Worship Preview 10.20.24 "Do Unto Others: Humility"

This Sunday: 10:30am – “Do Unto Others: Humility” Rev. Christopher Eshelman preaching. Scriptures: Romans 12, Philippians 2, John 13:2-7, Ephesians 4:1-6

We started the series with Proverbs and wisdom – we saw that iron sharpens iron – in our own disagreements as well as in the words of Scripture. We noted that kindness, as a fruit of the Spirit, is not merely being “nice” – but genuinely wanting and working towards the best for the other, as well as for ourselves.

Last week we talked compassion growing from kindness and curiosity – knowing someone well enough that we can truly “do unto others” as they would have done. As part of that, I noted the difference between fable and fiction that becomes practice and disinformation that deceives. Our baptismal vows promise to resist evil, injustice, and oppression in whatever forms they present themselves and that clearly includes bearing false witness and disinformation which goes beyond merely being wrong into being malicious. We need to engage others with a commitment to truth and humility. We might be wrong and that is an opportunity to grow!

Sunday, we continue our worship series that points us toward connection in a world of divisions. The root of the word “human” is the same as the word “humility.” It all means literally “on the ground.” From dust we came, and to dust we shall return. When we hear each other’s fears, anxieties, and pain, we can return to the ground of hope… that we are all experiencing the pains of being human. This week, we remember to look first at our neighbor as a person, not a position. Beginning conversations this way may help us to stay human and “on the ground” with one another rather than needing to come out “on top.” We worship God who “became flesh” – God takes on humanity in the person of Jesus, who teaches with humility and authority.

John Wesley, the founder of the Methodist movement, described humility as “…a right judgment of ourselves which cleanses our minds from those high conceits of our own perfections, from the undue opinions of our own abilities and attainments.”

Sometimes we think of humility as degrading or eliminating ourselves, but that is not what Jesus does. Jesus humbles himself, becoming flesh, journeying to the cross – showing us how to be fully human, and he also asserts himself: teaching, healing, engaging and inviting others and telling stories asking penetrating questions that lead to transformation. I find the insight of psychologist and researcher Daryl Van Tongeren, who finds that: "Many people think it is about being extremely small or not thinking much of oneself, but in my mind, humility is about being the right size in a given situation. There are two ditches we can fall into. One side is self-aggrandizement, which most people want to avoid. The other side is self-deprecation or being too small in a given situation. Humility is … being the right size in a given situation.

Sunday we will talk about humility and the way of Jesus, which includes humility – the cross and power of resurrection. About being the “right size” in our situation – as we seek to share the good news, exemplify Christ, and know, grow, serve, and share in Christ’s name! You do not have to have all the answers, or even all of the questions figured out, but if you do not already have a church home or it time for a change, we invite you to journey with us as we seek to find our path and share our journey!

Look for the yard signs with the heart and “join the campaign” encouraging us all to live lives of kindness, respect, love, humility, and compassion – reflecting the faith of Christ! And join us to explore these themes more deeply as we gather at 10:30am each Sunday at 301 S National, or online on Facebook if you can’t make it in or you’d like to check things out first. Blessings on your journey!

Upcoming Events: 

Wednesday, October 23rd 5:30–6:30pm: Feeding Families in His Name – this free meal is available to everyone without obligation. A “to-go” meal is distributed under the portico at 301 S. National. A reminder: Please do not block nearby driveways while waiting. Thank you. If you would like to support this ministry, you can make donations online at: www.firstumcfortscott.org/onlinegiving. 

Fellowship Soup Luncheon Friday, October 25th at 11:30am –we will offer a delicious lunch for a freewill donation fundraiser to support the mission and ministries of our church – join us for potato and vegetable soups and chili, with desert and fellowship with your neighbors!

Gospel Concert – Saturday, October 26th at 6pm featuring Ernie Couch and Revival! Join your neighbors in our Sanctuary for another freewill offering Gospel Concert. “From its inception, EC&R has produced high energy, emotionally colorful music reflective of the diverse musical heritage that has made Music City home of Nashville internationally famous. The groups unique blend of traditional, country, and contemporary gospel music speaks to people of all ages and all walks of life.”  Mark your calendars and invite a friend!

Trunk or Treat! Thursday, October 31st at 5:30pm bring the kids or grandkids for games and candy – or decorate your own car and hand out candy here! We will block off the lot behind the church at 5:20pm for safety and finish at sundown. Celebrate “All Hallows Eve” with us at 3rd and Main!