June 5, 2017 - Sunday is the beginning of a new quarter and new study books for our Sunday school class. Our lesson came from early in the Hebrew Scriptures, which put us non-Jews at a disadvantage. We don’t know the national history of Israel very well, and some of the events and people sound so foreign. But taking that into consideration, there is wisdom to be gained from these ancient words. We are introduced to a hero of the Jewish nation, the prophet Deborah, respected and loved by the many tribes. She goes with General Barak into battle, and the enemy is defeated.

May 22, 2017 - Sunday was the Sixth Sunday in Easter.  Today’s First Lesson came from Acts 17:23-32.  Since it comes from the second half of Acts, we know the main focus will be Paul.  The first half focuses on Peter.  Paul has come to Mars Hill in Athens to speak.  Mars Hill was the meeting place to discuss theology, religion, philosophy, and the law.  It is still the place where Greek court is held for civil, criminal, and religious matters.  Paul is very respectful to his audience made up of many learned people.  He knows he will not get many converts, but he does get some who a

May 8, 2017 - Sunday was the Fourth Sunday in Easter.  I am doing a series on the many stories that people have told in the past, stories that are being told, and stories yet to be told.  Today’s story comes from the John Gospel, where Jesus says he is the gate to the sheep pen.  Of course, most people don’t think of Jesus as a gate or a door.  We need to remember the words of John Wesley, who felt that when you try to take the Bible literally, you kill its meaning.  We should not take the Bible literally, but we should take it seriously.  Our pathways are the Christ’s ways.

April 24 , 2017 - Easter Sunday was a glorious day for Paxton Methodist and about 120 folks. For the 30th year, the Watson family invited everyone to their home for Sunrise Service and breakfast. It was a warm, humid Easter but no rain, so the morning was perfect. Stephen George once again played the keyboard and led the congregational singing. He sang two beautiful Easter songs. Rev. David Mathis played his guitar, sang “Rise Again,” and gave the invocation. Brenda welcomed everyone on behalf of the Watson family. Nori Latimer led us in our Easter Responsive Reading.

April 4, 2017 - Sunday was the Fifth Sunday in Lent. It was a stormy day Sunday and many folks didn’t venture out. We received almost three inches Sunday and were without electricity for about four hours. It was a great time to take a nap. Our big old hound dog Abner is terrified of storms and fireworks. He is a much happier dog today (Monday) with sunshine and blue skies. Easter is fast approaching. Next Sunday’s lections (scriptures) focus on Jesus’ triumphal entry while other readings focus on Jesus’ passion.