Worship Preview for August 9th, 2026. "Listen: God-breathed"

FIRST UNITED METHODIST

WORSHIP AUGUST 9TH: 10:30am. “Listen: God-Breathed”  Rev. Christopher Eshelman preaching. Scriptures: Exodus 34:29-35, Numbers 6:22-26, 2 Timothy 3:1-17, 2nd Corinthians 13:14

Scripture is a gift. A gift Christians believe points us to Jesus, the Christ. A collection of books, stories of human encounter with the divine. Thousands of years of storytelling by our Jewish ancestors, then a bit over 100 by the early followers of Jesus of Nazareth. United Methodist cherish scripture. We do not, as a whole, hold Scripture as “inerrant.” That understanding, while widespread, is very recent and turns Scripture into an idol. Rather, with Wesley and the church through the ages, we hold Scripture as inspired. Written by humans across centuries seeking to make sense of their experience. Through reading and searching both the Old and New Testaments, we encounter a God who is transcendent, beyond time and space, yet who is immanent, present, seeking relationship with his creation. Taken seriously, but not always necessarily literally…  we recognize the Bible is neither a science nor history book, but is our primary source for learning about the life and teachings of Jesus, the eternal Christ, the Word made flesh; and about why we humans needed Christ's sacrificial love to be redeemed and made whole.

Scripture is God-breathed. Sufficient. In it we find Christ, but not simple answers. Sunday we will share the gift of Scripture with some of our kids, giving out Bibles as we celebrate “back to school time” and lifelong learning. We’ll hear some of the most beloved passages – blessings and encouragements – and continue to encounter and wrestle with God’s power and glory – and our response. Let us Listen!

If the world has you down. If you can’t make sense of what is happening. If you need a shot of hope – and if you’d like to see a different way emerge, we’d love to have you join in worship. We don’t have all the answers. We aren’t perfect and we won’t dictate your choices. But together we keep finding that God makes a way – and that all our stories matter. So, come just as you are – with your doubts and questions, with your laments and fears, and with your deepest hopes and joys. Whether you are a longtime member, have never been to church at all, or find yourself needing a change - together we will find our paths and share our journeys. Thanks be to God!

UPCOMING EVENTS:

FEEDING FAMILIES IN HIS NAME: Wednesday, August 12  - A free, no obligation meal is served “to-go” style from underneath our portico from 5:15pm to 6:15pm each Wednesday, prepared each week by our members as well as several area churches and community groups. We aim to provide 400 meals per week. 

AGING FORWARD Friday August 21 at 1pm. Aimed at retired adults for lifelong learning and fellowship, all are welcome to attend. We’ll hear from Austin Bolinger, the Horticultural Therapist at Tri-Valley, as he shares the work he does with plants and how the members benefit from the calming affects. He will also be sharing some plants from their greenhouse. Then Susan Karleskint, with the Old Fort Genealogy Society, will be sharing her knowledge about seeking out your ancestors and their history, as well as information about local Bourbon County resources. Light refreshments served.

Sunday, August 30th - Church Service in the Park We’ll worship in Shelter House number 5; the enclosed building above the camping area. With a Fellowship Picnic to follow, so bring your favorite casserole, salad, side dish or dessert and be ready to enjoy goodies in the great outdoors!