A Moment for Mission
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” — Psalm 119:105 NRSVU
Christian education shapes our worldview, nurtures our faith, and empowers us to live out our calling as disciples of Christ. Through the study of Scripture, the teachings of Jesus, and the wisdom of spiritual mentors, we gain knowledge and understanding that guide us in our journey.
Learning is not limited to formal classroom settings. It encompasses a lifelong pursuit of understanding and applying God's Word in our lives.
During your summer journeys, Psalm 119:105 can be a constant reminder that God's Word is the lamp to your feet and the light to your path. As you find time for rest and restoration, look for ways to shape your heart, mind, and actions that are centered in Christ’s love for us.
Children’s Message
Sing: “God’s word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path.” (https://vimeo.com/198389574#t=105s)
Summer is a great time for adventures. Imagine you're going on a big adventure, and you need to follow a map to reach your destination. But what if you don't know how to read the map? It would be easy to get lost, right? That's where God's Word comes in. Studying the Bible is like a map for our lives. It shows us the right way to go and helps us stay on track.
We need to read the map carefully, follow the directions, and stay on the right path. Similarly, God's Word, the Bible is valuable, but it's up to us to seek it with all our hearts and follow its teachings.
Sing: “God’s word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path.”
Offertory Prayer
Thank you for the gifts you have given to us through your Word and your guidance. Thank you for the resources that help us to deepen our faith. Thank you for the teachers and others who illuminate your messages for us. Bless our gifts to create new opportunities to explore where you are leading us. Amen.
From Discipleship Ministries: Seventh Sunday after Pentecost —Creator God from whom all blessings grow: as we dedicate our tithes and offerings, we acknowledge that you have blessed us to be the fertile soil from which the good news of your kingdom will spring forth. Move us, we pray, beyond seeing our role as passive or powerless, depending totally on the quality of the seed and the expertise of the planter. Remind us that you are counting on us for fruitfulness, demonstrating for the world your love, grace, and power as we bear fruit that eases the suffering sick, feeds the hungry, brings justice to the oppressed and love and compassion to those who feel disconnected or forgotten. In Christ, we pray. Amen. (Matt 13:1-9, 18-23)
Newsletter Nugget
During the summer, when routines may shift with schools on break and out-of-town vacations, consider how to integrate continued learning opportunities that fit with the season’s rhythm of rest:
- Set aside a specific time each day to explore God's Word through devotionals or Bible study.
- Summer provides an excellent opportunity to expand your knowledge and deepen your faith through books written by reputable authors who can offer insights into theology, Christian living, or biblical studies.
- Attend church and Bible studies at your vacation destinations. Seek out local United Methodist churches and join their worship services. Participate in Bible studies or small group discussions with new people.
The beauty of summer invites us to connect with God through creation. Spend time in at the beach, in the mountains, or in a peaceful garden. Reflect on the marvels of God's handiwork.
Explore United Methodist camps, retreats, or conferences and discover spiritual growth and fellowship opportunities.
As the warm breeze of summer fills the air, it’s important to find ways to continue practicing spiritual formation. The Word of God, as beautifully expressed in Psalm 119:105, serves as a guiding light to our feet and a beacon illuminating our path.