Travelers Rest United Methodist Podcast

16th Sunday after Pentecost September 28, 2025Sermon Series: FearSermon: Wearing MasksScripture: Ephesians 2:4-10, 19-22This Sunday we continue our series, Fear.This week’s message, “Wearing Masks,” comes from Ephesians 2:4–10, 19–22.Fear often tempts us to hide behind masks—pretending to be someone we’re not, or covering up the parts of ourselves we think others won’t accept. But God, rich in mercy and love, reminds us of who we really are: His beloved, redeemed, and chosen people.As you prepare for worship, reflect on these questions: What “masks” have you been wearing in your daily life? How have those masks shaped your relationships with God and others? What would it look like to rest in your true identity in Christ? Come ready to lay down your masks before God—and to be reminded of His grace that makes us whole.Sunday Worship Schedule 8:45 AM – Contemporary Worship 10:00 AM – Sunday School 11:00 AM – Traditional Worship

15th Sunday after Pentecost September 21, 2025Sermon Series: FearSermon: Wearing MasksScripture: Ephesians 2:4-10, 19-22This Sunday we continue our series, Fear.This week’s message, “Wearing Masks,” comes from Ephesians 2:4–10, 19–22.Fear often tempts us to hide behind masks—pretending to be someone we’re not, or covering up the parts of ourselves we think others won’t accept. But God, rich in mercy and love, reminds us of who we really are: His beloved, redeemed, and chosen people.As you prepare for worship, reflect on these questions: What “masks” have you been wearing in your daily life? How have those masks shaped your relationships with God and others? What would it look like to rest in your true identity in Christ? Come ready to lay down your masks before God—and to be reminded of His grace that makes us whole.Sunday Worship Schedule 8:45 AM – Contemporary Worship 10:00 AM – Sunday School 11:00 AM – Traditional Worship

14th Sunday after Pentecost September 14, 2025Sermon: What Are You Afraid Of?Scripture: Isaiah 43:1-3This Sunday we begin a new series, Fear.Fear is something we all know—whether it’s fear of failure, fear for our loved ones, fear of the unknown, or fear of not being enough. But scripture reminds us: “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine.” (Isaiah 43:1)In this first message, we’ll look at God’s promises in the midst of our fear and discover how His presence reshapes the way we face life’s challenges.As you prepare for worship, take some time to reflect on these questions: What fears have been most present in your life lately? How have those fears shaped your thoughts, words, or actions? Where have you experienced God’s presence breaking through your fear? Come ready to bring your honest fears before God—and to hear His words of comfort and strength.Sunday Worship Schedule 8:45 AM – Contemporary Worship 10:00 AM – Sunday School 11:00 AM – Traditional Worship

13th Sunday after Pentecost September 7, 2025Sermon: Following Jesus: What’s the Sign?Scripture: Matthew 18:15-20This week in our series Following Jesus, we’ll explore how Jesus calls us to live in community—working through conflict, seeking reconciliation, and recognizing His presence when we gather in His name.As you prepare for worship, reflect on: Where do you most need reconciliation in your life? How does Jesus’ promise to be present “where two or three are gathered” shape your faith? What signs of His presence are you noticing this week? We return to our regular schedule this Sunday! 8:45 AM – Contemporary Worship 10:00 AM – Sunday School 11:00 AM – Traditional Worship

11th Sunday after Pentecost August 24, 2025Sermon: Following Jesus: Taking the YokeScripture: Matthew 11:25-30This Sunday we begin a new sermon series: Following Jesus.Jesus invites us in Matthew 11:25–30 to “take my yoke upon you and learn from me.” A yoke may sound like a burden, but what if following Jesus actually brings rest, freedom, and new strength for the journey?As you prepare for worship, consider: What burdens are you carrying right now? How might walking closely with Jesus lighten your load? What does it mean to truly find “rest for your soul”?Come and discover together what it looks like to follow Jesus—step by step, side by side. 9:00 AM – Sunday School 10:00 AM – Worship (One service – summer schedule continues through August)

If you’ve ever been to a Waffle House, you know it’s a place where all kinds of people gather—early risers, late-night travelers, locals, strangers, and friends. And no matter whether you like your hashbrowns scattered, covered, or smothered, there’s always a seat at the counter and hot coffee waiting.This week’s scripture tells the story of Jesus calling Matthew—a tax collector—and sharing a meal with an unexpected crowd. Much like that diner booth, the table Jesus sets is open to everyone.As you prepare for worship, consider: Who might you be surprised to find sitting at Jesus’ table? How can we create space in our own lives for unexpected guests? What does it look like to extend grace in everyday moments? We hope you’ll join us as we gather to reflect, connect, and grow together.

What holds us back from going all in? This week’s sermon, Almost Faith, draws from Acts 26:14–29 and invites us to reflect on those moments when we’re close to belief—but not quite there.Where are we saying “almost” when it comes to faith, trust, or purpose? What helps us take the next step?PLUS—this Sunday is our Blessing of the Backpacks! All students, teachers, and school staff are invited to bring their backpacks or bags as we send them into the new school year with prayers and encouragement.

This week’s scripture paints a picture of two builders—one who builds on rock, and one on sand. It invites us to consider what gives stability and direction to our lives.As you prepare for worship, consider: • What does a strong foundation look like in your day-to-day life? • What values or habits help guide your decisions? • Where might things feel a little shaky—and why?We hope you’ll join us as we gather to reflect, connect, and grow together.

This week, we turn to the story of Jesus walking on water and Peter’s attempt to join Him. When Jesus asked, “Why did you doubt?” He wasn’t just questioning Peter’s faith—He was offering an invitation to deeper trust.As we reflect on this moment, try to consider: What holds us back from stepping out in faith? How do we respond when we feel uncertain or afraid? Where is Jesus calling us to trust Him more fully? We hope you’ll join us as we explore these questions together in worship.

Words have power. What are your words saying about your heart? Join us as we reflect on how kindness and grace can transform the way we speak and live. Plus — it’s our next Intergenerational VBS Sunday! After worship, all ages are invited to stay for lunch and hands-on activities designed to help us dive deeper into this theme together.

We’re continuing our sermon series exploring some of the most powerful and personal questions Jesus asked. These aren’t just ancient words—they’re questions He still asks each of us today.This week, we turn again to Jesus’ conversation with Peter in John 21:15–17. After asking “Do you love me?”, Jesus continues with even more questions that invite us to reflect deeply on our love, our calling, and how we live out our faith.Join us as we listen for what these questions might be asking of us today.

Today we continue a new sermon series that explores some of the most powerful and personal questions Jesus asked. These aren’t just ancient words—they’re questions He still asks each of us today.This weeks question is an interesting one: “How much bread do you have?” Join us as we dive into this question.