Messages from Douglas UCC

In October and November we're examining The Beatitudes, in which Jesus describes people God blesses or favors. What does 'poor in spirit' mean? Who are these favored ones? Rev. Jody considers the story of the rich man and Lazarus (‘one whom God helps’).

James suggests what to do when things get dicey, but he didn't know about compassion fatigue or climate change. He says to cut off a body part that causes you trouble -- not very practical! Rev. Jody talks about what can we draw from James’ suggestions.

The dictionary says humility is a modest or low view of one's own importance. How can one remain humble while not diminishing oneself? Pastor Jody talks about humility, based on James 4 and Mark 9.

The creation story suggests that God created with a word. Modern people know how to use words to hurt. We have the power to create reality with words. James tells us that we need to control our tongues.

In transactional relationships, each person expects something in return for an action. James points out that the Jesus-followers of his day pay attention to the rich at the expense of the poor who need their help. Pastor Jody considers our quid pro quos and how we can protect ourselves from this sort of relationship.

It’s comforting to know that we can’t make God love us more; nothing will separate us from the energy of love. Nevertheless, the book of James says that what we do matters. Rev. Jody Betten explores possibilities for how to behave that make a difference.

Some imagery in the Bible can seem archaic. It was written long ago in a different culture, yet it resonates with issues we face today. What practices keep you focused? Rev. Jody Betten explores practical and creative ways to keep on keeping on.

Dan Plasman muses on three Bible verses in which King Solomon prays for foreigners and outsiders whom he’s never met. This brief ancient prayer jarred loose memories of people who reminded him that God welcomes us no matter what.

What activities bring you joy -- baking bread? singing and dancing? reading a good book? walking in contemplation? Rev. Jody talks about Jesus' understanding of his way.

Do you ever wonder what you have to offer? When Jesus fed a crowd of 5000, a small boy with five loaves and two fishes had exactly what was needed. And how about the way Jesus handled the leftovers!

What is extravagant Love? What does it look like? Who is it for? Why make a practice of it? Church member Mark Johnston shares his ideas and a challenge as we get ready to show extravagant love to our neighbors at next week's block party

How much of you is water? How many people don't have clean water? How many times does the Bible mention water? How can we best raise concern for water for ourselves, our neighbors, and our planet? Rev. Jody explores the joys and sorrows of water.

Do you twirl around the house when you want to celebrate a life-giving event? Dancing is a way to move our bodies with joy. Rev. Jody considers separate stories that feature Kings David and Herodias, where dancers bring intrigue and emotion.

Do sources of wisdom look or talk a certain way? Must they have degrees or titles? Did you ever unexpectedly learn something? Rev. Jody explores three stories: a shepherd boy becomes king, an evangelist has a thorn in the flesh, and Jesus is not welcome.

We don’t have to ignore Scripture to affirm our queer friends and family. Rev. Jody explains that the Bible says good things about same-gender loving relationships. Today we celebrate all gender identities, gender expressions, and sexual orientations!

These are tenuous days. We face trouble in our lives, our relationships, and our world. We do the best we can and, somehow we get by. In two stories this week, where David fights Goliath and Jesus calms a storm, Rev. Jody sees a response to trouble.

Remember the warmth you felt when someone was kind to you. What did they do? Jesus says that faith the size of a mustard seed is all we need to make a difference in the world. Rev. Jodi Betten talks about how kindness makes a difference.

In today’s Gospel, Jesus asks who his family is. What does your family of choice like? Does it fit the phrase ‘traditional family values’?

Rev. Jody explores today's all-important question for our church - and any church. Why do we have the Vision we have? Why do we do this church thing? Are we making choices that support our Why?

Rev. Jody helps us explore all of our connections on this Memorial Day weekend. How are we connected to each other, our church, our sibling churches, other denominations and faith traditions, and the world, and God? Quite a big think, don't you think?

Systems and Structures and Leadership! Rev. Jody, our interim pastor, shares a Pentecost message: the world was shaken, and a new world order emerged. How have we been shaken, and how will it make our foundation stronger for our future?

Michigan Conference minister, Rev. Lillian Daniel, author, homilist, and humorist offered this lovely interpretation of scripture and a hilarious-loving homily to illustrate the Body of Christ, with a Mother's Day message running in the current.

Rev. Jody Betten had us thinking about identity, our own, our community's, our church and its place in the world. Who do we think we are? Who do others say that we are? Who do we wish to be? What is possible for this church as we move into our future?

You are likely familiar with the adage, "Those who don't know their history are destined to repeat it." It may also apply to churches and the selection of their ministers. On Sunday, find out why the ham got cut in half for Easter. Find out what the Bible says about "marrying out." Consider your own personal history and how it affects your present (and your presence).

Our new interim pastor considers liminal spaces from ancient traditions and our own history at Douglas UCC. Is this space a tomb? Or a womb?