It’s beautiful to be back with you after my time away. These past days have been a journey of spiritual renewal and rest, filled with moments of reflection and rejuvenation. Time away has reminded me of the importance of pausing, listening, and opening ourselves to God’s presence in unexpected places. Today, we focus on a […]
As we stand just a month from election day, our nation buzzes with promises, debates, and visions for the future. It’s a time when golden calves of politics and charismatic leaders vie for our allegiance. Yet, how often do we find ourselves, like the Israelites at the foot of Mount Sinai, growing impatient with God’s […]
Have you ever felt like singing was the last thing you wanted to do? You may have faced a challenge so daunting that praise seemed impossible. As we lift our voices in “Lift Every Voice and Sing” today, we’re reminded of times when raising one’s voice is an act of defiance against despair. The Israelites […]
Family stories have a way of shaping us, don’t they? Whether it’s the tales of our grandparents’ sacrifices, the funny anecdotes shared at reunions, or even the painful chapters we’d rather forget – these narratives form the fabric of who we are. As we reflect on our church’s 150-year journey, we’re reminded that we, too, […]
From generation to generation, for 150 years, our congregation has been a testament to God’s enduring faithfulness. As we celebrate this milestone today, we’re reminded of Abraham gazing at the stars, each point of light representing a promise that would unfold across centuries. Have you ever considered how your faith today connects to those who […]
I find something magical about the Kansas State Fair. The aroma of funnel cakes, the excited shouts from midway rides, and the proud displays of prized pumpkins and handcrafted quilts create a uniquely Kansas experience. My family, perhaps like yours, has been coming to this fair for generations. So, some places, like the Domestic Arts […]
The Paralympic Games begin on Wednesday in Paris. Athletes will take their marks, set their stance, and launch into action. Today, we find the disciples in a similar position at the beginning of the book of Acts – poised on the starting blocks of a world-changing mission. But unlike those Olympians who relied on years […]
Have you ever walked into a room full of strangers, feeling your heart race and your palms sweat? Perhaps you’ve moved to a new city, joined a new club, or attended a gathering where you didn’t know a soul. That feeling of being an outsider, a stranger in an unfamiliar place, is a universal human […]
Today, as we come together on Mother’s Day, everyone here may feel different things. For some, it’s a happy day to celebrate the love of a mother. But for others, it might bring up feelings of sadness or hurt. No matter what, we can all find hope and comfort in the incredible power of Jesus’ […]
Friends, it’s good to be back with you after an intense and transformative couple of weeks at the General Conference in Charlotte, NC. Our United Methodist Church has made significant decisions that will shape our future. Amid these changes, I remember Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians 13. In a world that often feels driven by […]
Last night, Nicole, our kids John and Anne, and I had the incredible opportunity to see the transformative power of storytelling and music at the opening night of Godspell at Music Theater Heritage in Kansas City. Godspell is a beloved musical that brings the gospel to life through a series of parables and lessons from […]
Imagine the buzz in Jerusalem the week after that first Easter. The crucifixion, the empty tomb, the appearances of the risen Jesus – the city must have been electric with wonder, confusion, and anticipation. Can you imagine the roller coaster of emotions experienced by the disciples? And now, we find yet another twist: Jesus’ ascension […]
Rev. Andrew Conard 