St. Paul United Methodist Church - The Message

When we read this parable it's easy to identify with one of the sons, or sometimes both. The parable is actually teaching us to outgrow being the prodigal younger brother or the self-righteous older brother and become like the Father.

The older brother in the story was just as lost from the father as the younger brother, even though he never left home.

The prodigal son is the best known character in the parable. He reminds us that we all make mistakes and do things that separate us from the Father. Like the father in the parable, God stands ready to forgive and accept us back into the family.

The church is one body made up of many members with many diverse gifts. We need each other and each have an important part to play in what Jesus calls us do.

We often wonder if we have any influence on God. Do our requests, prayers, or actions influence our Almighty, ever-present, all-knowing creator? Bible stories suggest that what we say and do can change the mind of God.

As we remember and celebrate Jesus’ baptism we remember and celebrate our own.

What does it mean to enter into a covenant with God?

The story of the Magi and Herod’s murderous intentions for Jesus remind us that the world can be a dangerous place where we are called to share the afterglow of Christmas Day where the Light of Christ offers comfort and hope.

Mary trusted God even when she didn't know how his plan would turn out. We can trust God too.

John the Baptist was a voice in the wilderness who courageously proclaimed the coming of the Christ no matter the cost. Today, God calls us to share the Good News with the courage and humility exemplified by John.

Zephaniah paints a touching picture of God taking us in God’s arms and singing over us.

Mary had faith that God could do the impossible in her life. God wants to do incredible things through us as well.

Don't lose heart, God is faithful.

This story from the book of Daniel reminds us of two gifts that God gives us when we are facing tyrants: hope and humor.

Faith in God is believing in God even when we don't get what we want.

What will the afterlife be like? God doesn't give us details, but he does give us imagery. Isaiah and Jesus both describe a banquet where everyone is invited.

Clinging to the past often leads to anger, which can then lead to violence. We have a choice to live in the joy of the present, informed by the past and future.

We learn the simple rules John Wesley had about stewardship and money.

During difficult times, God helps us to continue putting one foot in front of the other and keep going.

Our love for others should be all-embracing, rather than selective or exclusive. This includes loving those who are different from us or are difficult for us to love. We are called to be a people of wide embrace. Our love of the “other” is rooted in...