| 02.26.2026 This Sunday is the Second Sunday in Lent. We will be turning to John 3:1-17 which describes a conversation between Jesus and Nicodemus, a Pharisee and member of the Jewish ruling council. Nicodemus visits Jesus at night, seeking understanding about His teachings. Jesus explains the necessity of being “born again” to enter the Kingdom of God, clarifying that this rebirth is spiritual, not physical. He emphasizes the importance of belief, stating that God sent His Son into the world not to condemn it, but to save it through Him. These verses highlight God’s love for humanity and the promise of eternal life to all who believe in Jesus. John 3:16 is one of the most memorized verses and is often described as the gospel in a nutshell. As we take a few days away, I am always thankful for the familiar gifts we receive when we journey to our place of rest and study. One of the things that I have noticed in the past few years is that it never gets old. The familiar scenery, beautiful water, and place of rest never gets old. One of the thoughts that came quickly is that I feel the same about our church. It never gets old. Each time I walk through the church doors, I am greeted by the warmth of community, the comfort of tradition, and the promise of renewal. Just like those peaceful moments by the water, or the quiet mornings in our retreat, being in church brings a sense of peace that is hard to find elsewhere. Whether it’s sharing in worship, learning something new in Sunday School, or simply being together with friends and family, the experience always feels fresh, never repetitive, or dull. I believe Jim Lynch said it well last Sunday when he gave thanks for the church and the support during Lois passing. He said, “I normally say ladies and gentlemen, but to you I say sisters and brothers.” I believe he experienced the very thing that we are as a church community. My prayer is that you too feel that same way. The joy and gratitude I feel for both these places, my place of rest and my church—remind me that some gifts are meant to be cherished again and again. There is something special about returning to what is familiar yet always finding something new to appreciate. I look forward to the celebrations and gatherings we have planned for Sunday mornings knowing that each event will be another opportunity to experience that enduring sense of belonging and joy. The 200th Anniversary Committee is well on its way to preparing us for our big year of celebrations. It is not too late to join us as our next meeting will be Thursday March 12, 2026. We will meet at RCUMC at 2:00 pm. The committee has put together several ideas starting in April, continuing each month that will allow us a celebration for each. More to come…… Thank you for your support each month for Heifer Project International. We collected over $260.00 since we sent in the last gift. Jan will be giving us an update on the animals we will purchase, and if you would like any additional information, see Jan or the Heifer Project International table. We just learned that our donations would continue to double into June 2026. Adult Sunday School is growing. Many of you have shared with me how wonderful your class is and how much you enjoy being with Paul Smith’s weekly topics and leadership. This is another perfect opportunity to invite others to join us and experience RCUMC. Invite a friend and join Sunday School at 9:45. During the 10:45 am service, we are blessed to have Trysta Taylor lead our younger ones. She has a great class ready to receive our children with a program just for them. Any questions, stop by her area and say hello on Sunday. Thought for the week: “True faith means holding nothing back. It means putting every hope in God’s fidelity to His Promises.”—Francis Chan Blessings, Pastor Chris Next Update 03.05.2026. |
ROSS COMMUNITY UNITED METHODIST
2943 Hamilton Cleves Road Hamilton 45013-----513-868-2923
