Throughout this season, we explore themes from Revelation and the Gospel of John about what is possible when we believe. The book by Natalya A. Cherry, Believing into Christ, may be a helpful accompaniment to the series as we learn more about the power of our belief in Christ, how belief is not only an intellectual endeavor and assent to the power of God to transform, but also a process that helps us use our hands and feet in ways similar to how Jesus used his hands and feet to seek out and address the hurting ones, including our planet and its most vulnerable people and beyond-human creatures.
Embodied Believing (April 27, 2025)
Our beliefs connect us to Christ, in whom we believe and into whom we grow, by embodying the assents we make. See if worship this week can be an embodied, participatory experience. The first week of the series involves coming to the awareness that our beliefs are not just intellectual assent to abstract ideas. Our beliefs are embodied. They shape who we are, what we wear, how we eat, and where we show up for action. Our beliefs connect us to Christ, in whom we believe and into whom we grow, by embodying the assents we make. See if worship this week can be an embodied, participatory experience.
Circling Toward Food Justice (May 4, 2025)
Food justice is a recognition that not everyone has access to the same kinds of nutritious foods that are available in some places, depending on geography, infrastructure, and economics. Unjust systems are in place. Part of our call as Christians is to interrupt those unjust systems and provide for all. Try to make worship this week a rehearsal of the justice-oriented practices that will bring about a world where God’s abundance is available to all.
Springs of Living Water (May 11, 2025)
An old song, “Spring, up O Well!” reminds us that the river of life flows in us and out of us into the world. This week, we celebrate the living water that nourishes us and the world when we share it with those around us.
A New World (May 18, 2025)
God is creating a new world out of this one. God is making all things possible, starting here and now. God is renewing life, love, and connection for the benefit of what is and will be. This week, worship centers around the creative process God has modeled for us, starting with what is and building what will be.
The Tree of Life (May 25, 2025)
The imagery of trees is centered in this week's texts and our worship experience because trees are sources of life. They provide oxygen we breathe, food that nourishes us, and shade that protects us. Make worship this week be like a tree, inviting participants to breathe in with the Spirit, to be nourished by the good word they hear, and to be protected from harsh conditions that challenge their convictions and the ability to live them out.
Becoming One (June 1, 2025)
On this final week in the series, we recognize how interdependent we are with creation, and we celebrate that when we benefit, we also benefit others. Design the worship experience this week to empower participants to know their need for one another and for a supportive community beyond the church so that all celebrate the successes of even those who might be otherwise forgotten.
Rev. Laura Baumgartner is pastor of Haller Lake United Methodist Church in Seattle, WA. She is also active in her local Interfaith Power and Light affiliate, Earth Ministry. Before attending seminary, Laura was a high school chemistry teacher for over 20 years. Her interests at the intersection of faith, science, and environment lead her outdoors, to the handbell table, or to the pet shop on her e-bike frequently. Originally published by Discipleship Ministries. Republished with permission by ResourceUMC.