Devotional links.

Emmanuel United Methodist Church

​​​Fall is coming . . . . .

FROM THE PASTOR
Greetings Emmanuel!
God is doing incredible things among us and it was a privilege to watch it
unfold. A few weeks ago we had communion at both of our worship services.
During the second service, our children and youth joined their parents up
front to receive the elements. My son Theo loves communion and came
through the line multiple times. When I presented one of the young boys
with communion I said “this is because Jesus loves you so much”, to which
he responded “I already know that!” Our older elementary students came
forward and asked “can we have the leftovers?” And in the midst of the
chaos of the moment, I felt the real presence of the Holy Spirit, reminding
me that we should be desperate for a little more Jesus.
I will not soon forget that holy moment. Our children are leading us, church.
They are reminding us that we should be running after Jesus whole-
heartedly. They are reminding us that it’s okay to come as you are and be
who you are.
Adults tend to shy away from expressing their faith openly. We fear the
judgment of others. We question whether or not we will be accepted in
certain circles. We allow the pressures of the world to pull us away from God,
church and living like Jesus in the world. But our children. Our children in
this very church are showing us what it looks like to run full force towards
Jesus. They are teaching us not to be ashamed of wanting more, of asking
good questions and of pursuing Jesus with all that we are.
As we prepare our hearts and minds for Easter, may we not forget why we
are here. We can be easily distracted by all the stressors of life that we lose
sight of the most important thing, Jesus.
Run full force towards Jesus and never look back!
In Christ,
Pastor Mind


Lord God: 

With open hearts we thank You for all blessings we received during  these past years. We realize that we are unworthy at times and yet we feel Your love and goodness. Please continue to protect our land from disasters and help us to seek Your guidance when trouble comes our way. Support our friends and neighbors when troubles come their way. Bless the families who raise their children according to Your will, keep the little ones safe as they attend school.  Thank You for those in the medical field and support those who lost loved ones. May they lean on You as needed. Guide the men and women who teach Your love to all in Sunday School and church services, Open our hearts to Your great love and mercy. We ask these blessings in the name of Jesus. Amen