The Fellowship Blogs

Sixth Sunday after Pentecost

Week of: July 12, 2020
Scripture: Isaiah 55:10-13

Instead of the thorn shall come up the cypress; instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle; and it shall be to the LORD for a memorial, for an everlasting sign that shall not be cut off.
(Isaiah 55:13, NRSV)

Devotion

Over the years of my being blessed as a church musician and worship leader, many young adults have entered my life, frequently as incoming freshmen at a nearby university. Some are a bit "thorny" as they start out, clearly viewing their positions as vocalists, instrumentalists, dancers, worship leaders / developers as means to putting food on the table. Others are highly qualified, perhaps working on doctorates in a worship arts field. Sometimes, beginners model proprieties for more experienced leaders!

About one year in, it begins to happen. The commitment to God’s word sets in, reflected in the students' ways of speaking, looks on their faces as they sing, methods of reaching out to those with whom they sing or direct or otherwise interact. They commit to performing in extra, outside venues and do it with enthusiasm. They bring in other worship contributors.

When they approach graduation from the university, one can see joy on their faces as they interact with all those in the church community. Further, they vow to come back and sing, play, or direct. They leave for other church positions, but stay connected with all of us for numbers of years. Above that, they remain connected with God in many ways that are clearly demonstrated in how they write about their peers, colleagues, and students, as well as in the ways they perform. Those sometimes are the true tests of their transitioning from thorn to cypress, from briar to myrtle, as memorials to our LORD.

Prayer

Holy God, we thank you for the opportunities we have to follow and enact your word. Be with us as we grow and develop through our leadership roles to transition from the thorn to the cypress, from briar to myrtle. This we ask in Jesus' name, Amen.

B. Caryn Welter
Director of Music and Worship
Lansing Central United Methodist Church
Lansing, MI 

Photo: Flowers and trees are seen outside Memorial Chapel at Lake Junaluska.  (Fellowship photo by Daniel Craig.)

Fifth Sunday after Pentecost

Week of: July 5, 2020
Scripture: Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30

At that time Jesus said, "I thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and the intelligent and have revealed them to infants ..."
(Matthew 11:25, NRSV)

Devotion

Do you remember when you first learned to play a musical instrument or to dance or draw? Remember how laboriously you worked, trying hard not to make any mistakes and not feeling at all confident of yourself?

In recent months, we have had to learn new skills as worship services have gone online. This week, many pastors will begin new appointments in congregations they may not meet in person for many weeks.

When challenges surround us and we do not know how everything is going to turn out, we worry and wonder what to do and hope that we are going to have the strength to survive somehow. We forget that we are God's babies and God does not expect us to solve our own problems. It is God's responsibility to care for God's children, to guide us through the darkness, and to give us the strength, the faith, the patience, and the courage that we need.

Jesus does not say we will never have problems. The tragedy is that so often we think we can do it ourselves, and like a 2-year-old trying to dress herself, we end up feeling frustrated and hopelessly entangled in a mess we ourselves have created.

We need to hear again Christ's gracious invitation to become like a child, to become even a helpless baby, completely dependent upon the gracious gifts of an ever-loving God.

Prayer

God our Father, you guide us and protect us like a loving parent. Lead us through these challenging days that we may faithfully serve you and the people you have committed to our care, through Jesus Christ, our teacher and example. Amen.

Buff Coe
Retired Elder
Michigan Conference of The UMC
Vicksburg, MI 

Photo: A child drums during Music & Worship Arts Week 2019.  (Fellowship photo by Daniel Craig.)

Fourth Sunday after Pentecost

Week of: June 28, 2020
Scripture: Psalm 89:1-4, 15-18

I will sing of your steadfast love, O LORD, forever; with my mouth I will proclaim your faithfulness to all generations.
(Psalm 89:1, NRSV)

Devotion

What is your story? In the age of the internet and Facebook, one can scroll through a social media profile and answer that question rather quickly. For others, it’s a private look through text messages and photos on your phone, emails sent, and memories of conversations shared. Yes, there is a story we are telling each day.

As my children’s worship arts ministry gathers through Zoom each Sunday afternoon, I’m often reminded that we as church musicians, pastors, and worship artists hold power to speak in ways others don’t. The story we lead others to share through music, the visual arts, the spoken word, drama, and dance leaves a lasting impression. It’s remembered.

The Holy Spirit is looking for her message bearer. Though many of us have put away the red paraments for now, the mission of Pentecost still resounds and calls to each of us. There are a thousand stories we can tell, but what is the witness that God has called you to proclaim for today?

Prayer

God of the story, may your steadfast love be the narrative I speak and live out this day. Where hate and fear divide, teach me to listen, learn, and grow in love. And above all, empower me to lead the people of my congregation to embrace a witness that is faithful to your story — a story of unbounded love for all.

Bodie Gilbert
Pastor of Music and Worship
Westbury United Methodist Church
Houston, TX 

Photo: Magrey deVega preaches during morning worship at Music & Worship Arts Week 2019.  (Fellowship photo by Daniel Craig.)

Third Sunday after Pentecost / Father's Day

Week of: June 21, 2020
Scripture: Matthew 10:24-39

... nothing is covered up that will not be uncovered, and nothing secret that will not become known. What I say to you in the dark, tell in the light; and what you hear whispered, proclaim from the housetops.
(Matthew 10:26-27, NRSV)

Devotion

Have you ever finished an email or a text and pushed send only to find out it was sent to the wrong person? Ugh. Sometimes an event like this can turn into a major pitfall, depending on what was said. As I used to share with my students, only say what you're OK with everyone hearing and knowing. In other words, don't put something in an email or text — and especially don't put anything on social media — that you want to keep secret or don't want to be proclaimed from the housetops!

For Christians, this is more than just regretful words or embarrassing photographs. It's about living a life that acknowledges belief and trust in God. When someone searches for you online, will they uncover that you're a Christian? Is your secret out? Are you bringing to light the injustices that God has whispered to you in the dark? In other words, are you speaking out alongside the voiceless, the marginalized, the disenfranchised?

Jesus reminds those first-century disciples, and us 21st-century disciples, that we are not to be afraid of what might harm our body. Rather, we should fear what would destroy our soul. Jesus reminds us that our words and our actions are to acknowledge the One who calls us to be hope for the hopeless — even when our foes are members of our own household, even our own faith community. Only when we are willing to risk everyone hearing and knowing what we believe will we be able to truly find our life's purpose.

Prayer

Whispering God,
     who encourages us and empowers us through the Spirit:
We are grateful that you value us more than many sparrows.
Nudge us so to speak truth
     even when we would prefer peace to a sword.
We take up the cross and follow the Christ,
     so that we may be found worthy of you.

Jacqueline Thompson
Ordained Elder, Iowa Conference
Burns UMC and St. John’s UMC
Des Moines, IA 

Second Sunday after Pentecost

Week of: June 14, 2020
Scripture: Matthew 9:35-10:8, (9-23)

Now when Jesus saw the crowds, he had compassion for them because they were troubled and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.
(Matthew 9:36, CEB)

Devotion

Did Jesus see the crowd only with his eyes or with his heart as well? Did he prejudge, categorize, or label them? Jesus saw the crowd. He listened to them with his heart to discern their trouble and their helplessness. We need to follow his lead as we prepare experiences to inspire meaningful worship for all people.

This is even more important as we prepare online worship. We need to be ensuring that everyone sees their place at the table regardless of labels or categories put on them by others or by themselves. During “in-person” worship we strive to make sure words, music, and visuals are inclusive. That is magnified when we deliver worship experiences online with the visual component becoming even more prominent.

As we produce our virtual church videos each week, we should concentrate on how to magnify the words visually. We are able to use visuals that show all people regardless of any labels or differences.

Hopefully, by seeing and thinking with our hearts, we help all people to truly see that there is a loving place at the table for them.

Prayer

Dear God, help us learn to see all people by listening to them with our hearts. Give us the desire to include and inspire everyone. Amen.

Keith Dyer
Director of Music
College Heights United Methodist Church
Lakeland, FL 

Photo: Brian Combs speaks during closing worship of A Place at the Table, The Fellowship's Convocation held in Kansas City in July 2019.   (Fellowship photo by Daniel Craig.)

Trinity Sunday

Week of: June 7, 2020
Scripture: Matthew 28:16-20

Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you.
(Matthew 28:19-20a, NRSV)

Devotion

As worship artists we share direction, knowledge, skill, and care to our congregations using the gifts and talents that God has given us. We are called to teach them about the One who loves us through music, scripture, dance, and readings. Lately I have been reminded that, while what we do hasn't changed, the way we do it has to be adapted.

Sitting at the keyboard in my makeshift recording studio for the past two months, I have felt lonely, sad, and even frightened. The planner in me has struggled as I have removed events from my calendar one by one. I have mourned the loss of connection with those I love. This is such an uncertain time for us all. At times, my prayers have been cries of desperation more than the attitude of gratitude I want to offer.

Matthew 28:19 reminds us to "go." Does this mean physical movement? Spiritual movement? I believe that it is telling us to take action. For me, it means to look outside myself and reach out to family, friends, and church relationships with love and support. A short note, phone call, text, or prayer for those I hold dear are ways I can "go."

Prayer

God, may we show your love to all we encounter each day. May we live our lives in such a way that others learn about you. May we obey your commands and live with total awareness of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit in our daily walk. We love you and ask that you lead us as we "go." Amen.

Peggy Preston
Chapter Coordinator, The Fellowship
Worship Arts Director, Aldersgate United Methodist Church
Nixa, MO 

Photo: A trio of stone arches marks the entrance to Memorial Chapel at Lake Junaluska.  (Fellowship photo by Daniel Craig.)

Day of Pentecost

Week of: May 31, 2020
Scripture: John 20:19-23

When it was evening on that day, the first day of the week, and the doors of the house where the disciples had met were locked for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said, "Peace be with you."
(John 20:19, NRSV)

Devotion

As we come to the end of May 2020, those of us in worship leadership may find that we can really relate to the disciples in this scene. We may identify with being "locked in the house for fear," or with being somewhere between the "last days" of leading worship online and "the first days" of a new era of in-person worship, strictly modified by precautions for not spreading the novel coronavirus. Many of us are navigating the challenge of doing both.

Not unlike the disciples, we may be heartbroken at not being able to sing, yet anxious about following guidelines, exhausted by the required adaptations, and scared someone is going to get sick.

If there's anything we need right now, it's the peace that Jesus was breathing into his friends. You are his friend! Take a deep breath and let the peace of the Risen Christ fill you now.

Prayer

Risen Christ,

Breathing out, I release my fear. Inhaling, I receive your peace. Your peace renews my spirit.

Hallelujah! Amen.

Rev. Leigh Anne Taylor
President, The Fellowship
Revitalization Coordinator, Lynchburg District of the Virginia Conference
Lynchburg, VA 

Photo: A stained glass window featuring a dove as seen in Memorial Chapel at Lake Junaluska.  (Fellowship photo by Daniel Craig.)

Seventh Sunday of Easter / Ascension Sunday

Week of: May 24, 2020
Scripture: Luke 24:44-53

Then he opened their minds to understand the scriptures ... "You are witnesses to these things." ... While he was blessing them, he withdrew from them and was carried up into heaven.
(Luke 24:45, 48, 51, NRSV)

Devotion

Social distancing still feels awkward, and yet it is unforgettable. It is the image of a daughter signing messages to her elderly mother through a hospital window. It is hearing seniors, as well as my own three-year-old daughter, struggle to understand the need to cancel church.

We encounter these same emotions and motives in the Ascension. The gospel spectrum fully captures the pathos of social distancing. For Mark, it is the simplicity and palpability of fear. In Matthew, we hear Jesus' draconian edict – GO! – in a tone that is, thankfully, offset by John's pastoral explanation that Jesus' leaving benefits us all.

Luke's concern, however, is the broader concept of witness, a vital transition from the gospel to Acts. The kind of social distancing that we see in Luke is painful, hard to understand, but ultimately restorative for our relationship with God. Here, Jesus opens our minds to scripture, avoiding both narrow prescriptions and obscure symbolism, temptations for Matthew’s and John's texts respectively.

The gospel's brilliance inhabits that simple word, open. By opening their minds and their hearts, Jesus empowers the disciples to preach a strange, new doctrine, yet one that, as Acts 17 affirms, is rooted in the everyday experience of life itself. There is no doubt – the experience that we have all shared recently has inspired us all to do things differently. Even still, more now than ever, we find ourselves deeply committed to the core values of the gospel – love, care, hospitality, and God's unfailing presence in our world.

Prayer

Great Physician, caretaker of our bodies and protector of our souls, through the work of Jesus Christ, you continue to heal our brokenness. By raising your Son in glory, you have restored all of creation to wholeness. Grant that as we dwell on earth below, we too may be instruments of healing, reconciliation, and peace through your holy gospel according to the example we have in our Savior. Amen.

Rev. Sam Chambers
Senior Pastor
Lone Oak United Methodist Church
Paducah, KY 

Sixth Sunday of Easter

Week of: May 17, 2020
Scripture: Acts 17:22-31

The God who made the world and everything in it, he who is the Lord of heaven and earth, does not live in shrines made by human hands, nor is he served by human hands, as though he needed anything, since he himself gives to all mortals life and breath and all things. ... For "In him we live and move and have our being."
(Acts 17:24-25, 28a, NRSV)

Devotion

Over the past few months, the worshipping life of many congregations throughout the world has been altered significantly. Many churches have embraced technology as a means to proclaim Christ to their members and anyone who wishes to view their live-streamed worship services. While live streaming worship is not new, it is a form of communication that many churches still hadn't embraced before this year.

The lectionary reading for this week reminds us that, "... the Lord of heaven and earth, does not live in shrines made by human hands." The buildings in which we worship do not, nor will they ever contain Christ; Christ dwells within each of us. No matter where we are or how we worship, Christ is there with us. These words remind me that God's love has not been removed from me; God has not been taken from me as our worship has changed over the past few months. God is always present. Christ is always with us no matter where we worship.

As a musician, my ministry to my congregation has shifted. While I haven't been in weekly rehearsals getting ready for our corporate times of worship, I have been talking on the phone, texting and emailing all of the members in my music ministry making sure they are safe and know that God loves them. Our roles as musicians and worship artists are not bound by just music or the arts; we are called by God to minister to our congregations.

Prayer

Almighty God, creator and sustainer of the world, be with all of us, your children, as we continually seek new ways to share your love with the world around us. Give us receptive hearts to hear from you ... give us loving hearts to share your love with those around us, your children. Amen.

Kevin B. Chamberlain
Minister of Music and Organist
Avenue United Methodist Church
Milford, DE 

Fifth Sunday of Easter

Week of: May 10, 2020
Scripture: 1 Peter 2:2-10

Come to him, a living stone, though rejected by mortals yet chosen and precious in God's sight, and like living stones, let yourselves be built into a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.
(1 Peter 2:4-5, NRSV)

Devotion

What a beautiful scripture this is, and yet how strangely abstract. How might you portray this scripture through your varied worship arts — especially as most of us are still creating worship experiences from our homes or recording in empty sanctuaries?

What would an altarscape look like if built around "living stones"? Would you use rocks covered with living moss? Would you display photographs of saints of your church who have built up your spiritual house? What about inviting your community to learn a simple dance routine in their homes for this scripture? Or how about filming a dramatic interpretation of different families in your church being built into a spiritual house?

In this season of Eastertide, part of me still somehow hears echoes of Palm Sunday in this scripture, when the rocks cry out to Jesus because of the pain and difficulty of being, well, rocks. I recall the Genesis story where mortals — or more literally earthlings — were made of dust (aka ground-up rocks) and received life from God's own breath. I feel a kinship with the psalmists who offered themselves as spiritual sacrifices to God through their emotional (sometimes melodramatic) song lyrics.

Today, may we find kinship with each other — with our fellow living, talkative rocks. May we support each other as we allow God to build God's spiritual houses, and may that be enough for today.

Prayer

Oh God, speak to us through these beautiful scripture passages, and reveal something new to us, so that we may in turn reveal something about you to our community through our worship arts. Amen and amen.

Rebecca Garrett Pace
Director of Worship
White Rock United Methodist Church
Dallas, TX 

Photo: Small rocks are seen on a table outside Stuart Auditorium prior to Tuesday morning worship at Music & Worship Arts Week 2019.  (Fellowship photo by Daniel Craig.)

Fourth Sunday of Easter

Week of: May 3, 2020
Scripture: Acts 2:42-47

Day by day, as they spent much time together in the temple, they broke bread at home and ate their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having the goodwill of all the people.
(Acts 2:46-47a, NRSV)

Devotion

From its beginning, the essence of Christian worship has been simultaneously dynamic and peculiar at best. Worship is known as "the work of the people" and is to be lived out beyond our time on Sunday mornings. It represents who we are as the Body of Christ. I find Acts 2:42-47 to be an incredible example of what that means.

Part of our role as worship leaders involves incorporating an intergenerational group of people to connect, network, and explore new possibilities. When we offer a well-rounded and diverse perspective of values, culture, art, and musical traditions, it has the capacity to build communities and transform lives.

I have found that when we live outside the "temple of our own familiar," our worship experiences are nurtured and sustained in meaningful ways. This requires us to move beyond our comfort zone; it is not something that takes place easily but has the opportunity to become a new way of being. Claiming both the homiletic as well as the liturgical moments represented in our worshipping community can speak to the true essence of our various cultures and help us navigate what "the work of the people" looks like and can move us beyond what we do into who we are.

Prayer

Gracious God, in the midst of life’s challenges, help us see the beauty in all of God's children coming together to do "the work of the people." Let us be beacons of your hope and love to others in all ways at all times. Amen.

Rev. Brittney Stephan
Associate Director for Multi-Cultural Vibrancy
Michigan Conference of The United Methodist Church
Sterling Heights, MI 

Photo: Generations of worship leaders and members gather for the 150th anniversary celebration of Old North UMC in Evansville, IN.   (Photo by Daniel Craig.)

Third Sunday of Easter

Week of: April 26, 2020
Scripture: Luke 24:13-35

"And he said to them, "What are you discussing with each other while you walk along?" They stood still, looking sad. Then one of them, whose name was Cleopas, answered him, "Are you the only stranger in Jerusalem who does not know the things that have taken place there in these days?"
(Luke 24:17-18, NRSV)

Devotion

I don't want to assume what your life has been like the last several weeks (though I have a pretty good hunch), but for me, it's been a weird, surreal, painful, confusing, and really, really strange Lent and Easter. Many of my friends and colleagues have not been able to celebrate worship in person for weeks. Many have had to cancel concerts, recitals, art shows, outreach events, and Holy Week series that have been in the works since well before Christmas. Does that include you? It includes me, and it's heartbreaking.

I don't feel like it's Eastertide. I'm not yet ready to believe the Resurrection story. I'm on the road to Emmaus, traveling with one companion (six feet apart, obviously). I'm standing still, looking sad. Where to begin, Jesus? My artistic designs were dumped in the trash. My folk band rehearsals, my dance classes, my altarscapes, my Easter lily orders ... don't you get it, Jesus?

And Jesus says, "Oh, I do get it. I'm here. I'm on the road with you. I'm leading you toward bread and juice. I'm leading you toward new kinds of community and ministry. I'm with you in the grief. And I'm leading you toward a new kind of Eastertide."

May we take all the time we need to stand still, looking sad. May we also experience the risen Christ speaking to us, side-by-side with us, through it all.

Prayer

God of Eastertide, help us grapple with our stories of both grief and resurrection. Help us hear your voice on the road. Help us find new life again. Amen and amen.

Rebecca Garrett Pace
Director of Worship
White Rock United Methodist Church
Dallas, TX 

Photo: A path alongside Lake Junaluska.  (Fellowship photo by Daniel Craig.)

Second Sunday of Easter

Week of: April 19, 2020
Scripture: John 20:19-31

Then Jesus told him, "Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed."
(John 20:29, NIV)

Devotion

I recently began singing with a chamber vocal group in my community. The director of the ensemble is the Director of Choral Activities at the university in town. To celebrate a new acquisition of a 16th-century chant manuscript, we were learning chant. A couple of weeks into the rehearsal process, he sent me a text and asked me to sing, saying, "It'll be fun, and we need another tenor."

Chant is different, y'all. I haven't read neumes since we talked about them for a couple of hours in an undergrad music history class. Trying to shift between universes and be comfortable reading new clefs, and different understandings of what note goes where is different from what I'm normally used to. Learning that music required the hardest music-learning work I've done in years.

We have all kinds of opportunities for doubt. We doubt our own capabilities, we doubt each other, and there is a degree to which we need to doubt. Maintaining a healthy skepticism keeps us curious about finding real answers.

But as the scripture shows us, we also need to be open to things that might bring us great joy and hope.

In the midst of a global pandemic, it's natural to ask questions, doubt each other, and doubt our own capabilities. In the midst of that, though, let us continue finding ways to make art and offer those moments of joy, hope, and love in a world that needs as much of it as it can get.

Prayer

God, be with us in the mess. As we collectively work through a crisis, let us believe in ourselves, believe in each other, and continue to be your hands, feet, voice, and heart in our communities.

Isaac C. Garrigues-Cortelyou
Director of Music
Vestal United Methodist Church
Vestal, NY 

Photo: The Chamber Choir rehearses during Music & Worship Arts Week 2019.  (Fellowship photo by Daniel Craig.)

Resurrection of the Lord

Week of: April 12, 2020
Scripture: Colossians 3:1-4

Therefore, if you were raised with Christ, look for the things that are above where Christ is sitting at God's right side. Think about the things above and not things on earth. You died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, is revealed, then you also will be revealed with him in glory.
(Colossians 3:1-4, CEB)

Devotion

COVID-19, coronavirus. What a difference just a few days can make in our specific communities. I don't know about you, but I have had to change my entire mindset about my routine and my workload. As a musician, I depend on the congregation, certainly not "social distancing!" I prepare with various vocal and instrumental ensembles on a weekly basis; we gather for worship or a community performance. All of these things depend on togetherness. We come together to sing, act, and dance, and we depend on others to come to watch, or hopefully join in! We aren't used to the distance. We aren't used to not being busy.

So, what can I do? What can we do? Are our gifts useless in these days of uncertainty? No. Now is the time to use our creative passions. This is a pivotal moment in our world's history, so it's a pivotal moment as a Christian. We are seeing people come together to deliver food and resources to those who would not otherwise have them, but how can art have an impact? U2's Bono is quoted as saying, "Music can change the world because it can change people." Art brings humanity.

I challenge you to think of ways to bring your spiritual, artistic gifts to those around you while still "distancing" your physical body. We are experiencing a time in our culture where we don't have much of an option but to be reliant on our great God! We will see God use us to do great things. In our calling to use our gifts, we can be hopeful that we are working towards a resurrection, preparing to be revealed in Christ's glory.

Prayer

Lord, we pray that you will give us certainty in these uncertain times. We pray that you will give us peace and hope, and help us find healthy and safe ways to be the light in our communities. Amen.

Cristen Renee Mitchell
Director of Music Ministries
Blacksburg United Methodist Church
Blacksburg, VA 

Photo: Close-up of an Easter Lily.  (Pixabay.com photo by Maurisa Mayerle.)

Palm / Passion Sunday

Week of: April 5, 2020
Scripture: Matthew 26:14 - 27:66

Then Jesus went with them to a place called Gethsemane; and he said to his disciples, "Sit here while I go over there and pray." He took with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and began to be grieved and agitated. Then he said to them, "I am deeply grieved, even to death; remain here, and stay awake with me."
(Matthew 26:36-38, NRSV)

Devotion

Back in January when I first wrote these devotions, little did we know how fast life would change or become interrupted. Little did we know that many of us would have to close our buildings to stop the spread of a new virus. Little did we know that we would have to find creative and new ways to be the church.

I don't know about you, but I feel a lot like Jesus right now as he goes to Gethsemane to pray, as there are times when I feel grief while not being able to worship together with my congregation or connect face to face.

This Sunday, Palm/Passion Sunday, was to be the beginning of one of the busiest weeks for us as clergy, musicians, worship artists, and others who play a key role in worship. Holy Week is akin to a championship sporting event for many of us in the worship arts, yet all of that is on hold for now.

Many of us may feel agitation while our lives and routines are on hold. At the same time, we are trying to let this pandemic pass by staying at home, only going out for essential activities. As I tell my congregation every week, this too will pass, maybe like a kidney stone, but it will pass. As we do a lot of our work from home, let us all pray without ceasing, seeking God's comfort, assurance, guidance, and wisdom during this time.

While our buildings might be closed for now, the church has not closed; we can be the church by checking in and caring for each other, gathering on Zoom, Skype, or FaceTime. We can offer to go shopping for anyone who can't, or make care packages to be dropped off on someone's porch. While many of us won't be worshiping together physically, we are still the church together as we worship virtually or however we worship. We are still the church together, even when life is interrupted.

Prayer

Most Holy and Loving God, while life has been interrupted and our routines altered, we know you are still with us. We know you will assure us, comfort us, and help alleviate some of the loneliness we might feel when we come to you. We also know you take our fears, doubts, struggles, anger, cynicism, and grief when we give them to you. Continue to watch over us, O Lord. Continue to sustain us, keep us healthy, safe, and out of harm's way.

We give you thanks for all of those who are still working to keep us safe and fed, praying for their well-being and safety.

We know that as we approach the new life of Easter, we must go into the darkness. Remind us, O Lord that in the midst of darkness, we have new life and light to look forward to. In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.

Rev. Andrew Davis
Pastor
Community United Methodist Church
Quincy, CA 

Photo: Stained glass windows inside Memorial Chapel at Lake Junaluska are illuminated by the sun.   (Fellowship photo by Daniel Craig.)

Fifth Sunday in Lent

Week of: March 29, 2020
Scripture: John 11:1-45

Martha said to him, "I know that he will rise again in the resurrection on the last day." Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life. Those who believe in me, even though they die, will live, and everyone who lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?" She said to him, "Yes, Lord, I believe that you are the Messiah, the Son of God, the one coming into the world."
(John 11:24-27, NRSV)

Devotion

When I was a kid, the church in which I grew up had a morning sing before Sunday School, and the song "I Am the Resurrection and the Life" was always popular. It was when I began committing to reading the Bible more intently and in-depth that the song took on a whole new meaning.

This passage from John's Gospel is about resurrection that is possible, with Jesus being the resurrection and the life, setting the stage for Easter. Jesus loves his friend Lazarus, weeps for him, then pulls off a great miracle by raising him. By doing so, Jesus foreshadows his own death and resurrection.

Even in these unsettling times, we can experience signs of resurrection now that it's officially spring. Think about the new life that Lazarus will lead until it's his time to leave the earth. As the colors and smells of spring are taking shape, look around you and pay attention to the signs of resurrection. Look at the blossoms on the trees, the daffodils blooming, baby calves and lambs in the pastures, the longer days and warmer temperatures. And remember what Jesus says — that he is the resurrection and the life.

Prayer

Most Holy and Loving God, we continue our Lenten journey, beginning to see the light and signs of new life around us. May we continue to believe in the power of resurrection and continue to believe and live in Christ Jesus our Lord. In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.

Rev. Andrew Davis
Pastor
Community United Methodist Church
Quincy, CA 

Photo: A purple flower is seen outside Lambuth Inn on an early morning during Music & Worship Arts Week 2018.  (Fellowship photo by Daniel Craig.)

Fourth Sunday in Lent

Week of: March 22, 2020
Scripture: John 9:1-41

"As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world." When he had said this, he spat on the ground and made mud with the saliva and spread the mud on the man's eyes, saying to him, "Go, wash in the pool of Siloam" (which means Sent). Then he went and washed and came back able to see.
(John 9:5-7, NRSV)

Devotion

Although light is often associated with the season of Epiphany, we used Marty Haugen's Unfailing Light as our liturgy during the year and a half I spent in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. While the season of Lent is a time to look within ourselves, light can be shined on us as we open our own eyes to seeing ourselves in a new light — trusting in Jesus, the light of the world, just as the young man who had his vision restored by Jesus trusted him.

While people questioned what sins this young man or his parents committed to cause his blindness, Jesus says to believe in him and our eyes too will be opened. We might not get the spit and mud treatment, yet following and believing Jesus can open our eyes to possibilities when we look deep within ourselves. Opening our eyes can lead to healing, repentance, and reconciliation. As we musicians, dancers, actors, visual artists, and liturgists continue our journey through Lent, let us follow and believe in Jesus so that we too may open our eyes to what God is showing us.

Prayer

Most Holy and Loving God, thank you for the light of the world and the restoration of vision. Help us to look deep within our own souls to the things to which we are blind and ways we miss the mark as we continue repenting of our sins. Extend to us your extravagant grace, helping us to open our eyes to how we can be all that you call us to be. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Rev. Andrew Davis
Pastor
Community United Methodist Church
Quincy, CA 

Photo: Light comes through the clouds following a storm at Music & Worship Arts Week 2019.  (Fellowship photo by Daniel Craig.)

Third Sunday in Lent

Week of: March 15, 2020
Scripture: John 4:5-42

Everyone who drinks of this water will be thirsty again, but those who drink of the water that I give them will never be thirsty. The water that I will give will become in them a spring of water gushing up to eternal life.
(John 4:13b-14, NRSV)

Devotion

One of the things I love about where I live and serve is the abundance of lakes and streams. I have a favorite paved trail along the side of a creek. Whenever I hear the water flowing by, I think of the living water that Jesus offers each of us just like the water he offered the Samaritan woman.

We can find ourselves weary from all of the extras that happen during Lent — the extra studies, rehearsals, services, and such. There are times when all these extras can leave us a little overwhelmed and stressed as we prepare for Easter. Yet, in the midst of the stress, Jesus is there to offer us living water. When we accept the living water Jesus offers us and respond in faith, we have the assurance that we too will never be thirsty again. We can join Jesus in eternal life, the promise of Easter.

Prayer

Most Holy and Loving God, help quench our thirst with your living water whenever we feel stressed, overwhelmed, or burned out. Help us to know that we too can have eternal life whenever we partake of the living water Jesus offers us. In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.

Rev. Andrew Davis
Pastor
Community United Methodist Church
Quincy, CA 

Photo: A close-up look at the shoreline of Lake Junaluska during Music & Worship Arts Week 2018.  (Fellowship photo by Daniel Craig.)

Second Sunday in Lent

Week of: March 8, 2020
Scripture: Genesis 12:1-4a

Now the LORD said to Abram, "Go from your country and your kindred and your father's house to the land that I will show you."
(Genesis 2:16-17, NRSV)

Devotion

God's call can sometimes come out of nowhere and when we least expect it. Look at how Abram is simply minding his own business, doing his usual daily tasks when God calls him to uproot and leave what is known. It is an act of faith that Abram takes when he answers God's call and leaves what he knows for something that God has in store for him.

Like Abram, many of us have answered God's call to serve, whether it's as clergy, musicians, choir members, bell choir members, visual artists, actors, dancers, or any way of putting our hands to work. Sometimes the call sends us into the unknown, and we respond in faith and trust in God each step of the way. God is with us, whether it is up the mountain, through the valley, through the woods, or across the ocean. God is with us no matter where we go.

Prayer

Most Holy and Loving God, be with us each step of the way as we say "yes" to your call, especially whenever we enter the unknown. Let us live our faith by trusting you and giving ourselves to you, as we love you and serve you with all our hearts. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Rev. Andrew Davis
Pastor
Community United Methodist Church
Quincy, CA 

Photo: The Intermediate I handbell choir rehearses during Music & Worship Arts Week 2019.  (Fellowship photo by Daniel Craig.)

First Sunday in Lent

Week of: March 1, 2020
Scripture: Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7

And the LORD God commanded the man, "You may freely eat of every tree of the garden; but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall die."
(Genesis 2:16-17, NRSV)

Devotion

How many of us face temptations in life? Sometimes, temptation can be getting that bag of chocolate (especially Cadbury Mini Eggs!), going through the buffet line when already full, saying that insulting word to someone we don't like, or whatever things we are tempted to do that may draw us away from God. We face many temptations in life just as Adam and Eve encountered in the Garden of Eden with the tree of life.

We might want fame, fortune, all the knowledge of the world, or to be better than others, but is that what God wants of us? Some of our primary callings in life are to do good, resist evil, and to show love and grace to each other. As we begin this journey of Lent, we are called to resist the many temptations that take us away from God, examine our souls from the inside out, and carefully listen to God's voice, even when we may find ourselves in the wilderness, the streets of the city, our rehearsal rooms, or our living room. Let us fight the temptations that take us away from God, so we can fully focus our energy on God.

Prayer

Loving and Holy God, as we begin our journey of Lent and another busy season in the church, help us center our hearts and minds as we resist evil and temptations. May your Holy Spirit work through us as we examine our souls and conscience. Help us to do your will in this world and to be your hands and feet in everything that we do. In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.

Rev. Andrew Davis
Pastor
Community United Methodist Church
Quincy, CA 

Photo: An altar designed by Les Oliver is shown prior to worship at Music & Worship Arts Week 2018.  (Fellowship photo by Daniel Craig.)