A Moment for Mission
"For you have been my help, and in the shadow of your wings, I sing for joy. My soul clings to you; your right hand upholds me." —Psalm 63:7-8, NRSV
Life’s storms can come suddenly—whether it’s a natural disaster, a personal crisis, or a moment of deep uncertainty. In Psalm 63:7-8, the psalmist finds comfort in God’s protection, saying, “For you have been my help, and in the shadow of your wings, I sing for joy. My soul clings to you; your right hand upholds me.” This verse reminds us that no matter what we face, God is our refuge, sustaining and strengthening us in times of need.
Next Sunday, we will observe UMCOR Sunday, a special opportunity to support the United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR). This vital ministry provides help and hope in times of crisis—whether responding to natural disasters, assisting refugees, or offering relief in the wake of war and famine.
What makes UMCOR Sunday so important is that it covers the operating costs of this life-changing ministry. Because of this support, 100% of all other donations to UMCOR go directly to disaster response and recovery efforts. Our giving next week will ensure that UMCOR can continue to be ready to respond swiftly when the need arises.
As we prepare our hearts for this special Sunday, let’s reflect on God’s sustaining love. How can we be a source of shelter for others? Through prayer, giving, and service, we can extend God’s helping hand and bring hope to those who need it most.
Children’s Message
Have you ever been caught in a big rainstorm without an umbrella? What did you do? (Pause for answers.)
Maybe you ran for cover under a tree or a porch. That shelter kept you dry and safe, right? Today’s Bible verse tells us that God is like a shelter—when we are scared, sad, or in trouble, He helps us and holds us close.
But sometimes, God uses us to help others who are going through storms—real ones and life’s tough times. That’s what UMCOR, the United Methodist Committee on Relief, does. When there’s a big hurricane, earthquake, or fire, UMCOR is one of the first to help. They give food, water, and shelter to people who have lost their homes.
Next Sunday is UMCOR Sunday—a special time when we can help UMCOR do its work. The money we give will help cover their costs so they can keep helping people in need. That way, when disasters happen, UMCOR can respond right away. By giving, praying, and caring, we can be a part of God’s helping hands!
Prayer: Dear God, thank You for always being our shelter. Help us to be kind and help others when they are in trouble. Bless UMCOR and the people it helps. Amen.
Offertory Prayer
Loving and Compassionate God,
You are our refuge and strength, our shelter in the storm. As we prepare to give, we lift up this offering today with hearts full of gratitude.
Bless these gifts, Lord, and prepare us to give generously to support ministry like UMCOR to provide vital work—responding swiftly to disasters, comforting the hurting, and restoring broken communities. May our generosity ensure that UMCOR’s hands are never tied, so that when help is needed, they can act immediately.
Thank You for allowing us to be part of Your work of healing and restoration. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
From Discipleship Ministries:
Faithful God, our guide and sustainer, as we offer these gifts, may they bear fruit for your kingdom. In this solemn season of Lent, we remember your call to repentance and renewal. Help us tend the soil of our hearts so that we may grow in faith and bear witness to your grace. Use these offerings to bring hope to those in need and light to those in darkness. May we live as your fruitful servants, trusting in your abundant mercy. In the name of Christ who calls us to new life, we pray. Amen. (Luke 13:1-9)
Newsletter Nugget
UMCOR Sunday is just around the corner! Next Sunday, we will have the opportunity to support the United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR)—a ministry dedicated to responding quickly to disasters around the world.
When hurricanes, floods, and fires strike, UMCOR is among the first to arrive, providing emergency aid and relief. But what makes this possible is UMCOR Sunday. Unlike other mission offerings, this special Sunday helps cover UMCOR’s operating expenses, ensuring that 100% of all disaster relief donations go directly to those in need.
By giving on UMCOR Sunday, we help UMCOR be ready to act immediately whenever and wherever disaster strikes. Please prayerfully consider how you can support this important ministry next week and be part of God’s helping hands for those in crisis.