First United Methodist Church - Notes from the Pastor

Jeannie and I went to “Mayberry Days” in Mt. Airy last weekend. I hadn’t been in several years and was surprised at how the event has grown. The crowds were huge. A number of the original actors from “The Andy Griffith Show” were there. Ask Jeannie about posing for a picture with Ernest T. Bass’s old flame, Ramona (aka “Romeena”). In addition to the celebrities, there were a number of impersonators. I have seen David Browning, the well-known Barney Fife impersonator several times over the years, but now he has some competition. We saw at least five other Barney imitators. There were also folks representing Sheriff Andy, Opie, Floyd the Barber, Ernest T. Bass, Aunt Bea, Otis, Goober, Charlene and the Darling family, Rafe Hollister, Warren (the other deputy), and Howard Sprague. Some of these folks wore authentic costumes but that was about the only similarity. Some bore a striking physical resemblance to the characters but didn’t sound anything like them. Some looked and acted very much like the actors they imitated, using the same expressions, voice tones, and gestures. These were the most convincing imitators. I was reminded of that verse in the Book of Ephesians: “Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children, and live in love, as Christ loved us…” Part our calling as disciples of Jesus is to imitate God through our words and actions and attitudes. The most convincing witness we can offer comes as we reflect godly characteristics in our interactions with others. The divine nature is described quite simply by that verse, “God is love,” and Jesus taught that love is the evidence of authentic discipleship. So, we must constantly strive to be more loving and therefore more like God. I have never been one who idolized anyone from Hollywood so I have no desire to be like any of them, but I long to be more like God. May we all make that our prayer and our aim.

Grace and Peace,

Pastor Terry

September 2010

I was thinking recently about the challenges of being in ministry within this culture. Things have changed dramatically during my thirty-two years of ordained ministry. In some areas, the church has made progress. I think most churches have become more faithful to their central mission and more aware of the communities in which we are called to serve. In other areas, we have moved backwards. One of the greatest obstacles for churches is the failure of many church folks to understand the purpose of the church. Some church members have their own agenda which often stands in opposition both to Scriptural
truth and the God-given mission of his church. Recently, several of us from First UMC attended a workshop sponsored by
our district which was entitled "Mission Centered Ministry." One of the main topics of discussion was the distinction
between a church being "Mission Centered" or "Preference Driven." Those who are disciples of Jesus and committed
to the mission of the church will behave quite differently than those who see the church as a club to which they belong
and from which they hope to receive certain benefits. The primary question to ask in every decision about the church's
ministries and programs is whether something will help us fulfill our mission of "Making Disciples of Jesus Christ and
Meeting Human Need." If our first concern is something other than that, we are probably campaigning for personal
preferences rather than serving the mission of Jesus Christ. I grew up in a home with Christian parents who were
devoted to their local church. They love and appreciated their spiritual leaders and their fellow members and worked
with them to strengthen the church. They were faithful in attendance and in giving their time and talent and financial
resources for the church's work and witness. I am deeply grateful for the foundation that was laid for my faith, and
I am trying to build on it by following the positive example set by all those who have been shining lights for me. May we
all grow in grace so that we can provide such a legacy of faith!

Grace and Peace,

Pastor Terry

August 2010

It is with deep sadness and much appreciation that we bid farewell to our Minister of Education, The Reverend Kristin Lassiter. Frank and Kristin, Ava and Nathanael will be moving to Smithfield in a few weeks. Frank was hired as the new head football coach at Smithfield-Selma Senior High School (“Triple S”) which is his alma mater. We wish Frank much success as he takes on this new responsibility. For almost eight years, Kristin has faithfully served at First UMC. During her time here, there has been growth and progress in many areas. She has especially helped us strengthen our ministry with children and
youth, expand our outreach in the community and our programs of spiritual formation. Her inspiring sermons and prayers and her excellent musical voice have enriched our experiences of worship. Her friendship and support as well as her sense of humor have cheered many of us on during difficult times and helped us stay the course of faithful discipleship. This is a very challenging climate in which to do ministry, but Kristin has served honorably and well. She has remained loyal to her high calling of ordained ministry and stayed true to her principles. May we learn from her example and dedicate ourselves to
contributing a positive Christian witness in our church and our world. Kristin and Frank, Ava and Nate have been an
integral part of our church family. They have modeled many of the qualities that our culture needs most of all, such as
love and loyalty to God, family, and church. We have come to know and love them as our friends, our fellow disciples,
our playmates, our fellow leaders, and our partners in ministry. It’s hard to imagine the various gatherings of this church family without their participation. Their absence will be keenly felt, but I know that God has a plan for them to experience his blessings and to be the channel of God’s blessings in a new and exciting environment. We send this wonderful family forward with our prayers, our gratitude, and our love.

Grace and Peace,

Pastor Terry

July 2010

During these summer days, our thoughts often turn to opportunities for vacation. We all need to get away from the normal routines periodically and to experience some rest and renewal. I think our physical, emotional, and spiritual health is strengthened by rest and recreation. But I also think that in rest as in work and study and all other arenas of life, we should remain true to our principles. The mission of Jesus and his church does not stop during the summer months but it is more
challenging in a culture that emphasizes bowing to the gods of pleasure more than to the God of salvation. During my
years of ministry, there has been a steadily growing trend on the part of many church members to abandon the privilege of worship and to neglect the call to share in the work and witness of the church for much of the summer. Summer attendance statistics, the record of financial stewardship, and the difficulty of recruiting volunteers for the ministries of the church all give plenty of evidence for this pattern. The sacred promise that all of us made to be faithful to Christ and support his church with our “prayers, presence, gifts, service, and witness” did not come with an exemption for the summer months. In fact, the greatest witness we provide for our families, our neighbors, and friends may be the consistency of our discipleship. I
encourage you to be true to your promises during the summer months and give your best to God and his church. When you are on vacation, find a place to worship on the Lord’s Day. One of the highlights of vacation for me is worshiping with a different church. On most Sundays, I am preaching and providing leadership in worship. It’s a treat to occasionally hear someone else preach and to worship in a new environment and meet new brothers and sisters in the family of God. As you make decisions about how you will spend the summer and how you will invest your time and energy and financial resources
each day, remember the wisdom of John Wesley who said, “I judge all things only by the price they shall gain in eternity.”

Grace and Peace,

Pastor Terry

June 2010

Imagine that you are attending a Church Council meeting, hearing reports about various ministries of the church, and one leader gives a report like this; “This ministry has doubled in size both in the number of participants and leaders. We have already impacted hundreds of families in the community in positive, meaningful ways. Every year we witness to large numbers of people, many of whom do not have a church home. We are helping children in their intellectual and spiritual development.” What do you think the response would be to that kind of report? I would think that plaques would be engraved, certificates would be printed, and other expressions of commendation and appreciation would pour out for the leaders of such a great ministry. I think everyone with any understanding of the church’s mission would celebrate and we would commit to do everything in our power to support and strengthen such a vital ministry. Let the celebration begin! The exact report I
have described can be given about First School (abbreviation for First United Methodist Christian Playschool). This is
one of the most effective, vibrant, and visible ministries of the church. We owe the First School Staff, First School
Committee, and all the First School Students and Families our deepest gratitude. Perhaps more than any other
single ministry of the church, First School is helping us fulfill our mission of “Making Disciples Of Jesus Christ and Meeting
Human Need.” In First School, children receive education and nurture in a safe and loving environment. Working in
partnership with parents and church leaders, First School Teachers are laying the foundation for children’s faith and
helping them to understand God’s infinite love for them.

A new class has just graduated from First School. I always enjoy the commencement program and watching the children march into the sanctuary to the familiar “Pomp and Circumstance.” The last week of the school year is also a little sad for me. One of the greatest blessings I enjoy at First UMC is hearing the happy voices of children in the facility. The environment of the church is brightened when I am able to see and hear and interact with children. After this week there will be three long months during which Sunday mornings provide the only opportunity for me to be around children. On the front of this year’s
commencement bulletin was the motto that has been used for several years by First School; “I Belong Here.” How true
that is! One of the hymns in The Faith We Sing reminds us that “this is where children belong.” No one belongs in the
church more than children and those who provide for their best interests. The First School Teachers let all their students
know that they do indeed belong here. Children are welcomed and treated with kindness and love. Now it’s time for
everyone in this church to convey that message very clearly to the staff, the children, and families of First School.
Thanks to Lenore Kennedy, Kelly Ashley, Kelly Madren, Nicole Wyrick, Sue Woods, Shannon Seaman, April Briggs, Susan
Johnson, Jennifer Broderick, Kim Purgar, Kim Wolfe, and Tiffaney Coleman for another great year! First UMC is proud
of you and grateful for your faithfulness and our partnership in ministry with you.

Grace and Peace,

Pastor Terry

May 2010

One morning this week during our chapel time for First School students, I was talking with the children about the importance of the Easter message. I pointed to the large wooden cross that has been in our sanctuary since Holy Week and spoke of Jesus’ death and his resurrection. To reinforce the good news of Easter, I would ask them periodically what happened after Jesus died. Most of the children seemed to understand the concept of resurrection, but didn’t quite know the terminology. One little girl responded to my question about what happened to Jesus after he was placed in the tomb by saying, “He got better.” Another time she said that Jesus “was all right again.” That’s not a bad way to think about resurrection. When we consider how the resurrection of Jesus provides the possibility of redemption and transformation, it is about wellness of body, mind, and soul. When we remember that the resurrection of Jesus provides the possibility of eternal life, it is about healing in the ultimate sense. As we continue in this season of resurrection and renewal, let’s consider the areas of our lives which need healing, redemption and transformation. Let’s draw closer to our risen Savior so that we will receive his gift of abundant and eternal life. Let’s be sure we are telling the good news of Easter and living as those who have been raised to new life with Jesus. One of the hymns we sang
in worship last week proclaims;

“Christ has risen and forever
Lives to challenge and to change
All whose lives are messed or mangled,
All who find religion strange.
Christ is risen, Christ is present
Making us what he has been
Evidence of transformation
In which God is known and seen.”

Grace and Peace,

Pastor Terry

April 2010

Michelangelo scolded some of his fellow artists, saying, “Why do you keep filling gallery after gallery with endless pictures on the one theme of Christ in weakness, Christ on the cross, and most of all Christ hanging dead? Why do you concentrate on that episode as if it were the last word, as if the curtain dropped down there on disaster and defeat. That dreadful scene only lasted a few hours. But to the unending eternity Christ is alive; Christ rules and triumphs!” I believe the great artist made a valid point. We are beginning the most important time of the Christian year: Holy Week and Easter. It is important that we remember the price that was paid for our salvation. In fact, I always tell my parishioners that I don’t think any of us are prepared nor entitled to worship on Easter morning until we worship on Good Friday. We need time in front of the cross before we can stand before the empty tomb. We should never forget the tremendous suffering, the agonizing death our Savior endured for us, but we should also remember that death did not have the final word. Christ conquered sin and death and he reigns forever. That’s what we celebrate every Sunday when we gather to worship with other disciples. That should be at center of our lives every day as we serve a risen Savior. He was raised to new life and offers the gift of new life to us. He has won the ultimate victory. One of my favorite hymns of the season reminds us that those who belong to Christ are Easter people:

Easter People, raise your voices,
Sounds of heaven in earth should ring.
Christ has brought us heaven’s choices; heavenly music, let it ring.
Alleluia! Alleluia! Easter People,
let us sing…

Every day to us is Easter,
With its resurrection song.
When in trouble, move the faster
to our God who rights the wrong.
Alleluia! Alleluia! See the power
of heavenly throngs.

Grace and Peace,

Pastor Terry

March 2010

At a recent Church Council meeting, we heard several good reports from church leaders about numerous significant events and ongoing ministries of our church. As I listened to the reports, I was reminded of the variety of ways this church family is involved in missions and outreach, congregational care, spiritual formation, and worship. Several years ago, we made some changes in our organizational structure for the purpose of enhancing cooperation and communication among church leadership. It’s taken a while for us to live into this new structure, but it looks like we are arriving! In worship and other gatherings, we are often reminded of the Scriptural teaching concerning the Church as the body of Christ. It is the nature of the Church that members are dependent on Christ and interdependent with one another. We have encouraged our church leaders to be true to this basic principle and to lead by example. For instance, for some time we have been asking all chairpersons of ministry teams and committees and organizational presidents to set goals that support our church’s mission statement and ministry objectives and to report on those goals at each Church Council meeting. Now the majority of our leaders are doing that. There is more communication regarding scheduling and more cooperation among leaders and teams. It’s gratifying to see our progress in this area.

I have often chided church folks who use the word “they” when referring to other members of the congregation. It shouldn’t matter that you are a member of United Methodist Men; when involved in a conversation about a project of United Methodist Youth or United Methodist Women, the project should be referred to as something “we” are doing. If a ministry for children needs additional volunteers or a project of First School needs support, it should not matter whether or not you have young children involved; you should be ready to help because it’s something “we” are doing. In the same way, when we speak of ministries that happen on a district, conference, or general church level, or discuss the work and witness of the church in the farthest places in the world, the operative word is “we.”

When people ask me what the biggest challenge is in the church, I often respond by saying I don’t hear the word “we” enough. There are some members who don’t understand the concept of the church as family and don’t have the level of commitment to the church that I believe God expects. When someone claims to love Christ but doesn’t demonstrate love and loyalty to the Church for whom Christ died, I am not convinced. Jesus had many confrontations with Jewish religious leaders over the issue of their misunderstanding the identity of the church. The Pharisees believed their family heritage and their loyalty to tradition gave them their identity as God’s chosen people. Jesus told them many times they were wrong. Being faithful to God is not about who our parents are or keeping certain traditions; it is about a relationship of trust in God and obedience to his will. Jesus said, “Whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister..." One of the most basic definitions of the Church is the family of God. And there is a direct connection between our relationship with the Church and our relationship with God. If we are genuinely committed to God, we cannot help but be committed to the family of God. And that will mean that we always use the word “we” when we speak of the church!

Grace and Peace,

Pastor Terry

February 2010

A mischievous boy felt a twinge of guilt and went to a local Roman Catholic Church for confession. The priest tried to educate him in the area of moral standards. He asked the boy if he knew the Ten Commandments. The youngster admitted that he did not and then offered this excuse; “It’s this way, Father, I once intended to learn them, but then I heard people we’re doing away with them, so I didn’t bother.” Many folks ignore the commandments. Some would like to do away with them, but they are not of human origin and cannot be changed or abolished by human decree. Even in Jesus’ time, there were some who questioned the authority of the commandments. Jesus responded by saying, “I have come not to abolish them but to fulfill them.” Jesus helped people apply the principles of the Ten Commandments. By precept and example, he fulfilled the commandments but never suggested that we should attempt to live without them. The coming season of Lent reminds us of our accountability to God. The Ten Commandments along with the Great Commandment and other teachings of Jesus set the standards for us. In a world in which so many people think exercising individual freedom and personal preference are the highest ideals, we need to know and to obey these basic rules for living. Elton Trueblood summarized the Ten Commandments in verse;

Above all else love God alone.

Bow down to neither wood nor stone.

The Sabbath rest with care maintain.

Respect your parents all your days;

Hold sacred human life always.

Be loyal to your chosen mate;

Steal nothing, neither small nor great.

Report, with truth, your neighbor’s deed;

And rid your mind of selfish greed.

Those standards haven’t lost their relevance. In fact, in our culture where moral compromise seems to be the norm, they are especially needed. Regardless of what you may have heard, the Ten Commandments are still in effect and we are all accountable to God. In the church, we help each other in the constant struggle to know and do the will of God, and when we falter, we share the blessed assurance of God’s grace. I pray that you will draw closer to God and to his family, the church, during the coming days.

Grace and Peace,

Pastor Terry

January 2010

As another calendar year is coming to an end, we anticipate the blessings and challenges of the year ahead. The word that comes to mind is hope. We all have our hopes for the new year. They may center around our spiritual well-being, physical health, family ties, the church’s mission, education, employment, financial condition, or any number of areas. As we consider the objects of our hope, what may be overlooked is the source of our hope. I like this quotation from John Bunyan; "Hope is never ill when faith is well." These words remind us of the vital connection of hope and faith. When faith grows strong so does hope. Setting personal goals or resolutions for the new year is a commendable practice, as is establishing ministry objectives for the church, but the first priority should be to evaluate our relationship with God through faith in Jesus Christ. The health and strength of that relationship is a determining factor for all our hopes and aims. One of First UMC’s action plans for next year that we adopted at our recent Leadership Planning Retreat has to do with helping people develop a relationship with God and improving relationships among our membership and with our community. I understand that being in loving relationship with God and neighbor is “Christianity 101,” but unless that is a constant focus, we never become mature disciples of Jesus. As we identify our hopes and dreams for 2010, may we place a commitment to strengthening our relationship with God and with our neighbors at the top of the list.

Grace and Peace,

Pastor Terry

December 2009

The well-known British Methodist pastor, William Sangster, told of a rather eccentric parishioner who tried to be a faithful witness. Unfortunately he lacked common sense and sound judgment and wasn’t effective. This man was a barber and one day he had a customer in the chair, all lathered up for a shave, and as he approached the man with his razor in hand, he asked “Are you prepared to meet your God?” The frightened customer ran out of the shop with the lather still on his face!

Our Lord expects all of his disciples to witness, and we need to make sure we are giving a positive witness. Our Christian witness must include both verbal expression and authentic living. One important means of witness can be how we as Christians treat the holy days and holidays on the calendar. We are entering the season of Advent. This is to be a time of preparation for the season of Christmas when we will celebrate the birthday of Jesus. Consider what your manner of preparation and celebration will tell others about your faith and values. Will your children understand the central importance of Jesus coming to earth to demonstrate God’s love and to be our Savior or will they think Christmas is mainly about toys and Santa Claus? Will your neighbors sense your gratitude for the Incarnation as the greatest gift of all or will they believe you are more excited about parties and dinners and decorations and presents? Will you take advantage of every opportunity to worship the Savior whose birth we will soon celebrate? Will you be engaged in ministry with those who are needful and hurting so that others may experience the love which came down at Christmas?

A little girl had been taught the Lord’s Prayer in Sunday School, but apparently, she had not understood every line correctly. One evening as she knelt for her bedtime prayer, her parents heard her offer this petition: “...and forgive us our Christmases as we forgive those who Christmas against us.” That may be exactly what we need to pray. We may need to ask forgiveness for forgetting whose birthday it is and for celebrating in ways that did not bring honor to his name.

During this Advent and Christmas, let’s give a positive witness for Jesus who came to be our Savior!

Grace and Peace,

Pastor Terry

November 2009

As we approach our national observance of Thanksgiving, I can’t remember a time when we needed it more. The amount of cynicism and hostility in our culture is deeply disturbing. A lot of people don’t seem to have the ability to discuss issues any more without labeling and judging others and even engaging in character assassination and vicious attacks on others. What’s happened to civility? What’s happened to Scriptural truth and Christian values guiding our thought and behavior rather than self-serving celebrity talk show hosts? We United Methodists have a strong heritage that should lead us away from the kind of behavior I have described. We need to follow John Wesley’s lead. He asked, “If there is a difference of opinion, where is our religion, if we cannot think and let think?” In the Methodist family, we have always held that certain basic beliefs are necessary in order to be a disciple of Jesus. Doctrines related to the means of salvation, the Incarnation, the Trinity, the nature of the Church, the central importance of the Bible, etc. are essential. On other matters, faithful Christians will often disagree. As highly as Wesley valued education, he reminded fellow believers that “an ounce of love is worth a pound of knowledge.” Wesley’s views came from his love and understanding of Jesus who taught that maintaining Christian unity anddemonstrating love within the family of God was much more important than agreement on every minor issue. We who claim the name of Christ should be very careful that we not stumble into the ways of sin and become stumbling blocks to others because we quit seeing fellow believers as sisters and brothers and begin to see them for their views on health care reform, economic recovery, immigration, stewardship of the environment, military spending, or any number of political issues. We need a season of giving thanks and focusing attention on the blessings of God while repenting of our wrongful thoughts and behavior. The national yearly observance of Thanksgiving was established by Abraham Lincoln. Remember that he issued his proclamation in 1863 when fellow citizens of the U.S. were fighting each other in a bloody civil war. Lincoln cited God’s blessings that were apparent even in the midst of conflict. He called on the nation to acknowledge both God’s goodness and human sinfulness and to focusattention on those who suffered as a result of evil. In his official proclamation, the President expressed the belief that God’s blessings “should be solemnly, reverently and gratefully acknowledged as with one heart and one voice by the whole American People.” He continued, “I do therefore invite my fellow citizens in every part of the United States, and also those who are at sea and those who are sojourning in foreign lands, to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November next, as a day of Thanksgiving and Praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the Heavens. And I recommend to them that while offering up the ascriptions justly due to Him for such singular deliverances and blessings, they do also, with humble penitence for ournational perverseness and disobedience, commend to His tender care all those who have become widows, orphans, mourners or sufferers in the lamentable civil strife in which we are unavoidably engaged, and fervently implore the interposition of the Almighty Hand to heal the wounds of the nation and to restore it as soon as may be consistent with the Divine purposes to the full enjoyment of peace, harmony,tranquility and Union.” How desperately we need such an attitude of thankfulness in the year 2009. We as the church need to keep the focus where it belongs: on demonstrating love and gratitude to God and living that out through loving service to those who suffer. May that be our witness to the world!

Grace and Peace,

Pastor Terry

October 2009

Call me old fashioned, but I still believe that all human beings can and should live with some basic ethical principles. One of the most important is the quality of loyalty. Every day I observe or hear about examples suggesting the loss of this characteristic among many in our culture. A person decides to break ties with family members because of an argument over some insignificant matter. An employer dismisses a long-time employee who has served the company well but has reached middle age. A professional athlete who has been extravagantly paid and pampered by a team seeks employment by another team that may offer an even higher salary. A church member who has benefited from the ministries and programs of a church for many years decides to quit coming or quit giving because her “feathers were ruffled” over some real or imagined slight. A member decides to leave a loving and supportive church family behind and go to another church because of some program he finds exciting or because he finds the sermons more entertaining. What has happened to loyalty?

When I was growing up, my parents taught me that it is important to remain loyal and to follow through on commitments. When I wanted to join Cub Scouts, I was told that would be fine, but if I joined, I was expected to be faithful in my attendance. I would not be allowed to miss meetings because of a whim or a last-minute opportunity. My Mom and Dad gave me similar conditions when I asked to participate on sports teams, in Boy Scouts, UMYF, etc. This understanding was so engrained in me that it makes it difficult for me to understand the phenomena of people who are healthy and mobile and yet choose to be inactive or marginally active in the life of the church.

We are in the final stages of our fall Stewardship emphasis at First UMC. We have been asking everyone to identify areas of service in which there is interest and to give estimates of our financial support for the church’s ministry budget in 2010. Some folks act as if they are surprised when asked how they will live out their Christian discipleship in the life of the church. We who claim the role of disciples of Jesus have promised to take up his cross daily and follow him. We have sung “I Surrender All” and promised to give our whole lives in his service. How is it possible then that when reminded of the need to give a tithe of our income, we think that’s an unreasonable expectation? When we entered into the sacred covenant to support the church with our “prayers, presence, gifts, service, and witness,” did we not intend to keep our promise? What a privilege it is to belong to God’s family, the Church, and to be entrusted with the message and the mission of Jesus Christ. How will we respond to God’s infinite love and extravagant blessings? How will we respond to the trust God has placed in us? I pray that all of us will prove to be loyal.

Grace and Peace,

Pastor Terry

September 2009

Recently I was reading from the Book of 1 Kings the story of the dedication of the Temple in Jerusalem. During this momentous event in Israel’s history, Solomon led the people as they worshiped God, remembering his faithfulness to them and confessing their times of disloyalty. This important experience of worship centered around two main themes: the presence of God and the word of God. There was a procession during which the Ark of the Covenant containing the Ten Commandments was moved into the temple. We read that “the priests brought the ark of the covenant of the Lord to its place, in the inner sanctuary of the house, in the most holy place, underneath the wings of the cherubim.” After the priests set the Ark of the Covenant in that sacred place, we are told that “a cloud filled the house of the Lord … for the glory of the Lord filled the house of the Lord.” Clouds (and fire) are often used in the Bible as signs of God’s presence. As I read this account, it confirmed two of my basic beliefs concerning worship; I think all worship should be centered around the word of God and I believe there should only be one requirement in order for a disciple of Jesus Christ to worship: a recognition of God’s presence. I hear discussions about worship in which people express the opinion that they are not able to engage in meaningful worship unless traditional hymns are sung (or contemporary music); ...the worship style is relaxed (or formal); ...the pastor wears a robe (or doesn’t wear a robe); ...an organ is used (or the musical instruments mentioned in the Bible: drums and cymbals, horns, and stringed instruments); ...there is video projection (or there is no projection), etc. It seems to me that we should always be able to come before God to express our praise and gratitude as long as we recognize the one essential ingredient: God’s infinite presence! I enjoy variety myself and so I appreciate the “blended” style of worship that we offer at First UMC. I have experienced memorable worship in environments as diverse as being in a gothic style cathedral with a multitude of people and in a quiet place on top of a mountain with a few friends. We can worship in any setting as long as we recognize that God is with us and offer him our best in praise and adoration. “O come, let us worship and bow down, let us kneel before the Lord, our Maker!”

Grace and Peace,

Pastor Terry

August 2009

Our 2009 CCC Youth Mission Team returned home recently. The twelve youth and four adults who participated this year enjoyed a meaningful week of worship, fellowship, and outreach. CCC (Carolina Cross Connection) is patterned after the long-standing Appalachian Service Project and engages youth in home repair projects. One of the interesting components is how the CMG’s (Christian Mission Groups) are formed. Six to eight youth and adults from different congregations who have never met are grouped together and most of the time form a close-knit team with members working in concert to complete some very challenging projects. Such was the case with my CMG this year. Forming teams is the model the church has always followed. It is based on the example of Jesus who taught and equipped his disciples and initially sent them out in groups of two to carry out their mission. By the process of teamwork and spiritual multiplication, the church was formed and grew rapidly. It is still the case that the church forms ministry teams to fulfill our mission. I noticed today, as we began Vacation Bible School, how many people were involved to make this vital outreach ministry possible. There were teachers, shepherds, activity leaders, helpers, music leaders, crafts leaders, snack helpers, folks involved in drama and puppetry, people who helped with setup and decorations and planning, etc. It takes a lot of teamwork to make VBS happen. I noticed this past Sunday during Morning Worship and “Fan the Flame” how many people were involved. There were Greeters, an Acolyte, Lay Reader, Pianist/Organist, Choir Director, Choir Members, Praise Band Members, Ushers, one of our members who shared her faith story, a member who provided a “Because We Give…” moment, people who helped with sound and projection, and folks who counted the offerings, not to mention the clergy who provided leadership. We are blessed at First UMC with a great team of committed laity, staff, and clergy leaders. That’s how we are able to carry out our mission of “Making Disciples Of Jesus Christ and Meeting Human Need.” Are you part of the team? Are you expressing your gratitude for those who give so much of their time and talent and financial resources for the Lord’s work? Are you offering words of encouragement and support? Are you remembering our church leaders in prayer? The Apostle Paul provides a helpful example. In one of his letters to some fellow disciples he said, “I thank my God every time I remember you, constantly praying with joy in every one of my prayers for all of you, because of your sharing in the gospel from the first day until now.” That’s what every member of the family of God should be saying to each other!

Grace and Peace,

Pastor Terry

July 2009

I miss the “lazy days of summer.” That’s how folks once referred to this season which now, at least in the life of the church, is as busy as any other. I still have fond memories of my feelings of exuberance brought on by the last day of the school year. Back in those younger days when time passed more slowly, experiencing the first day of summer vacation felt like peering into infinity. With summer came a sense of freedom and excitement. I enjoyed spending long days outdoors playing with friends and exploring the woods, camping out, going fishing, going to horse shows with my Dad, and just plain relaxing. Did you ever lie in the grass beside a friend on a warm summer day gazing into a deep blue sky to examine cloud formations? John Lubbock observed, “Rest is not idleness, and to lie sometimes on the grass under the trees on a summer's day, listening to the murmur of water, or watching the clouds float across the sky, is by no means a waste of time.” As adults, many of us forget the importance of rest. Others pursue rest and recreation so vigorously that their huge investments of time and energy and money can actually rob them of rest. We desperately need regular times of rest and spiritual renewal. God in his infinite wisdom knows this and therefore he directs us to observe sabbath. The pattern was set during the creation event when God chose the seventh day as a time of rest. The Resurrection of Jesus changed the course of history and the early Christians began to worship on the day of Resurrection (the first day) rather than the seventh day to mark this new era. The pattern of observing a day for rest and worship is one that we all need. Each week the clergy and laity who lead worship at First UMC put forth a great deal of effort to provide opportunities for meaningful worship. Our worship services are Biblically focused, include a variety of components and musical styles, and involve several people in leadership each Sunday. What a gift this day of rest and worship is! In the future our church must not only provide opportunities for worship on the first day of the week, but also to set a better example in keeping the day holy, set apart from other days. Sundays should not be crowded with meetings and workshops. It should be a time to express our gratitude to God in worship, to be strengthened and nurtured within the community of faith, and to find rest and renewal in the presence of God. Who knows – there might even be a little time on a summer Sunday afternoon to lie in the grass and study a magnificent sky which tells of God’s glory and “proclaims his handiwork.”

Grace and Peace,

Pastor Terry

June 2009

I like this quotation from the ancient Roman philosopher and orator, Cicero; “Not to know what has been transacted in former times is to be always a child. If no use is made of the labors of past ages, the world must remain always in the infancy of knowledge.” I have always been a student of history and believe there are great benefits to knowing what has happened in the past. This week at First United Methodist we have celebrated Heritage Sunday and Homecoming. This past Sunday was also Aldersgate Day, the time we remember John Wesley’s famous conversion experience. Wesley had been on a mission trip to the United States that produced hardships and very little positive results. He had grown discouraged. He attended a churchmeeting on Aldersgate Street in London where someone was reading from Martin Luther’s commentary on the Book of Romans. Here is how John Wesley described the event in his journal; “About a quarter before nine, while the leader was describing the change which God works in the heart through faith in Christ, I felt my heart strangely warmed. I felt I did trust in Christ alone for salvation; and an assurance was given me that he had taken away my sins, even mine, and saved me from the law of sin and death.” It is important for us to remember the history of First UnitedMethodist Church, our proud United Methodist heritage, and our Christian heritage that we share with all those in the family of God. This Sunday we will celebrate Pentecost, the birthday of the Church of Jesus Christ. Now in existence for almost two thousand years, the Church has served as the greatest force for good and is, in fact, the hope of the world. The Christian season of Pentecost is a time to celebrate the Church! It is a time to remember with grateful hearts, all of our spiritual ancestors who laid foundations for us to build on. It is a time to renew our love and loyalty for the Church. It is a time to give thanks for the enabling presence and power of God’s Holy Spirit. Most importantly, it is a time to prove our love and devotion for Christ who loves the Church so much that “with his own blood he bought her, and for her life he died.”

Grace and Peace,

Pastor Terry

May 2009

My wife and I were at a discount store recently and had a brief conversation with the lady who was working at the register. We asked where she went to church and she told us what church she attended and the reason. She said, “I like the preacher.” As we left the store, the thought that came to mind was “I sure hope that no one comes to First UMC simply because they like the pastor and I hope no one chooses not to be involved in the church because they don’t like the pastor.” In our culture, we are seeing more and more evidence that a lot of people don’t understand the purpose of the church and the proper role of clergy. The most important thing to know about the church is that it does not belong to us; it belongs to Jesus Christ and he alone is the head of the church. Perhaps the most important thing to know about clergy and other church leaders in this climate is that we are called to be servant leaders of the church. God does not call any of us to be celebrities. I read one pastor’s observation about the consumer mentality that has created so many “church shoppers” in our society. He compared the situation to restaurants that gain popularity; “All of a sudden, and for some unknown reason, certain restaurants get ‘hot.’ Everybody talks about the food there, and soon the place is jammed. It’s the ‘in’ place to be, the place to see and be seen. And then, for no discernable reason the euphoria dies down and people start to hype to a different, perhaps newer, restaurant and then it becomes the hot and in place to be. Congregations can be like that, especially in this time of mega churches. All of a sudden one particular church is just the place to go for a time - great parking, great programs, stuff for the kids, video clips for the sermons, a latte bar, a relaxedatmosphere, a pastor with a great sense of humor. Churches get ‘hot’ for such reasons but then, sometimes, after taking off like a rocket for a while those same churches level off or even decline in favor of some other new place.”

I hope this trend toward expressions of Christianity that are “a mile wide and an inch deep” is coming to an end and that people will once again value spiritual maturity. I hope we will choose to be committed to a church family because of the ways we are helped to experience God’s presence, to worship him in meaningful ways, to demonstrate our gratitude to God by being fully involved in the mission of the church, and to be nurtured in our Christian faith and discipleship. Do me a favor; when someone asks why you belong to First United Methodist Church, would you saysomething along those lines rather than “I like the preacher.”

Grace and Peace,

Pastor Terry

April 2009

There is a story about a priest who found a branch on a thorn bush that was twisted so as to resemble a crown of thorns. He thought it would be a good visual symbol for the crucifixion, so on Good Friday, he placed the thorns on the altar of his chapel. When he awoke on Easter morning, the priest thought of the thorns. He did not feel it would be appropriate for Easter worship, so he hurried to the chapel to remove the thorns before his congregation assembled. When he entered the church, he was surprised to see the thorn branch blossoming with beautiful roses. As we continue in the holy season of Lent and approach the glorious celebration of Easter, we should remember and celebrate the miracles of transformation. The greatest miracle of all happened on the first Easter morning. The lifeless body of Jesus was transformed into the infinitely powerful and glorified being of the risen Christ! Because of this great miracle, all sorts of possibilities are available to us. Christ can transform illness into wholeness, suffering into rejoicing, despair into hope, selfishness into self giving, hatred into love, sinfulness into righteousness… Come closer to the cross and be drawn by God’s saving grace so that you will be able to celebrate both the miraculous resurrection of Christ and the experience of resurrection in your life.

Grace and Peace,

Pastor Terry

March 2009

Some of my best childhood memories center around the time I spent with some neighbors of mine, the Huey’s. They were an elderly couple. They were farmers and lived a very simple lifestyle. They never owned an automobile. A mule was used for plowing. They were Christian people who practiced the gifts of hospitality and generosity. I enjoyed being with them and helping out around the farm. Mrs. Huey was a wonderful cook and every meal at her table included her homemade, hand-churned butter and a freshly baked pie. One summer day I was staying with them and Mrs. Huey asked me what I would like to have for lunch. My thoughts turned to the oyster stew that my Mom would occasionally prepare, so I asked for that. A short time later I was in the back yard playing and glanced toward the front yard to see Mr. Huey walking down the road. It dawned on me that he was walking to the restaurant where he worked part-time which was more than a mile away. He was making that long trip in order to buy the oysters I had requested. In my naivety, it had not occurred to me that people would not have fresh oysters on hand at a moment’s notice. I felt terrible that my request had caused such hardship, but I certainly appreciated that meal!

During the holy season of Lent, we examine ourselves before God and seek to strengthen our relationship with him. We try to walk alongside of Jesus as he makes the journey toward the hill called Golgotha to make the greatest sacrifice of all for our salvation. Every time I remember how much the gift of salvation cost, I feel extremely grateful and completely humbled. If ever I have doubts about whether I am loved and cherished, I think of Jesus on the Via Dolorosa, bearing the marks of the whip and the crown of thorns. And then I remember the crucifixion scene and his agonizing death. Some people question whether it is very important for believers to gather as the body of Christ at least weekly and to be engaged with others in worship, learning, outreach, service, and fellowship. Some wonder if it is really necessary to pattern our lives after God’s will, to take up the cross of Christ daily, and to make our allegiance to him known through our language and our lifestyle. I simply imagine Jesus walking that long road of sacrifice for me, and I have my answer.

Grace and Peace,

Pastor Terry

February 2009

As I sit down to write this article, the skies are cloudy and the weather forecast is for three consecutive rainy days. I started to complain about that when I remembered the terrible droughts we have experienced the last few years. With a few exceptions, such as the farmer who is worried about a newly planted crop or the construction worker who is hoping for a day off, most of us do not welcome rainy days. We avoid the rain. We tolerate it, and some even curse it, but seldom do we celebrate the rain. We tend to think of rain as symbolic of the hurts, problems, difficulties, and challenges of life. Our response to these experiences also includes avoidance, tolerance, and condemnation. As rain is beneficial and necessary for life, so are the tough times and the vulnerable places. We should remember that rain means cleansing and renewal and refreshment. Leonard Sweet reflected on a memory from his childhood in West Virginia. On rainy days he and his brothers enjoyed playing in a creek near their home. Their mother was strongly opposed to children playing in the rain. Sweet recalled one occasion when his mother called her sons to “come out of the rain,” but his grandmother suggested another opinion. Sweet wrote, “One time Gramma had taken about as much of this as she could take. Maybe she didn’t inherit that anti-rain mother gene. Where normally she didn’t interfere with mother’s child-rearing practices, this time she defended us vigorously, and said to her daughter; ‘Mabel, rain is not something the boys always have to come out of.’” The author offered these observations based on what he learned from his grandmother; “Life is an unequal and predictable mixture of sunshine and rain. Without moisture, blossoms don’t bloom. No rain, no growth. All sunshine turns life into a desert. And when we always come out of the rain and fail to let the rain drain into our being the very waters of life, our lives fail to bear fruit. There’s also something therapeutic for adults who can learn how to play in the rain. If you can let go of all the inhibitions that pile up with respectability, playing in the rain can be kind of cathartic, like recreating childhood. Good gardeners know what grows best in sunlight and what in shade or rain, just as God knows best which of us need to be planted in the sunshine, and which nestled in a shady nook or rain-soaked earth. Disciples of Jesus Christ must learn to stand in the rain if the gospel is going to get outdoors where people are. Churches where Jesus Christ lives don’t stay indoors, in comfort zones, protected from the storms of our world and the rough places of our journey. Indeed, communities of faith must be willing to enter the danger zones, the unsafe, unproven, out-of-control places where social lepers and outsiders and voiceless live. Gramma unwittingly taught me to break out of control and comfort to chance life for God.”

I’ll see you later. It’s starting to rain so I’m going outside!

Grace and Peace,

Pastor Terry

January 2009

A lot of folks will make resolutions for the New Year. I believe this can be a commendable practice, however I don’t make resolutions. The word resolution means a decision or determination to do something, and in our culture that word seems to imply that one will make a half hearted effort toward reaching a goal, with little hope for success. I prefer to make commitments, fully expecting to keep my promises with the help of God. Through the years, I have encountered numerous people who do not keep their promises. Some couples take the vows of marriage, promising to “love and to cherish, until we are parted by death,” while in reality their commitment is to stay with the marriage as long as love comes easy and no real compromise or sacrifice is required. Some promise their love and loyalty to Christ and his church, pledging to support the church with “prayers, presence, gifts, service, and witness,” while in reality their commitment is to attend worship on holidays and special occasions, to give a token amount of their income, and none of their time and talent for the Lord’s work. Several times I have had the experience of hiring someone to do a job. The person promised to come at a certain time on a certain day but never came nor called to say why they could not come. Such people lose credibility with me. Some people make promises to friends and family and associates with no intention of keeping those promises. The Book of James gives this sound advice; “Let your ‘Yes' be yes and your ‘No’ be no.” Keep your promises. Make sure your word is good. No one is perfect. We all have our faults and failures, but there is no excuse for not even trying to live with integrity. The are times when we may give our best effort and yet we fall short. The Scriptures remind us that we all have “sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” Thankfully, there is forgiveness offered. By the grace of God, there is the opportunity to start again. I wish you a happy, productive New Year. I pray that during 2009 you will make some important commitments, and with God’s enabling power, you will keep those commitments.

Grace and Peace,

Pastor Terry

December 2008

We have begun the season of Advent. This is meant to be a season of preparation. It is a time to prepare our hearts and homes for celebrating the birthday of Christ. Soon it will be Christmas, the time to celebrate God’s wondrous gift of love in Christ and to go into the world with the good news that a Savior has come. The days before us will include much giving and receiving. As we give to others and receive from them through expressions of love and appreciation and the exchange of Christmas presents, we need to remember the reason for all of this; “For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” Becoming a Christian disciple involves an act of receiving. We must accept what God has done for us in the life, death, resurrection, and continuing presence of his Son, our Savior. Until a gift is accepted, the giving is not complete. God’s gift is truly ours when we make a conscious decision to receive Christ as Savior and Lord. The words of an unknown poet make this point;

I made a gift, and trembling wait

For some response, a warm reply.

My heart went with that gift of late -

If the gift’s rejected, so am I!

Receiving makes a gift complete -

Yet in receiving, pride must die.

Will pride retreat and face defeat:

‘Tis so! Receiver now am I!

My hand extended feels the clasp

Of answering hand in friendship meeting.

A bit of heaven is in my grasp -

My friend has blessed me by receiving.

My God has given a Gift to me -

Even himself, his Son.

O Lord, my pride! Take it and me.

Let me receive thy Holy One!

I wish each of you a blessed Advent season and a Merry Christmas and, most importantly, I wish you the gift of new life through the Christ of Christmas!

Grace and Peace,

Pastor Terry

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