Worship Preview for 4.24.22 “Living in the Light of Resurrection: Love Has Already Won”
Scriptures: John 3:16-21, Romans 5:1-6, 12-15; & 6:1-11 (and 1 Peter 3:18-20 & 4:6.)
Pastor Christopher Eshelman preaching.
Christ is Risen, Christ is Risen, indeed! We gather as an Easter people. We gather as a people still on the journey of faith - pondering what Easter means today. Perhaps the best know verse in Scripture is John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life.” The gospel continues, saying, in verse 17. ‘Indeed, God did not send the Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.” How do we make sense of the Resurrection? Sunday we will continue to hear the theology of John’s gospel and the early church as we continue to celebrate Easter.
Along with John, we will hear from Romans and 1st Peter - two letters that help us understand the development of Christian theology and, particularly, what it means to say that Jesus “descended to the dead” - a sometimes contentious line from the Apostle’s Creed. Pastor Christopher will share an understanding at the heart of his own faith journey and we’ll explore the imagery of one of the great icons of Eastern Orthodox faith - doing so as our brethren in faith celebrate Easter according to their calendar on this Sunday. Together, in all of our differences and diversity, we are a people of grace. We are a people of the Risen Christ. We are an Easter People - called to be light and love, the body of Christ given for the world. Given, because God so loves.
You are invited to continue the journey of faith with us, just as you are - and experience the transformative love and grace of Christ - which makes us whole. First time considering attending? Bring your hope and your questions - see our web site for answers to common questions and more information about what to expect at First UMC. www.firstumcfsks.org/newvisitors
This Week: Wednesday, April 27, 5:30pm Feeding Families in His Name – this weekly free meal is available to everyone without obligation.
Community Office Hours this week: Pastor Christopher would love to visit with you, he’ll be at Common Grounds Monday from 9:30-10:30am and Hedgehog, Ink from 2-3pm on Thursday. Appointments are available other times - call the church at (620) 223-1950.
Remember that (Saturday, April 23rd) there is one more session of the introduction to Labyrinth walking Pastor Christopher has shared this week - join us in the Parlor at 301 S National at 2pm for an introduction to this spiritual practice and to learn more about plans to build one (or two!) here in Fort Scott soon!
