Resurrection UMC Hastings

Is everything determined by our own efforts? Nope, and that’s a good thing because “all have sinned and fallen short.” Instead, God helps the helpless and those who help others.

How do we strive to be true to God instead of ourselves? This can easily be boiled down to a matter of pride. And what’s the opposite of pride? Humility…something Jesus demonstrated time and again

"Everything Happens for a Reason" is a wonderful lie embraced by many. Sometimes the reason something happens is because of the choices we make, or simply not paying attention to what’s happening around us. Don’t overthink it.

Live long enough or study history and you know that’s not true. Sometimes there is suffering and pain in life that we can’t handle ourselves. But God can. His power is made perfect in our weakness.

What really happens after we die? Well, we don’t become angels. Better yet, the bible promises that Christians are with the Lord in God’s house, every tear is dried, and there is joyful worship of God. Nice!

The message title is biblical, but was meant to limit retaliation – i.e., only an eye for an eye. But Jesus says no retaliation. Love your enemies just as God loves all, with unrelenting compassion and undeserving grace. 

Gold is for the Magi’s gift and also for God’s glory. Will we offer God the best that we have this new year? Will we give God the Glory?

Silver is for reflecting Christ, as in a mirror. It’s also represents the 30 pieces of silver Judas took to betray Jesus. So in this coming year, will we reflect Christ or betray him?

White is for light and renewal. Like freshly fallen snow, it’s a clean slate, a new beginning. Jesus is the light of the world. Everything is brighter after his birth. Even us. We are given a fresh start.

Blue is the color of the Virgin Mary. She brought a new way of connecting (a new covenant) to God – Jesus. Mary also reminds us of the sorrow that we may face, even in happy times. Learn why there’s hope in the midst of Christmas blues.