Methodist Temple Sermons

1) Stories: What is one story you’ve been telling yourself about God or about life — and how has that story shaped the way you see yourself and others?
2) Grace: Have you ever found yourself “grumbling” when someone else was shown grace? What does that reaction reveal, and how might Jesus’ parables invite you into a different way of seeing?
3) Compassion: Who is someone in your life, family, or community who might feel overlooked or forgotten — and what small step could you take this week to seek them out with compassion?
Prayer: Gracious God, You are the Shepherd who searches and the Friend who rejoices when the lost are found. Too often we live by false stories - stories of fear, of success, of earning love. Rewrite our hearts with your story of grace. Make us a church where compassion has the last word, where forgotten are remembered, and where joy rises when mercy is shared. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen.

1. What story am I living right now?
Is my life more centered on comfort and convenience, or on the costly call of Christ to surrender, trust, and serve?
2. What am I being invited to lay on the altar?
Like Phoebe Palmer with her grief, or Bonhoeffer with his courage, what parts of my life is God asking me to consecrate so that He can transform them?
3. What story will I leave behind?
How might my faith — lived out in daily choices, sacrifices, and commitments — shape the next generation, whether in my family, community, or church?

 
 
Scripture Reading: Luke 14:1, 7-14