as your >> Do you confess Jesus Christ as your >> Do you confess Jesus Christ as your savior? Put your whole trust in his savior? Put your whole trust in his savior? Put your whole trust in his grace and promise to serve him as your grace and promise to serve him as your grace and promise to serve him as your Lord? Lord? Lord? >> We do. Will you nurture prior in >> We do. Will you nurture prior in >> We do. Will you nurture prior in Christ's holy church and by your Christ's holy church and by your Christ's holy church and by your teaching and example that he may be teaching and example that he may be teaching and example that he may be guided to accept God's grace for himself guided to accept God's grace for himself guided to accept God's grace for himself and profess his faith openly and be and profess his faith openly and be and profess his faith openly and be confirmed as a full and responsible confirmed as a full and responsible confirmed as a full and responsible member of Christ's holy church we will member of Christ's holy church we will member of Christ's holy church we will >> church you all have a role to play in >> church you all have a role to play in >> church you all have a role to play in this sacrament this morning as well do this sacrament this morning as well do this sacrament this morning as well do you as Christ body the church reaffirm you as Christ body the church reaffirm you as Christ body the church reaffirm both your rejection of sin and your both your rejection of sin and your both your rejection of sin and your commitment to Christ.

commitment to Christ. commitment to Christ. >> We do. >> We do. >> We do. >> Will you nurture one another in the >> Will you nurture one another in the >> Will you nurture one another in the Christian faith and life and include Christian faith and life and include Christian faith and life and include this child now before you in your care? this child now before you in your care? this child now before you in your care? >> With God's help, we will proclaim the >> With God's help, we will proclaim the >> With God's help, we will proclaim the good news and live according to the good news and live according to the good news and live according to the example of Christ. We will surround this example of Christ. We will surround this example of Christ. We will surround this child with a community of love and child with a community of love and child with a community of love and forgiveness that he may grow in his forgiveness that he may grow in his forgiveness that he may grow in his service to others. We will pray for him service to others. We will pray for him service to others. We will pray for him that he may be a true disciple who walks that he may be a true disciple who walks that he may be a true disciple who walks in the way that leads to life. >> Let us pray. Gracious God, >> Let us pray. Gracious God, water has always been an instrument, water has always been an instrument, water has always been an instrument, sign and symbol of your love and grace. sign and symbol of your love and grace. sign and symbol of your love and grace. And now we ask that your Holy Spirit And now we ask that your Holy Spirit And now we ask that your Holy Spirit would come and consecrate this water as would come and consecrate this water as would come and consecrate this water as this one is to be baptized in your name.

this one is to be baptized in your name. this one is to be baptized in your name. Amen. Amen. Amen. So I have prayer turn around. So I have prayer turn around. So I have prayer turn around. All right. All right. All right. Hello Prior. Good morning. Good morning. Hello Prior. Good morning. Good morning. Hello Prior. Good morning. Good morning. What name is given him? What name is given him? What name is given him? >> Prior Pierce. Prior Pierce Martins, I >> Prior Pierce. Prior Pierce Martins, I >> Prior Pierce. Prior Pierce Martins, I baptize you in the name of the Father baptize you in the name of the Father baptize you in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit and pray God's richest blessings upon and pray God's richest blessings upon and pray God's richest blessings upon you and your life now and forever. Amen. you and your life now and forever. Amen. you and your life now and forever. Amen. Now, this is a bigger family. Now, I am Now, this is a bigger family. Now, I am Now, this is a bigger family. Now, I am so fortunate that you bribed all your so fortunate that you bribed all your so fortunate that you bribed all your families to fill up the front two rows, families to fill up the front two rows, families to fill up the front two rows, but it's also good to welcome prior to a but it's also good to welcome prior to a but it's also good to welcome prior to a bigger family, the church family. So, bigger family, the church family. So, bigger family, the church family. So, hello, welcome. Welcome. It's good to hello, welcome. Welcome. It's good to hello, welcome. Welcome. It's good to baptize you this day. Amen. And amen.

>> Good job. Thank you. >> Good job. Thank you. >> He did great. All right. >> He did great. All right. >> He did great. All right. >> As they make their way back to their >> As they make their way back to their >> As they make their way back to their seat, um friends, we invite children who seat, um friends, we invite children who seat, um friends, we invite children who are a little few years down the road to are a little few years down the road to are a little few years down the road to come up for our children's time. Um that come up for our children's time. Um that come up for our children's time. Um that I'll be leading all summer long. We have I'll be leading all summer long. We have I'll be leading all summer long. We have been doing the mystery box. So, I don't been doing the mystery box. So, I don't been doing the mystery box. So, I don't know what is coming my way. I think that know what is coming my way. I think that know what is coming my way. I think that Olivia has brought our box and there is Olivia has brought our box and there is Olivia has brought our box and there is something inside of it. If there's any something inside of it. If there's any something inside of it. If there's any other children who want to come down, other children who want to come down, other children who want to come down, you've got plenty of time. I don't know you've got plenty of time. I don't know you've got plenty of time. I don't know what's in this box, but there's what's in this box, but there's what's in this box, but there's something in this box. Yes. something in this box. Yes. something in this box. Yes. >> Okay. And whatever is in this box, we're >> Okay. And whatever is in this box, we're >> Okay. And whatever is in this box, we're going to think about what it might tell going to think about what it might tell going to think about what it might tell us about God. Do you know what's in the us about God. Do you know what's in the us about God. Do you know what's in the box? box? box? >> Okay, it's my turn to find out. >> Okay, it's my turn to find out. >> Okay, it's my turn to find out. It's a elephant. It's a elephant. It's a elephant. >> Oh, >> Oh, >> Oh, look at this.

look at this. look at this. It's a very cute elephant. It's a very cute elephant. It's a very cute elephant. A little beanie elephant that looks like A little beanie elephant that looks like A little beanie elephant that looks like it is a special friend it is a special friend it is a special friend in your house. Yeah. Does this elephant in your house. Yeah. Does this elephant in your house. Yeah. Does this elephant have a name? have a name? have a name? >> Um, on the tag it says >> Um, on the tag it says >> Um, on the tag it says >> Oh, on the tag. Bahhati. >> Oh, on the tag. Bahhati. >> Oh, on the tag. Bahhati. >> Nice. >> Nice. >> Nice. >> Bahhati. I wonder what that word means. >> Bahhati. I wonder what that word means. >> Bahhati. I wonder what that word means. Bahhati. Bahhati. Bahhati. >> You know, elephants >> You know, elephants >> You know, elephants >> elephants don't live here in our >> elephants don't live here in our >> elephants don't live here in our country, do they? country, do they? country, do they? >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Elephant at the zoo. Yeah. at the zoo. Yeah. >> Well, um probably token for tigers, too. >> Well, um probably token for tigers, too. >> Well, um probably token for tigers, too. >> Tigers at the zoo. Sometimes we have to >> Tigers at the zoo. Sometimes we have to >> Tigers at the zoo. Sometimes we have to go to special places to see special go to special places to see special go to special places to see special things like an elephant. Um because in things like an elephant. Um because in things like an elephant. Um because in the world, unless you count zoos, you the world, unless you count zoos, you the world, unless you count zoos, you have to go to Africa or Asia to see an have to go to Africa or Asia to see an have to go to Africa or Asia to see an elephant. That's where they live elephant. That's where they live elephant. That's where they live normally, right? normally, right? normally, right? >> And cheetahs. >> And cheetahs. >> And cheetahs. >> And cheetahs. So there's different >> And cheetahs. So there's different >> And cheetahs. So there's different animals and different things that live animals and different things that live animals and different things that live in different places, in different places, in different places, right?

>> Way back in the beginning of the world >> Way back in the beginning of the world when God was making everything. We read when God was making everything. We read when God was making everything. We read about the story when God made all kinds about the story when God made all kinds about the story when God made all kinds of things that fly in the air and swim of things that fly in the air and swim of things that fly in the air and swim in the sea and walk on the land in the sea and walk on the land in the sea and walk on the land including elephants. including elephants. including elephants. >> And then we read about a story where um >> And then we read about a story where um >> And then we read about a story where um what was the name of the first human >> in Genesis? >> in Genesis? It started with an A. It's my brother's It started with an A. It's my brother's It started with an A. It's my brother's name so I can always remember. Adam. name so I can always remember. Adam. name so I can always remember. Adam. >> Adam. There's a story in Genesis where >> Adam. There's a story in Genesis where >> Adam. There's a story in Genesis where then Adam got to name all the animals. then Adam got to name all the animals. then Adam got to name all the animals. What an interesting job that would be. What an interesting job that would be. What an interesting job that would be. And so maybe the word that Adam said was And so maybe the word that Adam said was And so maybe the word that Adam said was bahhati the elephant. But this strange bahhati the elephant. But this strange bahhati the elephant. But this strange creature came and we said God made that. creature came and we said God made that. creature came and we said God made that. And God has made every one of us. So And God has made every one of us. So And God has made every one of us. So even though we all live in different even though we all live in different even though we all live in different places, places, places, we all live in different places and we we all live in different places and we we all live in different places and we look different from one another, God has look different from one another, God has look different from one another, God has made each one of us. Yeah.

made each one of us. Yeah. made each one of us. Yeah. >> But what if you have a twin? >> But what if you have a twin? >> But what if you have a twin? >> If you have a twin, you're still a >> If you have a twin, you're still a >> If you have a twin, you're still a little different. Yeah. But God has made little different. Yeah. But God has made little different. Yeah. But God has made each one of us. And God knows our name. each one of us. And God knows our name. each one of us. And God knows our name. And God loves us and claims us. So I And God loves us and claims us. So I And God loves us and claims us. So I thank you for bringing this. I really thank you for bringing this. I really thank you for bringing this. I really like holding this little elephant. He's like holding this little elephant. He's like holding this little elephant. He's got a good feel, but I'm going to hand got a good feel, but I'm going to hand got a good feel, but I'm going to hand him back to you. him back to you. him back to you. >> Thanks for bringing our mystery box >> Thanks for bringing our mystery box >> Thanks for bringing our mystery box today. It just reminds us that we can today. It just reminds us that we can today. It just reminds us that we can find find find information and we can learn things information and we can learn things information and we can learn things about God and Jesus and the love of about God and Jesus and the love of about God and Jesus and the love of Christ everywhere we look. Right? I see Christ everywhere we look. Right? I see Christ everywhere we look. Right? I see that when I look at you guys. So, would that when I look at you guys. So, would that when I look at you guys. So, would y'all pray with me? y'all pray with me? y'all pray with me? >> Let's put our hands together. >> Let's put our hands together. >> Let's put our hands together. Repeat after me. And well, just a moment Repeat after me. And well, just a moment Repeat after me. And well, just a moment because when we look all around us, even because when we look all around us, even because when we look all around us, even here in this church, we see reminders of here in this church, we see reminders of here in this church, we see reminders of who God is. And I think that when this who God is. And I think that when this who God is. And I think that when this church looks up here at you guys, I church looks up here at you guys, I church looks up here at you guys, I think they see reminders of who God is, think they see reminders of who God is, think they see reminders of who God is, too. I'm thankful that you came up here.

too. I'm thankful that you came up here. too. I'm thankful that you came up here. Let's pray. Dear God, Let's pray. Dear God, Let's pray. Dear God, >> Dear God, >> Dear God, >> Dear God, >> thank you >> thank you >> thank you >> for all you have made. >> for all you have made. >> for all you have made. for elephants. for elephants. for elephants. >> For elephants, >> For elephants, >> For elephants, >> for insects, >> for insects, >> for insects, >> for insects, >> for insects, >> for insects, >> for people, >> for people, >> for people, >> for people, >> for people, >> for people, >> for families, >> for families, >> for families, >> for families, >> for families, >> for families, >> for children, >> for children, >> for children, >> for children. >> for children. >> for children. >> Help us see, God, >> Help us see, God, >> Help us see, God, >> help us see, God, >> help us see, God, >> help us see, God, >> that reminders of your goodness, >> that reminders of your goodness, >> that reminders of your goodness, >> that goodness >> that goodness >> that goodness >> are everywhere we look. >> are everywhere we look. >> are everywhere we look. >> everywhere we look. >> everywhere we look. >> everywhere we look. >> Amen. >> Amen. >> Amen. >> Thank you so very much for coming up >> Thank you so very much for coming up >> Thank you so very much for coming up here and spending a little time with me. here and spending a little time with me. here and spending a little time with me. Y'all can head back to your seats and Y'all can head back to your seats and Y'all can head back to your seats and tune in next week for another mystery tune in next week for another mystery tune in next week for another mystery box challenge. box challenge. box challenge. All right. All right. All right. >> Hi friends, it's Pastor Sean. Although >> Hi friends, it's Pastor Sean. Although >> Hi friends, it's Pastor Sean. Although I'm not with you this weekend, I wanted I'm not with you this weekend, I wanted I'm not with you this weekend, I wanted to take a moment to say hello and share to take a moment to say hello and share to take a moment to say hello and share a few things I'm especially excited a few things I'm especially excited a few things I'm especially excited about in the life of our church. First, about in the life of our church. First, about in the life of our church. First, come join us this evening at 600 p.m. at come join us this evening at 600 p.m. at come join us this evening at 600 p.m. at the Journey for Soul Sessions. The the Journey for Soul Sessions. The the Journey for Soul Sessions. The Journey Band will perform favorite hits Journey Band will perform favorite hits Journey Band will perform favorite hits from the 60s and 70s along with some from the 60s and 70s along with some from the 60s and 70s along with some current soulful music. Bring a friend, current soulful music. Bring a friend, current soulful music. Bring a friend, meet someone new, and enjoy a fun summer meet someone new, and enjoy a fun summer meet someone new, and enjoy a fun summer evening together. It's free and everyone evening together. It's free and everyone evening together. It's free and everyone is welcome. And as we begin looking is welcome. And as we begin looking is welcome. And as we begin looking toward the fall, I encourage you to toward the fall, I encourage you to toward the fall, I encourage you to think about taking a next step in your think about taking a next step in your think about taking a next step in your faith. We have two great opportunities faith. We have two great opportunities faith. We have two great opportunities beginning in August. I'll be leading a beginning in August. I'll be leading a beginning in August. I'll be leading a class that we're calling Foundations.

class that we're calling Foundations. class that we're calling Foundations. The point is to help deepen your The point is to help deepen your The point is to help deepen your understanding of scripture and the understanding of scripture and the understanding of scripture and the Christian life. I'd love for you to join Christian life. I'd love for you to join Christian life. I'd love for you to join me for this six-week class beginning me for this six-week class beginning me for this six-week class beginning August 23rd. Whether you've been August 23rd. Whether you've been August 23rd. Whether you've been following Jesus for 6 months or 60 following Jesus for 6 months or 60 following Jesus for 6 months or 60 years, this is a chance to revisit the years, this is a chance to revisit the years, this is a chance to revisit the big story of scripture, strengthen your big story of scripture, strengthen your big story of scripture, strengthen your faith, and connect with others along the faith, and connect with others along the faith, and connect with others along the way. way. way. And beginning August 19th, Pastor And beginning August 19th, Pastor And beginning August 19th, Pastor DeAndre and church member Victoria Oxley DeAndre and church member Victoria Oxley DeAndre and church member Victoria Oxley will lead an Alpha course. Alpha is will lead an Alpha course. Alpha is will lead an Alpha course. Alpha is designed to be a welcoming space for designed to be a welcoming space for designed to be a welcoming space for anyone who's exploring faith or anyone who's exploring faith or anyone who's exploring faith or returning to faith or simply asking the returning to faith or simply asking the returning to faith or simply asking the big questions of life. It's built around big questions of life. It's built around big questions of life. It's built around a shared meal and honest conversation a shared meal and honest conversation a shared meal and honest conversation and it's one of the easiest invitations and it's one of the easiest invitations and it's one of the easiest invitations you can extend to a friend. And finally, you can extend to a friend. And finally, you can extend to a friend. And finally, all women are invited to our women's all women are invited to our women's all women are invited to our women's summer lunch on Tuesday, August 4th. summer lunch on Tuesday, August 4th. summer lunch on Tuesday, August 4th. Come and enjoy a delicious lunch, hear Come and enjoy a delicious lunch, hear Come and enjoy a delicious lunch, hear an encouraging word from Carrie Neil, an encouraging word from Carrie Neil, an encouraging word from Carrie Neil, and connect with women from across our and connect with women from across our and connect with women from across our church. One of the things I love most church. One of the things I love most church. One of the things I love most about MDUMC is that faith grows through about MDUMC is that faith grows through about MDUMC is that faith grows through relationships. Whether it's around a relationships. Whether it's around a relationships. Whether it's around a table, in a small group, or through a table, in a small group, or through a table, in a small group, or through a shared experience, these are moments shared experience, these are moments shared experience, these are moments that shape us. And I hope you'll find a that shape us. And I hope you'll find a that shape us. And I hope you'll find a way to be a part of them. You can learn way to be a part of them. You can learn way to be a part of them. You can learn more about all of these and sign up for more about all of these and sign up for more about all of these and sign up for any of them at mdumc.org.

First, our first scripture lesson this First, our first scripture lesson this morning is from the Gospel of Matthew. morning is from the Gospel of Matthew. morning is from the Gospel of Matthew. Now, if you were here last Sunday, you Now, if you were here last Sunday, you Now, if you were here last Sunday, you will have heard these same words, but will have heard these same words, but will have heard these same words, but we've chosen to include them in today's we've chosen to include them in today's we've chosen to include them in today's worship service again because of the way worship service again because of the way worship service again because of the way that they align with so many of the that they align with so many of the that they align with so many of the prophets that we've been studying this prophets that we've been studying this prophets that we've been studying this summer. And so, I invite you now to hear summer. And so, I invite you now to hear summer. And so, I invite you now to hear a word from Matthew chapter 23. a word from Matthew chapter 23. a word from Matthew chapter 23. Woe to you scribes and Pharisees, Woe to you scribes and Pharisees, Woe to you scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites, for you tithe mint, dill, hypocrites, for you tithe mint, dill, hypocrites, for you tithe mint, dill, and cumin, and have neglected the and cumin, and have neglected the and cumin, and have neglected the weightier matters of the law, justice, weightier matters of the law, justice, weightier matters of the law, justice, and mercy and faith. It is these you and mercy and faith. It is these you and mercy and faith. It is these you ought to have practiced without ought to have practiced without ought to have practiced without neglecting the others. You blind guides, neglecting the others. You blind guides, neglecting the others. You blind guides, you strain out a knat, but swallow a you strain out a knat, but swallow a you strain out a knat, but swallow a camel. Woe to you scribes and Pharisees, camel. Woe to you scribes and Pharisees, camel. Woe to you scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites, for you clean the outside of hypocrites, for you clean the outside of hypocrites, for you clean the outside of the cup and of the plate, but inside the cup and of the plate, but inside the cup and of the plate, but inside they are full of greed and they are full of greed and they are full of greed and self-indulgence. self-indulgence. self-indulgence. You blind Pharisee. First clean the You blind Pharisee. First clean the You blind Pharisee. First clean the inside of the cup so that the outside inside of the cup so that the outside inside of the cup so that the outside also may become clean. Woe to you also may become clean. Woe to you also may become clean. Woe to you scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites, for scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites, for scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites, for you are like whitewashed tombs, which on you are like whitewashed tombs, which on you are like whitewashed tombs, which on the outside look beautiful, but inside the outside look beautiful, but inside the outside look beautiful, but inside they are full of the bones of the dead they are full of the bones of the dead they are full of the bones of the dead and of all kinds of filth. So you also and of all kinds of filth. So you also and of all kinds of filth. So you also on the outside look righteous to others, on the outside look righteous to others, on the outside look righteous to others, but inside you are full of hypocrisy and but inside you are full of hypocrisy and but inside you are full of hypocrisy and lawlessness.

lawlessness. lawlessness. It's the word of God for the people of It's the word of God for the people of It's the word of God for the people of God. God. God. >> Thanks be to God. A difficult word to >> Thanks be to God. A difficult word to >> Thanks be to God. A difficult word to hear from Jesus. And as we come now to hear from Jesus. And as we come now to hear from Jesus. And as we come now to this time where we share in our this time where we share in our this time where we share in our offerings, where we give of our tithes offerings, where we give of our tithes offerings, where we give of our tithes and our giving, we must tread carefully and our giving, we must tread carefully and our giving, we must tread carefully and be reminded that it is an important and be reminded that it is an important and be reminded that it is an important practice that we take up to share in the practice that we take up to share in the practice that we take up to share in the resources that God has blessed us with. resources that God has blessed us with. resources that God has blessed us with. Our financial giving matters and we do Our financial giving matters and we do Our financial giving matters and we do that not because we are supposed to that not because we are supposed to that not because we are supposed to perform in front of one another, not perform in front of one another, not perform in front of one another, not because everyone is watching, but we do because everyone is watching, but we do because everyone is watching, but we do that as an abundance, an overflow of that as an abundance, an overflow of that as an abundance, an overflow of what is within us. The change that what is within us. The change that what is within us. The change that Christ has brought in the hearts of each Christ has brought in the hearts of each Christ has brought in the hearts of each one of us is manifested and overflows one of us is manifested and overflows one of us is manifested and overflows into a generosity. And so as the ushers into a generosity. And so as the ushers into a generosity. And so as the ushers come forward, whether you put something come forward, whether you put something come forward, whether you put something in the plate or you text to give or give in the plate or you text to give or give in the plate or you text to give or give online, we give not because it looks online, we give not because it looks online, we give not because it looks right, but because it is what God has right, but because it is what God has right, but because it is what God has modeled for us and the sacrificial life modeled for us and the sacrificial life modeled for us and the sacrificial life and generosity of Jesus. Amen.

Please be seated. Please be seated. You'll see in your bulletins that we You'll see in your bulletins that we You'll see in your bulletins that we have space in our worship today for a have space in our worship today for a have space in our worship today for a mission highlight, a mission moment. And mission highlight, a mission moment. And mission highlight, a mission moment. And so I want to draw your attention to the so I want to draw your attention to the so I want to draw your attention to the inside of your bulletin cover and tell inside of your bulletin cover and tell inside of your bulletin cover and tell you about our back to school missions. you about our back to school missions. you about our back to school missions. It's hard to believe it, but school is It's hard to believe it, but school is It's hard to believe it, but school is starting just around the corner. And so starting just around the corner. And so starting just around the corner. And so there are a number of ways that you can there are a number of ways that you can there are a number of ways that you can be a part of our mission to our local be a part of our mission to our local be a part of our mission to our local schools. First, you'll see I'm going to schools. First, you'll see I'm going to schools. First, you'll see I'm going to skip the uniform drive for a moment, but skip the uniform drive for a moment, but skip the uniform drive for a moment, but you can donate school supplies. You can you can donate school supplies. You can you can donate school supplies. You can do that by shopping in a store and do that by shopping in a store and do that by shopping in a store and bringing it to the church. So, you can bringing it to the church. So, you can bringing it to the church. So, you can find our Amazon wish list and just have find our Amazon wish list and just have find our Amazon wish list and just have what you would like to give sent what you would like to give sent what you would like to give sent directly to the church. Couldn't get directly to the church. Couldn't get directly to the church. Couldn't get easier than that. You can bring a gift easier than that. You can bring a gift easier than that. You can bring a gift card for a teacher. There are a lot of card for a teacher. There are a lot of card for a teacher. There are a lot of schools in our area that have wonderful schools in our area that have wonderful schools in our area that have wonderful and active PTAs and there are some and active PTAs and there are some and active PTAs and there are some schools in our area that do not. We want schools in our area that do not. We want schools in our area that do not. We want all teachers to feel appreciated and all teachers to feel appreciated and all teachers to feel appreciated and supported and our congregation can be a supported and our congregation can be a supported and our congregation can be a part of that. You'll also see that you part of that. You'll also see that you part of that. You'll also see that you could become a lunch buddy. No special could become a lunch buddy. No special could become a lunch buddy. No special skills required. Just spending about an skills required. Just spending about an skills required. Just spending about an hour a week with a kid at Hollybrook hour a week with a kid at Hollybrook hour a week with a kid at Hollybrook Elementary, making them feel special, Elementary, making them feel special, Elementary, making them feel special, giving them that excitement of someone giving them that excitement of someone giving them that excitement of someone coming to visit them at lunch and going coming to visit them at lunch and going coming to visit them at lunch and going and visiting there. We also have our and visiting there. We also have our and visiting there. We also have our ma'am uniform drive and we have a video ma'am uniform drive and we have a video ma'am uniform drive and we have a video with more details about that that I'd with more details about that that I'd with more details about that that I'd like to invite you to watch at this like to invite you to watch at this like to invite you to watch at this time.

Hello, I'm Sonia G, president and CEO of Hello, I'm Sonia G, president and CEO of MAM. For nearly 40 years, MAM has been MAM. For nearly 40 years, MAM has been MAM. For nearly 40 years, MAM has been working with local faith congregations working with local faith congregations working with local faith congregations to create opportunities for people in to create opportunities for people in to create opportunities for people in our community to live with dignity and our community to live with dignity and our community to live with dignity and quality of life. We offer a range of quality of life. We offer a range of quality of life. We offer a range of programs focused on building financially programs focused on building financially programs focused on building financially stable families, a strong workforce, and stable families, a strong workforce, and stable families, a strong workforce, and healthy communities. At MAM, we lean healthy communities. At MAM, we lean healthy communities. At MAM, we lean into the messy, beautiful work of loving into the messy, beautiful work of loving into the messy, beautiful work of loving our neighbors. We believe that living in our neighbors. We believe that living in our neighbors. We believe that living in community means spending time listening community means spending time listening community means spending time listening and learning about one another's lives, and learning about one another's lives, and learning about one another's lives, believing in each other's potential, and believing in each other's potential, and believing in each other's potential, and investing our time and resources in investing our time and resources in investing our time and resources in helping one another grow into the people helping one another grow into the people helping one another grow into the people God created each one of us to be. We God created each one of us to be. We God created each one of us to be. We walk with our neighbors on the mountains walk with our neighbors on the mountains walk with our neighbors on the mountains and through the valleys. We hope, pray, and through the valleys. We hope, pray, and through the valleys. We hope, pray, and celebrate God's goodness and and celebrate God's goodness and and celebrate God's goodness and blessings together. It's hard to believe blessings together. It's hard to believe blessings together. It's hard to believe that in just a few weeks, children will that in just a few weeks, children will that in just a few weeks, children will be going back to school again. For my be going back to school again. For my be going back to school again. For my kids, this is always an exciting time. kids, this is always an exciting time. kids, this is always an exciting time. They can't wait to find out who their They can't wait to find out who their They can't wait to find out who their teachers will be and which friends will teachers will be and which friends will teachers will be and which friends will be in their classes. But for many of the be in their classes. But for many of the be in their classes. But for many of the families that MAM serves, this time of families that MAM serves, this time of families that MAM serves, this time of year can be incredibly stressful.

year can be incredibly stressful. year can be incredibly stressful. Parents want their kids to be successful Parents want their kids to be successful Parents want their kids to be successful in school. But most earn less than in school. But most earn less than in school. But most earn less than $25,000 a year and have to spend more $25,000 a year and have to spend more $25,000 a year and have to spend more than half of their income on housing, than half of their income on housing, than half of their income on housing, making back to school shopping a real making back to school shopping a real making back to school shopping a real financial burden. Here is where you can financial burden. Here is where you can financial burden. Here is where you can make a difference. Ma'am's back to make a difference. Ma'am's back to make a difference. Ma'am's back to school program provides vouchers so school program provides vouchers so school program provides vouchers so parents can take their children back to parents can take their children back to parents can take their children back to school shopping. For $50, you can school shopping. For $50, you can school shopping. For $50, you can provide hope and dignity to hardworking provide hope and dignity to hardworking provide hope and dignity to hardworking parents and help local students start parents and help local students start parents and help local students start off the year with clothes that fit off the year with clothes that fit off the year with clothes that fit feeling confident and ready to learn. feeling confident and ready to learn. feeling confident and ready to learn. This year, with our congregations and This year, with our congregations and This year, with our congregations and community, Ma'am has a bold goal to community, Ma'am has a bold goal to community, Ma'am has a bold goal to bribe new uniforms to 5,000 students. We bribe new uniforms to 5,000 students. We bribe new uniforms to 5,000 students. We cannot reach this goal without your cannot reach this goal without your cannot reach this goal without your support. I've seen firsthand how these support. I've seen firsthand how these support. I've seen firsthand how these uniforms can inspire confidence and how uniforms can inspire confidence and how uniforms can inspire confidence and how our students walk a little bit taller our students walk a little bit taller our students walk a little bit taller into school on that first day. Thank you into school on that first day. Thank you into school on that first day. Thank you for believing that every child in our for believing that every child in our for believing that every child in our community deserves to start their year community deserves to start their year community deserves to start their year off with excitement and a sense of off with excitement and a sense of off with excitement and a sense of belonging. Thank you for supporting belonging. Thank you for supporting belonging. Thank you for supporting Ma'am's back to school program.

So, there are five different ways that So, there are five different ways that you can be a part of our back to school you can be a part of our back to school you can be a part of our back to school mission moment. To recap, mission moment. To recap, mission moment. To recap, contributing money to the uniform contributing money to the uniform contributing money to the uniform drive-thru, ma'am. Donating school drive-thru, ma'am. Donating school drive-thru, ma'am. Donating school supplies, supplies, supplies, um, thanking a teacher with a gift card um, thanking a teacher with a gift card um, thanking a teacher with a gift card and becoming a lunch buddy. There's only and becoming a lunch buddy. There's only and becoming a lunch buddy. There's only four listed there, but the fifth one four listed there, but the fifth one four listed there, but the fifth one would be to begin praying now for the would be to begin praying now for the would be to begin praying now for the school year for our educators, for our school year for our educators, for our school year for our educators, for our students and families. And so you'll see students and families. And so you'll see students and families. And so you'll see more details about back- toschool more details about back- toschool more details about back- toschool activities happening here at our church activities happening here at our church activities happening here at our church in the next couple of weeks. But it's in the next couple of weeks. But it's in the next couple of weeks. But it's now is the time to begin our mission now is the time to begin our mission now is the time to begin our mission efforts for back-toschool success. With efforts for back-toschool success. With efforts for back-toschool success. With that fifth option in mind, I want to that fifth option in mind, I want to that fifth option in mind, I want to invite you now to join me in prayer. invite you now to join me in prayer. invite you now to join me in prayer. Lord Jesus, you are the one and only Lord Jesus, you are the one and only Lord Jesus, you are the one and only Christ. Christ. Christ. You are the one who called ordinary You are the one who called ordinary You are the one who called ordinary people from many walks of life to leave people from many walks of life to leave people from many walks of life to leave familiar paths and follow you to become familiar paths and follow you to become familiar paths and follow you to become your disciples and to see every person your disciples and to see every person your disciples and to see every person as someone to seek, someone to love and as someone to seek, someone to love and as someone to seek, someone to love and support and restore.

support and restore. support and restore. You, oh Christ, the one true leader of You, oh Christ, the one true leader of You, oh Christ, the one true leader of every congregation, are still calling every congregation, are still calling every congregation, are still calling your church today. By your grace, we your church today. By your grace, we your church today. By your grace, we choose to stand as one body, your body, choose to stand as one body, your body, choose to stand as one body, your body, the body of Christ, lifting our eyes the body of Christ, lifting our eyes the body of Christ, lifting our eyes above our differences and our divisions. above our differences and our divisions. above our differences and our divisions. Lord, teach us to follow you together, Lord, teach us to follow you together, Lord, teach us to follow you together, to encourage one another in faith and to to encourage one another in faith and to to encourage one another in faith and to keep before us the work that matters keep before us the work that matters keep before us the work that matters most. most. most. We remember your words that the We remember your words that the We remember your words that the weightier matters of faith are justice weightier matters of faith are justice weightier matters of faith are justice and mercy and faithfulness. and mercy and faithfulness. and mercy and faithfulness. Lord, keep us from becoming distracted Lord, keep us from becoming distracted Lord, keep us from becoming distracted by lesser things. In form in us hearts by lesser things. In form in us hearts by lesser things. In form in us hearts that act justly, that love mercy and that act justly, that love mercy and that act justly, that love mercy and kindness, and walk humbly with you. kindness, and walk humbly with you. kindness, and walk humbly with you. Today we pray for your people. Today we pray for your people. Today we pray for your people. We pray that you would strengthen those We pray that you would strengthen those We pray that you would strengthen those who are weary. You'd comfort those who who are weary. You'd comfort those who who are weary. You'd comfort those who grieve. You'd heal those who are sick in grieve. You'd heal those who are sick in grieve. You'd heal those who are sick in body, mind, or spirit.

body, mind, or spirit. body, mind, or spirit. Guide those facing difficult decisions. Guide those facing difficult decisions. Guide those facing difficult decisions. Bring hope to those burdened by fear or Bring hope to those burdened by fear or Bring hope to those burdened by fear or loneliness. loneliness. loneliness. Bless the ministries of this Bless the ministries of this Bless the ministries of this congregation and make us faithful congregation and make us faithful congregation and make us faithful neighbors to those who are hungry, neighbors to those who are hungry, neighbors to those who are hungry, forgotten, living in poverty, or forgotten, living in poverty, or forgotten, living in poverty, or vulnerable. vulnerable. vulnerable. May your church be a sign of your May your church be a sign of your May your church be a sign of your compassion in this community and compassion in this community and compassion in this community and throughout the world. throughout the world. throughout the world. Lord Jesus, we ask for your Holy Lord Jesus, we ask for your Holy Lord Jesus, we ask for your Holy Spirit's help. For we are quick to focus Spirit's help. For we are quick to focus Spirit's help. For we are quick to focus on ourselves, our labels, and our on ourselves, our labels, and our on ourselves, our labels, and our differences, those things that we think differences, those things that we think differences, those things that we think make us special instead of focusing on make us special instead of focusing on make us special instead of focusing on the common calling that you have given the common calling that you have given the common calling that you have given us and the common savior who leads us. us and the common savior who leads us. us and the common savior who leads us. Make us people of justice and mercy and Make us people of justice and mercy and Make us people of justice and mercy and humble faithfulness. humble faithfulness. humble faithfulness. Make us instruments, channels of peace Make us instruments, channels of peace Make us instruments, channels of peace in our world. in our world. in our world. We ask this for the sake of our worship We ask this for the sake of our worship We ask this for the sake of our worship and our witness and our love for one and our witness and our love for one and our witness and our love for one another and for the healing of your another and for the healing of your another and for the healing of your world.

world. world. Christ, you are the merciful one and we Christ, you are the merciful one and we Christ, you are the merciful one and we ask for your mercy in your precious ask for your mercy in your precious ask for your mercy in your precious name. That name which unites us all. We name. That name which unites us all. We name. That name which unites us all. We pray and we pray using the words that pray and we pray using the words that pray and we pray using the words that you taught us yourself, saying, "Our you taught us yourself, saying, "Our you taught us yourself, saying, "Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give done on earth as it is in heaven. Give done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. Forgive us us this day our daily bread. Forgive us us this day our daily bread. Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those our trespasses as we forgive those our trespasses as we forgive those who've trespassed against us. and lead who've trespassed against us. and lead who've trespassed against us. and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us us not into temptation, but deliver us us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and from evil. For thine is the kingdom and from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen. Friends, as I was uh preparing for this Friends, as I was uh preparing for this week's worship and reading through the week's worship and reading through the week's worship and reading through the sermon scripture and speaking with Jim sermon scripture and speaking with Jim sermon scripture and speaking with Jim about what he might speak, uh the prayer about what he might speak, uh the prayer about what he might speak, uh the prayer the prayer of St. Francis kept coming to the prayer of St. Francis kept coming to the prayer of St. Francis kept coming to mind as we are keeping in mind justice.

mind as we are keeping in mind justice. mind as we are keeping in mind justice. both the justice that God levies on his both the justice that God levies on his both the justice that God levies on his people and the justice that we are meant people and the justice that we are meant people and the justice that we are meant to bring to this earth as its stewards. to bring to this earth as its stewards. to bring to this earth as its stewards. Um so I I want to invite you to do one Um so I I want to invite you to do one Um so I I want to invite you to do one of two things now. You can stay seated of two things now. You can stay seated of two things now. You can stay seated and you can either turn to number 2171 and you can either turn to number 2171 and you can either turn to number 2171 in the faith we sing. Those are the in the faith we sing. Those are the in the faith we sing. Those are the little black himnels uh in front of you. little black himnels uh in front of you. little black himnels uh in front of you. Or simply use this time uh to continue Or simply use this time uh to continue Or simply use this time uh to continue in prayer uh to prepare your hearts to in prayer uh to prepare your hearts to in prayer uh to prepare your hearts to hear the word in such a way that you are hear the word in such a way that you are hear the word in such a way that you are moved not only closer to Jesus but to do moved not only closer to Jesus but to do moved not only closer to Jesus but to do good in the world today. Where there is hatred, let me bring your Where there is hatred, let me bring your love.

Where there is injury, you're flying Where there is injury, you're flying alone. And where there's And where there's faith in you, Where there's despair in the life that Where there's despair in the life that we bring home. Where there is darkness, Where there is darkness, I'll be light and where there's sadness and where there's sadness joy. to be unerstood, to be unerstood, as to understand, to give love and to love with all my to give love and to love with all my soul.

It is in It is in that we are pardoned. and in time that we're born to eternal and in time that we're born to eternal love. >> Amen. >> Amen. >> Amen. It's good to be here this morning. >> Amen. It's good to be here this morning. >> Amen. It's good to be here this morning. I appreciate our clarinet ensemble and I appreciate our clarinet ensemble and I appreciate our clarinet ensemble and one of those arrangements was done by one of those arrangements was done by one of those arrangements was done by Steve Ryberger himself. So, uh, Steve Ryberger himself. So, uh, Steve Ryberger himself. So, uh, appreciate their talent. As always, it's appreciate their talent. As always, it's appreciate their talent. As always, it's good to see you here in the sanctuary good to see you here in the sanctuary good to see you here in the sanctuary within these walls, but I know as Jenny within these walls, but I know as Jenny within these walls, but I know as Jenny said, we we have hundreds that tune in said, we we have hundreds that tune in said, we we have hundreds that tune in to our our online service each week, and to our our online service each week, and to our our online service each week, and we certainly appreciate that very, very we certainly appreciate that very, very we certainly appreciate that very, very much. much. much. This summer series is called the minors This summer series is called the minors This summer series is called the minors which means we are focusing on the minor which means we are focusing on the minor which means we are focusing on the minor prophets. As noted from other Sundays, prophets. As noted from other Sundays, prophets. As noted from other Sundays, these are considered minor due to the these are considered minor due to the these are considered minor due to the length of the books and not the subject length of the books and not the subject length of the books and not the subject matter. Most of the minor books are 3 to matter. Most of the minor books are 3 to matter. Most of the minor books are 3 to seven chapters long. So they are seven chapters long. So they are seven chapters long. So they are relatively short books. Now, I'll have relatively short books. Now, I'll have relatively short books. Now, I'll have to admit that when I preach on the minor to admit that when I preach on the minor to admit that when I preach on the minor prophets, I always have to reread them prophets, I always have to reread them prophets, I always have to reread them several times, do research and study

several times, do research and study several times, do research and study since they are not ones I know well. The since they are not ones I know well. The since they are not ones I know well. The se the themes of the minor prophets se the themes of the minor prophets se the themes of the minor prophets center around the people forgetting center around the people forgetting center around the people forgetting about God and forgetting how they're about God and forgetting how they're about God and forgetting how they're supposed to treat each other. The supposed to treat each other. The supposed to treat each other. The treatment of poor is highlighted in treatment of poor is highlighted in treatment of poor is highlighted in several books as well as the theme of of several books as well as the theme of of several books as well as the theme of of injustice injustice injustice throughout the minors. The theme shows throughout the minors. The theme shows throughout the minors. The theme shows how people are being treated unfairly, how people are being treated unfairly, how people are being treated unfairly, abused, and even taken advantage of. So abused, and even taken advantage of. So abused, and even taken advantage of. So our scripture lesson this morning is in our scripture lesson this morning is in our scripture lesson this morning is in two passages from Micah. Very two passages from Micah. Very two passages from Micah. Very contrasting words there of the first contrasting words there of the first contrasting words there of the first part which deals with abuse of the part which deals with abuse of the part which deals with abuse of the people where there's no justice. The people where there's no justice. The people where there's no justice. The second passage will probably be familiar second passage will probably be familiar second passage will probably be familiar words about what the Lord requires of words about what the Lord requires of words about what the Lord requires of us. us. us. And I said, listen, you heads of Jacob And I said, listen, you heads of Jacob And I said, listen, you heads of Jacob and rulers of the house of Israel, and rulers of the house of Israel, and rulers of the house of Israel, should you not know justice?

should you not know justice? should you not know justice? You who hate the good and love the evil, You who hate the good and love the evil, You who hate the good and love the evil, who tear the skin off my people and the who tear the skin off my people and the who tear the skin off my people and the flesh off their bones, who eat the flesh flesh off their bones, who eat the flesh flesh off their bones, who eat the flesh of my people, flay their skin off them, of my people, flay their skin off them, of my people, flay their skin off them, break their bones in pieces, chop them break their bones in pieces, chop them break their bones in pieces, chop them up like meat in a cattle and flesh in a up like meat in a cattle and flesh in a up like meat in a cattle and flesh in a cauldron. Hear this, you rulers of the cauldron. Hear this, you rulers of the cauldron. Hear this, you rulers of the house of Jacob and chiefs of the house house of Jacob and chiefs of the house house of Jacob and chiefs of the house of Israel, who abhore justice and of Israel, who abhore justice and of Israel, who abhore justice and pervert all equity, who build Zion with pervert all equity, who build Zion with pervert all equity, who build Zion with blood and Jerusalem with wrong. Its blood and Jerusalem with wrong. Its blood and Jerusalem with wrong. Its rulers give judgment for a bribe. Its rulers give judgment for a bribe. Its rulers give judgment for a bribe. Its priests teach for a price. Its prophets priests teach for a price. Its prophets priests teach for a price. Its prophets give oracles for money. Yet they lean on give oracles for money. Yet they lean on give oracles for money. Yet they lean on the Lord and say, "Surely the Lord is the Lord and say, "Surely the Lord is the Lord and say, "Surely the Lord is with us. No harm shall come to us." with us. No harm shall come to us." with us. No harm shall come to us." Therefore, because of you, Zion will be Therefore, because of you, Zion will be Therefore, because of you, Zion will be plowed as a field. Jerusalem shall plowed as a field. Jerusalem shall plowed as a field. Jerusalem shall become a heap of ruins. become a heap of ruins. become a heap of ruins. With what shall I come before the Lord With what shall I come before the Lord With what shall I come before the Lord and bow myself before God on high? Shall and bow myself before God on high? Shall and bow myself before God on high? Shall I come before him with burnt offerings I come before him with burnt offerings I come before him with burnt offerings and with calves a year old? Will the and with calves a year old? Will the and with calves a year old? Will the Lord be pleased with a thousand of rams, Lord be pleased with a thousand of rams, Lord be pleased with a thousand of rams, with 10,000 rivers of oil? Shall I give with 10,000 rivers of oil? Shall I give with 10,000 rivers of oil? Shall I give my firstborn for my transgression, the my firstborn for my transgression, the my firstborn for my transgression, the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul?

fruit of my body for the sin of my soul? fruit of my body for the sin of my soul? He has told you, oh people, what is good He has told you, oh people, what is good He has told you, oh people, what is good and what does the Lord require of you, and what does the Lord require of you, and what does the Lord require of you, but to do justice and to love kindness but to do justice and to love kindness but to do justice and to love kindness and to walk humbly with your God. The and to walk humbly with your God. The and to walk humbly with your God. The word of God for the people of God. word of God for the people of God. word of God for the people of God. Thanks be to God. Let us pray. Let the Thanks be to God. Let us pray. Let the Thanks be to God. Let us pray. Let the words of my mouth and the thoughts and words of my mouth and the thoughts and words of my mouth and the thoughts and meditations of our hearts and minds, may meditations of our hearts and minds, may meditations of our hearts and minds, may they be acceptable in your sight, oh they be acceptable in your sight, oh they be acceptable in your sight, oh Lord, our strength, our rock, and our Lord, our strength, our rock, and our Lord, our strength, our rock, and our redeemer. Amen. redeemer. Amen. redeemer. Amen. A few weeks ago, I texted Pastor Shawn A few weeks ago, I texted Pastor Shawn A few weeks ago, I texted Pastor Shawn to make sure I was preaching this to make sure I was preaching this to make sure I was preaching this Sunday. He said, "Yes, but several of Sunday. He said, "Yes, but several of Sunday. He said, "Yes, but several of the minor prophets are already taken, so the minor prophets are already taken, so the minor prophets are already taken, so choose from any except Joel, Amos, choose from any except Joel, Amos, choose from any except Joel, Amos, Hosea, Jonah, or Hagai." Hosea, Jonah, or Hagai." Hosea, Jonah, or Hagai." I texted him back asking if any minor I texted him back asking if any minor I texted him back asking if any minor prophets are left after his exclusion prophets are left after his exclusion prophets are left after his exclusion list. Shawn replied, "Haha, list. Shawn replied, "Haha, list. Shawn replied, "Haha, Micah, Obad, Habachok, Zephaniah, and at Micah, Obad, Habachok, Zephaniah, and at Micah, Obad, Habachok, Zephaniah, and at least a couple of more." So then I least a couple of more." So then I least a couple of more." So then I visited and I told Sean since I don't visited and I told Sean since I don't visited and I told Sean since I don't know these very well I might choose the know these very well I might choose the know these very well I might choose the prophet haha.

prophet haha. prophet haha. I said if you or Elizabeth your clergy I said if you or Elizabeth your clergy I said if you or Elizabeth your clergy wife have preached on haha I would wife have preached on haha I would wife have preached on haha I would appreciate seeing your sermon manuscript appreciate seeing your sermon manuscript appreciate seeing your sermon manuscript for some ideas or if you have done some for some ideas or if you have done some for some ideas or if you have done some historical contextual or theological historical contextual or theological historical contextual or theological research I would like to see that as research I would like to see that as research I would like to see that as well. Well by that time I had Shawn well. Well by that time I had Shawn well. Well by that time I had Shawn laughing pretty well. He has a great laughing pretty well. He has a great laughing pretty well. He has a great sense of humor. sense of humor. sense of humor. But I did select Micah. Micah was a But I did select Micah. Micah was a But I did select Micah. Micah was a younger contemporary of Isaiah. He was younger contemporary of Isaiah. He was younger contemporary of Isaiah. He was from a small village Moreseth in the from a small village Moreseth in the from a small village Moreseth in the Judean foothills southwest of Jerusalem. Judean foothills southwest of Jerusalem. Judean foothills southwest of Jerusalem. Micah looked upon the corruption and Micah looked upon the corruption and Micah looked upon the corruption and abuse by the rulers and religious abuse by the rulers and religious abuse by the rulers and religious leaders and call them out for neglecting leaders and call them out for neglecting leaders and call them out for neglecting the ways of God and harming the people. the ways of God and harming the people. the ways of God and harming the people. Micah is perceptive in knowing that God Micah is perceptive in knowing that God Micah is perceptive in knowing that God wants as our worship lives that are wants as our worship lives that are wants as our worship lives that are transformed by his awesome love and transformed by his awesome love and transformed by his awesome love and amazing grace. He knows that worship can amazing grace. He knows that worship can amazing grace. He knows that worship can look fine outwardly, but but like Jesus look fine outwardly, but but like Jesus look fine outwardly, but but like Jesus said in Matthew, "Woe to you scribes and said in Matthew, "Woe to you scribes and said in Matthew, "Woe to you scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites. For you are like Pharisees, hypocrites. For you are like Pharisees, hypocrites. For you are like whitewashed tombs, which on the outside whitewashed tombs, which on the outside whitewashed tombs, which on the outside look beautiful, but inside they are full look beautiful, but inside they are full look beautiful, but inside they are full of the bones of the dead and all kinds of the bones of the dead and all kinds of the bones of the dead and all kinds of filth." Micah sees the same thing of filth." Micah sees the same thing of filth." Micah sees the same thing happening in his day with the rulers and happening in his day with the rulers and happening in his day with the rulers and chief priests. God is not fooled by

chief priests. God is not fooled by chief priests. God is not fooled by outward appearances. So Micah asked a outward appearances. So Micah asked a outward appearances. So Micah asked a question for people in his day that we question for people in his day that we question for people in his day that we need to ask ourselves. What does God need to ask ourselves. What does God need to ask ourselves. What does God want from me? Does God want more want from me? Does God want more want from me? Does God want more offering? Does God want bigger offering? Does God want bigger offering? Does God want bigger celebrations? Does God want more celebrations? Does God want more celebrations? Does God want more sacrifice? sacrifice? sacrifice? Micah answers in one of the best known Micah answers in one of the best known Micah answers in one of the best known verses of the Old Testament. He has verses of the Old Testament. He has verses of the Old Testament. He has showed you, oh people, what is good. And showed you, oh people, what is good. And showed you, oh people, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you but to what does the Lord require of you but to what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, to love kindness, and to do justice, to love kindness, and to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God? To fulfill walk humbly with your God? To fulfill walk humbly with your God? To fulfill these requirements mean that God looks these requirements mean that God looks these requirements mean that God looks upon the heart. God looks at our upon the heart. God looks at our upon the heart. God looks at our character, our commitment, and our character, our commitment, and our character, our commitment, and our loyalty. God wants to see transformed loyalty. God wants to see transformed loyalty. God wants to see transformed hearts. So this morning, I want to hearts. So this morning, I want to hearts. So this morning, I want to highlight the three phrases from this highlight the three phrases from this highlight the three phrases from this verse. First, a transformed heart will verse. First, a transformed heart will verse. First, a transformed heart will do justice. To do justice means to treat do justice. To do justice means to treat do justice. To do justice means to treat people fairly because all people are people fairly because all people are people fairly because all people are made in the image of God. The scriptures made in the image of God. The scriptures made in the image of God. The scriptures are very clear about how we are to treat are very clear about how we are to treat are very clear about how we are to treat others. Certainly, justice is a primary others. Certainly, justice is a primary others. Certainly, justice is a primary theme of the minor prophets. Justice is theme of the minor prophets. Justice is theme of the minor prophets. Justice is also part of the Old Testament law. For also part of the Old Testament law. For also part of the Old Testament law. For the Lord your God is God of gods and the Lord your God is God of gods and the Lord your God is God of gods and Lord of lords, the great God, mighty and Lord of lords, the great God, mighty and Lord of lords, the great God, mighty and awesome, who shows no partiality.

awesome, who shows no partiality. awesome, who shows no partiality. He defends the cause of the fatherless He defends the cause of the fatherless He defends the cause of the fatherless and the widow. And he loves the alien, and the widow. And he loves the alien, and the widow. And he loves the alien, giving him food and clothing. And you giving him food and clothing. And you giving him food and clothing. And you are to love those who are aliens, for are to love those who are aliens, for are to love those who are aliens, for you yourselves were aliens in Egypt. you yourselves were aliens in Egypt. you yourselves were aliens in Egypt. Justice is a great theme of the Justice is a great theme of the Justice is a great theme of the teachings of Jesus. He gives us the teachings of Jesus. He gives us the teachings of Jesus. He gives us the golden rule in the sermon on the mount. golden rule in the sermon on the mount. golden rule in the sermon on the mount. Do unto others as you would have them do Do unto others as you would have them do Do unto others as you would have them do to you. Justice is what Jesus implies to you. Justice is what Jesus implies to you. Justice is what Jesus implies when he gave us this great verse. When I when he gave us this great verse. When I when he gave us this great verse. When I was hungry, you gave me food. When I was was hungry, you gave me food. When I was was hungry, you gave me food. When I was thirsty, you gave me drink. When I was a thirsty, you gave me drink. When I was a thirsty, you gave me drink. When I was a stranger, you welcomed me. When I was stranger, you welcomed me. When I was stranger, you welcomed me. When I was naked, you clothed me. When I was sick, naked, you clothed me. When I was sick, naked, you clothed me. When I was sick, you cared for me. When I was in prison, you cared for me. When I was in prison, you cared for me. When I was in prison, you visited me. When you have done it you visited me. When you have done it you visited me. When you have done it unto the least of these, you have done unto the least of these, you have done unto the least of these, you have done it unto me.

it unto me. it unto me. Jesus in this verse focused on justice Jesus in this verse focused on justice Jesus in this verse focused on justice with issues like the lack of food, the with issues like the lack of food, the with issues like the lack of food, the lack of clean, safe drinking water, the lack of clean, safe drinking water, the lack of clean, safe drinking water, the need for adequate housing and clothing, need for adequate housing and clothing, need for adequate housing and clothing, the need for accessible health care. the need for accessible health care. the need for accessible health care. Justice centers around basic human need Justice centers around basic human need Justice centers around basic human need as well as the sins of oppression, as well as the sins of oppression, as well as the sins of oppression, hatred, violence, racism, hatred, violence, racism, hatred, violence, racism, discrimination, and bigotry. Justice is discrimination, and bigotry. Justice is discrimination, and bigotry. Justice is looking out for others, making sure they looking out for others, making sure they looking out for others, making sure they are treated fairly. Justice is a are treated fairly. Justice is a are treated fairly. Justice is a challenge for a society as complex as challenge for a society as complex as challenge for a society as complex as ours. But as Christians, we need to ours. But as Christians, we need to ours. But as Christians, we need to stand for justice for all people. stand for justice for all people. stand for justice for all people. Everyone is aware that three weeks ago Everyone is aware that three weeks ago Everyone is aware that three weeks ago on our streets in Houston, Lorenzo on our streets in Houston, Lorenzo on our streets in Houston, Lorenzo Salgado Salgado Salgado IUO IUO IUO was killed by ICE federal agents on his was killed by ICE federal agents on his was killed by ICE federal agents on his way to work. the two United Methodist way to work. the two United Methodist way to work. the two United Methodist Bishops in Texas, Bishop Cynthia Harvey, Bishops in Texas, Bishop Cynthia Harvey, Bishops in Texas, Bishop Cynthia Harvey, a former associate pastor here at a former associate pastor here at a former associate pastor here at Memorial Drive, and Bishop Ruben Sans Memorial Drive, and Bishop Ruben Sans Memorial Drive, and Bishop Ruben Sans Jr. issued a pastoral statement on his Jr. issued a pastoral statement on his Jr. issued a pastoral statement on his death. The statement emphasized what we death. The statement emphasized what we death. The statement emphasized what we believe as United Methodist Christians.

believe as United Methodist Christians. believe as United Methodist Christians. As United Methodists, we affirm what our As United Methodists, we affirm what our As United Methodists, we affirm what our social principles have long taught. That social principles have long taught. That social principles have long taught. That all persons, regardless of country of all persons, regardless of country of all persons, regardless of country of origin, are members of the family of origin, are members of the family of origin, are members of the family of God. That we are called to welcome the God. That we are called to welcome the God. That we are called to welcome the stranger. And that we oppose policies stranger. And that we oppose policies stranger. And that we oppose policies that dehumanize, criminalize, that dehumanize, criminalize, that dehumanize, criminalize, or endanger our immigrant neighbors. As or endanger our immigrant neighbors. As or endanger our immigrant neighbors. As people of faith, we hold that public people of faith, we hold that public people of faith, we hold that public policy must protect human life and human policy must protect human life and human policy must protect human life and human dignity, especially the lives of those dignity, especially the lives of those dignity, especially the lives of those most vulnerable among us. The use of most vulnerable among us. The use of most vulnerable among us. The use of lethal force against a human being is a lethal force against a human being is a lethal force against a human being is a grave matter that must never be shielded grave matter that must never be shielded grave matter that must never be shielded from accountability. from accountability. from accountability. When it occurs in our streets, in our When it occurs in our streets, in our When it occurs in our streets, in our neighborhood, and even in the presence neighborhood, and even in the presence neighborhood, and even in the presence of children, it demands not silence, but of children, it demands not silence, but of children, it demands not silence, but a full and public reckoning. The a full and public reckoning. The a full and public reckoning. The pastoral letter closes with the need to pastoral letter closes with the need to pastoral letter closes with the need to pray for that family and a commitment to pray for that family and a commitment to pray for that family and a commitment to our neighbors, to our immigrant our neighbors, to our immigrant our neighbors, to our immigrant neighbors, and especially to the Latino neighbors, and especially to the Latino neighbors, and especially to the Latino communities of Houston and across Texas communities of Houston and across Texas communities of Houston and across Texas who carry this grief and fear today. You who carry this grief and fear today. You who carry this grief and fear today. You are beloved children of God. You are not are beloved children of God. You are not are beloved children of God. You are not alone. Our congregation remains places alone. Our congregation remains places alone. Our congregation remains places of welcome, refuge, prayer, and of welcome, refuge, prayer, and of welcome, refuge, prayer, and practical support. We will continue to

practical support. We will continue to practical support. We will continue to provide pastoral care, connect families provide pastoral care, connect families provide pastoral care, connect families with trusted legal resources, share know with trusted legal resources, share know with trusted legal resources, share know your rights information, and stand your rights information, and stand your rights information, and stand publicly for your dignity and safety. publicly for your dignity and safety. publicly for your dignity and safety. Human life is a theological issue and Human life is a theological issue and Human life is a theological issue and therefore justice is a theological therefore justice is a theological therefore justice is a theological issue. issue. issue. This past spring, Congregation Beth This past spring, Congregation Beth This past spring, Congregation Beth Israel received a credible threat to Israel received a credible threat to Israel received a credible threat to their synagogue and their school. their synagogue and their school. their synagogue and their school. Congregation Beth Israel is the oldest Congregation Beth Israel is the oldest Congregation Beth Israel is the oldest synagogue in Texas. It is a beautiful synagogue in Texas. It is a beautiful synagogue in Texas. It is a beautiful campus across the street from Rice campus across the street from Rice campus across the street from Rice University. Their University. Their University. Their senior rabbi, David Lion, one of senior rabbi, David Lion, one of senior rabbi, David Lion, one of Houston's strong, respected faith Houston's strong, respected faith Houston's strong, respected faith leaders, wrote an editorial about the leaders, wrote an editorial about the leaders, wrote an editorial about the threat. He discussed his reluctance to threat. He discussed his reluctance to threat. He discussed his reluctance to build a perimeter fence around the build a perimeter fence around the build a perimeter fence around the property, but he said, "At last, I property, but he said, "At last, I property, but he said, "At last, I agreed to build that fence. It's a agreed to build that fence. It's a agreed to build that fence. It's a deterrent to violence, but it's not a deterrent to violence, but it's not a deterrent to violence, but it's not a perfect answer to the deep concerns perfect answer to the deep concerns perfect answer to the deep concerns about hatred and bigotry." He went on to about hatred and bigotry." He went on to about hatred and bigotry." He went on to write, "Houston police were an essential write, "Houston police were an essential write, "Houston police were an essential source of direction and information that source of direction and information that source of direction and information that helped us make decisions to close our helped us make decisions to close our helped us make decisions to close our campus early in the morning, communicate campus early in the morning, communicate campus early in the morning, communicate with our families, and contribute

with our families, and contribute with our families, and contribute without confusion to law enforcement's without confusion to law enforcement's without confusion to law enforcement's efforts both locally and nationally. The efforts both locally and nationally. The efforts both locally and nationally. The result was a return to safety, security, result was a return to safety, security, result was a return to safety, security, and peace. and peace. and peace. Threats are all around us. I am so Threats are all around us. I am so Threats are all around us. I am so thankful that that threat against that thankful that that threat against that thankful that that threat against that great Jewish synagogue and school great Jewish synagogue and school great Jewish synagogue and school resulted in peace. This is another resulted in peace. This is another resulted in peace. This is another reminder that justice needs to prevail reminder that justice needs to prevail reminder that justice needs to prevail for all people. We can only do justice for all people. We can only do justice for all people. We can only do justice when our hearts have been transformed by when our hearts have been transformed by when our hearts have been transformed by God's love and grace. God's love and grace. God's love and grace. Second, a transformed heart will love Second, a transformed heart will love Second, a transformed heart will love kindness. Here, love is a verb, an kindness. Here, love is a verb, an kindness. Here, love is a verb, an action that we are to do kindness. action that we are to do kindness. action that we are to do kindness. Kindness is another expression of how we Kindness is another expression of how we Kindness is another expression of how we treat others. Kindness is a treat others. Kindness is a treat others. Kindness is a characteristic of how we should live as characteristic of how we should live as characteristic of how we should live as followers of Jesus Christ. The Apostle followers of Jesus Christ. The Apostle followers of Jesus Christ. The Apostle Paul mentions kindness throughout his Paul mentions kindness throughout his Paul mentions kindness throughout his writings. He lists kindness as one of writings. He lists kindness as one of writings. He lists kindness as one of the fruits of the spirit.

the fruits of the spirit. the fruits of the spirit. His great chapter on love, 1 Corinthians His great chapter on love, 1 Corinthians His great chapter on love, 1 Corinthians 13, kindness is the second 13, kindness is the second 13, kindness is the second characteristic listed. In the third characteristic listed. In the third characteristic listed. In the third chapter of Colossians, Paul begins this chapter of Colossians, Paul begins this chapter of Colossians, Paul begins this great passage, one of my favorites, with great passage, one of my favorites, with great passage, one of my favorites, with these words. As God's chosen ones, holy these words. As God's chosen ones, holy these words. As God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, clothe yourself with and beloved, clothe yourself with and beloved, clothe yourself with compassion, kindness. compassion, kindness. compassion, kindness. The closing of Ephesians 4 is a great The closing of Ephesians 4 is a great The closing of Ephesians 4 is a great verse. Be kind to one another, verse. Be kind to one another, verse. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, tenderhearted, tenderhearted, forgiving one another as God in Christ forgiving one another as God in Christ forgiving one another as God in Christ has forgiven you. has forgiven you. has forgiven you. Last evening I performed a wedding here Last evening I performed a wedding here Last evening I performed a wedding here in this sanctuary. The bride was someone in this sanctuary. The bride was someone in this sanctuary. The bride was someone who had grown up in this church. As part who had grown up in this church. As part who had grown up in this church. As part of the ceremony for my brief harmony of the ceremony for my brief harmony of the ceremony for my brief harmony homaly, I highlighted kindness. I homaly, I highlighted kindness. I homaly, I highlighted kindness. I encouraged them to be kind to one encouraged them to be kind to one encouraged them to be kind to one another. I stressed that kindness is a another. I stressed that kindness is a another. I stressed that kindness is a mature expression of love. We all get mature expression of love. We all get mature expression of love. We all get mad, angry, upset, frustrated, mad, angry, upset, frustrated, mad, angry, upset, frustrated, but but but we can choose to be kind. You can show we can choose to be kind. You can show we can choose to be kind. You can show love to one another by being kind to love to one another by being kind to love to one another by being kind to each other.

each other. each other. This church as a community of faith This church as a community of faith This church as a community of faith expresses kindness in our ministries and expresses kindness in our ministries and expresses kindness in our ministries and missions. Week before last, 850 children missions. Week before last, 850 children missions. Week before last, 850 children at Vacation Bible School received at Vacation Bible School received at Vacation Bible School received kindness from kindness from kindness from 150 middle and high school volunteers, 150 middle and high school volunteers, 150 middle and high school volunteers, over 200 adult leaders as well as the over 200 adult leaders as well as the over 200 adult leaders as well as the church staff. It was a joyous, church staff. It was a joyous, church staff. It was a joyous, fun-filled week that we continue to fun-filled week that we continue to fun-filled week that we continue to celebrate. celebrate. celebrate. You show kindness throughout our You show kindness throughout our You show kindness throughout our community and city as you make a community and city as you make a community and city as you make a difference at Memorial Assistance difference at Memorial Assistance difference at Memorial Assistance Ministries that we call MAM Wesley Ministries that we call MAM Wesley Ministries that we call MAM Wesley Community Center, Kids Meals, Neighbors Community Center, Kids Meals, Neighbors Community Center, Kids Meals, Neighbors in Action, Camp Hope, and the Houston in Action, Camp Hope, and the Houston in Action, Camp Hope, and the Houston Food Bank. This past week, dozens and Food Bank. This past week, dozens and Food Bank. This past week, dozens and dozens of our members participated in dozens of our members participated in dozens of our members participated in sacred week in mission, giving of sacred week in mission, giving of sacred week in mission, giving of themselves and expressing kindness themselves and expressing kindness themselves and expressing kindness throughout our city. Kindness is part of throughout our city. Kindness is part of throughout our city. Kindness is part of our witness as a church, but we are our witness as a church, but we are our witness as a church, but we are called to show and express kindness called to show and express kindness called to show and express kindness individually with all that we meet and individually with all that we meet and individually with all that we meet and interact with. You might never know how interact with. You might never know how interact with. You might never know how a simple act of kindness can affect a a simple act of kindness can affect a a simple act of kindness can affect a person, give them an uplifted spirit, person, give them an uplifted spirit, person, give them an uplifted spirit, change their attitude, enable them to

change their attitude, enable them to change their attitude, enable them to have a better day, or cause them to want have a better day, or cause them to want have a better day, or cause them to want to come to Memorial Drive Church. to come to Memorial Drive Church. to come to Memorial Drive Church. A transformed heart will express A transformed heart will express A transformed heart will express kindness. kindness. kindness. Third, a transformed heart seeks to walk Third, a transformed heart seeks to walk Third, a transformed heart seeks to walk humbly with God. God reminded his people humbly with God. God reminded his people humbly with God. God reminded his people of everything he had done for them. I of everything he had done for them. I of everything he had done for them. I brought you out of Egypt. I redeemed brought you out of Egypt. I redeemed brought you out of Egypt. I redeemed you. I made covenant with you. I fed you you. I made covenant with you. I fed you you. I made covenant with you. I fed you mana in the wilderness. I blessed you. I mana in the wilderness. I blessed you. I mana in the wilderness. I blessed you. I have been faithful. have been faithful. have been faithful. We should be humble in our spiritual We should be humble in our spiritual We should be humble in our spiritual journeys as we realize all that we have journeys as we realize all that we have journeys as we realize all that we have comes from God. comes from God. comes from God. We walk humbly with God when we depend We walk humbly with God when we depend We walk humbly with God when we depend on God daily. on God daily. on God daily. In making my visitation rounds this past In making my visitation rounds this past In making my visitation rounds this past week, one member expressed his intent to week, one member expressed his intent to week, one member expressed his intent to keep walking with God daily. He said God keep walking with God daily. He said God keep walking with God daily. He said God has guided him throughout his life and has guided him throughout his life and has guided him throughout his life and enabled him to get sober and remain enabled him to get sober and remain enabled him to get sober and remain strong in his faith.

strong in his faith. strong in his faith. Members continue to share about their Members continue to share about their Members continue to share about their faith and their daily walk and faith and their daily walk and faith and their daily walk and commitment to God. Even amid challenging commitment to God. Even amid challenging commitment to God. Even amid challenging times, you keep strong in your faith. times, you keep strong in your faith. times, you keep strong in your faith. You continue to let the the light of You continue to let the the light of You continue to let the the light of Christ shine in your lives. You continue Christ shine in your lives. You continue Christ shine in your lives. You continue to be witnesses to God's awesome love to be witnesses to God's awesome love to be witnesses to God's awesome love and amazing grace. and amazing grace. and amazing grace. Our choir will be back in the chancel Our choir will be back in the chancel Our choir will be back in the chancel loft in two weeks. They've had a a great loft in two weeks. They've had a a great loft in two weeks. They've had a a great and deserved two months off. I know our and deserved two months off. I know our and deserved two months off. I know our strong music ministry enables so many strong music ministry enables so many strong music ministry enables so many people to continue their daily walk with people to continue their daily walk with people to continue their daily walk with Jesus. Music conveys the gospel message Jesus. Music conveys the gospel message Jesus. Music conveys the gospel message while touching hearts, souls, and lives. while touching hearts, souls, and lives. while touching hearts, souls, and lives. Others in our church walk humbly with Others in our church walk humbly with Others in our church walk humbly with God through various Bible studies, God through various Bible studies, God through various Bible studies, support groups, meditation classes, support groups, meditation classes, support groups, meditation classes, Sunday schools, and different kinds of Sunday schools, and different kinds of Sunday schools, and different kinds of worship experiences. Our Steven worship experiences. Our Steven worship experiences. Our Steven ministers deepen their spiritual journey ministers deepen their spiritual journey ministers deepen their spiritual journey as they walk alongside others, offering as they walk alongside others, offering as they walk alongside others, offering them friendship, companionship, them friendship, companionship, them friendship, companionship, encouragement, and prayer.

encouragement, and prayer. encouragement, and prayer. This church is a strong, vital, growing, This church is a strong, vital, growing, This church is a strong, vital, growing, dynamic church because we have so many dynamic church because we have so many dynamic church because we have so many people seeking to grow in their faith to people seeking to grow in their faith to people seeking to grow in their faith to strengthen their commitment to Jesus strengthen their commitment to Jesus strengthen their commitment to Jesus Christ as you walk humbly with God. Christ as you walk humbly with God. Christ as you walk humbly with God. So let me ask you, how is your walk with So let me ask you, how is your walk with So let me ask you, how is your walk with God? Do you need to seek God daily? How God? Do you need to seek God daily? How God? Do you need to seek God daily? How can you become more aware of God's can you become more aware of God's can you become more aware of God's presence in your life? presence in your life? presence in your life? Perhaps this is a good time to renew Perhaps this is a good time to renew Perhaps this is a good time to renew your faith, deepen your commitment to your faith, deepen your commitment to your faith, deepen your commitment to Jesus Christ, and be intentional about Jesus Christ, and be intentional about Jesus Christ, and be intentional about humbly walking with God each and every humbly walking with God each and every humbly walking with God each and every day. day. day. And what does God require of you but to And what does God require of you but to And what does God require of you but to do justice, to love kindness, and to do justice, to love kindness, and to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God. In the name walk humbly with your God. In the name walk humbly with your God. In the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Amen. Amen. Amen. And amen. I think some of you clapped because you I think some of you clapped because you saw it was 2 minutes before 12. I saw it was 2 minutes before 12. I saw it was 2 minutes before 12. I finished just finished just finished just uh many things going on. Back to school. uh many things going on. Back to school. uh many things going on. Back to school. I am a lunch bunch mentor. That lunch is I am a lunch bunch mentor. That lunch is I am a lunch bunch mentor. That lunch is just 30 minutes long and there are just just 30 minutes long and there are just just 30 minutes long and there are just so many ways upcoming classes and things so many ways upcoming classes and things so many ways upcoming classes and things going on. Our our concert tonight uh is going on. Our our concert tonight uh is going on. Our our concert tonight uh is soul session. I even was able to to get soul session. I even was able to to get soul session. I even was able to to get DeAndre to tell me that he is going to DeAndre to tell me that he is going to DeAndre to tell me that he is going to do a Marvin Gay classic tonight. So, do a Marvin Gay classic tonight. So, do a Marvin Gay classic tonight. So, there'll be all kinds of good fun music. there'll be all kinds of good fun music. there'll be all kinds of good fun music. Come very informally at 6:00. Um, and Come very informally at 6:00. Um, and Come very informally at 6:00. Um, and and it was just a an honor and privilege and it was just a an honor and privilege and it was just a an honor and privilege to baptize prior and and with all the to baptize prior and and with all the to baptize prior and and with all the family here as well. So, um glad that family here as well. So, um glad that family here as well. So, um glad that you are here this day.

you are here this day. you are here this day. And we have a closing hymn which is a And we have a closing hymn which is a And we have a closing hymn which is a hymn of invitation to commitment. So if hymn of invitation to commitment. So if hymn of invitation to commitment. So if there are those who would come and unite there are those who would come and unite there are those who would come and unite and join with this great church, then I and join with this great church, then I and join with this great church, then I invite you to come and meet Jenny and me invite you to come and meet Jenny and me invite you to come and meet Jenny and me at the altar railing as we sing. Goodness is stronger than evil. Goodness is stronger than evil. Love is stronger than hate. Love is stronger than hate. Love is stronger than hate. Light is stronger than darkness. Light is stronger than darkness. Light is stronger than darkness. Life is stronger than death. Victory is Life is stronger than death. Victory is Life is stronger than death. Victory is ours. Victory is our God who loves ours. Victory is our God who loves ours. Victory is our God who loves us. Victory is ours. Victory is ours us. Victory is ours. Victory is ours us. Victory is ours. Victory is ours through God who loves through God who loves through God who loves us. us. us. Goodness is stronger than evil.

Goodness is stronger than evil. Goodness is stronger than evil. Love is stronger than hate. Love is stronger than hate. Love is stronger than hate. Light is stronger than darkness. Light is stronger than darkness. Light is stronger than darkness. Light is stronger than death. Victory is Light is stronger than death. Victory is Light is stronger than death. Victory is ours. Victory is ours. ours. Victory is ours. ours. Victory is ours. through God who loves through God who loves through God who loves us. Victory is ours. Victory is ours. us. Victory is ours. Victory is ours. us. Victory is ours. Victory is ours. God loves God loves God loves us. us. us. I'm glad that you are here. I hope you I'm glad that you are here. I hope you I'm glad that you are here. I hope you have a good day and a good upcoming have a good day and a good upcoming have a good day and a good upcoming week. Now, would you receive the week. Now, would you receive the week. Now, would you receive the benediction that I do as a blessing? So, benediction that I do as a blessing? So, benediction that I do as a blessing? So, I do it with heads raised and eyes I do it with heads raised and eyes I do it with heads raised and eyes opened. opened. opened. And now may the living Christ go with And now may the living Christ go with And now may the living Christ go with you. May he be beside you to befriend you. May he be beside you to befriend you. May he be beside you to befriend you, behind you to encourage you, in you, behind you to encourage you, in you, behind you to encourage you, in front of you to give you his guidance, front of you to give you his guidance, front of you to give you his guidance, and above you to give you his and above you to give you his and above you to give you his protection, protection, protection, but also may he be within you to give but also may he be within you to give but also may he be within you to give you his peace, love, and joy now and you his peace, love, and joy now and you his peace, love, and joy now and forever more.

forever more. forever more. Amen.