http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/ Thu, 17 May 2012 16:27:18 GMT en-us Copyright 2012 First Methodist Mansfield http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-planning-for-the-future/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-planning-for-the-future/ Thu, 17 May 2012 16:27:18 GMT How did I get here? That is a question often asked. We find ourselves at a certain place, in a certain situation, even having become a certain person, and we wonder how it all happened. The thought I have is that the present I am living today, ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-living-on-the-front-foot/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-living-on-the-front-foot/ Thu, 10 May 2012 17:02:28 GMT After the Resurrection and ascension of Jesus, Peter and John go to the Temple to worship. As they pass through one of the gates in the walls around Jerusalem, a gate called “Beautiful,” they find a crippled man begging. When the man ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-the-national-day-of-prayer/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-the-national-day-of-prayer/ Thu, 03 May 2012 18:59:19 GMT Today is the National Day of Prayer, a time when Christians are encouraged to pray for America. Psalm 33:12, “Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord”is the key Bible verse for 2012’s National Day of Prayer. The National ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-general-conference/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-general-conference/ Wed, 25 Apr 2012 15:52:28 GMT The United Methodist Church General Conference began on Tuesday, April 24, and will run through May 4 in Tampa, Florida. The Methodist General Conference meets every four years and has around 1,000 clergy and lay representatives from all over ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-serving/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-serving/ Thu, 19 Apr 2012 17:41:13 GMT We are in a special season in the life of our church called Serving from the Heart. It is not about recruiting volunteers but about celebrating the many ways each of us serve God ― in the church, at home, in the community, in our families ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-what-happens-next/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-what-happens-next/ Thu, 12 Apr 2012 16:47:58 GMT In the life of the church, the Christian Easter might be the biggest celebration. Not only do we celebrate the Resurrection — the core of the Christian faith — but the weekend is typically the biggest attended worship time in ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-holy-week-and-easter/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-holy-week-and-easter/ Thu, 05 Apr 2012 18:38:31 GMT We began Holy Week with a great Palm Sunday weekend. The children waving Palm branches and the continued telling of the story of Christ’s life and message were inspiring and meaningful. I also always enjoy the afternoon children's program ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-consecrating/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-consecrating/ Thu, 29 Mar 2012 16:40:02 GMT I just finished running; I’m getting ready for the Son Run on April 21. I have also lost 30 pounds since last year’s Son Run. Why, you ask? Last year I ran for one of the first times in years. I had been going to the gym, mostly ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-godliness/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-godliness/ Thu, 22 Mar 2012 16:35:05 GMT “But godliness actually is a means of great gain when accompanied by contentment. For we have brought nothing into the world, so we cannot take anything out of it either.” (1 Timothy 6:6-7) These words from the Bible not only ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-repentance/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-repentance/ Thu, 15 Mar 2012 17:18:03 GMT In 1889, the government opened up land for the taking in Oklahoma. It became what we call today the “Oklahoma Land Rush.” At a moment in 1889, a gun went off and thousands of people headed into the state to carve out 160 acres ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-getting-out-of-the-boat/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-getting-out-of-the-boat/ Thu, 08 Mar 2012 17:57:49 GMT Peter was a fisherman on the Sea of Galilee; he was the son of a fisherman and the grandson of a fisherman. He probably had spent his life never traveling farther than a few miles from this small sea. He mended nets, placed pitch on his ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-growing-as-a-christian/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-growing-as-a-christian/ Thu, 01 Mar 2012 16:54:16 GMT A few years ago, our church did what was called the “Reveal” survey with the intent of discovering the spiritual strength of our church. Churches across the nation did it, and we were one of the first. We made some changes based upon ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-lent/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-lent/ Fri, 24 Feb 2012 02:28:47 GMT This coming weekend is the first in a very special season in the life of the church, the beginning of Lent, an inspirational time that began a few nights ago at our Ash Wednesday service. Lent begins on Ash Wednesday and ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-losing-control/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-losing-control/ Thu, 16 Feb 2012 18:23:36 GMT The answer to “losing control” — or the complex problem many Americans deal with that we call control issues — might not be a clearer view of ourselves but a clearer picture of God. Maybe our God is ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-the-life-of-our-church/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-the-life-of-our-church/ Thu, 09 Feb 2012 17:30:07 GMT I wanted to share with our church family my report to our recent annual Church Conference. We have much to celebrate, and I wanted you to celebrate with me, especially as 2012 has kicked off in such a great way, ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-control-issues/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-control-issues/ Thu, 02 Feb 2012 06:00:03 GMT I knew someone some years ago whose mother left a great deal to be desired. The mom often used guilt to try to control her daughter. On top of this, the mother had never been much of a mother, even abandoning her daughter for a number of years. ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-control/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-control/ Thu, 26 Jan 2012 19:27:15 GMT When my brother and I were about 11 and living in Biloxi, Mississippi, we lived near what we called “the woods.” There we spent weeks one summer building a fort. We built a small, boxy space, surrounded it with stacked pine logs as a ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-democracy/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-democracy/ Thu, 19 Jan 2012 17:52:39 GMT “We the People”These words, “We the People,” begin the Preamble to the U.S. Constitution. When they were first penned at the end of an arduous and costly Revolutionary War, at a very contentious Constitutional Convention, ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-how-christianity-changes-the-world/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-how-christianity-changes-the-world/ Thu, 12 Jan 2012 17:12:32 GMT Jesus, Politics, and 24-Hour News: I was talking to David, our Teaching Pastor, this week about this special series, a subject that can be sometimes polarizing and argumentative. Any time pastors preach on this kind of topic, there can be some ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-thinking-outside-the-box/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-thinking-outside-the-box/ Thu, 05 Jan 2012 20:32:09 GMT Typically the journey for many of us is building a comfortable box that works for us. When we are kids, parents put us in a box that we struggle to get out of, to find our own way. When we get on our own, we spend a great deal of energy to get ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-new-years-resolutions/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-new-years-resolutions/ Thu, 29 Dec 2011 06:00:02 GMT “Now faith, hope and love remain ― these three things ― and the greatest of these is love.” 1 Corinthians 13:13Every January our culture has a conversation about New Year’s resolutions . . . should we or shouldn’t we? ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thought-on-the-invitation-of-christmas/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thought-on-the-invitation-of-christmas/ Thu, 22 Dec 2011 15:52:38 GMT In the story of Christmas, we have what is called by many “The Incarnation.” The son of God is born through a miracle of the Holy Spirit and a young woman named Mary. This child named Jesus was born “to save his people from ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/merry-christmas/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/merry-christmas/ Thu, 15 Dec 2011 21:56:32 GMT Merry Christmas,Few words say more than these two, as they speak of joy in the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ, good tidings of great joy the angel’s sang. As I often say, we are drawn to the Christmas story because of its simple beauty ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-defining-what-christmas-is/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-defining-what-christmas-is/ Thu, 08 Dec 2011 18:59:52 GMT Christmas ― the season is upon us, and it is moving fast. It always does, especially with the countdowns we hear on the news most nights and the tasks we have to get done. It’s like getting on a bullet train that will come to a ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-christmas/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-christmas/ Thu, 01 Dec 2011 18:33:22 GMT I am anticipating a great Christmas season with one of the best parts sharing it with my church family. We have just begun the Advent season with an important emphasis, The Gift of Christmas! When we think of Christmas, we most often think of ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-gods-gift-to-us/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-gods-gift-to-us/ Thu, 17 Nov 2011 17:00:53 GMT Sunday I quoted from a Western movie called Open Range. Know that I am a sucker for westerns. Also recognize that all the words in them are not necessarily inspired, but I think these words might be because they represent so much the ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-looking-for-the-5/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-looking-for-the-5/ Thu, 03 Nov 2011 16:20:52 GMT Some years ago, Bill Hybles, the pastor of Willow Creek Church, one of the largest churches in America said, “Ninety-five percent is 5% too little!” Since then it has become a guide for his church and many others as we think about ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-peace/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-peace/ Thu, 20 Oct 2011 15:45:22 GMT There was a time when boxing was one of the biggest sports in America. It has fallen on hard times in recent years. But I remember the excitement that surrounded the three fights between Mohammed Ali and Joe Frazier. Ali won two out of three ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-what-satisfies/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-what-satisfies/ Thu, 13 Oct 2011 17:12:41 GMT I think one of the interesting creations of the last few years is artificial candles. You can buy an artificial candle that you plug in that emits the scent of apple pie. Not only is there not real apple pie, just an unsatisfying smell, but ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-family/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-family/ Thu, 06 Oct 2011 18:57:20 GMT One of the most exciting and exacting things someone ever gets to do is build a home. This process usually takes a year or so. Getting financing, selecting the lot, working with an architect and builder to get the design down, picking out all ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-what-makes-a-church-work/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-what-makes-a-church-work/ Thu, 29 Sep 2011 18:49:07 GMT The Dallas Cowboys won on Monday Night Football just a few days ago, catching up in the last few minutes to beat the Washington Redskins (sorry to any Redskins’ fans still recovering). There are many keys to the success of a football ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-self-control/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-self-control/ Thu, 22 Sep 2011 17:24:05 GMT M. Scott Peck who wrote one of the first so-called self-help books, The Road Less Traveled, died not too long ago at the age of 69. The key component of this book is self-discipline, an idea he felt was essential to living a full life. He ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-change/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-change/ Thu, 15 Sep 2011 17:49:52 GMT I remember Carl one year pointing to the sky at hundreds of Monarch butterflies on their way south. Every year at that same time they migrate thousands of miles to lay their eggs. They fly the same route year after year, and along that way, ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/qa-with-rev-david-alexander/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/qa-with-rev-david-alexander/ Fri, 09 Sep 2011 19:23:27 GMT How many years have you been in ministry and what churches have you’ve served?Ten years. I served four years at First UMC Cleburne as the Youth Pastor. I am in my seventh year here at Mansfield. What do you see as your s... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/qa-with-rev-caesar-rentie/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/qa-with-rev-caesar-rentie/ Fri, 09 Sep 2011 05:00:03 GMT How many years have you been in ministry and what churches have you’ve served?I have been in ministry for 17 years.  I accepted my call at St. Luke Community United Methodist Church.  Zan Wesley Holmes was my pastor and after ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/qa-with-rev-mike-ramsdell/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/qa-with-rev-mike-ramsdell/ Fri, 09 Sep 2011 05:00:02 GMT How many years have you been in ministry and what churches have you’ve served?I have 33 years in ministry -- Bangs, Waxahachie, Joshua, starting 17 years in Mansfield. What do you see as your strength/passion/gift in ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/qa-with-rev-sharon-reid/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/qa-with-rev-sharon-reid/ Fri, 09 Sep 2011 05:00:01 GMT How many years have you been in ministry and what churches have you’ve served?I served here in Student Ministry from 1993 to 2003, from 2003 to 2006 I served as Associate Pastor of Adult Ministries, since that time I’ve been serving ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-september-11/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-september-11/ Thu, 08 Sep 2011 17:53:49 GMT On September 11, 2001, after a session of Congress to address the significance of the terrorist attacks, the U.S. Congress gathered on the Capital steps and sang “God Bless America,” many holding hands. In the midst of chaos and ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/god-is-always-the-answer/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/god-is-always-the-answer/ Thu, 01 Sep 2011 16:18:19 GMT The pastor got up to tell a story to some children.  He began by trying to get them to guess the right answer to a question.  “What kind of animal runs around in trees?”  No answer.  Then, “What kind of ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-uncertainty/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-uncertainty/ Thu, 25 Aug 2011 15:34:15 GMT An earthquake with its epicenter in Virginia just shook a great deal of the East Coast, including Washington D. C.  It looks like the revolution in Libya is about to result in the overthrow of its long-lasting dictatorship, following ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-discovering-gods-will/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-discovering-gods-will/ Thu, 18 Aug 2011 16:10:04 GMT I couldn’t count the times I have prayed the Lord’s Prayer, from childhood to today, in worship, on the road, in my backyard and in uncountable situations.  The Lord’s Prayer has been prayed by people in churches, in ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-learning-the-secret/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-learning-the-secret/ Thu, 11 Aug 2011 15:45:15 GMT I remember the first time I set foot on a racquetball court.  I had my new racquet and was ready to go.  As the first ball was hit against the wall by my opponent, the experience became laughable very quickly.  With four walls, ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-defining-a-miracle/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-defining-a-miracle/ Thu, 04 Aug 2011 16:36:21 GMT Miracle — A true miracle is an event in the eternal world brought about by the immediate agency or the simple volition of God. (Bible Encyclopedia)   “The Miracle on the Hudson,” most of us remember this as the safe ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-miracles/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-miracles/ Thu, 28 Jul 2011 18:43:14 GMT Miracle — An extraordinary event manifesting divine intervention in human affairs.  (Miriam-Webster Dictionary) There is more than one powerful connotation about our God Is Big Enough emphasis.  Almost daily I hear stories of ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-gods-love/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-gods-love/ Thu, 21 Jul 2011 05:00:03 GMT One of the most important lessons I received from my parents in my youth was the value of hard work. My parents established in me the conviction that “doing my very best” meant giving my very best consistently and faithfully. I am ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-gods-grace/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-gods-grace/ Thu, 14 Jul 2011 14:58:45 GMT This past Monday, Shannon Stone, a 39-year-old firefighter from Brownwood, Texas, was laid to rest. As you are probably already aware, Shannon’s death was the result of a tragic accident that occurred while he was attending a baseball ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-guilt-grace/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-guilt-grace/ Thu, 07 Jul 2011 16:06:27 GMT Amazing Grace is one of the most popular hymns of all time and has been at the top for generations.  It was written by John Newton, a former slave trader who wrote it reflecting on his old life and celebrating the change that God’s ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-evidence-of-faith/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-evidence-of-faith/ Thu, 30 Jun 2011 16:27:23 GMT In some of my final thoughts on War of the Worlds, a message emphasis we just completed, I want you to think about a few words that the Apostle Paul wrote near the end of his life, words written from a Roman prison.   “I have ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-life/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-life/ Thu, 23 Jun 2011 18:33:42 GMT “Everything in the world is about to be wrapped up, so take nothing for granted. Stay wide-awake in prayer. Most of all, love each other as if your life depended on it. Love makes up for practically anything. Be quick to give a meal to ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-unified-celebration-weekend/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-unified-celebration-weekend/ Thu, 16 Jun 2011 15:09:21 GMT I am excited that our church has partnered with Bethlehem Baptist Church and Dallas Baptist University in planning Unified Celebration Weekend, a series of events over three days that will celebrate our community’s diversity and mark ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-war-of-the-worlds/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-war-of-the-worlds/ Thu, 09 Jun 2011 20:43:26 GMT I have just begun a message series, War of the Worlds, that will continue for the next few weeks. Last Sunday I shared the first message.  I am offering a synopsis of that message here because I think it is a very important message for ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-going-into-summer/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-going-into-summer/ Thu, 02 Jun 2011 14:00:44 GMT For our church, summer officially begins this coming weekend, a season that is rich and meaningful, starting with our June message series, War of the Worlds.  This important series will help us understand what it is to live as a follower ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-about-life/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-about-life/ Thu, 26 May 2011 15:54:26 GMT I was preparing for a denominational church meeting the other day and began to think about the way people, groups and especially institutions often think about life. Sometimes: We idolize the past; We complain about the present; We ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/executive-council-quarterly-report/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/executive-council-quarterly-report/ Thu, 19 May 2011 15:44:58 GMT As is often the case, I like to share my quarterly report to the Executive Council with everyone, so here it is.  It gives you a pretty good update on some of what the “Big Enough” God is doing in and through First Methodist. ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/is-god-speaking-to-you/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/is-god-speaking-to-you/ Thu, 12 May 2011 17:44:01 GMT Samuel had worked hard that day; he spent a great deal of time serving God in the temple and serving God’s people in Israel.  He had tasks, jobs and routines he did day by day that very seldom varied.  He probably thought this ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-vital-congregations/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-vital-congregations/ Thu, 05 May 2011 15:12:04 GMT Just recently I returned from The Leading Edge, a group of United Methodist ministers who have been charged with supporting one another and leading the revitalization of the United Methodist Church.  This last week we reviewed a report ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/easter-is-coming/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/easter-is-coming/ Thu, 21 Apr 2011 18:11:35 GMT This is the schedule for all our Easter celebrations, and I certainly hope that all our church family will attend beginning tonight (Thursday at 6:00 p.m.) for our Holy Thursday drama, Twelve at the Table.  But I would also ask you to ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-holy-week/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-holy-week/ Thu, 14 Apr 2011 15:34:17 GMT Palm Sunday is this weekend, the beginning of Holy Week.   Palm Sunday and Saturday Jesus enters Jerusalem to the exuberant praises of the crowds; Jesus drives the money changers out of the temple; Jesus teaches at the temple, heals ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-preparation/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-preparation/ Thu, 07 Apr 2011 18:47:22 GMT I am preparing to do a 5K at our church called the Son Run.  Now, I have spent a couple of days a week in the gym for many years, usually in the weights area, running on the treadmill on occasion.  At this point in my life I ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-faith-courage-and-strength/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-faith-courage-and-strength/ Thu, 31 Mar 2011 18:37:54 GMT Faith is one of the most important words and ideas in Christianity, the decision to follow Jesus Christ.  Jesus talked about it all the time and expected His followers to display faith.  I think sometimes we get this important ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/my-report-to-the-executive-council/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/my-report-to-the-executive-council/ Thu, 24 Mar 2011 17:08:50 GMT I wanted to share with you the report that I gave to the Executive Council this week: First United Methodist Church of Mansfield continues to be an effective and growing church, making an impact upon our community and world, providing ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-how-we-respond/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-how-we-respond/ Fri, 18 Mar 2011 01:52:37 GMT What do we do, how should we feel, how can we help, how do we deal with it?  Sometimes we ask these questions of ourselves, especially when we see and hear with so much clarity and persistence the devastation in Japan — destruction ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/pacific-emergency/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/pacific-emergency/ Fri, 11 Mar 2011 14:22:16 GMT UMCOR (United Methodist Committee On Relief) is connecting with its partners to assess the damage resulting from the earthquake and tsunami in Japan. 100% of all donations go directly and solely to direct aide. There are two ways to ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-sharing-god-is-big-enough/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-sharing-god-is-big-enough/ Thu, 10 Mar 2011 18:33:06 GMT I asked permission to tell a very special story that connects with the God Is Big Enough wristband adventure.  Three years ago we took a group to Israel.  Jim and Nancy went with us.  They are from California, but Jim is the ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-living-for-what-jesus-lived-for/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-living-for-what-jesus-lived-for/ Thu, 03 Mar 2011 18:54:50 GMT The question “What would Jesus do?” sometimes might be impossible to answer.  Jesus often did unexpected things.  But “What did Jesus live for?” — this is a question that is not nearly as hard to ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-getting-off-the-bumper-car-of-life/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-getting-off-the-bumper-car-of-life/ Thu, 24 Feb 2011 17:17:28 GMT I don’t really know why, but throughout my life I have enjoyed the bumper cars at amusement parks — years ago just riding in one and now having a child joining me in the fun.  When you think about it, bumper cars are a crazy ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-telling-the-story/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-telling-the-story/ Thu, 17 Feb 2011 19:24:51 GMT Like most of America, I have been paying close attention to the events in Egypt, even closer knowing that we have and are sending a great number of God Is Big Enough wristbands there by way of a military chaplain who is connected to the ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-what-satisfies/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-what-satisfies/ Thu, 10 Feb 2011 18:03:35 GMT When I think about it, the access to information in our culture is absolutely astounding.  As a trivia and history buff, I find myself often jumping into this world by sharing what I know with family.  I am sure they are not ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-guarding-your-heart/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-guarding-your-heart/ Fri, 04 Feb 2011 21:31:09 GMT “Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life!” (Proverbs 4:23)   We have smoke alarms (don’t burn the bacon), we have fire alarms, we have carbon monoxide alerts, burglar alarms, credit card and ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-holy-discontent/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-holy-discontent/ Thu, 27 Jan 2011 19:57:16 GMT Bill Hybels wrote a book several years ago (Bill has been the senior pastor of Willow Creek for 30 years) entitled Holy Discontent!  The main theme is that as a mature relationship begins to grow in a Christian, the initial joy and ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-walking-with-a-god-who-is-big-enough/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-walking-with-a-god-who-is-big-enough/ Thu, 20 Jan 2011 17:47:22 GMT Have you ever met that person who you are convinced has his/her act together, got it all figured out, somehow is above the average problems and difficulties most people face, impressive, cool, the ideal?   I knew a senior pastor of a ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/is-god-big-enough/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/is-god-big-enough/ Thu, 13 Jan 2011 20:22:46 GMT God has already put the people of Israel on the road to the Promised Land in miraculous and faithful ways.  But as the journey begins, it doesn’t take long for it to go bad.  Soon they find themselves between the proverbial ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-god-is-big-enough/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-god-is-big-enough/ Thu, 06 Jan 2011 18:46:48 GMT Questions: How big is God? How big am I? Why do people try so hard to make themselves bigger than they really are? Why do folks try so hard to make God smaller than He is? If we manufacture a downsized God, why should we worship ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-a-new-year/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-a-new-year/ Fri, 31 Dec 2010 16:38:06 GMT As we get ready for 2011, I wanted to share 10 things that I have learned after many years of following Christ and serving His Church (and am still learning) that are helpful to me and I hope to you. When we don’t quite keep up on ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/tribute-to-my-father/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/tribute-to-my-father/ Thu, 16 Dec 2010 18:12:51 GMT In lieu of my normal thought for the week, I thought I would share the obituary for my Dad, whose funeral we held on Monday.  If you were not aware, my father passed away unexpectedly last Wednesday evening.  This is therapeutic for ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-the-will-of-god/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-the-will-of-god/ Thu, 09 Dec 2010 16:56:59 GMT What is the will of God?  I have been asked this question more times than I could count and have asked the same question myself even more than that.   Yet, Jesus clearly spoke of God’s will: “Come follow me!” (The ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-trials-and-opportunity/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-trials-and-opportunity/ Thu, 02 Dec 2010 16:57:50 GMT In the first chapter of James, this Bible book begins in a very counterculture way. “Consider it all joy, brethren, when you encounter various trials . . .” James 1:2 If James is written according to cultural expectations, it would ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/consider-your-call/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/consider-your-call/ Thu, 18 Nov 2010 19:05:26 GMT During our weekly podcast, David and I discussed “call,” one of the big ideas that ministers talk about, “What did your call to ministry look like?”  I thought I would take this opportunity to write about this big ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/a-lesson-in-generosity/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/a-lesson-in-generosity/ Mon, 15 Nov 2010 18:56:15 GMT The following video shows orphans that are a part of ZOE Ministry's Giving Hope Empowerment Project. In Africa, children normally give 10% of their harvest to their parents, so these orphans felt compelled to give their offering to ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-veterans-day/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-veterans-day/ Thu, 11 Nov 2010 17:25:36 GMT I have a replica of a P51 Mustang in my office.  I am especially proud of this WW II fighter because my Dad flew one, and then later on flew one of the early jets in the Korean War.  Dad also spent a year in Vietnam.  My ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-worship/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-worship/ Thu, 04 Nov 2010 16:10:19 GMT Worship — maybe one of the most used words in First Methodist Church and every church. Worship — what is it?  The root word is “worth” or “worth ship,” an act and attitude based upon what we really ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-belief/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-belief/ Thu, 21 Oct 2010 17:26:37 GMT I believe in mission, that God has given every life a purpose and a mission. I believe in outreach, that daily living includes reaching out to those around us. I believe in living out the commands of Jesus because we love God, not because we ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-being-rescued/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-being-rescued/ Thu, 14 Oct 2010 17:00:39 GMT Millions of people watched and listened as 33 men were rescued after being trapped for more than two months deep below ground in a mine in Chile.  Two thousand forty-one feet below ground, these men waited for a rescue they could not do ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-gods-will/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-gods-will/ Thu, 07 Oct 2010 18:53:20 GMT I remember listening to a sculptor talk about how he created amazing works of art.  Some of the animals that he carved were so life-like; the birds looked like they would fly away at any minute.  A sculptor just carves and chips ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-recovery/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-recovery/ Thu, 30 Sep 2010 16:23:32 GMT The young man had been promised by God that he would do great things, yet he somehow found himself in a dirt pit in the desert waiting to be sold into slavery.  All the hope he had for his future now turned into despair and ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/recovery-resources/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/recovery-resources/ Thu, 30 Sep 2010 14:20:07 GMT Listed below are resources that can help with recovery. Our Pastors Rev. Mike Ramsdell Rev. Sharon Reid Rev. David Alexander Rev. Dr. Jim Gause Rev. Dr. David Chavez Rev. Caesar Rentie Wesley Mission Center Counselors Marty Jeane ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-fear-worry-and-doubt/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-fear-worry-and-doubt/ Thu, 23 Sep 2010 16:05:10 GMT A few weeks ago I wrote in my thought for the week some of the commands of Jesus that are often overlooked, “Do not fear, do not worry, do not doubt.”  I often think of these commands and celebrate these simple words of Jesus ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-what-defines-us/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-what-defines-us/ Thu, 16 Sep 2010 16:40:52 GMT Paul was sitting in prison when he penned these words, “Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that day; and not to me, but also to all who have longed for His ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-a-vital-church/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-a-vital-church/ Thu, 09 Sep 2010 16:40:25 GMT Our denomination, the United Methodist Church, just completed a study on the church, “A Call to Action.”  In this, after extensive research, it was discovered that there were four major keys to a vital church: Lots of ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-from-the-leading-edge/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-from-the-leading-edge/ Thu, 02 Sep 2010 16:10:56 GMT I have one more day of an already amazing few days as I meet with the pastors of the largest attended Methodist churches and 33 bishops, as well as several seminary presidents.  Our purpose is to pray and talk about ways we can renew the ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-healthy-relationships/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-healthy-relationships/ Thu, 26 Aug 2010 16:48:36 GMT Does God seem far away, impersonal or distant? Do you experience guilt and self condemnation? Have you learned to survive on ability and talent alone? Is your life defined by weakness, sin or addictions? Would you see yourself as ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-jesus/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-jesus/ Thu, 19 Aug 2010 16:28:26 GMT When I was 20 years old, I attended a young adult Sunday School class for the first time, also the first time I had attended Sunday School since I was 12.  The teacher decided to test us for service, and the first test was to see if we ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-loving-god-loving-others-and-serving-the-world/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-loving-god-loving-others-and-serving-the-world/ Thu, 12 Aug 2010 15:59:07 GMT I had another thought prepared for today, but I heard a story yesterday that demands telling.   I went to the hospital to visit a family with a new baby.  It is one of the very enjoyable things I get to do on occasion.  The brand ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-finding-our-place/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-finding-our-place/ Thu, 05 Aug 2010 15:57:03 GMT This past weekend was a remarkable season of worship for me. I like to share God’s word, we got to pray many times, other people who love God and are getting to know God joined me, the attendance was pretty remarkable for this time ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/-thoughts-on-the-water-of-life/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/-thoughts-on-the-water-of-life/ Thu, 29 Jul 2010 15:56:12 GMT Jesus told the woman at the well, “Ask me and I will give you living water that you will never thirst again.”  The Bible is full of the water of life images.  Revelation tells us that heaven has a river that flows ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-my-trip-to-rwanda/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-my-trip-to-rwanda/ Thu, 22 Jul 2010 16:25:17 GMT A week ago I was still in Rwanda, Africa, spending time with orphans who lived (on a good day) on bananas, beans and peanuts.  Their living conditions were mud brick houses that had no furniture.  Some of the older kids were ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thougts-on-freedom/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thougts-on-freedom/ Thu, 24 Jun 2010 18:38:52 GMT The 4th of July is a little over a week away, and I wanted to write my thoughts on it today.  You will know why as you read further. I know you have heard the term “as American as apple pie!”  Tomorrow at 11:00 ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-mission/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-mission/ Thu, 17 Jun 2010 16:51:29 GMT Vacation Bible Camp is preparing to begin on Monday.  There will be some 1,200 children and adults on campus growing in all kinds of ways.  I enjoyed putting together a video as “Cowboy Parson Mike” to help kick it ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-church/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-church/ Thu, 10 Jun 2010 17:28:44 GMT Some years ago I had an interesting conversation with a fellow — good man, father and husband.  He told me why he didn’t go to church anymore.  He said, “When I was a kid, my parents made me go to church every time ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-the-story-of-the-christian-life/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-the-story-of-the-christian-life/ Thu, 03 Jun 2010 17:25:42 GMT When my mother was a teenager, she heard the news on the radio that Pearl Harbor had been bombed, and America was now at war.  It was the year she graduated from high school. When my grandfather was a young man, he struggled though ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-the-greatest-command/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-the-greatest-command/ Thu, 27 May 2010 16:09:20 GMT The last week at Disney World with family and friends (on vacation), there were long days and lots of fun to be had by all.  But there were also an amazing number of rules.  Don’t stand here, don’t cross this line, ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-vacation/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-vacation/ Thu, 20 May 2010 17:28:54 GMT As I write this thought for the week, I am in Orlando, Florida, with my extended family in between trips to some of the many parks in the area.  Can you say Disney World?  Even though, with Rhonda from Florida, we have made many ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-self-sacrifice/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-self-sacrifice/ Wed, 12 May 2010 14:30:03 GMT Most of us know that God sacrificed Himself for us in Jesus Christ, that our very salvation and the promise of eternal life are granted by this absolute sacrifice of an absolute loving God.  We call this Amazing Grace, “That ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/change-the-world/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/change-the-world/ Thu, 06 May 2010 16:49:55 GMT Two weeks ago I decided to change the sign on the Pleasant Ridge side of the church; it was time for the last message series title to come down.  As I was doing it, I was inspired to put up three little, yet amazingly big words, ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/dont-do-anything-that-god-cant-bless-and-ask-god-to-bless-everything-that-you-do/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/dont-do-anything-that-god-cant-bless-and-ask-god-to-bless-everything-that-you-do/ Thu, 29 Apr 2010 16:49:15 GMT This morning, early, I was asked to give the blessing at Rotary Club.  It was easy to do; Rotary serves the community and the world and does much good.  Monday night I was asked to give the blessing at the annual Mansfield ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/its-always-god/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/its-always-god/ Thu, 22 Apr 2010 16:58:21 GMT In the early church, one of the largest and fastest growing was the Church at Corinth, Greece.  This church was so important that Paul wrote two lengthy letters to them.  They did great things for God but also had great problems ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/who-are-you/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/who-are-you/ Thu, 15 Apr 2010 18:55:43 GMT At 25 I was appointed to serve my first church as a pastor.  The first week I prepared a sermon on the Bible text “Seek ye first the Kingdom of God and his righteousness and all these things shall be added unto you.”  ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-easter/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-easter/ Thu, 08 Apr 2010 17:22:33 GMT Last week’s Easter services were an exciting time in the life of our church.  Few things are more meaningful than celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ, the very core of the Christian life and hope.  If you were not ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-holy-week/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-holy-week/ Thu, 01 Apr 2010 16:57:03 GMT The two super powers first squared off against each other at the Temptation in the Wilderness, Satan on one side and Jesus, God’s son, on the other.  The devil threw everything he had at Jesus — three temptations.  Each ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-faith-during-holy-week/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-faith-during-holy-week/ Thu, 25 Mar 2010 16:26:04 GMT During Holy Week Jesus stopped to teach His disciples a lesson on faith, telling them, “If you have faith the grain of a mustard seed, you can ask for this mountain to be cast into the sea, and it will be done for you!”  ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-your-call/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-your-call/ Thu, 18 Mar 2010 17:01:15 GMT Consider your call.“For consider your calling, brethren, that there were not many wise according to the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble; but God has chosen the foolish things of the word to shame the wise, and God has chosen the ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-judas/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-judas/ Thu, 11 Mar 2010 17:24:34 GMT “Then one of the 12, named Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests, and said, ‘What are you willing to give me to deliver Him up to you?’  And they weighed out to him 30 pieces of silver.  And from then on he began ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/attitude-a-state-of-mind-or-feeling-disposition/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/attitude-a-state-of-mind-or-feeling-disposition/ Thu, 04 Mar 2010 17:26:07 GMT Attitude is everything.  It shapes us, guides us, delivers us.  It dominates our feelings, our relationships, who we are and who we are becoming; attitude is life.  Romans chapter 4 tells us, "Be transformed by the renewing of ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-following-jesus/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-following-jesus/ Thu, 25 Feb 2010 17:11:49 GMT Bill Hybles of Willowcreek Community Church in Chicago tells a story of his own misplaced values in college, values that began to change when a professor said these words in class, “True personal fulfillment never comes through ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-lent/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-lent/ Thu, 18 Feb 2010 17:42:13 GMT Three years ago the movie The Passion of the Christ came out.  First Methodist rented a movie theater for several showings.  It is the largest grossing non-English speaking movie of all time, presented in Aramaic with English subtitles ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-gps/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-gps/ Thu, 11 Feb 2010 17:23:23 GMT A couple of years ago Rhonda and I attended one of our Dave Ramsey Christian financial management courses (We have one going right now.).  It has a group gathering that includes video and inspirational words from Dave Ramsey himself.  ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-prayer/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-prayer/ Thu, 04 Feb 2010 17:23:09 GMT I have been trying to remember a name all week. It is someone I have known a long time, but don’t talk to often, and the name is still not coming to me.  I expect to wake up in the middle of the night one day with the name.  ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/senior-pastors-report-charge-conference/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/senior-pastors-report-charge-conference/ Thu, 28 Jan 2010 18:27:25 GMT Senior Pastor’s Report Charge Conference First United Methodist Church of Mansfield November 22, 2009 2009 was a monumental year in the life of First Methodist, but not for the usual reasons.  Yes, we grew in numbers once again: I ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-repentance/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-repentance/ Thu, 21 Jan 2010 18:33:31 GMT This weekend we begin a new message series, Sync, with the idea of syncing or aligning our lives more clearly and closely with God.  In our busy, demanding, and often unchristian world, it is easy to find ourselves further from God and His ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/health-kits-for-haiti/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/health-kits-for-haiti/ Wed, 20 Jan 2010 17:06:03 GMT There is a tremendous need for health kits in Haiti.  As in all disasters, our United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) was prepared for immediate response and has already met the needs of thousands.  Also, many in our church, ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/what-can-i-do-to-help-in-haiti/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/what-can-i-do-to-help-in-haiti/ Thu, 14 Jan 2010 16:49:37 GMT As the news reports continue to come from Haiti, it is hard to grasp the magnitude of the destruction following the Jan. 12 earthquake that devastated the capital, Port-au-Prince, and surrounding areas. The images of death and destruction are ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/its-all-about-the-relationship/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/its-all-about-the-relationship/ Thu, 14 Jan 2010 03:15:11 GMT It’s all about the relationship!I have traveled on many youth mission trips with young people.  My first was to Mexico in 1975.  Went with a large group of youth to Missouri in 1994.  Two years ago I made my way to Arkansas ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/what-do-i-value-the-most/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/what-do-i-value-the-most/ Thu, 07 Jan 2010 16:10:31 GMT “Mankind wants glory.  We want health.  We want wealth.  We want happiness.  We want all our felt needs met, all our little human itches scratched.  We want a painless life.  We want the crown without the ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/jesus-came-to-reconnect/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/jesus-came-to-reconnect/ Thu, 17 Dec 2009 15:28:58 GMT This excerpt is from a note sent to me by Karen, the mother of twins: My girls watched the Veggie Tales movie, “St Nicholas: A story of Joyful Giving” and loved it.  The next Christmas movie we watched was ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/a-perfect-christmas/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/a-perfect-christmas/ Thu, 10 Dec 2009 17:47:11 GMT A perfect Christmas —  many Americans journey to December 25th trying to make Christmas perfect, the right color-coordinated tree, the perfect gift, an excellent, well prepared Christmas dinner, the perfect music in the background, ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/how-do-you-approach-christmas/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/how-do-you-approach-christmas/ Thu, 03 Dec 2009 16:39:11 GMT Yesterday I put out Mr. and Mrs. Snowman in our yard.  It is a yard decoration that I painted on a piece of wood I cut out.  It was done some years ago, and when I see it, I can’t believe I did it.  It was back days when I ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/family-friends-and-giving-thanks-to-god/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/family-friends-and-giving-thanks-to-god/ Wed, 25 Nov 2009 16:42:52 GMT "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.  And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/considering-others/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/considering-others/ Thu, 19 Nov 2009 18:32:32 GMT In 2008 an amazing high school football game was played.  Gainesville State School, a maximum security facility, had a team with only 12 players; they always played away games and never had any fans but their coach.  When it came time ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/strategic-plan/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/strategic-plan/ Wed, 18 Nov 2009 18:01:43 GMT If you missed this Pastor Mike's message on our strategic plan, we encourage you to listen online and reflect on the message notes below: Mission Statement: Making disciples of Jesus Christ who will love God, love others and serve the ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/money-is-a-spiritual-issue/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/money-is-a-spiritual-issue/ Thu, 12 Nov 2009 17:44:03 GMT In 2 Corinthians Chapter 8, the Bible speaks of generosity in a very unique way, a giving nature that would possess this new young Church and in many ways direct the purpose of these new followers of Jesus Christ:  “But they first ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/what-does-it-mean-to-be-great/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/what-does-it-mean-to-be-great/ Thu, 05 Nov 2009 23:16:27 GMT Some years ago Bill Hybles, then pastor of the largest church in America, wrote a book entitled Descending into Greatness!  The premise is from the explanation of Jesus to His disciples as to who was the greatest in the Kingdom of ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/the-greatest-commandment/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/the-greatest-commandment/ Thu, 29 Oct 2009 18:35:32 GMT Rhonda and I prayed for God to give us a child.  Our first had been born too early to survive, and little boy Ramsdell is buried in the old cemetery in Key West, Florida.  A year later, God gave us a 5 pound 13 ounce little girl named ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-generosity/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-generosity/ Thu, 22 Oct 2009 15:56:37 GMT Jesus was the most generous person who ever lived.  Every minute of the life of Jesus, from His birth in Bethlehem,  His amazing life of miracles and teaching, the sacrificial death on the cross, and then the world-changing ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/rethinking-church/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/rethinking-church/ Thu, 15 Oct 2009 17:22:41 GMT All our worship services this weekend are very important, and I hope exciting.  And for First United Methodist Church, this weekend is both a culmination of our Rethink Church emphasis and the beginning of a new era for this great ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-christ-centered-living/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-christ-centered-living/ Thu, 08 Oct 2009 16:29:59 GMT When I was in the second grade my brother and I tried out for a local football league in Killeen, Texas. We both made the team even though we were smaller than most. It was great! You could spit on the ground, tackle, run into other ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-holiness/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-holiness/ Thu, 01 Oct 2009 16:38:06 GMT Texas A&M (the Texas Aggies) has many traditions, such as standing up during football games and kissing your date when a touchdown is scored (I wonder who started that).  One tradition is especially unique to A&M.  There is a ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-evangelism/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-evangelism/ Thu, 24 Sep 2009 17:39:18 GMT ”Evangelism” is for many one of the scariest words there is, either being on the giving end or the receiving end.  In many ways, it’s the new “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell!” philosophy that many Christians ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-monuments/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-monuments/ Thu, 17 Sep 2009 18:38:56 GMT While in Africa some time ago, we stayed at an old British estate, now a resort.  At one time, it was a duplication, including many plants that might have been found in England, of what an estate might also have looked like back in the ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/rethink-church/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/rethink-church/ Thu, 10 Sep 2009 18:06:24 GMT What would you do if you loved God?  Then do it! What would you do if you loved your spouse?  Then do it! What would you do if you loved your co-workers?  Then do it! What would you do if you loved your neighbors?  Then do ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-a-life-check/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-a-life-check/ Thu, 03 Sep 2009 17:10:28 GMT As we prepared for summer this year, I went in the attic to check out our air conditioning system.  I cleaned it up and replaced the air filter.  When it came time to turn it on, it would not work.  I tried for two days before I ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-first-united-methodist-church/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-first-united-methodist-church/ Thu, 27 Aug 2009 15:04:25 GMT Instead of a regular thought for the week, I wanted to offer a couple of special things happening in and through First Methodist Church: First, our Chapel project is moving along rapidly. It’s amazing to think that for just a small ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-money/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-money/ Thu, 20 Aug 2009 15:02:28 GMT I remember very clearly getting my first paycheck.  I was 13, had just received my Social Security card, which I still carry in my wallet, and was working at Naha Air force Base in a big warehouse on Okinawa where my Dad was ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-faith/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-faith/ Tue, 11 Aug 2009 16:52:23 GMT Thoughts and faith often connect. We may think we are going to starve if the economy keeps declining, and God  says, “I will supply all your needs according to my riches in glory.” Phil. 4:19 We may think we are overwhelmed ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-the-small-life/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-the-small-life/ Thu, 06 Aug 2009 18:59:24 GMT I recently heard of the death of a man I knew some years ago.  It was sad to know that at his funeral his wife attended, along with an estranged son, a niece, as well as the preacher.  I suppose the funeral director was there as ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-the-end-of-the-world/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-the-end-of-the-world/ Tue, 28 Jul 2009 19:20:25 GMT These last couple of weeks I have been in a message series entitled The Revelation of St. John the Apostle or God’s Take on the End of the World.  Genesis tells the story of the beginning and Revelation tells the story of the end, ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-rethink-church/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-rethink-church/ Wed, 22 Jul 2009 15:27:58 GMT The United Methodist Church is in the middle of one of the biggest seismic shifts in its more than two centuries of life, a shift called “Rethink Church!”  You may have seen some of the advertisements or heard some of the ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-the-antichrist/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-the-antichrist/ Thu, 16 Jul 2009 16:37:28 GMT This weekend I begin a new message series on “The Revelation of St. John the Apostle,” this by special request from tons of our church family in response to a survey I did last summer. Maybe one of the most overwhelming images ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/kneeling-at-gods-throne/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/kneeling-at-gods-throne/ Thu, 09 Jul 2009 15:04:43 GMT The death of Michael Jackson brought a couple of thoughts to my mind this week, a death so much like Elvis Presley’s death the year our oldest daughter was born, one the King of Pop and the other known just as the King.  (I do ask ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-independence-day/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-independence-day/ Thu, 02 Jul 2009 09:44:16 GMT When we think of the American Revolution, we often think of battles — Lexington Green, Bunker Hill, Yorktown.  But might the revolution be more rooted in the prayers and faith of thousands of colonists who believed in a God who ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/what-do-people-learn-when-they-study-us/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/what-do-people-learn-when-they-study-us/ Thu, 25 Jun 2009 15:30:32 GMT As a pastor, I have looked at, picked out, studied and used a great deal of Bible study curriculum.  It’s everywhere, and there are all kinds.  There is curriculum for children, youth, adults, small groups, large groups, ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/growing-deeper-roots/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/growing-deeper-roots/ Thu, 18 Jun 2009 14:35:57 GMT There is an old story about a county full of orchards.  The orchards were all productive, and the trees grew fruitful until a long-term drought hit.  As time went on, the trees in most of the orchards began to dry up and the fruit fell ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/what-must-i-do-to-be-saved/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/what-must-i-do-to-be-saved/ Thu, 11 Jun 2009 15:25:42 GMT I just got back from Annual Conference where our pastors and five lay delegates represented our church as one of over 300 Methodist churches.  I will say more later this summer, but I can say now we were impressed with the challenge and ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/the-state-of-the-church/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/the-state-of-the-church/ Thu, 04 Jun 2009 14:51:39 GMT Last weekend I got to share our bi-yearly “State of the Church.”  It was a special time as we began by telling our “story” (click here to see the video that tells what our church is about through real life stories of ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-love/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-love/ Thu, 28 May 2009 17:40:00 GMT 1 Corinthians may be one of the most read parts of the Bible, often shared at weddings.  The last verse, “But now faith, hope, love abide these three, but the greatest of these is love.”  Then the first part of verse 14 ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/finding-the-right-questions/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/finding-the-right-questions/ Thu, 14 May 2009 18:32:49 GMT We had an insurance agent in our church a few years ago tell me that he hopes his life is more than that, adding, “On my obituary, I don’t want a mention of my job!”   He is very successful at this long-time job, but ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/holiness-of-heart-and-life/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/holiness-of-heart-and-life/ Thu, 07 May 2009 18:29:48 GMT Holiness of heart and life was one of the major purposes John Wesley put into motion when the Methodist revival began, and it is still an important word used today to describe what God’s spirit is working to do in our lives as the ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-fear/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/thoughts-on-fear/ Thu, 30 Apr 2009 18:38:12 GMT Jesus said to “Fear only God!”  And, then the Bible adds later, “Perfect love casts away all fear.”  God is and He loves us.  We never have to fear. Recently our news media has overwhelmed our world with ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/the-demise-of-christianity/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/the-demise-of-christianity/ Thu, 23 Apr 2009 17:43:19 GMT The Demise of Christianity -- at least that was what was reported recently after a survey was posted on MSN that stated there was a small percentage decrease in Americans who said they were Christians and or attended church on a regular ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/upside-living-in-a-downsize-economy/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/upside-living-in-a-downsize-economy/ Thu, 16 Apr 2009 17:44:11 GMT I wanted to share with you the focus for the next few weeks in worship as we look at“Upside Living in a Downsize Economy” in Saturday night and Sunday morning worship.  There seems to be a gain in momentum the last few months in ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/life-and-death/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/life-and-death/ Sat, 11 Apr 2009 02:25:10 GMT In a few weeks we are going to have our sixth grandchild.  We already know his name will be Henry, named after a member our daughter-in-laws’ family and after my grandfather, Henry Bearfield.  I never knew my Mom’s ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/what-is-the-task-of-the-church/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/what-is-the-task-of-the-church/ Thu, 26 Mar 2009 17:39:01 GMT I thought you might be interested in my Executive Council report for this quarter. Report to Executive Council, March 26, 2009 I read a book on the plane to Israel titled "What Americans Believe," I have long believed that if we want to reach ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/is-it-time-to-wrestle-with-god/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/is-it-time-to-wrestle-with-god/ Thu, 19 Mar 2009 18:01:33 GMT One of my favorite stories in the Bible is about Jacob, the son of Isaac whose name was eventually changed to Israel.  You are probably familiar with the story.  He became the father of 12 sons who became the fathers of the 12 tribes ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/god-is-faithful-to-each-of-us/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/god-is-faithful-to-each-of-us/ Thu, 12 Mar 2009 16:03:47 GMT While we were in Israel, we had the chance to visit Caesarea, a seaport, palace, amphitheater and government buildings built by King Herod to honor the Roman Caesar. It is now in ruins, but it was once one of the wonders of Israel, including a ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/-its-been-an-amazing-adventure/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/-its-been-an-amazing-adventure/ Thu, 05 Mar 2009 11:04:01 GMT I am writing this as I sit in Jerusalem. It has been an amazing adventure as we walked into Gethsemane today. We stood on the Mount of Olives looking down into Old Jerusalem and saw the temple Mount from the same vantage point Jesus saw it as ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/videos-from-israel-trip/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/videos-from-israel-trip/ Wed, 04 Mar 2009 16:17:19 GMT Here is the video of me at the Sea of Galilee that was shown in Sunday's worship service. Below is the video that was taken of us all before we left on this great trip to ... http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/shalom-from-israel/ http://www.firstmethodistmansfield.org/latest-news-blog/shalom-from-israel/ Thu, 26 Feb 2009 17:35:55 GMT As I write this, I am in Israel, right on the Sea of Galilee. We arrived last night, so this morning was my first chance to see the beautiful water, palm trees and hills surrounding the Sea of Galilee.  I think of His call to the first ...