MESSAGE FROM THE PASTOR
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April 13, 2024
Dear Church Family,
I am writing to you today from Sicily. As we worship on Sunday morning here on Mount Etna, I will be praying for all of you who will be gathering for worship in Houston. I have found such great faith among the people of this land and have been encouraged by the way God’s Word connects us across the miles and across cultures.
The great 50 celebration of Easter continues. This Sunday we will be looking at the story of the disciples who encountered Jesus on the road to Emmaus sharing the news with the Eleven that they have encountered the risen Christ. Have you ever noticed that as this exceedingly great news was being shared that Jesus himself was found to stand beside them? The disciples experienced a range of emotions in seeing Jesus ranging from fear and bewilderment to doubt and anxiousness to joy and amazement.
These resurrection encounters remind us of several important things:
1) It is important to tell others when we have encountered the resurrected Christ in our own lives. Jesus is always present, bringing about new life. When we share good news of our encounters with the resurrection power of our Lord, it opens up space for others to find the risen Christ standing with them.
2) Jesus meets us in all of our emotions – doubt, fear, skepticism, animosity, anger, apathy, grief and happiness – and delights to prove to us that he is alive and he is with us. There is no valley too low or mountain to high where we are beyond the reach and care of our Savior. Jesus really cares about what we are going through and will meet us right in the middle of it.
3) Jesus doesn’t leave us the same; but gives us a vocation to help others encounter him. In this moment, Jesus commissions the disciples to proclaim repentance and forgiveness of sins in his name to all nations. Have you ever thought about that call? …that Jesus has given us the ministry of leading others to life change and forgiveness? Repentance means turning from one way of living to another. Forgiveness wipes the slate clean and allows a fresh start. That changes everything…and you and I get to be a part of it!
Friends, changed people, change people. Jesus has changed everything for us, and wants to do so for others, too. May we, like the disciples on Easter, find the risen Jesus standing with us, awakening us to what he is up to, and sending us to help others find him.
Yours in Christ,
Lance Richards
Senior Pastor
[email protected]
Here’s Some Of What Else Is Happening At First Methodist!
Lifeline Donations
Lifeline is accepting donation items. If you’re looking to donate to Lifeline, here’s a list of items that are always needed. This list is always available on our website at fmhmissions.com/lifeline-ministry. If you have any questions, reach out Alexis McCarty at [email protected]. Men’s Clothing: Belts (30 – 38 waist) Socks (new) Underwear (L, XL) (new) Shorts […]
Stephen Ministry Can Help
Are You Going Through A Difficult time? A Stephen Minister can help. Stephen Ministers are members of our congregation who listen, care, and spiritual support to people going through a crisis or a difficult time.
Women Empowerment Luncheon
In partnership with Mercy House Global and First Methodist Houston, our quarterly Women’s Empowerment Luncheon is for women enrolled in the church programs (ESOL/Sewing for refugee women and church members). The luncheons are a fun way for women to get to know each other, build community, and learn practical tools, which include a getting-to-know-you activity, […]
Summer Pool Party
Join First Methodist Houston for a fun and Free day of swimming! Food will be available for purchase or pack a picnic lunch. Make sure to RSVP Here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfk51K4bHwWXncXbEpLkZwbvJiEhGFLzNc_YqxXf5WODpC-1A/viewform?usp=sf_link
Mother’s Day Roses
You can buy roses this Mother’s Day for $5 each – we’ll have stations in the Downtown Lobby, West Atrium, and the 3663 Building. All purchases benefit First Kids Ministry!