Monthly Archives: March 2024

Devotional

Beyond Bitter Streets

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Read Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32

ALSO IN SCRIPTURE
“And since we have been made right in God’s sight by the blood of Christ, he will certainly save us from God’s condemnation” (Romans 5:8 NLT)

In the bustling streets of a modern city, there lived a woman named Sarah. Sarah had two children, Adam and Emily. Struggling with her own demons, Sarah made the painful decision to walk away from her family, leaving behind a shattered home and broken hearts.

Years passed, and Sarah’s absence weighed heavily on her children. Adam, the older of the two, struggled to forgive his mother for abandoning them, his heart filled with bitterness and resentment. Emily, on the other hand, held onto hope, believing that her mother could change and longing for reconciliation.

One day, Sarah found herself standing on the doorstep of her old home, her heart heavy with regret and longing. As she hesitantly knocked on the door, she was met with tearful embraces from Emily, who had never stopped believing in her mother’s capacity for change.

Adam, however, struggled to contain his anger and frustration, his wounds still raw from years of abandonment. Despite Emily’s pleas for forgiveness and reconciliation, Adam remained distant and resentful, unable to let go of the pain of the past.

Moved by her daughter’s forgiveness and grace, Sarah began the long journey of rebuilding her relationship with her children. She sought forgiveness for her mistakes and worked tirelessly to earn back their trust, one small gesture at a time.

Through Emily’s unwavering love and forgiveness, Sarah experienced the transformative power of God’s grace, as described in Romans 5:8. Despite her past failures and shortcomings, God’s love remained constant, offering her a path to redemption and reconciliation with her family.

As Sarah and her children navigated the complexities of forgiveness and reconciliation, they learned valuable lessons about love, grace, and the healing power of second chances. Together, they embarked on a journey of redemption, healing the wounds of the past and forging a new path forward as a family.

In the parable of the Prodigal Son, found in Luke 15:11-32, Jesus tells the story of a father with two sons. The younger son asks for his inheritance early, squanders it on reckless living, and returns home repentant, hoping for a servant’s position but received with open arms by his father. The elder son, however, refuses to join the celebration upon his brother’s return, revealing deep-seated resentment and unforgiveness in his heart.

Similarly, Sarah’s departure from her family echoes the younger son’s rebellion, while Adam’s struggle to forgive mirrors the elder son’s bitterness. In both narratives, unforgiveness leads to brokenness and estrangement within the family.

Adam’s refusal to forgive his mother, Sarah, mirrors the elder son’s resentment toward his brother in the Prodigal Son parable. Both Adam and the elder son allow their anger and hurt to consume them, leading to relational strife and emotional distance.

Emily’s unwavering love and forgiveness toward her mother, Sarah, mirrors the father’s unconditional love and forgiveness in the Prodigal Son parable. Through Emily’s grace, Sarah experiences the transformative power of forgiveness, just as the younger son does upon his return to his father.

The narratives of Sarah, Adam, Emily, and the Prodigal Son challenge us to examine our own hearts and attitudes toward forgiveness. Like Adam and the elder son, we may harbor resentment and unforgiveness toward those who have wronged us, allowing bitterness to poison our relationships and hinder our own spiritual growth.

However, through the example of Emily’s forgiveness and Sarah’s redemption, we are reminded of the transformative power of forgiveness to heal wounds and restore relationships. Just as Sarah finds reconciliation with her children through Emily’s forgiveness, so too can we experience the healing and restoration that comes from extending grace and mercy to others.

In the bustling streets of a modern city, Sarah’s story intertwines with the timeless truths found in the parable of the Prodigal Son, revealing the destructive consequences of unforgiveness and the transformative power of grace. As we reflect on these narratives, may we choose forgiveness over bitterness, extending grace and mercy to others as we have received from God. Through forgiveness, may we experience the joy of reconciliation and the healing power of second chances.

THOUGHT OF THE DAY
“The weak can never forgive. Forgiveness is the attribute of the strong.” – Mahatma Gandhi

PRAYER
Gracious God, may we be guided by your unwavering love and grace to extend forgiveness to others, seek reconciliation, and embrace the healing power of second chances. Amen.

Devotion written by Rev. Todd R. Lattig with the assistance of ChatGPT, an AI language model developed by OpenAI.

Devotional

True Power

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Read 2 Corinthians 5:16-21

ALSO IN SCRIPTURE
“Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others” (Colossians 3:13 NLT).

In the heart of a serene village, amidst rolling hills and whispering trees, lived two companions whose friendship had weathered many seasons. Elias and Matthias, once inseparable, found their bond tested by the winds of misunderstanding and the storms of resentment.

Their story, like the gentle dance of leaves in the autumn breeze, began with laughter and shared dreams. Elias, with his steadfast resolve, and Matthias, with his gentle spirit, forged a friendship that seemed destined to withstand the test of time. They toiled side by side in the fields, their voices mingling with the song of birds and the rustle of leaves, weaving a tapestry of companionship that painted the landscape of their village.

But as the seasons changed, so did the dynamics of their relationship. Misunderstandings arose like shadows in the twilight, casting doubt upon the foundation of their friendship. Unspoken grievances festered beneath the surface, eroding the trust and intimacy they once shared. And in the silence that followed, a chasm grew between them, widening with each passing day.

One chilly autumn night, a tempest of both nature and emotion descended upon the village. Elias’s barn, a sanctuary of memories and shared experiences, became a battleground for forces beyond their control. The flames danced with malevolent fervor, licking hungrily at the wooden beams that had stood as silent witnesses to their friendship.

Across the way, Matthias stirred from his sleep, his heart heavy with the weight of unspoken words and unresolved conflicts. As the distant glow of the inferno pierced the darkness, he felt a stirring within his soul, a whisper of hope amidst the chaos that threatened to consume them all.

Moved by a force greater than himself, Matthias braved the elements to stand alongside his friend in the face of destruction. With each step, he felt the weight of their shared history, the echoes of laughter and tears that had woven the fabric of their friendship. And in that moment, he knew that he could not stand idly by while the flames consumed everything they had built together.

Together, they battled the inferno, their efforts fueled not by resentment or anger, but by a shared determination to salvage what remained of their friendship. With each bucket of water thrown, with each plank of wood torn away from the blaze, they fought to reclaim the bonds that had been frayed by time and circumstance.

As the flames yielded to the relentless onslaught of water and courage, Elias and Matthias stood amidst the ashes of what once was. The air was thick with the scent of smoke and the remnants of their shared history, but amidst the devastation, a glimmer of hope emerged.

In that hallowed space, forgiveness flowed freely, washing away the wounds of the past and paving the way for reconciliation. It was a moment of profound grace, a testament to the transformative power of forgiveness and the resilience of the human spirit.

True power, as revealed in 2 Corinthians 5:16-21, lies not in judgment or condemnation, but in the transformative grace of God. Through Christ, we are made new, our old selves swept away by the currents of divine mercy and love. As ambassadors of this message of reconciliation, we carry within us the power to heal, to restore, and to bring light to the darkest corners of the human heart.

In Colossians 3:13, we are reminded of the true strength found in forgiveness. It is not a sign of weakness, but a testament to the power and presence of God within us. In extending grace to others, we reflect the boundless mercy that has been poured out upon us, inviting others into the embrace of divine love.

Today, let us embrace the true power of forgiveness, allowing it to flow freely from our hearts and into the world around us. May we be instruments of reconciliation, agents of healing, and ambassadors of the transformative love of Christ.

THOUGHT OF THE DAY
True power resides in forgiveness, as it holds the key to healing and restoration in our relationships.

PRAYER
Lord, may we carry the power of your forgiveness and reconciliation in our hearts, bringing healing to broken relationships and shining your light into the world. Amen.

Devotion written by Rev. Todd R. Lattig with the assistance of ChatGPT, an AI language model developed by OpenAI.

Devotional

Episode 327 | THROUGH THE VALLEY, part 5: Lament and Community

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https://www.podbean.com/media/share/pb-87vmi-15a56e0

In this episode, Rev. Todd reminds us that when we recognize or experience injustice, crying out together in words and actions can move us closer to God’s vision for humanity and stir us to make change.

Online Worship

March 10, 2024 – Newton UMC – Sunday Worship Livestream

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JOY Fellowship Worship Service in Holland Hall: 9:00 a.m.

Worship service streams live at 9:00 a.m. EST (-500 GMT)

Worship service streams live at 10:30 a.m. EST (-500 GMT)

Welcome to our live-streamed Sunday Worship Services for March 10, 2024. Today we discover that when we recognize or experience injustice, crying out together in words and actions can move us closer to God’s vision for humanity and stir us to make change.

Please support us by giving online: https://tithe.ly/give?c=1377216 or https://paypal.me/newtonumc Or you can make and mail a check out to First UMC of Newton, 111 Ryerson Ave., Newton, NJ O7860

God bless you all for your generosity which is vital to our mission and ministry.

Devotional

Episode 326 | THROUGH THE VALLEY, part 4: Lament and Surrender

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https://www.podbean.com/media/share/pb-3vmin-15a56d8

In this episode, Rev. Todd reminds us that Jesus did not always love his options and in the midst of lament, he still freely chose to surrender to God.

Devotional

To a World In Need

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Read Psalm 99

ALSO IN SCRIPTURE
Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of Heaven’s Armies! The whole earth is filled with his glory!’” (Isaiah 6:3 NLT).

In the grand throne room, with its towering arches and shimmering tapestries, the Queen sat upon her magnificent throne, radiating authority and kindness.

As people from all corners of the kingdom streamed in, they felt a sense of awe and reverence in the Queen’s presence. They approached her with bowed heads and grateful hearts, ready to express their admiration and devotion.

“Your Majesty,” a voice called out, “we are humbled by your grace and goodness. You have brought peace and prosperity to our land, and for that, we are eternally grateful.”

The Queen smiled warmly, her eyes shining with kindness. “My dear friends,” she said, “it is my greatest joy to serve you. Your loyalty and dedication fill me with pride, and I am honored to rule over such a noble people.”

Another voice rose, a melody sung by a group of musicians. “We sing to you, O Queen,” they sang, “for you are the source of all goodness and light. Your reign is marked by justice and compassion, and we are blessed to call you our ruler.”

Tears welled up in the eyes of those gathered as they joined in the chorus, their voices lifted in unified worship of the Queen who had brought them so much joy and prosperity.

In this throne room, fairness and kindness reigned supreme, a testament to the benevolent rule of their beloved Queen. And as the people departed, their hearts were filled with gratitude and love, knowing that they were cherished and cared for by their sovereign ruler.

In the grandeur of the throne room, where the Queen reigns with authority and kindness, we catch a glimpse of the majesty of our God. Just as the Queen’s presence fills her subjects with awe and reverence, so too does the presence of God evoke a sense of wonder and adoration in our hearts. Let’s delve into Psalm 99 and reflect on how, like the subjects in the throne room, we are called to reflect God’s glory in our lives.

Verse 1-3: Exalting Our God. Psalm 99 begins with a call to exalt the Lord our God, for the Lord is holy and mighty. Just as the subjects in the throne room approach the Queen with reverence, so too do we approach God with humility and gratitude, recognizing God’s sovereignty over our lives. As we lift our voices in praise and adoration, let us exalt our God for God’s goodness and grace.

Verse 4-5: Justice and Righteousness. The psalmist proclaims the righteousness of our God, who loves justice and establishes equity. As followers of God, we are called to emulate His example by advocating for justice and righteousness in our communities. Just as the Queen in the illustration above is known for her fairness and compassion, and her subjects reflect that in their praise of her, so too should we reflect God’s character by standing up for the oppressed and marginalized. This is how we truly praise our Lord.

Verse 6-9: Reflecting God’s Glory. In the throne room, the subjects bask in the radiance of the Queen’s presence, reflecting her glory with their adoration and praise. Similarly, as children of God, we are called to reflect our Lord’s glory in our lives. When others see our love, kindness, and compassion, they catch a glimpse of God’s goodness and grace shining through us.

Reflection and Application. As we reflect on the greatness and sovereignty of our God, let us be inspired to live lives that reflect our Lord’s glory. Just as the imagined Queen’s presence commands reverence and awe, so too does the presence of God evoke a sense of wonder and adoration in our hearts.

In a world that desperately needs God’s love, may we strive to shine God’s light brightly. May our words and actions be a reflection of God’s goodness and grace, drawing others closer to our Lord and illuminating the path to salvation and redemption.

As we go forth, let us carry with us the knowledge that we are beloved children of God, called to reflect God’s glory in all that we do. May we honor our Lord with our lives, and may God’s light shine brightly through us, bringing hope, healing and wholeness to a world in need. Amen.

THOUGHT OF THE DAY
“In a gentle way, you can shake the world.” – Mahatma Gandhi

PRAYER
Dear Heavenly Lord, I thank You for the privilege of reflecting Your glory in my life. Help me to honor You by living a life of love, kindness, and compassion. May I be a shining example of Your goodness and grace to the world around me. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

Devotion written by Rev. Todd R. Lattig with the assistance of ChatGPT, an AI language model developed by OpenAI.

Essay

“Kin-dom” vs. “Kingdom”: A Comprehensive Examination

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In today’s theological discourse, there’s an unmistakable momentum towards adopting more inclusive language, echoing the broader societal trends towards diversity and inclusivity. Among the myriad proposals sparking vigorous debates, one issue is the suggestion to replace the traditional term “Kingdom” with the more inclusive “Kin-dom.” The driving force behind this proposal? To introduce a gender-neutral term that emphasizes the familial bond between God and humanity. However, before we delve into the intricacies of this proposed linguistic shift, let’s take a moment to unpack the significant questions—both theological and linguistic—that this change brings to the forefront. So, buckle up as we embark on an exploration of these multifaceted issues and endeavor to identify alternative solutions that not only uphold inclusivity but also remain firmly rooted in our theological heritage.

Linguistic Conundrums and Conceptual Depth

To kick things off, let’s tackle the linguistic quandary presented by the term “Kin-dom.” Unlike its more established counterpart, “Kingdom,” “Kin-dom” is not a term commonly found in everyday language. Introducing it into theological discourse may lead to confusion or ambiguity among those unfamiliar with the term. Moreover, language plays a pivotal role in shaping our understanding of theological concepts, and the introduction of unfamiliar terms may hinder effective communication within theological circles.

Furthermore, while “Kin-dom” gestures towards the familial dimension of God’s relationship with believers, it fails to fully encapsulate the depth and complexity of the concept of God’s Kingdom. While “Kingdom” encompasses notions of familial bonds, it also conveys the broader ideas of God’s sovereignty, authority, and rule over creation. By contrast, “Kin-dom” inadvertently dilutes the theological significance of God’s all-encompassing power and authority.

Navigating Theological Terrain

Beyond linguistic considerations, the proposed replacement of “Kingdom” with “Kin-dom” raises profound theological questions. While it is undeniable that God welcomes believers into the divine family, focusing solely on kinship risks overlooking the broader implications of God’s Kingdom. God’s Kingdom encompasses not only familial bonds but also principles of justice, righteousness, and the transformative work of God in the world.

Moreover, the term “Kingdom” carries connotations of God’s active rule and authority, highlighting God’s sovereignty over creation and all aspects of life. In contrast, “Kin-dom” inadvertently emphasizes the relational aspects of God’s Kingdom at the expense of its authoritative dimensions. Thus, the substitution of “Kingdom” with “Kin-dom” raises significant concerns about the theological completeness and accuracy of the term.

Exploring Alternative Formulations

Given these theological and linguistic considerations, it is imperative to explore alternative formulations that preserve both inclusivity and theological richness. One such proposal is the use of “God’s reign and family.” This phrase integrates the notions of God’s sovereignty and familial relationship with humanity, offering a comprehensive understanding of God’s redemptive purposes.

“God’s reign and family” emphasizes not only the authority and lordship of God but also the intimate connection between God and God’s people. It acknowledges the multifaceted nature of the relationship between God and humanity, encompassing both God’s rule over creation and God’s invitation to participate in the divine family. By incorporating both “reign” and “family” into the terminology, we affirm the full breadth and depth of God’s redemptive work in the world.

Furthermore, another alternative worth considering is the use of “God’s reign and kinship.” This formulation synthesizes the concepts of God’s sovereignty and familial relationship, addressing concerns about linguistic clarity while underscoring the intimate bond between God and humanity. “Reign” underscores God’s authority and lordship, while “kinship” highlights the familial aspect of God’s relationship with believers. Together, they offer a nuanced and comprehensive understanding of God’s redemptive purposes.

Delving into Historical and Biblical Perspectives

A thorough examination of the historical and biblical perspectives on the concept of God’s Kingdom provides valuable insights into the significance of linguistic choices in theological discourse. Throughout the history of Christianity, the term “Kingdom” has served as a central motif, embodying the hope for God’s ultimate reign and the fulfillment of divine purposes in creation.

In the Old Testament, the idea of God’s Kingdom is rooted in the covenantal relationship between God and God’s chosen people. The Hebrew word “malkut” conveys the notion of God’s rule and authority, emphasizing God’s sovereignty over Israel and all nations. The prophets proclaimed the coming of God’s Kingdom as a time of justice, righteousness, and peace, when God’s reign would be established in its fullness. As Isaiah 9:7 proclaims, “Great will be his authority, and there shall be endless peace for the throne of David and his kingdom. He will establish and uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time onward and forevermore. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this.” (NRSVUE, emphasis added).

In the New Testament, Jesus Christ proclaimed the arrival of God’s Kingdom as the central message of his ministry. Through his teachings and parables, Jesus elucidated the nature of God’s Kingdom as a realm of mercy, forgiveness, and transformation. Moreover, Jesus’ use of the term “Kingdom” reflected the socio-political context of first-century Palestine, where the Roman Empire exerted its dominance over the Jewish people. By proclaiming the Kingdom of God, Jesus challenged the oppressive structures of the Roman Empire and offered an alternative vision of God’s reign based on justice, compassion, and equality.

In light of this rich theological and biblical tradition, the significance of the term “Kingdom” cannot be understated. It encapsulates the hope for God’s ultimate victory over sin and death and the establishment of God’s reign of peace and justice. Any proposed replacement for “Kingdom” must be evaluated in light of this historical and biblical understanding, ensuring that it retains the theological depth and richness of the concept.

Practical Implications for Theological Discourse

The debate over the use of “Kin-dom” versus “Kingdom” has practical implications for theological discourse in various contexts, including academia, worship, and Christian education. The language we use shapes our theological understanding and informs our practices and beliefs. Therefore, it is crucial to consider the implications of linguistic choices on theological discourse and the broader Christian community.

In academic settings, theologians and scholars grapple with complex theological concepts and engage in rigorous theological debates. The terminology they employ plays a crucial role in shaping theological discourse and conveying theological ideas with clarity and precision. Any proposed changes to theological terminology, such as replacing “Kingdom” with “Kin-dom,” must be subjected to rigorous scrutiny and evaluation to ensure their theological accuracy and coherence.

In worship and liturgical contexts, the language used in prayers, hymns, and liturgies profoundly shapes the worship experience and the formation of faith. The term “Kingdom” has been central to Christian worship for millennia, conveying the hope for God’s reign and the fulfillment of divine purposes in the world. Any attempt to replace “Kingdom” with “Kin-dom” must be approached with caution, considering its implications for worship and theological formation.

Moreover, in Christian education and discipleship, the language we use to communicate theological concepts has a significant impact on the formation of faith and the understanding of God’s redemptive purposes. The term “Kingdom” provides a rich theological framework for exploring the nature of God’s reign and its implications for discipleship and mission. Any proposed alternatives, such as “God’s reign and family” or “God’s reign and kinship,” must be carefully integrated into educational curricula and discipleship programs to ensure their theological coherence and accessibility.

Metric Convenience versus Theological Significance

While it may be convenient to use words like “Kin-dom” metrically to replace “Kingdom” in hymns or poetic expressions, theological meaning should take precedence over metrical convenience. Hymns and theological texts serve not only as expressions of worship but also as vehicles for conveying theological truth. Therefore, it is essential that the language used accurately reflects the depth and richness of theological concepts such as God’s Kingdom. While adjustments for meter or rhyme may be made, such alterations should not compromise the theological integrity of the message being conveyed. In cases where metrical convenience conflicts with theological precision, theological considerations should prevail.

Conclusion: Navigating the Intersection of Inclusivity and Theological Integrity

In conclusion, the debate over the use of “Kin-dom” versus “Kingdom” is rooted in a commendable desire for inclusivity and gender neutrality in theological discourse. However, this proposal raises significant theological and linguistic concerns that warrant thorough examination. The term “Kin-dom” lacks linguistic clarity and fails to capture the full depth and complexity of the concept of God’s Kingdom. Moreover, it inadvertently diminishes the theological significance of God’s sovereignty and authority.

Alternative formulations, such as “God’s reign and family” or “God’s reign and kinship,” offer more comprehensive and nuanced understandings of God’s redemptive purposes while maintaining inclusivity and theological integrity. These formulations incorporate both the authoritative and relational dimensions of God’s Kingdom, affirming the full breadth and depth of God’s redemptive work in the world.

Furthermore, a thorough examination of the historical and biblical perspectives on the concept of God’s Kingdom provides valuable insights into the significance of linguistic choices in theological discourse. The term “Kingdom” has been central to Christian theology for millennia, embodying the hope for God’s ultimate reign and the fulfillment of God’s purposes in creation.

Amidst these discussions and explorations, I must confess my own inclination towards retaining the traditional term “Kingdom.” As much as I appreciate the intention behind introducing more inclusive language, I believe that “Kingdom” remains the most robust and comprehensive term for conveying the theological depth and richness of God’s reign. Even the alternative formulations we have explored, such as “God’s reign and family” or “God’s reign and kinship,” feel somewhat clunky and fail to capture in one word what “Kingdom” does so succinctly.

Furthermore, I am convinced that it is the responsibility of pastors, theologians, and educators to educate people on terms like “Kingdom” rather than resorting to alternative terminology for the sake of simplicity or inclusivity. By teaching and unpacking the theological significance of terms like “Kingdom,” we empower individuals to grow in their theological depth and maturity, fostering a deeper understanding of God’s redemptive purposes and the call to participate in God’s Kingdom work.

Ultimately, any proposed changes to theological terminology must be subjected to rigorous scrutiny and evaluation to ensure their theological accuracy and coherence. By approaching language with discernment and sensitivity, we can uphold both theological principles and the imperative for inclusivity in theological discourse. In doing so, we honor the richness and depth of our theological tradition while remaining faithful to the call for inclusivity and diversity in our language and practices.

Essay written by Rev. Todd R. Lattig with the assistance of ChatGPT, an AI language model developed by OpenAI.

Devotional

Shine, Baby, Shine

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Read Exodus 34:29-35

ALSO IN SCRIPTURE
“So all of us who have had that veil removed can see and reflect the glory of the Lord. And the Lord—who is the Spirit—makes us more and more like him as we are changed into his glorious image” (2 Corinthians 3:18 NLT).

In the ancient account of Moses descending from Mount Sinai, something extraordinary happens—he’s glowing! Picture that lantern in the garden, but instead of just glowing with firelight, Moses glows with the very presence of God. It’s as though he’s carrying a piece of heaven with him.

Like the lantern, Moses doesn’t even realize he’s glowing. It’s because he’s been talking to God up on the mountain, and the closeness to God’s presence has left its mark on him. When the people see Moses, they’re amazed but also a bit scared because he looks so different.

Think about those moments when you’ve felt close to God—maybe during prayer, or when you’ve experienced a sense of peace or joy. It’s like a warm feeling inside, isn’t it? That’s God’s presence shining through you, just like the light shining through the lantern.

Just as the lantern’s light draws people in, our lives can show others how amazing God is. When they see us being kind, forgiving, or joyful even when things are tough, they might want to know more about God too.

The passage of Moses coming down from the mountain offers us profound insights into the transformative power of encountering God’s presence. As we delve deeper into this acount, we discover layers of meaning that resonate with our own journey of faith.

So, imagine Moses walking down from this big, tall mountain, holding these special tablets from God. But here’s the thing—Moses didn’t even realize his face was shining super bright because he had been spending time with God up there. It was like God’s glow rubbed off on him.

Just like how a lantern lights up a dark room, God’s presence can light up our lives. When we pray, go to church, or think about God, it’s like adding fuel to a fire. We get closer to God, and His light shines brighter in us.

And when we’re filled with God’s light, it shows! People notice something different about us. They see how we act with kindness and love, even when things are tough. It’s like we’re carrying a piece of God’s love with us wherever we go.

But sometimes, we might feel like we need to hide that light. Maybe we’re too busy or worried about what others will think.  That’s okay—God’s light is still inside us, waiting to shine again when we’re ready to answer God’s call.  Even when things get hard, God’s light is always there, ready to help us and guide us.

So, let’s remember Moses and his glowing face. Let’s spend time with God and let His light shine through us, so we can show others how awesome God’s love is. And even when life gets tough, let’s not forget that God’s light is always with us, ready to help us through anything.

As we journey through the Lenten season, let us reflect on the radiant lantern in the garden and the luminous face of Moses. Let us draw near to God with open hearts, allowing His presence to ignite the flame within us and illuminate our lives with His love. And let us shine brightly, like beacons in the night, pointing others toward the source of all light and life.

THOUGHT OF THE DAY
“Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.” – Martin Luther King Jr.

PRAYER
Dear God, thank You for being with me and for changing me from the inside out. Help me to spend time with You and to let Your light shine through me to others. May I be like Moses, bringing Your love and hope to everyone we meet. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

Devotion written by Rev. Todd R. Lattig with the assistance of ChatGPT, an AI language model developed by OpenAI.

Online Worship

March 3, 2024 – Newton UMC – Sunday Worship Livestream

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JOY Fellowship Worship Service in Holland Hall: 9:00 a.m.

Worship service streams live at 9:00 a.m. EST (-500 GMT)

Worship service streams live at 10:30 a.m. EST (-500 GMT)

Welcome to our live-streamed Sunday Worship Services for February 25, 2024. Today we discover that Jesus did not always love his options and in the midst of lament, he still freely chose to surrender to God.

Please support us by giving online: https://tithe.ly/give?c=1377216 or https://paypal.me/newtonumc Or you can make and mail a check out to First UMC of Newton, 111 Ryerson Ave., Newton, NJ O7860

God bless you all for your generosity which is vital to our mission and ministry.

Devotional

This Is the Way

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Read Jeremiah 29:11-13

ALSO IN SCRIPTURE
“I have tried hard to find you—don’t let me wander from your commands. I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you. I praise you, O LORD; teach me your decrees” (Psalm 119:10-12)

In our journey of faith, it’s easy to fall into the trap of seeking God only in the grandiose moments—the moments that shake us to our core or leave us in awe. We anticipate divine revelations in thunderous voices or miraculous signs, expecting God to show up in ways that demand our attention. Yet, just as The Mandalorian traverses the vastness of the galaxy in search of meaning and purpose, we too can find God in the ordinary moments of our daily lives.

For those who don’t know, The Mandalorian is a popular television series set in the “Star Wars” universe, focusing on the journey of a lone bounty hunter known as the Mandalorian, whose real name is Din Djarin. The series follows the Mandalorian as he navigates the outer reaches of the galaxy, taking on various jobs and missions while forming unexpected connections along the way. His life takes a dramatic turn when he is tasked with retrieving a mysterious and highly sought-after target, which turns out to be a young alien known as “The Child” or “Baby Yoda” by fans. As the Mandalorian forms a bond with the Child and learns more about its significance, he finds himself entangled in a larger conflict that goes beyond mere bounties, ultimately leading him on a quest for identity, purpose, and redemption.

The Mandalorian character offers us valuable lessons about persistence, integrity, and the power of connection. His journey mirrors our own quest to encounter God, providing parallels that resonate deeply with our spiritual walk.

Firstly, The Mandalorian embodies the importance of perseverance. Despite facing countless challenges and enduring numerous setbacks, he remains resolute in his commitment to his mission. The trials he faces do not deter him; rather, they fuel his determination to press forward. Similarly, in our pursuit of God, we may encounter obstacles and doubts that threaten to derail us. Yet, it is through steadfast determination and unwavering trust that we draw closer to God. When the journey seems long and arduous, we can take heart in knowing that God is with us every step of the way, guiding us forward with His unending grace.

Secondly, The Mandalorian exemplifies integrity in his actions. He operates according to a strict code of honor, guided by principles that define his character. As followers of Christ, we are called to walk with integrity, allowing our faith to permeate every aspect of our lives. Whether in our workplaces, relationships, or communities, our actions should reflect the love and grace of God that dwells within us. Just as The Mandalorian’s integrity sets him apart in a world filled with chaos and corruption, our commitment to living out our faith can be a beacon of hope and light in the darkness.

Finally, The Mandalorian discovers the power of connection through his relationships with others. Despite his solitary nature, he forms deep bonds with those he encounters on his journey, recognizing the value of companionship and community. Similarly, in our spiritual journey, we are not meant to walk alone. God often reveals Godself through the people we encounter, using them to remind us of God’s presence and love. Whether it’s the encouragement of a friend, the wisdom of a mentor, or the compassion of a stranger, these connections serve as tangible reminders of God’s grace and provision in our lives.

As we reflect on The Mandalorian’s journey, let us be inspired to seek God in the ordinary moments of our daily lives. Whether it’s in the laughter of loved ones, the beauty of nature, or the kindness of strangers, may we open our hearts to His presence and guidance. For it is in the midst of life’s ordinary moments that we often find the extraordinary grace of God, leading us ever closer to God. Let us embrace each moment as an opportunity to encounter the divine, trusting that God is always with us, even in the most ordinary of circumstances. This is the way.

THOUGHT OF THE DAY
Seeking God is not just about finding God in the extraordinary, but recognizing God’s presence in the ordinary moments of our daily lives.

PRAYER
Lord, help us find You in every moment, big or small. Amen.

Devotion written by Rev. Todd R. Lattig with the assistance of ChatGPT, an AI language model developed by OpenAI.