At Monroe Free Methodist we are seeking to live like Jesus did: prayer-filled, incarnational, evangelical, holy, Spirit-empowered and compassionate.
We are learning what this looks like through the rhythmic flow of the liturgical year immersing ourselves in spiritual practices to open our lives to be transformed into Jesus’ likeness.
As we embark on the long journey of Ordinary Season we have dived into the deep end of the Social Justice Stream of Christian practice, putting feet to our faith by the way we live with others.
If we are honestly desiring to live out the compassion and justice of Jesus, then we must begin first by laying a foundation of forgiveness. We all know our world is filled with horrific pains, and our human response is to seek retribution or vengeance, to pick sides and to demand punishment. To forgive is not our idea – but it is God’s.
As Adele Calhoun says,
“Forgiveness is an entirely new way of being human. It is Jesus’ way of being human.”
This week we invite you to practice the Discipline of Forgiveness. Who has wronged you? Who deserves to be punished? Are you holding bitterness toward a person? Or toward a group of people or toward an entire institution? I urge you this week to explore those pains with Jesus, and let the Holy Spirit empower you to forgive “just as in Christ, God forgave you.” (Eph 4:32)
Want to learn more about MFM’s spiritual practices?
Click to read our rhythms of 6 Seasons | 6 Streams
This week is kind of an awesome bonus-sermon Sunday. Pastor Kevin wrote his original sermon based on the story of Hagar from Genesis 21, but then re-wrote a sermon he actually preached. Listen in to the recording at 38:00 minutes or read the cautionary tale sermon on Abraham’s choices here ➡️ www.kevineccles.com
Also, one of my favorite parts of online church has been getting to hear my kids sing and pray right in my ear. (You can hear, too, on the service recording.) Kirsten prayed the Lord’s prayer with us and sang “Let Us Go Now” and my spirit is rejoicing at how she’s participating and being formed by these words.
and MARK YOUR CALENDAR for
9pm Thursday
Yup. 9pm. After the kids are in bed Pastor Kevin invites you to join him to “give attention to the public reading of scripture.” (1 Tim 4:13)
Save this link to tune in: www.twitch.tv/km1604
My friends,
As we love our neighbors as ourselves this week, may we begin to experience the fullness of life Jesus brings and proclaim His saving deeds to all the world. Amen.
