Sermon, Sunday, August 3

THIS WEEK'S SERMON is titled "Holding on for the Blessing" based on Genesis 32:22-31 which records Jacob wrestling all night, refusing to let go until he received a blessing.  The account reminds of the importance of holding on...holding on for the blessing.  We all want to be "blessed," but are we willing to go through the struggle, to even fight for it?  Through it all, Jacob not only receives the blessing but also a new identity.

Godly community makes us better than we can be by ourselves

Yesterday's sermon Scripture was from Hebrews 10:19-25.  Of those verses, two particular verses, verses 24 and 25, provided the foundation of the sermon: "And let us consider how to provoke one another to love and good deeds, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching" (NRSV).  In these verses, the author of Hebrews seems intent that the community do a few things.  One of those things is that the community make sure that its members are provoked to love and "good deeds."  Perhaps, one way to say this is that the community should push it's members to love better and do more.  One of the other concerns of the author is that the members of the community are encouraged, are built up.  You see, godly community makes us better than we can be by ourselves. 

SPUMC's Spiritual Triathlon

The Spiritual Triathlon was a set of three Wednesday evening events that saw us praise God, pray for our church and community, and play.  For the first night of Praise, we gathered for a meal and then were blessed by the wonderful musical gifts of several of the SPUMC members.  Like the praise night, the Pray night began with a meal.  In addition to the meal, three folks spoke about prayer before many of us split into groups to pray for SPUMC, Penick Village, and the communities of Aberdeen, Pinehurst, Southern Pines, and Whispering Pines.  The later five groups actually went to those communities for prayer.  Finally, the Play night was a time to share a BBQ meal with church family and guests.  Thanks to many folks, this night turned out to be a huge success and very enjoyable!   

SPUMC News from The Pilot 7-16-14

Southern Pines UMC 

The second phase of Southern Pines United Methodist Church’s Spiritual Triathlon is scheduled for Wednesday, July 16 beginning with a meal at 6:00 p.m. This week, the focus of the triathlon is “Pray”.  Three people will share their testimonies regarding their prayer lives.  Participants will go on prayer walks, both on the church campus as well as locations throughout the county.  People will pray for others, our communities, our state, our nation, and world concerns.  Child care will be provided.  On Wednesday, July 23, the triathlon will conclude with the third phase, “Play”.  Participants will gather on the church grounds for food, fun, and fellowship.

SPUMC will begin an Upper Room Prayer initiative that will meet on Mondays at noon beginning July 28. “The purpose of Upper Room Prayer is to help us discern the proper direction of our church, our lives, and what God wants us to do in the community,” says a church spokesperson.  “Everyone is welcome to attend.”

To learn more about the ministries and missions of Southern Pines United Methodist Church call the church office at (910) 692-3518 or visit the website: www.southerpinesumc.org.  The church is located at 175 Midland Road in Southern Pines.

SPUMC Article From The Pilot 7-9-14

Southern Pines UMC

Southern Pines United Methodist Church will sponsor a unique type of triathlon during the month of July.  The Spiritual Triathlon will be held on three consecutive Wednesdays beginning July 9 at 6:00 p.m.  The first night will focus upon Praise, which includes joyful worship music.  On July 16, the emphasis will be Prayer with prayer groups traveling to various locations to pray for individuals and communities as well as national and world concerns. On July 23, the last phase of the Spiritual Triathlon will be Play.  Participants will join in fellowship for music, games, and a cookout.  “Everyone is welcome to join us for this special Triathlon”, says a church spokesperson, “and no preparation is necessary.”   

 

To learn more about the missions and ministries of Southern Pines United Methodist Church call the church office at (910) 692-3518 or visit the website at: www.southernpinesumc.org.  The church is located at 175 Midland Road in Southern Pines.

VBS 2015 Revealed

Since Weird Animals VBS was such a great time, some of us are missing VBS.  Several kids asked why we couldn't have another week of VBS this week?  Guess they had a wonderful time!  VBS 2014 leaves us with important lessons about Jesus' one-of-a-kind love and unforgettable memories.  And, it may leave you may wondering what's next.  Our 2015 VBS theme is (drum roll, please), EVEREST!!!  Hope you will be part of our Everest expedition June22-26, 2015!