A Note From Rob ...

     It has been said that doing the same thing over and over again and expecting results is the definition of idiocy. While I may not resent that statement, I do often resemble it. How about you?

     There is a movement in the United Methodist Church entitled, Rethink Church. I prompt us to call into question what we do and why we do it. It is no secret what mainline churches are declining. That should not be surprising since history confirms that once a church, denomination or movement becomes “franchised,” so to speak, it begins to flat line. What is that so?

     Well, it seems the “franchised” often lose any concern for the “dis-enchanfranchised.”(I know it is a made up word) There are some notable exceptions but for the most part the nature of an institution is to care for itself.

     This article is far too short to go into great detail, but allow me to ask this one question of us, “Why do we exist?” In the language of commerce, “What is our business?”

     Business at First UMC has been a bit off for some time now. We mirror a nationwide trend of less commitment to organized religion and the decline in our community over the past decades. Both realities have seen a negative impact on the data often associated with a vibrant church.

     However, other data suggests that while “Religion” may be declining, “Spirituality” is increasing.”

     That being said, I believe we are still alive and kicking, so to speak. Maybe the Church’s next challenge is not to succumb to the whims of the self-absorbed masses all around us any more than we seem to have been growing more self-absorbed with our own franchise. That can have local and global dimensions.

     I would suggest that our first commitment is to the Savior who called us into a personal relationship. Jesus said, “Follow me.” That is the first step.

     I would ask you to read John 21: 1-19; 24, 25 to prepare for this Sunday’s worship.

     The title for the sermon is, “What is on the other side?”

     I hope to see you Sunday to worship and meet the One who said, “Follow Me.”

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